Category: herbal medicine

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Embracing Summer: A Balanced Approach to Chinese Medicine

As we find ourselves on the cusp of summer, it’s an opportune time to consider how we can make the most of this vibrant season. Today, we’ll be exploring some elements of Chinese medicine and its dietary practices that could help us maintain our health during these warmer months.

Chinese medicine, a holistic health care system with thousands of years of wisdom behind it, emphasizes balance in the body. Picture this balance as a seesaw, with Yin on one side representing coolness and calm, and Yang on the other, symbolizing heat and energy. Summer is undeniably a Yang season, full of activity and warmth.

However, if we’re not careful, the increased heat and activity can tilt the seesaw towards Yang, leading to an imbalance that can cause dehydration and exhaustion. Let’s explore how traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) suggests we restore this balance.

Choosing the Right Foods

In TCM, food isn’t just about satisfying our hunger; it has an ‘energy’ too. Some foods are considered ‘hot’ or ‘warm,’ while others are ‘cool’ or ‘cold.’ To balance the Yang of summer, it’s recommended to eat more cooling foods.

  • Fruits: Watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries are perfect choices. They’re seen as cooling and hydrating.
  • Vegetables: Light and leafy veggies like bok choy, spinach, and broccoli are tagged as ‘cooling’ foods.
  • Herbs and Spices: Incorporating mint, cilantro, and dill into your meals can have a cooling effect.

Try to go easy on grilled, fried, or spicy foods, as they might add more heat to your body.

Staying Hydrated

Hydration is key in summer. Herbal teas such as chrysanthemum and green tea are often recommended for their cooling properties. Even your regular water can be jazzed up with slices of cooling fruits like lemon or cucumber.

Acupuncture and Moxibustion

Acupuncture and moxibustion are Chinese treatments used to maintain the body’s balance. As summer corresponds with the heart and small intestine in TCM, an acupuncture session might involve stimulating these related points to ensure a smooth energy flow.

Moxibustion is a soothing treatment that uses burning herbs to stimulate acupuncture points. It’s a fantastic way to boost overall vitality, making it a unique addition to any treatment.

Rest and Relaxation

While summer is synonymous with activity, it’s also essential to have some downtime. Balancing high-energy activities with calming practices like meditation, Tai Chi, or gentle yoga can prevent an excess of Yang energy.

So, there you have it—a look into how you can apply the principles of Chinese medicine to your summer lifestyle. To learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment, visit our website.

Here’s a refreshing recipe to help jump start a balanced, healthy, and enjoyable summer!

Strawberry and Mint Salad

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of fresh strawberries
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
  2. Rinse the mint leaves and gently pat them dry.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt until the honey dissolves completely.
  4. Add the sliced strawberries to the bowl and toss them gently until they are fully coated with the honey-lemon dressing.
  5. Chop or tear the mint leaves and sprinkle them over the strawberries. Gently toss the salad again.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. Serve the salad chilled, on its own, or as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken.

This salad is not only delicious and refreshing but also aligns with the principles of traditional Chinese medicine for summer health. The strawberries are cooling, the mint adds an extra refreshing element, and the honey and lemon provide a balance of flavors.

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Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Gift of Self-Care: An Ultimate Guide to Treatments and Tips that Moms Need

Motherhood is a rewarding experience, but let’s face it, it can also be challenging and exhausting. That’s why it’s so important to celebrate Mother’s Day by encouraging moms to prioritize their self-care. Acupuncture Healing Arts Center offers a variety of treatments that can help moms feel their best, both physically and mentally. And we’ve also got some fun tips for self-care at home!

Acupuncture is an ancient practice that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and pain while boosting energy levels. Our experienced acupuncturists provide personalized treatment plans that can help moms address their individual health concerns. So whether you’re dealing with migraines, back pain, or just need some relaxation, acupuncture can help!

Facial rejuvenation acupuncture is another service we offer, which can help moms achieve a youthful, glowing complexion by increasing circulation, stimulating collagen production, and relaxing facial muscles. We also offer microneedling, a treatment that involves tiny needles that penetrate the skin, triggering the body’s natural healing process to produce collagen and elastin. This can help with anti-aging, scarring, and overall skin rejuvenation.

In addition to these services, we also offer herbal medicine to address a variety of health issues, including stress and fatigue. And for moms looking for a more holistic approach, our hypnotherapy services can help address a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and phobias.

But self-care doesn’t have to stop when you leave Acupuncture Healing Arts Center! Here are some fun and practical tips for self-care at home:

1. Take a bath! Add some Epsom salts, essential oils, or bubbles to really make it a spa-like experience.

2. Get outside! Take a walk, go for a hike, or even just sit in the sunshine and read a book.

3. Have a dance party! Put on your favorite tunes and dance like no one is watching.

4. Have a phone-free day! Disconnect from social media, emails, and work, and just enjoy some uninterrupted time with your family or friends.

5. Try a new hobby! Whether it’s painting, knitting, or baking, finding a new hobby can be a great way to practice self-care and unwind.

Self-care is essential for moms, and our wellness center provides the treatments and services to help moms prioritize their well-being. This Mother’s Day, give your mom the gift of self-care and book her an appointment with us. She deserves it!

To learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment, visit our website. And don’t forget to try out some of our fun self-care tips at home!

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Eating for Spring: Tips from Chinese Medicine

Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, and what we eat during this season can have a profound effect on our health and well-being. According to Chinese medicine, the foods we eat should be in harmony with the season, and spring is no exception. In this blog post, we will explore some tips for eating in alignment with spring, and we will share a delicious recipe to help you get started.

The Wisdom of Chinese Medicine

In Chinese medicine, spring is associated with the liver and gallbladder organs. These organs are responsible for detoxifying the body and regulating the flow of qi (energy) throughout the body. When the liver and gallbladder are functioning properly, we feel energized and vitalized. However, when these organs are out of balance, we can experience a range of symptoms, including fatigue, irritability, and digestive issues.

To support the health of the liver and gallbladder during spring, Chinese medicine recommends eating foods that are fresh, light, and slightly pungent.

Some examples include:

  • Leafy greens: Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are packed with nutrients that support the liver and gallbladder. They are also great sources of fiber, which helps to regulate digestion.
  • Sprouts: Sprouts, such as alfalfa and mung bean, are high in enzymes, vitamins, and minerals. They are also easy to digest, making them a great addition to any spring meal.
  • Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and grapefruits, are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. They also have a slightly sour taste, which helps to stimulate digestion and support the liver.
  • Spring onions: Spring onions have a slightly pungent taste, which makes them a great addition to any spring dish. They are also rich in sulfur compounds, which support liver function.
  • Artichokes: Artichokes are rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them a great choice for spring. They also contain compounds that support liver function and detoxification.

By eating in alignment with the season, we can support our health and well-being in profound ways. By incorporating fresh, light, and slightly pungent foods into our diets during spring, we can support the health of the liver and gallbladder, boost our energy levels, and improve our digestion. Try incorporating some of the foods recommended by Chinese medicine for spring, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, balanced diet.

Recipe: Spring Greens Salad with Citrus Dressing

Here is a delicious recipe that incorporates some of the foods recommended by Chinese medicine for spring.

Ingredients

For the salad:

  • 4 cups mixed leafy greens
  • 1 cup sprouts (such as alfalfa or mung bean)
  • 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the dressing:

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the leafy greens, sprouts, spring onions, avocado, and cilantro.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, and sea salt.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Spring Allergies? Acupuncture and Herbs Can Help!

Spring is the time of the year when nature comes alive again. The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, and the trees are sprouting new leaves. Unfortunately, for many people, spring also brings allergies. Seasonal allergies can be a major inconvenience, affecting both physical and mental well-being. If you are looking for a natural way to relieve your spring allergies, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine may offer some solutions.

Understanding Spring Allergies

Spring allergies, also known as seasonal allergies, are caused by the body’s overreaction to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. When pollen enters the body, the immune system produces histamines, causing the typical symptoms of sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and scratchy throat. Allergies can also cause fatigue, headaches, and difficulty sleeping, which can lead to decreased productivity and overall quality of life.

Acupuncture for Spring Allergies

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. The goal is to balance the flow of energy, or qi, throughout the body. Acupuncture has been shown to be an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, including allergies.

When it comes to allergies, acupuncture works by reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and regulating the body’s response to allergens. The treatment can also help alleviate symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. Many people find that regular acupuncture treatments can provide long-term relief from allergies.

Chinese Herbal Medicine for Spring Allergies

Chinese herbal medicine has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of health conditions. In the case of spring allergies, Chinese herbal medicine can help alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, and itchy eyes. Herbs such as magnolia flower, schisandra fruit, and xanthium fruit have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and improving respiratory function.

When combined with acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine can provide even greater relief from allergies. Acupuncturists and Chinese herbalists can work together to create a personalized treatment plan based on the individual’s symptoms and constitution.

Final Thoughts

Spring allergies can be a major inconvenience, but they don’t have to disrupt your life. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine offer natural and effective ways to relieve symptoms and improve overall well-being. If you are suffering from spring allergies, consider trying acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine as a safe and effective alternative to conventional treatments. To get started, click here to book an appointment, or read our FAQs for more information.

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Updated COVID-19 Policies and Procedures

At this time we are requiring proper face masks to be worn at all times in the center. The practitioner is masked at all times in an effort to maintain a safe environment for all. Please stay at home if you are feeling sick or suspect you have been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19.

The following criteria must be met to be seen at Acupuncture Healing Arts Center

  1. The patient must not be experiencing symptoms such as a fever, coughing, shortness of breath, pressure in the chest, loss of smell or taste, or any other flu-like symptoms during the previous week. 
  2. Patient must not have been in contact with anyone suspected of COVID-19.

The following patients are at high risk for COVID-19 complications and should use extra precautions at all times:

  1. People aged 65 years and older
  2. People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
  3. People who have serious heart conditions
  4. People who are immuno-compromised including cancer treatment

People of any age with underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, such as those with diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease may also be at risk.

In-Office Policies for COVID-19:

  • Masks: Your practitioner will be wearing a mask during your session. It is mandatory that you arrive wearing a mask or I will provide you with one.
  • Your practitioner ask that you proceed to the restroom to wash your hands prior to your session.
  • The center is equipped with a new UVC Light Sanitizer to purify each treatment room between patients and will run a quiet UV air purifier in the treatment room, filtering out the smallest microns of dust, pollen, and virus. 
  • Bleach is being used on the face rest covers and all linens (including top blanket) are cleaned and sanitized, just for you. 
  • All laundry will be washed in sanitizing hot water and high heat dryer. Tin warming blankets will be single-use only.
  • Lastly, stay at home if you are feeling sick or suspect you have been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19. 

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Wishing you health and positivity throughout the week.

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Flower Essences and Emotional Wellbeing

What are flower essences?
Flower essences are liquid extracts used to address profound issues of emotional well-being, soul development, and mind-body health. They are part of an emerging field of subtle energy medicine, which also includes homeopathy, acupuncture,color therapy, therapeutic touch and similar modalities.

Where and when did flower essences originate?
Although flowers have been used for healing for many centuries, flower essences in their modern form were first developed in the 1930s by an English physician, Dr. Edward Bach. He prepared 38 remedies, mostly from English wildflowers. In recent decades companies such as FES have researched new flower essences from other plant species.

How are the essences prepared?
Flower essences are dilute, potentized herbal infusions or decoctions, prepared from wildflowers or pristine garden blossoms. They are made directly in the “laboratory of nature,” where the four alchemical elements of earth, water, air, and fire are found in harmonious balance. To this is added the fifth “quintessential” element of the sensitive awareness and attunement of the preparer. The fresh, dew-filled blossoms are gathered in the early morning of a clear, sunny day. Floating on the surface of a bowl of water, they are irradiated by the warmth and light of the sun for several hours. This process creates an energetic imprint of the etheric energy pattern of the flower in the water, embodying the healing archetype of that plant. This “mother essence” is preserved with organic grape alcohol and then further diluted and potentized to form the “stock” which is sold in stores and to practitioners. 

What to expect in a Flower Essence Therapy Session
Your session will take up to 30 minutes. Your practitioner will ask you a series of questions that will pinpoint the 7 top essences for you. These flower essences will then be prepared in tincture made especially for you. The tincture will be in water and is meant to be taken 4 times a day in water or directly by mouth. A future appointment is scheduled to evaluate the effectiveness of the remedy and adjustments are made with the formula to continue treatment for optimal benefit.
30-minute session + tincture: $75 — Schedule Appointment

Learn more about acupuncture and oriental medicine, read our faq’s, and schedule an appointment with Marie Healy at Acupuncture Healing Arts Center today!

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What is Aromatherapy?

Aromatherapy means “treatment using scents.” The essential oils are aromatic essences extracted from plants, trees, fruits, bark, grasses, and seeds with distinctive therapeutic, psychological, and physiological properties, which improve and prevent illness. There are about 150 essential oils. Most of these oils have antiseptic properties; some are anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, anti-depressant, and expectorant. Other properties of the essential oils which are taken advantage of in aromatherapy are their stimulation, relaxation, digestion improvement, and diuretic properties.

Aromatherapy is widely used at home, clinics and hospitals for a variety of application such as pain relief for women in labor, relieving pain caused by the side effects of the chemotherapy undergone by cancer patients, and in rehabilitation of cardiac patients.

Acupuncture Healing Arts Center uses the finest quality therapeutic grade essential oils. These oils are also available for purchase at the center.

Learn more about acupuncture and oriental medicine, read our faq’s, and schedule an appointment with Marie Healy at Acupuncture Healing Arts Center today!

Schedule Appointment

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What is Flower Essence Therapy?

Developed by Edward Bach in the early 1900s, Bach Flower Remedies are a system of thirty-eight flower essences used in conjunction with herbs, homeopathy, and medications that seeks to correct emotional imbalances by working on the subtle body instead of the physical body. The pattern in the subtle energy fields of the living plant influences the subtle energy fields of the human being. In prescribing flower essences, the practitioner assesses the whole individual, focusing on the disposition or negative emotions of the person, such as fear, impatience, or over-concern. An essence or combination of essences is then chosen to facilitate change and administered orally.

Learn more about acupuncture and oriental medicine, read our faq’s, and schedule an appointment with Marie Healy at Acupuncture Healing Arts Center today!

Schedule Appointment

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COVID-19 Policies and Procedures

We are treating patients during the pandemic and have a number of safety protocols and policies in place. Masks are required at all times. The practitioner is masked at all times. Patients must wait in car until called in. Compliance with these guidelines maintains a safe environment for all and keeps us in compliance with State of Connecticut guidelines. Please stay at home if you are feeling sick or suspect you have been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19. 

In addition to strict health and safety precautions, new check-in and check-out procedures have been instituted. We are focusing on treating patients that have pain, injury, anxiety, depression and ongoing fertility acupuncture during this time, essentially any patient that needs our continued services. We are assessing each patient case-by-case prior to scheduling services. 

The following criteria must be met to be seen at Acupuncture Healing Arts Center

  1. The patient must not be experiencing symptoms such as a fever, coughing, shortness of breath, pressure in the chest, loss of smell or taste, or any other flu-like symptoms during the previous week. 
  2. Patient must not have been in contact with anyone suspected of COVID-19.
  3. The patient must not have traveled or been out of the country in the previous 2 weeks.

The following patients are at high risk for COVID-19 complications and should follow all “Shelter in Place” and “Stay at Home” orders and use extra precautions at all times:

  1. People aged 65 years and older
  2. People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
  3. People who have serious heart conditions
  4. People who are immuno-compromised including cancer treatment

People of any age with underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, such as those with diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease may also be at risk.

New in-Office Policies for COVID-19:

  • Please wait in your car until you receive a text or call from the practitioner indicating that the previous client has left the building and all areas have been sanitized.
  • Your practitioner will be doing a temperature check via a forehead thermometer and then ask that you proceed to the restroom to wash your hands prior to your session.
  • Masks: Your practitioner will be wearing a mask during your session. It is mandatory that you arrive wearing a mask or I will provide you with one.
  • The center is equipped with a new UVC Light Sanitizer to purify each treatment room between patients and will run a quiet UV air purifier in the treatment room, filtering out the smallest microns of dust, pollen, and virus. 
  • Bleach is being used on the face rest covers and all linens (including top blanket) are cleaned and sanitized, just for you. 
  • All laundry will be washed in sanitizing hot water and high heat dryer. Tin warming blankets will be single-use only.
  • We will only be treating one patient at a time and so in order to keep up on our sanitizing between each patient sessions will need to start and end on time. 
  • Check-out time will need to be kept at a minimum. Cash and checks are fast, but sometimes credit cards can take longer. We will run cards after you have left if you are in our system. Give us your information when you schedule your session to have this set up ahead of time.
  • Lastly, stay at home if you are feeling sick or suspect you have been exposed to someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19. 

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Wishing you health and positivity throughout the week.