A TRANSITION INTO THE COOLER MONTHS – WITH CHINESE MEDICINE.

Autumn is here!

The crisper air of Autumn is starting to come through and I feel like the Autumn equinox was a defining pivot into the new season.

Going with the flow of the seasons, we get to appreciate all the goodness that comes with Autumn. Seasonal produce, some truly lovely days where the light is golden and cooler nights which makes sleeping cosier.


In Chinese Medicine, as in nature, Autumn is a time of harvest, but also of letting go of what is no longer needed. And as the weather starts to cool, there can be a sense of agitation and, as our energy starts to move inward it can be difficult to slow down and accept the change.

The letting go process can be challenging, requiring gentleness and sometimes extra support. I find that doing the things that bring you joy and help to centre you can really help navigate this process.

In Chinese Medicine, the Lung and Large intestine are the key organs of Autumn. Together they take in air and nutrients and expel what is no longer useful to us.

An imbalance in these organs can show up in a variety of symptoms.

With the Lungs it is the respiratory system and the skin. There may be an exacerbation of asthma, eczema and seasonal allergies at this time. For the Large Intestine, digestive function may be impaired leading to constipation or frontal headaches and sinus issues.

It is helpful to re-evaluate your diet and routine at the change of season – Add some more cooked and warming foods to help your digestion along. Include plenty of root vegetables and other seasonal goodies. Drop back on the raw salads and cold foods.

In Autumn, the aim is to build our reserves by introducing more nourishing and calming practices into our daily routine to help bolster our immunity and vitality in the cooler months.
Below are some general guidelines – however, if you have a particular concern, please reach out to book a session, or contact your regular health care practitioner.

SOME AUTUMN GUIDELINES:

  • *Soups and broths🍲
  • *Seasonal fruit and veggies, such as root vegetables, pumpkin, pears and figs 🍐
  • *Pungent foods to support the lungs –
  • caraway, thyme, rosemary, turnip, radish, fennel, papaya, watercress and leek 🌿
  • *Breath-work, meditation, yoga, bodywork 💆🏻‍♀️
  • * Journaling, painting, drawing.
  • * Walks in nature.
  • * Protect your neck and lower back from the cold.
  • *Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs.

And.. if the humidity of Summer has left you feeling sluggish or you have some residual phlegm – then adding pungent foods in to help balance your digestive system and open the airways can be helpful. Look at fennel, kohlrabi, radicchio, bitter greens, peppermint and rosemary.

Wishing you a happy harvest season!

Elisabeth

CHINESE MEDICINE SPRING TIME TIPS

It’s Spring! Hence the staged photo of me next to a rosemary bush!
This is the season of green sprouting things and increased energy both in the environment and also within us.

In Chinese Medicine, Spring is the time to start focusing on the Liver. As we come out of the cooler months there can be some feelings of sluggishness. This combined with temperature changes and wind stirring, can lead to symptoms, that in TCM, we may attribute to the Liver needing some extra TLC.

Symptoms may include allergies, itchy skin, red eyes, headaches (especially around the temples, eyes and top of the head), hormonal fluctuations, bloating and feelings of irritability. There may also be tightness in the thoracic region and around the rib cage.

When it comes to the Liver, harsh detoxes aren’t really the Chinese Medicine approach. The focus is more on supporting and harmonising the Liver energy. There are many ways we can give a little extra love to the Liver coming into the Spring. These include dietary changes, exercise and other lifestyle factors.

See below for some general guidelines. However if you are experiencing some particular health care concern – please consult with your health care practitioner.

Chinese Medicine has many different approaches depending on an individual’s symptoms and health history. So, reach out if you need support x

DIET- INCLUDE:
🥦 Cruciferous vegetables – such as cauli, broccoli, brussels and kale
Dark leafy greens, radicchio, fennel, beetroot, carrot.
🍋 Lemons and limes
🌱 Fresh herbs such as rosemary, coriander, mint and thyme.

❌ DIET- LIMIT
Fried foods, fatty/ processed and smoked meats, high fructose foods and trans fats.

LIFESTYLE ☀️
🏌️‍♂️Stretch out the sides of the body – side bends and yoga poses that stretch through the rib-cage are all helpful.
– Practice some deep breathing – pushing the air right down into your belly on the inhale
💃 Move the body to get rid of pent up frustration – whether that’s swimming, dancing, running, long walks in nature or gardening – find the things that make you happy x


#acupuncturist #traditionalchinesemedicine #chinesemedicine #spring #rosemary #naturalhealth

AUTUMN AND PUMPKINS!

A lovely client gave me this pumpkin from her garden the other day. I thought it was a perfect image for an Autumn post and a chance to share some Chinese Medicine tips for the change of season 🍁

Whilst many of us are still steadfastly holding on to the Summer feels (👋), there has been a definable shift in the seasons here in Melbourne over the past week. The morning air is crisper and the pink and orange sunrises even look Autumnal!

Thankfully there is still some warm weather to come. However, it is important in Chinese Medicine terms, to start changing up our diets in preparation for the cooler months ahead.

Chinese Medicine tips for Autumn:

In Chinese Medicine, Autumn is the season to focus on the Lungs and Large Intestine. With this in mind, some foods to help benefit these organs can be helpful during this season.

For many people, including myself – immunity has taken some battering over the past three years. At change of season, this can increase susceptibility to many health conditions. These may include respiratory issues, allergies, skin conditions and digestive problems.

Warming, nourishing foods can be beneficial at this time to build energy levels as they are easy on the digestive system, allowing better absorption of nutrients.

Seasonal produce such as root vegetables, pumpkin and pears all have a moistening effect which can counteract the dryness of Autumn. And if the random humidity has left you feeling sluggish or you have some residual phlegm – adding pungent foods in to help balance your digestive system and open the airways can be helpful. Look at fennel, kohlrabi, radicchio, bitter greens, peppermint and rosemary.

Miso Pumpkin

Of course, when it comes to immunity, soaking up some sunshine where possible and eating foods naturally high in zinc -such as pumpkin seeds, almonds, oats and oysters – are a good idea too ❤️

For a yummy and easy to prepare Miso Pumpkin dish, please click on this link to view the recipe on my site.

Now, I’m going to take this pumpkin and make a big batch of pumpkin soup for the freezer!

Elisabeth x

#acupuncture #acupuncturist #traditionalchinesemedicine #chinesemedicine #pumpkin #seasonal #naturalhealing #holistichealth

SEASONAL SNIFFLES AND ACUPUNCTURE.

According to the most up to date evidence – Acupuncture can be effective in alleviating the symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) 1 and may also be a cost-effective approach 2.

Spring is on its way and the Magnolias in bloom are certainly a welcome sign of the sunshine to come.

However, for many people, this also means hay-fever season and for some, it has already started.

Research shows Acupuncture can be helpful for both seasonal and perennial types of allergic rhinitis, lessening the allergic inflammatory response and improving tolerance to seasonal triggers 3.

Whilst treatment can be effective once symptoms have started, it’s helpful to get in early to ward off those sneezes and watery eyes before they set in.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine has been used for millennia to address many issues related to seasonal allergies, treating the whole person and not just the presenting symptoms – to help bring the body back into balance.

During a consultation, we will work out an individual treatment plan to address your health care concerns. Please reach out if you would like some help with your symptoms.

*Interestingly, the beautiful Magnolia flower when processed for herbal use, is often prescribed in Chinese Medicine for particular types of nasal congestion and sinus.

To read the Acupuncture research, please click on the links in the text or see below.

Elisabeth

1. Rao YQ, Han NY. [Therapeutic effect of acupuncture on allergic rhinitis and its effects on immunologic function]. Zhongguo zhen jiu = Chinese acupuncture & moxibustion. 2006;26(8):557-60.

2. Kim SY, Lee H, Chae Y, Park HJ. A systematic review of cost-effectiveness analyses alongside randomised controlled trials of acupuncture. Acupuncture in medicine: Journal of the British Medical Acupuncture Society. 2012;30(4):273-85.

3. McDonald JL, Cripps AW, Smith PK. Mediators, Receptors, and Signalling Pathways in the Anti-Inflammatory and Antihyperalgesic Effects of Acupuncture. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM. 2015;2015:975632.

WINTERTIME – A REPAIR AND RESET

Here we are midway through Winter already.. and it’s been pretty chilly!

However, one thing I have found for myself, during this time of uncertainty around movement and travel, is just how good it feels to be outdoors, rugging up in beanies and scarves and going for walks – cold, rain, wind, whatever.. I’ll take it!

Winter in Chinese Medicine, is a time to focus on the Kidney Qi. In TCM theory, the Kidneys are often referred to as the ‘gate of life’ and are the source of our energy reserves and the foundation that we draw strength from.

With the colder weather comes a feeling of contraction as we naturally want to move inwards. And whilst it can be tempting at this time, to try and push ahead with all our regular routines around diet and exercise, going with this natural flow, can yield great benefits.

The Kidney energy benefits from quiet time, reflection and rest. Therefore, taking some time out for more gentle activities, offers an opportunity for repair and nourishment. This is also a good counterbalance for the outward expansion of the warmer months, providing a necessary reset.

Food wise, it’s the time to add more warming and slow cooked foods into your diet. Think root vegetables, legumes, soups and stews.

It’s important to find the things that ‘fill you up’ and that you enjoy. Whether that be nature walks, journal writing, reading, drawing, painting or making a yummy slow cooked meal for yourself or to share with others. These are all ways to boost the Kidney energy and also warm the heart, in the Wintertime.

  • Here are a couple of Winter recipes from the recipe section of my website. To view full details – just click on the text over images xx

AUTUMN – A TIME TO REFLECT AND EMBRACE THE CHANGE

The harvest season is suddenly here and some of us may be wondering where daylight savings and indeed Summer, has gone!

In Chinese Medicine, Autumn is a season of shedding what no longer serves us and taking the time to replenish our energy reserves.

It can be a struggle to let go. I for one, find it difficult to leave the idea of Summer behind. The longer days and the feeling of freedom that goes along with being outdoors has felt like such a treat.

As the weather starts to cool, there can be a sense of agitation. Our energy starts to move inward and it can be difficult to slow down and accept the change.

But by going with the flow of the seasons, we get to appreciate all the goodness that comes with Autumn. Beautiful seasonal produce, truly lovely days where the light is just golden and cooler nights which makes sleeping somewhat easier!

In Chinese Medicine, the Lung and Large intestine are the key organs of Autumn. Together they take in air and nutrients and expel what is no longer useful to us.

Imbalances in the body may start to show with the dryness of Autumn. These often occur in the areas that these two organs have the most influence.

With the Lungs – it is the respiratory system and the skin. Imbalances may show up as an exacerbation of asthma, eczema and other allergies. For the Large Intestine, digestive function may be impaired leading to constipation or frontal headaches and sinus issues.

Therefore it is helpful to re-evaluate your diet and routine at this time – Add some more cooked and warming foods to help your digestion along. Include plenty of root vegetables and other seasonal goodies. Drop back on the raw salads and cold foods.

And take some quiet reflective time for yourself where you can.

Wishing you a bountiful harvest season x

SHOULDER PAIN – ACUPUNCTURE

Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint, affecting up to one third of the population in their lifetime. Symptoms may include pain, loss of function and a decrease in strength. Symptoms can be debilitating and greatly affect quality of life 1.

Acupuncture is a health modality that has been practiced for thousands of years. Providing an holistic approach to health-care, acupuncture can integrate well with many other treatments. Whilst the research on its effects for shoulder pain is ongoing, several studies indicate its benefits when used in combination with other therapies.

A systematic review (SR) conducted in 2017, suggests Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for shoulder pain, when used with other management strategies such as physiotherapy or exercise, as part of a multi-modal approach 2.

In a SR in 2015, specifically relating to ‘shoulder impingement syndrome’, it was demonstrated that combined treatment lead to more favorable outcomes than single intervention therapies. In early cases, exercise combined with other therapies such as acupuncture, and kinesio taping was recommended 3. As part of this review, a study on acupuncture in association with physiotherapy showed an improvement in shoulder function and reduction in pain. There was an overall decrease in analgesic use by the participants 4 .

The shoulder can be easily injured. A shallow ball and socket joint, the muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff are largely responsible for anchoring the shoulder in place. The rotator cuff enables overhead movements and the rotation of the arm towards and away from the body.

Shoulder injury can result from overuse, weak muscles and degenerative changes. Therefore, sport or work related activities, wear and tear – or a combination of these, may lead to shoulder pain 5.

Some musculoskeletal causes of shoulder pain include – tendonitis, rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, bursitis and shoulder impingement syndrome 6.

If you are suffering from shoulder pain, a course of acupuncture may be a useful addition to your care. During a consultation, a patient’s presenting symptoms, lifestyle and general health will be carefully assessed when putting together a treatment plan.

Please contact me via the clinics or contact form if you wish to discuss treatment and how it may be of benefit to you.

Elisabeth

THE ENERGY OF SPRING

The arrival of Spring, brings with it some welcome sunshine, new growth and optimism.

The energy of Spring is one of upward expansion and movement. This is a time when we naturally want to expend more energy and become more active.

It can be a particularly challenging time health wise, as we emerge from the colder months feeling sluggish and fatigued. There can also be chronic health issues carried forward from the previous season. Particularly this year, as many have had to forego their regular exercise routines and health care practices that usually sustain us over the Winter time.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this is the season of the Liver and the Gallbladder. An imbalance in this area can show up as allergies, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues and muscle and tendon tightness – particularly through the diaphragm, thoracic area and across the top of the shoulders.

When the Liver energy is out of balance, we can feel pent up, irritable and generally out of sorts. To move some of this stagnation, it is helpful to stretch through the sides of the body, rolling and shrugging the shoulders to release tension, breathing deep into the belly and finding an activity that brings you joy, such as dancing, singing or whatever it may be for you.

Whilst many think of undertaking an extreme Spring detox at this time, in Traditional Chinese Medicine we focus instead on gently harmonising the Liver to aid its cleansing and detoxifying function.

A good way to support the Liver in Spring is to make some simple changes to the diet.

To view recipes – click on link in the images above or go to the ‘Recipes’ section of my website.

To compliment the dynamic energy of the season, add some lighter foods into your meals. Seasonal green veggies such as asparagus, broad beans, watercress and small amounts of sour flavors, such as lemon or lime can help move the Qi.

In addition, foods that are naturally bitter or pungent can be beneficial during Spring. These include foods such as broccoli, cabbage, papaya, watercress, cardamom, dill, radish and also the use of fresh herbs such as mint, chamomile, rosemary and coriander.

We all have different needs depending on our health care concerns and constitution. During a TCM consultation, dietary and lifestyle advice is tailored specifically to the individual’s particular circumstances and health requirements.

If you would like to discuss how Chinese Medicine may be of help to you, feel free to send me a message through the contact form or phone the clinics: Williamstown 93999 659 Yarraville 9689 7901. I would be happy to discuss treatment options with you.

Elisabeth

DIETARY THERAPY IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE – NOURISHING LIFE

ROASTED VEGETABLES WITH HONEYED WALNUTS

Dietary therapy is an important aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It forms a part of self care practices known as Yang Sheng, a term that means to ‘nourish life’.

Yang Sheng involves paying attention to and making the necessary adjustments to diet, exercise, mindfulness and rest, to best support our health.

These needs will differ from person to person, based on constitution, individual health concerns, as well as seasonal and environmental influences.

In times of challenge and change, it is important to take some time to re-evaluate your diet and lifestyle. Making small adjustments and putting some nourishing routines in place can help you to feel balanced and energised.

Dietary recommendations form part of a TCM consultation and treatment plan. In Chinese Medicine, food is looked at not just for its nutritional value, but other characteristics as well. These include both the nature and flavor of foods – such as bitter, pungent, sweet, warming and cooling. Cooking methods, when we eat and how we eat, can also affect our assimilation and digestion of food.

Eating seasonal and whole foods where-ever possible is ideal. However, depending on an individual’s constitution, the strength of their digestive system and particular health care needs, specific foods may be more suitable at different times.

During a TCM consultation for Acupuncture and/or Herbs, Yang Sheng recommendations are given as home care. Implementing some new self care strategies, over time can effect positive change.

A SEASON TO BOOST OUR ENERGY RESERVES

There is a contraction of our natural energies in Autumn, as the weather cools and the days become shorter.

A time for gathering stores and re-evaluating what we need to let go of both in our physical environment and also in our ways of thinking – our habits, beliefs and ways of being.

This is kind of a strange metaphor for the times we find ourselves in. Required to limit our movements and stay close to home where possible, we have to dig deep into our reserves and find ways of balancing this inward shift in other ways.

Autumn offers us an opportunity to nourish ourselves and boost our energy reserves for the colder months ahead. Taking time to eat nourishing foods and incorporate mindful breath work and movement can strengthen our systems leading into Winter.

Now is a key time to focus on immunity. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this is the season of the lungs and large intestine. Both organs function to take in what is necessary and to eliminate what is not. The lungs act as an interface between us and our environment, through respiration, the skin and our immune system. Our large intestine functions to absorb fluids, salts and cellulose and excrete waste and toxins.

Focusing on breathing practices to expand the lungs and release pent up energy is necessary, especially at this time when our movements may be more restricted. During these times of stress, shallow breathing and constraint through the neck, shoulders and diaphragm is common. Walking in nature and spending time each day to stretch our bodies and focus on deep, slow breathing will help to keep the chest open and expanded.

The addition of some pungent foods can also be of benefit to the lungs at this time. Consider adding foods such as spring onion, peppermint, coriander, chives or watercress into your diet.

Eating seasonally with a focus on well -cooked foods with lots of moisture (soups and stews) is a good general rule for this time.

Due to the dryer conditions of Autumn, symptoms such as dry nasal passages, flaky skin, allergies and constipation may occur. Seasonal foods such as pears, mushrooms, pumpkin, pine nuts and root vegetables can be of benefit.

In the recipe section of this site I have included a couple of recipes that are perfect for this time. Congee with Mushrooms and Miso Baked Pumpkin both make use of seasonal produce and are nourishing for Autumn.

For those who would like to book a consultation for Acupuncture or herbal support, I am currently seeing patients but at reduced hours given the current circumstances. To book an appointment please call the Williamstown clinic directly. Alternatively, I am happy to offer my herbal patients phone or online consultations if needed. Please send me a message via the contact page for more details.

Wishing everyone well at this time and hoping you are receiving the support that you need.

Elisabeth

ACUPUNCTURE FOR ANXIETY – AN INTEGRATED APPROACH

Photo by Yoann Boyer on Unsplash

Up to date evidence shows Acupuncture to be a promising therapy in the treatment of anxiety.

Anxiety disorders are prevalent in today’s society affecting between 1-30% of the global population (1). In Australia, it is estimated that 1 in 4 people will experience anxiety in their lifetime (2).

Whilst anxiety can be a normal response to stress, it can be debilitating when symptoms persist long after the event or danger has passed.

Causes of anxiety can be varied and complex. Traumatic events, genetic factors, health concerns and chronic pain can all play a part.

Symptoms of anxiety may include hot and cold flushes, racing heart, rapid breathing, obsessive thinking, feelings of dread, sleep disturbance and avoidance behaviors (3).

A systematic review conducted in 2018 showed an overall decrease in anxiety symptoms in Acupuncture treatment groups, relative to control groups in all 13 studies (4). Findings showed Acupuncture to have a beneficial effect on heart rate variability and a calming effect on the body’s response of neuro-chemicals when under stress (5).

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), anxiety centres around the concept of the ‘Shen’ or consciousness, which is linked to the heart energy. In TCM, the physical, mental and emotional processes are seen as completely interconnected.

Whilst scientific studies will never quite capture the breadth of Acupuncture’s effects on the body’s Qi and blood according to TCM theory, they are nevertheless extremely valuable as a measure of the physiological changes that can occur through the insertion of acupuncture needles.  

These findings show Acupuncture is well placed to be part of an integrated treatment plan and a sound referral option for anxiety sufferers (6),(7). I am hopeful that further research will go towards bridging the gap in understanding between this ancient healing modality and modern medicine.

During an Acupuncture consultation, a holistic approach is taken to carefully assess all factors. This includes a thorough health history, to determine the best course of treatment for the individual.

Treatment is very gentle and most will feel relaxed during and after a session. However, for those new to Acupuncture please feel free to contact me for more details.

**It is important that you let your primary health care practitioner know if you are planning to start any new treatments.

Please click on links in article or refer to full reference list below.

REFERENCES:

1.Baxter AJ, Scott KM, Vos T, Whiteford HA. Global prevalence of anxiety disorders: a systematic review and meta-regression. Psychological Medicine. 2013; 43:897-910 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22781489

2. https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/anxiety

3. https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/anxiety/signs-and-symptoms

4. Amorim, D., Amado, J., Brito, I., Fiuza, S. M., Clinical, N. A. T. I., 2018. (n.d.). Acupuncture and electroacupuncture for anxiety disorders: A systematic review of the clinical research. Elsevier. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29705474

5. Agelink MW, Sanner D, Eich H, Pach J, Bertling R, Lemmer W, Klieser E, Lehmann E. Does acupuncture influence the cardiac autonomic nervous system in patients with minor depression or anxiety disorders? Fortschritte der Neurologie-Psychiatrie. 2003;71:141-9. https://europepmc.org/article/med/12624851

6. Arvidsdotter, T., Marklund, B., & Taft, C. (2013). Effects of an integrative treatment, therapeutic acupuncture and conventional treatment in alleviating psychological distress in primary care patients https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24200100

7. Goyata SL, Avelino CC, Santos SV, Souza Junior DI, Gurgel MD, Terra FS. Effects from acupuncture in treating anxiety: integrative review. Rev Bras Enferm. 2016 Jun;69(3):602-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27355312

http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.01.008

FINDING BALANCE IN CHALLENGING TIMES

It has been a difficult time for many people this Summer. Erratic weather and regional bush fires, have caused widespread challenges.

However, through all of this we have seen such wonderful empathy, connection and generosity.

The current circumstances have lead me to think about Chinese Medicine and its principle of living in harmony with nature.

But how do we do that when things are so changeable?

I think it is about looking for ways to achieve balance where we can. Taking small steps that enable us to adapt where needed.

Pivotal to Chinese Medicine is this aim for balance, by taking into account a person’s constitution, environment and individual circumstances. It’s a principle that can be helpful in these current times.

Summer is known as the season of the ‘Heart’ in Chinese medicine. A time for expansion, reaching out and connecting with others. The ability for us to do this, has been demonstrated in the most incredible ways these past few weeks.

But with this, can come fatigue and depletion. So we need to ensure that we are looking after ourselves and replenishing where we can.

Allowing some time for meditation and reflection is so important.

The extremes in temperatures can contribute to many health concerns. These include insomnia, skin rashes, headaches, respiratory issues and digestive upsets.

Where circumstances allow, include as many seasonal and whole foods as possible into your diet and add some nourishing foods to support the heart. These include blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, oats, lettuce, adzuki beans and mungbeans.

In Summer, there is a natural inclination to increase our cold and raw food intake, however this does not suit everyone.

If you suffer from bloating, loose stools or have phlegm congestion, then lightly cooking vegetables may improve your ability to assimilate these foods better.

For congestion, try adding some pungent foods into your diet. Fennel, radish, spring onion and fresh herbs such as peppermint and coriander can be helpful.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like further information on how Traditional Chinese Medicine can help with any health concerns you may be experiencing at this time.

Wishing you a safe and peaceful Summer

CHINESE MEDICINE IN POST-NATAL CARE: A TIME HONORED TRADITION.

There is a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine focusing on the importance of post natal care for the new mother.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

In Chinese the term for this six week period is ‘Chan Ru’, which translates to ‘childbirth’ and ‘cotton mattress‘. This highlights the value that was placed on rest and recovery.

A time honored tradition at this time was to observe ‘Zuo Yuezi’, meaning to ‘sit out the month‘. The new mother would have 30-40 days at home, to replenish her energy reserves.

Whilst it is not always achievable or practical to have a month of seclusion, aspects of this tradition can still be incorporated for their rich benefits.

For millennia, Traditional Chinese Medicine practices have been used post birth to aid recovery. These include dietary and lifestyle advice (Yang Sheng) and modalities such as Chinese Herbal medicine, Moxibustion and Acupuncture.

In Chinese Medicine, the period following childbirth is seen as a time when the mother’s Qi and blood are depleted and she is susceptible to the cold.

A treatment known as ‘Mother Warming’ can be used at this time where applicable. A non-invasive and relaxing treatment, it uses Moxibustion to warm specific acupuncture points on the lower back and abdomen in the week or two following the birth. Your Chinese Medicine Practitioner will determine if this technique is suitable for you.

Dietary Therapy also plays a vital role, focusing on foods that are nourishing and easy to digest. Including warm and well cooked foods such as broth, soups, stews, root vegetables and medicinal rice porridge (congee) is recommended.

Congee can be made from rice (or barley) and is traditionally slow cooked in a saucepan or crock pot. Different ingredients are then added for their therapeutic benefits. Additions that are useful to nourish Qi and blood, include red dates, goji berries, fresh ginger, sesame seeds, mushrooms or adzuki beans.

Here is a recipe that I posted previously for a mushroom congee. The basic recipe can be used as a guideline if you wish to substitute the mushrooms.

To find out more on how Chinese Medicine treatment may be of benefit to you or discuss your individual health care concerns, feel free to contact me for a chat.

Elisabeth

TRANSITIONING INTO A NEW SEASON

Welcome to Spring – Flowers are blooming, birds are nesting and wind, rain and sunshine abound!

Photo by Danijela Froki on Unsplash

The first few weeks of the season are very much a transition time, both externally in our environment and internally in our bodies as well.

As we emerge from the chilliness of Winter, we may find some sluggishness and lingering health issues left over from the colder months

For many, this can be the start of hay-fever. Acupuncture can be very effective in addressing hay fever symptoms. For links to research, click here to read my post on Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever) and Acupuncture.

Whilst tempting to launch headlong into new and vigorous health programs to throw off the Winter, we need to be mindful that the weather can still be chilly and unpredictable. Therefore it is important to dress warmly and still include some nourishing and warming foods in the diet.

In Chinese medicine, the energy of our bodies starts to move up and out in Spring, ready for more activity and expansion. The organ of focus at this time is the liver.

Eating foods to support our system at this time, can help with immunity, allergies, hormone levels and digestive function.

Start to shake off the sluggishness of winter by introducing some invigorating foods to help support the liver. These include foods such as fennel, caraway, coriander and watercress. Remembering that soups, slow cooked foods and root vegetables still have their place in the cooler conditions of early Spring.

A course of Acupuncture can help to re-balance and reset – in preparation for the active season ahead.

During an Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine consultation, I will go through diet and lifestyle advice to help you prepare for the sunny days to come.

Elisabeth

ACUPUNCTURE FOR CHRONIC PAIN.

Do you suffer from chronic pain?

Recent studies show the effectiveness of Acupuncture in relieving symptoms of chronic pain1. The research has also shown that Acupuncture’s positive effects can still be evident 12 months after treatment2.

Chronic pain can continue long after an injury has healed. It can be both physically and emotionally draining, and affect a person’s ability to work, sleep and socialise.

The recent focus on the opioid epidemic3and it’s far reaching consequences has highlighted the need to look to methods of alleviating pain, that don’t require long term use of those drugs.

Acupuncture is a holistic system of healing based on Chinese Medicine theory. It focuses on restoring balance and facilitating the body’s natural healing responses. Studies show it can aid the release of the body’s natural painkillers4 and anti-inflammatory agents5.

So, if you are experiencing chronic pain, consider Acupuncture.

During a consultation, we will discuss your symptoms and your health history. I will then work out a treatment plan to suit your needs.

To read the latest research, please click on the links in article or see below.

Elisabeth

1.Yin, C., Buchheit, T. E., & Park, J. J. (2017). Acupuncture for chronic pain: an update and critical overview. Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology, 1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28719458

2.MacPherson, H., Vertosick, E. A., Foster, N. E., Lewith, G., Linde, K., Sherman, K. J., et al. (2016). The persistence of the effects of acupuncture after a course of treatment. Pain, 1–22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27764035

3. Rudd RA, Seth P, David F, Scholl L. Increases in Drug and Opioid-Involved Overdose Deaths — United States, 2010–2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2016;65:1445–1452. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm655051e1

4. Harris, R. E., Zubieta, J.-K., Scott, D. J., Napadow, V., Gracely, R. H., & Clauw, D. J. (2009). Traditional Chinese acupuncture and placebo (sham) acupuncture are differentiated by their effects on μ-opioid receptors (MORs). NeuroImage, 47(3), 1077–1085. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053811909005904?via%3Dihub

5. Longhurst, J., Chee-Yee, S., & Li, P. (2017). Defining Acupuncture’s Place in Western Medicine. Scientia, 1–5.https://www.scientia.global/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/John-Longhurst.pdf