Acupuncture Articles

The Triple Heater Channel

Posted: July 23, 2015

The Triple Heater is the only channel, or meridian, that does not have a corresponding organ. However, one of its many functions is body temperature regulation, giving it a possible relationship to thyroid function. Traveling through the neck, shoulder, elbow and fingers, the Triple Heater channel can be very useful in improving the function of these joints.…

The Heart: Clarity, Righteousness and Leadership

Posted: July 23, 2015

As with all of the organs, within Chinese medicine, the heart is understood in relation to the spirit, mind, and emotions as well as its physical functions.  And, as with the other organs, we capitalize Heart when speaking about its non-physical functions and its associated channel and qi. The Heart is known as the Supreme…

The Season of Fire

Posted: May 19, 2015

The season of Fire begins the first week in May on the Five Element calendar. As you know, there are many kinds of fire in nature that serve different purposes. The Pericardium system (aka "Heart Protector" and "Circulation-Sex") represents the yin expression of fire and supports the cozy warmth of intimacy. Beginning in the breast, its…

3 Tips for Strengthening Your Wood Energy This Spring

Posted: April 28, 2015

1) Liberate the diaphragm muscle to allow smooth movement of breath and qi. The Liver meridian ends just below the diaphragm. Deep breathing and gentle yoga that includes twists and back bends will help release excess tension from the diaphragm. 2) Cardiovascular exercise will increase the range of motion of this important muscle. Improve your…

Ailments of Spring: Sciatica, Neck Pain, and Headaches

Posted: March 31, 2015

While sciatica, neck pain, and one-sided headaches certainly occur throughout the year, the transition between winter and spring often see an increase in the frequency and/or severity of these symptoms.  Spring time, the season associated with the Wood element, governs the smooth, agile movement of both our joints and our qi (or life force).  Symptoms…

Spring: The Season of Wood

Posted: March 31, 2015

The Wood element is expressed by the spring-time energy of vigorous movement and growth. The rushing water in Jane Mudd's painting in our reception room exemplifies the increased color, sound and movement that we experience as we leave the quiet, dark of winter. I am delighted to display this painting in our reception area as…

Healing Foot Pain: Warming the Kidney Channel

Posted: January 10, 2015

When foot pain feels like something is inside the foot or like a sock is bunched up under it and is made worse by walking, the diagnosis is often Morton's neuroma.  This is an enlargement or thickening of nerve tissue that often occurs between the third and fourth toes.  This type of pain is usually…

Bone Broth for Deep Nourishment

Posted: January 8, 2015

In addition to being a tasty way to improve soups, bone broth is an excellent to nourish the body.  Filled with minerals, bone broth can also be sipped by the cup in times of illness and depletion.  Use bones from grass-fed, hormone-free, antibiotic free animals.  Susie's Grass-Fed Lamb sells five pound bags of bones at…

Yogic Rest with Your Cell Phone

Posted: January 2, 2015

Rest and rejuvenation - these are issues that come up in talking with patients about how to support Kidney qi, the energy that protects our deepest reserves.  Finding the time and place to rest in a manner that is truly renewing is a challenge for many.  So, I was delighted when one of my patients…

Heavenly Yogi Tea Recipe

Posted: December 5, 2014

My favorite tea to serve at winter gatherings is Heavenly Yogi Tea. The scent of ginger, cinnamon and cloves simmering on the stove is a great way to welcome to your guests in from the cold. It is also good for your lung health, keeping colds and flu at bay. And it tastes great! The…

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