Wish me luck, folks
Well, its rounding time for baby #2 to make her appearance so I'm off to the waiting game. I will be back in the office on a limited basis starting 10/13, but I strongly encourage you to book with my colleage Noreen Drake, LAc to continue treatment while I'm away. Noreen can accept AMERICAN SPECIALTY HEALTH, HEALTH NET, PROVIDENCE, and BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD insurance now as a preferred provider! She may bill other plans out of network as well. You can proceed to my regular www.allwayswell.com to book appointments with Noreen online anytime. When you book with Noreen, please indicate you're a patient of mine in the notes section to help her be better prepared. Noreen is a trusted friend and colleague, someone I don't hesitate to see for treatment myself! Though I'm much overdue, hmm.....
See you soon!
I look forward to seeing you again soon as I don't intend to be away for as long as I was with my son. My return schedule is already up, open and bookable online. You can still contact me via email or leave me a message at the office, I will be checking while I'm away, but not consistently so please be patient with my reply. If you have urgent questions or concerns, please talk to Noreen. You can call her at (503)445-8888 x5.
With that I wish you a wonderful remaineder to the summer and again, I look forward to seeing you soon!
Best ~Rebecca
Friday, August 24, 2012
August Newsletter 2012
In This Issue:
** Trusted Nutritional Supplements & Herbs
** Affordable Care Act
** Maternity Leave - Its Coming!
** Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Trusted Nutritional Supplements and Herbs
I like supplements and herbs, I do prescribe them as many of you know. A common question I get is why purchase herbs or supplements from a qualified practitioner instead of over the counter? A valid question with a straightforward answer.
Supplements that you can only purchase through a qualified practitioner are often more expensive than what you purchase over the counter, its true, and the differences generally lie in three areas:
Quality
Delivery System/Absorbability
Concentration
Quality is fairly obvious - in the case of many supplement brands you get what you pay for - and concentration too. "Prescription Strength" is a relevant term in supplementation as well as in Western Pharmaceuticals. The biggest kicker is the delivery system and absorbability of the supplements.
If your digestive system can't eat through whatever agent is used to bind a tablet, say, you can take a whole bottle of supplements and gain no benefit. Professional grade supplements generally provide you with tableting agents and delivery systems that your body can actually manage to digest so you can get to and utilize the good stuff. Brands like Thorne, Pure Encapsulations and Biotics pay special attention to this which is why I carry them in office.
If there's ever something you want that I don't have on hand, even a general supplement or multivitamin, I may be able to order one for you that is superior to what you'd find OTC. Furthermore, I actually have an online dispensary where you can order from trusted brands. You can learn more HERE.
If you are purchasing something over the counter, make sure it is a liquid, a powder, a gelcap or a capsule and try never to purchase anything that is a tablet from a non-vetted brand. Tablets are always the least likely to be absorbed by the body if you don't know the tableting agent.
Affordable Care Act & CAM
A lovely alumni from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (my alma matter) wrote a brief article summarizing the Affordable Care Act plus some information about what it means for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Interested? Click here to read more.
Maternity Leave - Its Coming!
As many of you can tell by seeing me at recent appointments, baby is almost here! I'm due September 1st so I'll be working up until the last week of August and then taking some maternity leave to bond with baby and recover. My intention is to come back about 6 weeks after baby is born, on October 13th, and ease back into my regular schedule over a couple of months.
This is already programmed out in my on-line schedule and you should be able to see beyond the void of September into October to book appointments for my return now.
My colleague, Noreen Drake, LAc, will be in office Mon-Thurs while I am away to see to your acupuncture needs! She is an excellent practitoner and I highly recommend you continue treatment with her while I am away. Her schedule is also available on-line through the same calendar. She is contracted with several insurance companies and can bill or create coded receipts for you.
I will be gone from 8/25-10/13 Noreen is currently contracted with:
ASHN
Health Net
Providence
Regence BCBS
and can therefore bill direct to those insurers for you. It may be possible to bill other insurers as an out of network provider. Email Noreen with questions.
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! And I promise I'll let you know what happens with baby. Please don't hesitate to call or book on-line anytime and please do see Noreen while I'm away.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
** Trusted Nutritional Supplements & Herbs
** Affordable Care Act
** Maternity Leave - Its Coming!
** Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Trusted Nutritional Supplements and Herbs
I like supplements and herbs, I do prescribe them as many of you know. A common question I get is why purchase herbs or supplements from a qualified practitioner instead of over the counter? A valid question with a straightforward answer.
Supplements that you can only purchase through a qualified practitioner are often more expensive than what you purchase over the counter, its true, and the differences generally lie in three areas:
Quality
Delivery System/Absorbability
Concentration
Quality is fairly obvious - in the case of many supplement brands you get what you pay for - and concentration too. "Prescription Strength" is a relevant term in supplementation as well as in Western Pharmaceuticals. The biggest kicker is the delivery system and absorbability of the supplements.
If your digestive system can't eat through whatever agent is used to bind a tablet, say, you can take a whole bottle of supplements and gain no benefit. Professional grade supplements generally provide you with tableting agents and delivery systems that your body can actually manage to digest so you can get to and utilize the good stuff. Brands like Thorne, Pure Encapsulations and Biotics pay special attention to this which is why I carry them in office.
If there's ever something you want that I don't have on hand, even a general supplement or multivitamin, I may be able to order one for you that is superior to what you'd find OTC. Furthermore, I actually have an online dispensary where you can order from trusted brands. You can learn more HERE.
If you are purchasing something over the counter, make sure it is a liquid, a powder, a gelcap or a capsule and try never to purchase anything that is a tablet from a non-vetted brand. Tablets are always the least likely to be absorbed by the body if you don't know the tableting agent.
Affordable Care Act & CAM
A lovely alumni from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (my alma matter) wrote a brief article summarizing the Affordable Care Act plus some information about what it means for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Interested? Click here to read more.
Maternity Leave - Its Coming!
As many of you can tell by seeing me at recent appointments, baby is almost here! I'm due September 1st so I'll be working up until the last week of August and then taking some maternity leave to bond with baby and recover. My intention is to come back about 6 weeks after baby is born, on October 13th, and ease back into my regular schedule over a couple of months.
This is already programmed out in my on-line schedule and you should be able to see beyond the void of September into October to book appointments for my return now.
My colleague, Noreen Drake, LAc, will be in office Mon-Thurs while I am away to see to your acupuncture needs! She is an excellent practitoner and I highly recommend you continue treatment with her while I am away. Her schedule is also available on-line through the same calendar. She is contracted with several insurance companies and can bill or create coded receipts for you.
I will be gone from 8/25-10/13 Noreen is currently contracted with:
ASHN
Health Net
Providence
Regence BCBS
and can therefore bill direct to those insurers for you. It may be possible to bill other insurers as an out of network provider. Email Noreen with questions.
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! And I promise I'll let you know what happens with baby. Please don't hesitate to call or book on-line anytime and please do see Noreen while I'm away.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
Sunday, July 1, 2012
July 2012 Newsletter - Allergies!
In This Issue:
** Allergen Heaven
*Simple Tips to keep Seasonal Allergies under control
**Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Allergen Heaven
Isn't that what the Northwest should be called this time of year? The beautiful Spring weather FINALLY seems to have arrived, and with it everything in sight is starting to bloom... And every car on the street on my block has a thick dusting of pollen on top. Ah yes... Allergen Heaven...
The difficult thing about the oddity of the seasons these past few years, is that it seems very difficult to predict exactly when those of us with Hay Fever are going to suffer - it comes early, it comes late, it comes overwhelmingly strong, while for some it comes not at all. Unfortunately, this means the best defense is a constantly ready offense.
In Chinese Medicine, seasonal allergies are caused by a combination of an internal energetic weakness and an external wind assault. If you know you have allergies and you can predict a general timeframe (of Spring or Summer, say), the best energetic defense is to tonify and strengthen your body during the off months, and then treat what presents as symptoms in the on months.
Since the on months are beginning to be "on" for many about now, here are some of my favorite tipes for surviving the allergy season:
Simple Tips to keep Seasonal Allergies Under Control:
Netti Pot - A Netti Pot is a simple device that looks like of a like a genie's lamp made of ceramic or metal. You fill it with warm water (preferrably distilled) and a pinch of salt, pour it through yoru sinuses and clean out the pollen and mucous it is sticking to. You can add other things for sinus infections such as Goldenseal or specific Ayervedic oils, but a simple saline solution will usually do. Not only does this flush out the pollen, but over time it can strengthen and thicken your mucous membranes so you have less exposure to the pollens as well. These can be picked up Whole Foods, New Seasons or online and are best used 2x/day during allergy season, morning and night.
Chuan Xiong Wan - this is a chinese herbal remedy for headaches combined with congestion. Often used for the common cold, it is also highly effective for allergies! Green Tea - green tea is actually an ingredient in the formula above and not only is it full of free radical eliminating antioxidants, it is also enters the nasal passages energetically and can help clear your head when you are feeling congested! Loose leaf tea is the best.
Honey - Honey is actually a lung tonic in Chinese Medicine, so a little honey in your tea can actually boost the strength of your lungs energecially to fight off the wind and decrease the effect of the allergens on your system.
HEPA Filters - If you suffer from allergy symptoms at night that keep you awake in particular, do not underestimate the power of a good compact HEPA filter for your bedroom. It doesn't take a large or expensive one to get the job done - a small $50 filter from Costco, Target or Amazon.com will do the trick. Run it for 20 minutes before you go to bed, and through the night on a low quiet setting. You'll be surprised by the difference.
Acupuncture - Acupuncture treatment through the allergy season can also make a big difference in your symptoms. If you haven't been in for a while and you're worried about the looming pollen count, please come in sooner rather than later to get a jump start on allergy season. Starting treatment one month before you expect your worst allergies to hit is ideal.
Rebecca's Maternity Leave 8/25-10/13
Yep, there's a baby on the way so don't be surprised by Rebecca's swelling belly. I'm due September 1st and my calendar is open up until August 25th at this time. I will return October 13th - don't hesitate to book ahead!
Referral of the Month:
KNEE PAIN
Did you know I have a referral program? I do! For every 5 new patients that come and name YOU as the referring party, you get a FREE 60 MINUTE TREATMENT! This month, a great referral for me would be someone who has KNEE PAIN. Acupuncture is quickly effective for knee pain of many varieties from osteoarthritis, to injury and surgery recovery. Help someone you love feel better, get active and prevent long term injury.
As usual, the referral of a friend or family member is the highest compliment that I can receive.
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! If you are interested in more information please don't hesitate to call or book on-line. Free 15 minute consultations in person or over the phone are always available which you can book via phone at (503)445-8888 or on-line as well if you have more specific questions.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
** Allergen Heaven
*Simple Tips to keep Seasonal Allergies under control
**Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Allergen Heaven
Isn't that what the Northwest should be called this time of year? The beautiful Spring weather FINALLY seems to have arrived, and with it everything in sight is starting to bloom... And every car on the street on my block has a thick dusting of pollen on top. Ah yes... Allergen Heaven...
The difficult thing about the oddity of the seasons these past few years, is that it seems very difficult to predict exactly when those of us with Hay Fever are going to suffer - it comes early, it comes late, it comes overwhelmingly strong, while for some it comes not at all. Unfortunately, this means the best defense is a constantly ready offense.
In Chinese Medicine, seasonal allergies are caused by a combination of an internal energetic weakness and an external wind assault. If you know you have allergies and you can predict a general timeframe (of Spring or Summer, say), the best energetic defense is to tonify and strengthen your body during the off months, and then treat what presents as symptoms in the on months.
Since the on months are beginning to be "on" for many about now, here are some of my favorite tipes for surviving the allergy season:
Simple Tips to keep Seasonal Allergies Under Control:
Netti Pot - A Netti Pot is a simple device that looks like of a like a genie's lamp made of ceramic or metal. You fill it with warm water (preferrably distilled) and a pinch of salt, pour it through yoru sinuses and clean out the pollen and mucous it is sticking to. You can add other things for sinus infections such as Goldenseal or specific Ayervedic oils, but a simple saline solution will usually do. Not only does this flush out the pollen, but over time it can strengthen and thicken your mucous membranes so you have less exposure to the pollens as well. These can be picked up Whole Foods, New Seasons or online and are best used 2x/day during allergy season, morning and night.
Chuan Xiong Wan - this is a chinese herbal remedy for headaches combined with congestion. Often used for the common cold, it is also highly effective for allergies! Green Tea - green tea is actually an ingredient in the formula above and not only is it full of free radical eliminating antioxidants, it is also enters the nasal passages energetically and can help clear your head when you are feeling congested! Loose leaf tea is the best.
Honey - Honey is actually a lung tonic in Chinese Medicine, so a little honey in your tea can actually boost the strength of your lungs energecially to fight off the wind and decrease the effect of the allergens on your system.
HEPA Filters - If you suffer from allergy symptoms at night that keep you awake in particular, do not underestimate the power of a good compact HEPA filter for your bedroom. It doesn't take a large or expensive one to get the job done - a small $50 filter from Costco, Target or Amazon.com will do the trick. Run it for 20 minutes before you go to bed, and through the night on a low quiet setting. You'll be surprised by the difference.
Acupuncture - Acupuncture treatment through the allergy season can also make a big difference in your symptoms. If you haven't been in for a while and you're worried about the looming pollen count, please come in sooner rather than later to get a jump start on allergy season. Starting treatment one month before you expect your worst allergies to hit is ideal.
Rebecca's Maternity Leave 8/25-10/13
Yep, there's a baby on the way so don't be surprised by Rebecca's swelling belly. I'm due September 1st and my calendar is open up until August 25th at this time. I will return October 13th - don't hesitate to book ahead!
Referral of the Month:
KNEE PAIN
Did you know I have a referral program? I do! For every 5 new patients that come and name YOU as the referring party, you get a FREE 60 MINUTE TREATMENT! This month, a great referral for me would be someone who has KNEE PAIN. Acupuncture is quickly effective for knee pain of many varieties from osteoarthritis, to injury and surgery recovery. Help someone you love feel better, get active and prevent long term injury.
As usual, the referral of a friend or family member is the highest compliment that I can receive.
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! If you are interested in more information please don't hesitate to call or book on-line. Free 15 minute consultations in person or over the phone are always available which you can book via phone at (503)445-8888 or on-line as well if you have more specific questions.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
June 2012 Newsletter
In This Issue:
** Seriously? You don't have birthdays 2x/Year?
** Facial Rejuvenation - Keep Them Guessing
** Summer Heat - Beat It!
** Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
2012 - Not Rebecca's Year to Send Cards
So... if your birthday is in May and you got a birthday card, awesome! I meant to do that. For everyone else... what can I say. 2012 is just not my year for mail, it seems. I PROMISE you will NOT receive anymore birthday cards on inappropriate dates, or at all until next year most likely. I find both email spam and mail spam quite a nuisance and I don't want to create either.
I am terribly sorry - truly.
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture - Keep them Guessing
But hey, even though it may not be your birthday (yet), why not keep people guessing about it anyway? You may or may not know that I have a subspecialty in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture - a cosmetic type of acupuncture that can eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, reduce larger lines, rebalance your complexion and more. With a history equally as long as "regular" acupuncture - i.e. well over 3,000 years - it is a safe and natural way to help you look and feel your best.
The best part, is that acupuncture can't work independant of the whole. In other words, even though our focus in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is the skin and the face, we still treat the whole body and address underlying consitutional issues. Menopause and Menopause related aging in particular combine and respond very well to this type of treatment.
If you want to know more, please check out the Facial Acupuncture page of my website, and if you have questions don't hesitate to contact me! Consultations in person or over the phone are always free and can be booked on my website just like regular appointments.
Summer Heat - Beat it!
Yay for summer! Such a beautiful time of year in Portland. Once the rain is said and done, its hard to do better than Portland in the summer time, you know? But for those of us in the Northwest, it can feel hot. Damn hot! And in Chinese Medicine, Summer Heat is a specific type of pathogen that can cause digestive issues and nasty 24 hour type flu bugs that just aren't fun. So, what's one to do?
Acupuncture is at the top of the list, of course, and we all have our favorite ways of staying cool - shorts and summer dresses, PLENTY OF WATER, lemonade, getting to the pool - but there are couple of food aces up your sleeve from the good ol' bag of Chinese Medicine tricks that I'd like to share:
Watermelon - not earth shattering, I know, but in Chinese Medicine, watermelon is particularly cool and important to stave off Summer Heat. Its a wonderful bonus that it is so plentiful this time of year, so don't hesitate to enjoy it often! Cubed watermelon in the freezer also makes a great substitute for ice cubes on a hot summer day in many beverages, and has health benefits to boot!
Lu Dou or Mung Beans - Mung Beans are usually thought of as Indian fare, but they are common in Chinese Medicine too and have a strong cooling effect. White sugar (unfortunately...) is also rated as "cold" in Chinese Medicine, so a common summer treat is a thin soup of boiled mung beans in sugar water. I personally prefer to substitute honey for the sugar (also cool), and find this treat especially cooling (can be enjoyed hot or cold - cold is best!) and great for the little ones too - much better than a sugary popsicle but just as sweet! Mung Bean sprouts make a great salad addition this time of year also!
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! If you are interested in more information please don't hesitate to call or book on-line. Free 15 minute consultations in person or over the phone are always available which you can book via phone at (503)445-8888 or on-line as well if you have more specific questions.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
Super News! Rebecca Contracted with CIGNA
Rebecca is now contracted with CIGNA Health Insurance! And some patients are seeing copayments as low as $7.00! So, if you have CIGNA insurance with Alternative Medicine benefits, please update your insurance information with Rebecca so she can start billing for you. Simply email a scanned copy of your insurance card to allwayswell@mac.com.
Refer 5 New Patients, Get a FREE Treatment!
Remember, that my Refer a Friend Program is still in full effect! Know someone with CIGNA Insurance (such as an INTEL employee?...) who might benefit from Acupuncture treatment? Please consider sending them my way by forwarding my email address, name, phone number or website! If five new patients give YOU as their referral source, you earn a free Acupuncture or Foot Reflexology treatment to keep or give to a friend or loved one. I've got AVAILABILITY TOMORROW due to to a couple last minute cancellations, so don't delay - refer today!
April 2012 Newsletter
In This Issue:
** Sickness Abounds...
*Don't get sick just 'cause people around you are...
**Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Sickness Abounds
Wow... Have you noticed a lot of people getting sick around you lately? Coworkers, friends, people coughing at the grocery store? There are some downright NASTY Spring colds and flus milling about right now and they are not friendly, not friendly in the slightest.
Worse, seems to be that our local bugs, at least, tend to linger. Average time I see patients exhibiting symptoms is about 4 weeks. Yikes!
Luckily, I'm fully stocked up with preventatives and palliatives should you desire to avoid or treat the yuckies flying about.
Don't Get Sick! Or Recover Faster if Needed.
Yes, I speak true! And can attest based on experience since I caught some yuckiness thanks to a 1-2 punch from my son's daycare and a dear friend in quick succession. Son - recovered like a champ (kids do that). Friend - 105 deg fever with deep phlegmy chest cold for 4 days then slow steady recovery over several weeks. Me? One day of sneezing, 2 days of copious sputum, no fever, and 4 days later was 92% clear. The secret? Chinese Medicine of course!
Here are some things you can do to prevent, avoid or if necessary, quickly treat something yucky this Spring:
HYDROTHERAPY - it really is amazing what an alternating hot/cold shower can do. It stimulates the immune system and moves your lymphatics encouraging health in more ways than one!
ELDERBERRY - elderberry is simple and natural yet effective antiviral. Safe during pregnancy and lactation, as well as for babies and toddlers, a little bit goes a long way. I have elderberry tincture (glycerine base, not alcohol) and elderberry throat lozenges in stock!
YIN QIAO - of course, one of my all time favorites, this formula is a MUST for the initial stage of a cold or flu. Designed specifically for that tickle in the throat progressing to sore throat time, it can catch and reverse symptoms to keep you well!
BAN LAN GEN CHONG JI - this is a simple drink that yes, has a little sweetener in it, but it packed full of strong Chinese herbal antivital support. Ban Lan Gen, the primary herb in this decoction, is also used in formulas for Cancer, interestingly enough. Gentle enough for use during pregnancy and lactation, and sweet enough for your little ones, this instant drink is a perfect pocket pal for antiviral support on the go.
ACUPUNCTURE - of COURSE getting regular acupuncture treatment is also a MUST for keeping the immune system healthy and strong. Haven't been in for a while? Book an appointment and stop on by!
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! If you are interested in more information please don't hesitate to call or book on-line. Free 15 minute consultations in person or over the phone are always available which you can book via phone at (503)445-8888 or on-line as well if you have more specific questions.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
** Sickness Abounds...
*Don't get sick just 'cause people around you are...
**Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Sickness Abounds
Wow... Have you noticed a lot of people getting sick around you lately? Coworkers, friends, people coughing at the grocery store? There are some downright NASTY Spring colds and flus milling about right now and they are not friendly, not friendly in the slightest.
Worse, seems to be that our local bugs, at least, tend to linger. Average time I see patients exhibiting symptoms is about 4 weeks. Yikes!
Luckily, I'm fully stocked up with preventatives and palliatives should you desire to avoid or treat the yuckies flying about.
Don't Get Sick! Or Recover Faster if Needed.
Yes, I speak true! And can attest based on experience since I caught some yuckiness thanks to a 1-2 punch from my son's daycare and a dear friend in quick succession. Son - recovered like a champ (kids do that). Friend - 105 deg fever with deep phlegmy chest cold for 4 days then slow steady recovery over several weeks. Me? One day of sneezing, 2 days of copious sputum, no fever, and 4 days later was 92% clear. The secret? Chinese Medicine of course!
Here are some things you can do to prevent, avoid or if necessary, quickly treat something yucky this Spring:
HYDROTHERAPY - it really is amazing what an alternating hot/cold shower can do. It stimulates the immune system and moves your lymphatics encouraging health in more ways than one!
ELDERBERRY - elderberry is simple and natural yet effective antiviral. Safe during pregnancy and lactation, as well as for babies and toddlers, a little bit goes a long way. I have elderberry tincture (glycerine base, not alcohol) and elderberry throat lozenges in stock!
YIN QIAO - of course, one of my all time favorites, this formula is a MUST for the initial stage of a cold or flu. Designed specifically for that tickle in the throat progressing to sore throat time, it can catch and reverse symptoms to keep you well!
BAN LAN GEN CHONG JI - this is a simple drink that yes, has a little sweetener in it, but it packed full of strong Chinese herbal antivital support. Ban Lan Gen, the primary herb in this decoction, is also used in formulas for Cancer, interestingly enough. Gentle enough for use during pregnancy and lactation, and sweet enough for your little ones, this instant drink is a perfect pocket pal for antiviral support on the go.
ACUPUNCTURE - of COURSE getting regular acupuncture treatment is also a MUST for keeping the immune system healthy and strong. Haven't been in for a while? Book an appointment and stop on by!
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! If you are interested in more information please don't hesitate to call or book on-line. Free 15 minute consultations in person or over the phone are always available which you can book via phone at (503)445-8888 or on-line as well if you have more specific questions.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
March Newsletter 2012
In This Issue:
** Spring is Coming!
***Liver Supportive Care
**Here We Go Again!
**Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Spring is Coming!
Albeit slowly in the Northwest, given this last cold front and random snow flurries, Spring is on its way. In Chinese Medicine this marks the transition from Kidney or Water time - a time of hibernation, restoration and introspection - to Liver or Wood time.
The Liver and Wood element is about growth, change, benevolence and creativity. The Liver is at its fullest, and like the general feeling of the season, Winter coats are being shaken off, the ground is warming and new buds and shoots are beginning to grow and break through.
This is the start of the season to think of the same for yourself - new projects, new beginnings. Even though the New Year is the traditional time in our culture to make resolutions, in Chinese Medicine this is the time of year to act on them. If you haven't made 2012 a year to refocus on your health, now is the time to make that commitment and start taking the first steps on your journey.
Liver Supportive Care
Since this time of year when the Liver and the Wood element is at its fullest, it is a good time to add some supportive herbs and foods into your diet to support and balance Liver and Gallbladder (also a wood element). In particular, the Liver has a tendency towards heat and in this season, neutral to cool foods and herbs - not cold mind you - can be supportive to caring for and balancing the Liver.
Water Chestnut, Lotus Root, Celery and Radish in particular are excellent to include in this season. Mint is cool and enters the Liver channel, and can also assist the Liver in its function to smooth the emotions. Milk Thistle is a western herb that is also specifically supportive to the Liver. It has antioxidant properties that target the Liver and can help keep it healthy and strong. All of these are excellent additions to your Springtime routines and activities!
Here We Go Again!
Well, for those of you that have been in lately you've probably noticed that I've gained a few pounds these past few months. You've probably guessed correctly that I'm pregnant! I am due September 1st and expect to work as long as I can up to that date. As I get closer I will announce firmer dates for my maternity leave and there will be coverage for my patients while I am away. I intend to come back sooner than three full months if I can - it was too hard to be away so long last time!
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! If you are interested in more information please don't hesitate to call or book on-line. Free 15 minute consultations in person or over the phone are always available which you can book via phone at (503)445-8888 or on-line as well if you have more specific questions.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
** Spring is Coming!
***Liver Supportive Care
**Here We Go Again!
**Thanks for Tuning In! Book On-line Anytime!
---------------------
Spring is Coming!
Albeit slowly in the Northwest, given this last cold front and random snow flurries, Spring is on its way. In Chinese Medicine this marks the transition from Kidney or Water time - a time of hibernation, restoration and introspection - to Liver or Wood time.
The Liver and Wood element is about growth, change, benevolence and creativity. The Liver is at its fullest, and like the general feeling of the season, Winter coats are being shaken off, the ground is warming and new buds and shoots are beginning to grow and break through.
This is the start of the season to think of the same for yourself - new projects, new beginnings. Even though the New Year is the traditional time in our culture to make resolutions, in Chinese Medicine this is the time of year to act on them. If you haven't made 2012 a year to refocus on your health, now is the time to make that commitment and start taking the first steps on your journey.
Liver Supportive Care
Since this time of year when the Liver and the Wood element is at its fullest, it is a good time to add some supportive herbs and foods into your diet to support and balance Liver and Gallbladder (also a wood element). In particular, the Liver has a tendency towards heat and in this season, neutral to cool foods and herbs - not cold mind you - can be supportive to caring for and balancing the Liver.
Water Chestnut, Lotus Root, Celery and Radish in particular are excellent to include in this season. Mint is cool and enters the Liver channel, and can also assist the Liver in its function to smooth the emotions. Milk Thistle is a western herb that is also specifically supportive to the Liver. It has antioxidant properties that target the Liver and can help keep it healthy and strong. All of these are excellent additions to your Springtime routines and activities!
Here We Go Again!
Well, for those of you that have been in lately you've probably noticed that I've gained a few pounds these past few months. You've probably guessed correctly that I'm pregnant! I am due September 1st and expect to work as long as I can up to that date. As I get closer I will announce firmer dates for my maternity leave and there will be coverage for my patients while I am away. I intend to come back sooner than three full months if I can - it was too hard to be away so long last time!
Thanks for Tuning In!
As usual thanks again for tuning in! If you are interested in more information please don't hesitate to call or book on-line. Free 15 minute consultations in person or over the phone are always available which you can book via phone at (503)445-8888 or on-line as well if you have more specific questions.
Looking forward to seeing you!
~Rebecca
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