1-25-12 - Acupuncture in the Treatment of Children
I am frequently asked if I can treat children with acupuncture. My answer is both yes and no. Yes, because the principles that exist within Chinese medicine can be applied towards the treatment of children. No, because I don't use needles on kids. Instead of needles, I use what is called a shonishen kit which consists of small scraping tools made out of different types of metals that are used in gentle pressure along zones of the skin to stimulate the child's body into healing itself.
A recent study examined acupuncture with children and concluded that acupuncture is safe and works when performed by qualified practitioners. The findings of the study are in this New York Time's article.
For more information on acupuncture and the treatment of children or to schedule an appointment please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 today.
1-23-12 - 2012 - Year of the Dragon
Welcome to the New Year in your life! January 23, 2012 marks the beginning of the Year of the Dragon on the Chinese calender. The following article from Dr. Mao contains all you will need to know about the Year of the Dragon and how to thrive throughout the next 12 months.
We at Mountain Spirit Acupuncture would like to wish you a prosperous and healthy Year of the Dragon. We hope that you find the following article educational and think of us to help support you along your path towards a healthier you. Please, be well.
The Year of the Dragon - 2012
by Dr. Maoshing Ni, Ph.D., D.O.M., ABAAHP, L.Ac.
Welcome to the Year of the Dragon! For many years I have given forecasts about a new year based on the ancient Taoist science of the Five Elements Cycle, which predicts the global trends that affect each of us on a personal level. Many readers have shared that their experiences with these forecasts have better enabled them to minimize the negative tendencies, be it with health, relationships or finance, and accentuate the positives. You may find it useful for your life too.
Before we look down the path of a new year, it is always wise to reflect on the happenings of the previous one. 2011 was the Year of the Rabbit, which promised a respite from the conflict-prone Tiger year of 2010. We saw the end of the Tunisian and Egyptian revolutions, the capture of Bin Laden, the fall of Gaddafi, and the final withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq and Afghanistan by year’s end. However, the year was not without its natural and man-made disasters from the tsunami and nuclear meltdown of Japan, the freak storms in the Midwest and East Coast of the U.S., to the European financial crisis.
So what is in store for the Year of the Dragon? In general, 2012 is characterized by strong energy and powerful forces – symbolic of the Dragon – that when marshaled in the right direction can result in positive change. The elements of the year are Water and Earth. Energetically the Water element is dynamic, creative and forceful, and represents the movement for social, political and economic change. The Earth element encompasses generosity, encouragement and strength, and represents the desire for stability, community and goodwill. In essence, the trend will be towards a continuing restoration of the economy and financial systems, and focus will be on providing for the less capable.
On the health front, the Water element corresponds to the kidney-adrenal system while Earth corresponds to the digestive system.
Therefore, the emphasis for the year is to move and exercise more to strengthen your cardiovascular system and musculature, and lower stress and tension so as not to overburden your kidney-adrenal systems. Be sure to stretch and stay flexible to avoid injuries. Practice meditation and stress-reduction techniques to help you relax, and get plenty of rest. Watch out for digestive problems like heartburn, indigestion, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, and hemorrhoids. Avoid rich, fatty and deep fried foods, dairy, sugar and excess salt. Instead, eat abundant fresh vegetables – especially root vegetables like yams and sweet potato, fruits, nuts and seeds, fish and poultry, and mild spices like ginger, cayenne and cardamom.
When channeled properly, water is useful for irrigation or power generation, but when it is out of control its potential as a force of destruction is immense. When water wants to move but earth refuses to budge, an inevitable tension is created. While a desire for revolutionary and sweeping changes may be in the air, the mood of society may turn cautious and conservative in seeking safe harbor. This is true of relationships too – learning how to positively channel your strong feelings and emotions can help you harmonize with others. On the nature front, powerful, unchecked Water energy may also foretell flooding and earthquakes.
The Dragon year is generally good for starting and launching new projects, initiatives and ventures by articulating and getting others to share your visions, but remain conservative in your actions and projections. In the five-element creative cycle Water produces the Wood element and therefore we may see consumers fulfill a pent-up demand for wood industry products like fashion, textile and apparel, furniture, forestry and lumber. The Earth element creates the Metal element and therefore representative industries will be busy, including technology, heavy equipment and machinery, computers, and precious and non-precious metals.
Representative industries of the Water element including shipping, transportation and beverages, may see only a slight uptick despite a second canal opening in Panama to accommodate the super container ships.
Likewise, Earth element industries such as agriculture, mining and construction may also see a minor lift. Finally, since this year has none of the Fire element, it does not favor its representative industries of finance, stock markets and power plants. The European financial crisis does not help the confidence in the financial markets either.
In conclusion, to experience the positives and diminish the negatives in the 2012 Year of the Dragon, you must symbolically build and dredge canals and remove obstacles to appropriately channel the flow of the powerful Water energy that will eventually bestow benefit upon your life. This is the metaphor of the acupuncture meridians in your body. By activating and managing the flow of energy within the meridians, acupuncture brings nourishment, healing and balance to your whole being. I also highly encourage that you cultivate patience, nurture your will, and proactively manage your life in order to achieve health, peace and prosperity.
To book an appointment or to speak with an acupuncturist about your specific health concerns please call Mounatin Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334. Be well.
10-07-11 - Tips to help you enjoy your Tibetan Cranial session
In an effort to give patients who are new to Tibetan Cranial the most positive experience possible we have put together the following list of tips.
Tell your TC practitioner:
• If you have taken any medications
• If you have had this work before
• Any concerns you have about the session
Remove all Metal, including:
• Jewelry
• Piercings
• Belts
• Dental appliances that are removable
• If possible, wear clothing that is free of metal
Please use the Restroom before your session
You are highly likely to get cold during you session. A blanket will be provided, but we recommend you wear socks, pants, and possibly a long sleeved shirt.
After your session:
• please drink some water
• take a short walk through the cherry orchard prior driving
To experince the rebirth of this ancient medicine, please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 to book your appointment today.
10-04-11 - Giving Wellness A Way
We are participating in The Chanda Plan Foundation's "Giving Wellness A Way" on October 24th which is also Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine day here in Colorado. We have agreed to donate 20% our income on that day to the Chanda Plan to help with their efforts to change the existing health policy to include integrative health care options within medicaid. For more information on The Chanda Plan Foundation and their “Giving Wellness A Way” program please visit IamthePlan.com. To book an appointment with us on October 24th or any other day of the week, please call 303.929.7334. Thank you and be well.
10-03-11 - Healthcare by Donation: Tibetan Cranial
WOULD YOU LIKE TO EXPERIENCE AN ANCIENT HEALING MODALITY AND HELP IT FLOURISH IN THE MODERN ERA?
Healthcare by Donation: Tibetan Cranial Explained:
The third Saturday of every month Tibetan Cranial treatments will be made available strictly by your honorable cash donations! The next 3 donation days will be held 10.15, 11.19, & 12.17.
What this Means: All new or current patients receive a Tibetan Cranial treatment that day at no usual set costs, rather by cash or check the monies go in our "Donation" box at the front desk......period, end of story, no catch! We then take what is donated and forward it off to the Tibetan Cranial Scholarship Fund to help our fellow apprentices who are unable to afford the training seminars.
How to Participate: Call us to schedule an appointment then show up! Our appointment times are as follows: 10:00AM, 10:45AM, 11:30AM, 12:15PM, 1:00PM, 1:45PM. All appointments are 45 minutes in length. Please note: Unlike our original Healthcare by Donation days with acupuncture and massage, we require all patients to schedule appointments with us due to the nature of the work.
Questions: Don't hesitate to give us a call at 303.929.7334 to clear up any questions that you may have.
We want the benefits of Tibetan Cranial to reach our entire community!
For more information on Tibetan Cranial please see our blog post from 9.25.11 or visit TibetanCranial.org
9-25-11 - Tibetan Cranial 101
On September 16th of this year, I officially became an apprentice of Shar Lee who is a Master of a subset of Tibetan medicine called Tibetan Cranial (TC). The following is an article from TibetanCranial.org which describes about the medicine and how it works. If you would like more information on TC or would like to experience the work then please contact Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 to schedule an appointment.
What is Tibetan Cranial?
Tibetan Cranial has a rich and ancient history that originated in the Himalayan highlands about 3,000 years ago. This sacred knowledge is not merely a method of anatomy; it is a lineage of sacred knowledge that has been passed down through generations of deeply devout Buddhist Monks.
TC is a unique combination of disciplined technique and attuned intuition. It is based on the natural integration of mind, body and spirit. This dynamic and profound method fully unifies all aspects of one’s unique and natural sense of well being.
Certified TC Practitioners are skilled at assessing individual conditions that exist in a person’s body, mind and spirit through deep pulse diagnosis. The practitioner is able to listen to what the body needs, and simply provide the space for it to shift on its own toward balance, health and equanimity.
The results of even one session continue long after it has been completed. However, depending on a persons condition, multiple sessions and periodic “check ups” may be recommended to fully integrate subtle body structures. The beauty of this work is its ability to assist the body in correcting its own imbalances. It reminds the body that it can indeed heal itself. A TC Practitioner optimally facilitates this process.
The Scientific Basis for TC
Cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) cushions the brain, regulates brain extra-cellular fluid, allows for distribution of neuro-active substances, and is the "sink" that collects the waste products produced by the brain. It is essential for the proper functioning of the central nervous system. CSF purifies neurons and glial cells, delivers nutrients and removes toxic substances from the central nervous system.
Even slight cranial trauma, i.e. bumping one’s head on something hard, or more serious situations like car accidents can cause compression or misalignment in the skull. Blood vessels around the area traumatized become inflamed which leads to scar tissue. When CSF encounters scar tissue, it has to circumvent the area. The nerves on the other side of the scar tissue become compromised and dry out. Dry nerves cause a reduction in nerve transmission.
How does TC work?
Certified TC Practitioners are professionally trained to fine-tune cranial structures which allows impeded CSF to move evenly around scar tissue.
Results:
• Cranial fine-tuning enables more naturally occurring electricity to move throughout the nervous system.
• All areas of the brain and spinal column receive more hydration and information is more readily received throughout neural pathways.
• By manipulating the cranial sutures and other various places on the head, Tibetan Cranial allows the impeded cerebral spinal fluid to move more evenly around scar tissue.
• The brain functions more optimally and is able to send information to other areas of the body that requires maintenance.
• By strengthening and restoring the nervous system, chronic pain and other deep issues find the opportunity to transform, and overall well being is greatly improved.
What happens during a TC Treatment?
TC takes place in quiet setting. We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing. People remain fully clothed, removing their shoes. The person reclines on a massage table or specially designed TC table. The Practitioner kneels at the end of the table above the client’s head. At various times, the practitioner moves to the client's head, hands, middle torso or feet to assess pulses. Then adjustments are made to the skull, face, mouth, jaw and neck.
What Will I Experience During a Treatment?
Experiences vary according to condition of each individual, and from treatment to treatment. At times people fall asleep due to the deep relaxation, or they may talk extensively about emotions or memories as they arise.
At various times the Practitioner will touch vital points on the skull, wrist, and ankles, deeply assessing pulses that give important information about the systems in the body. From this information, specific adjustments are made. During the treatment, pulse readings are repeated and adjustments are made until optimum balance is achieved. During the treatment, the skull, face, mouth, jaw and neck are areas typically attended to. As a result, the whole body instinctively relaxes into alignment. Another common result is that the spine will realign with the rest of the body without any adjustment applied directly to the spine itself.
During the entire session the Practitioner holds an internal sacred space of prayer or mantra. Then the work is sealed, followed by a period of quiet relaxation. This process allows for a full integration to take place.
What Typically Happens After a Treatment?
Since profound relaxation is a natural result of a TC Session, many people sleep several hours after a session. Others may experience a noticeable increase in energy. A reduction in pain or increase in overall functioning may occur immediately after a session, or could develop gradually over the next several days.
Because TC results in a natural healing process, the results may occur weeks after a treatment. For some a body reorganization process may occur as the body adapts to the release of previously held patterns. Children often report that their head feels like a balloon, which visually describes the experience of spaciousness after the release of compression. Overall, most people experience a profound state of well being.
Tibetan Cranial: An Endangered Species
To assure the preservation and purity of this remarkable modality, Shar Lee, Master of TC and the lineage holder in the West, has formed a Tibetan Cranial Association. Tibetan Cranial nearly became extinct during the Chinese Invasion of Tibet, and we are now dedicated to ensuring this incredible work is passed onto future generations.
Find out how you can help breathe life into this rare and powerful art by clicking here. Help preserve this amazing healing tradition!
5-17-11 - Apuncture in the Treatment of Children
As a parent, I want nothing more than for my children to be happy and healthy. As a practitioner, I want the same for the children who's parents bring them to see me. Regular checkups with a family doctor can be an important part of maintaining good physical health. These visits allow for the doctor to detect and address minor problems before they become major health concerns. You may not think of acupuncture as an important piece of your child's health care. However, it can be an essential complementary therapy to help regain and maintain your child's health. To better understand how a pediatric acupuncture treatment can help children regain and maintain their health as well as the components that make up a pediatric visit the following is a case study of one of my pediatric patients (names have been changed for confidentiality):
[Alex] is a nearly 3 year old boy who has suffered with asthma like symptoms for a majority of his life. In addition he has been prone to respiratory infections and has needed to go to the ER on numerous occasions due to his breathing difficulties. Over all he is a bright spirited boy who loves doing little boy things. When I first met [Alex] we spent a lot of time going over his health history with his parents. The next step was to examine how well his blood was circulating which involved looking in key locations on his hands, ankles, chest and back. From there I was able to determine a diagnosis and proceed with treatment. Due to his age I used a set of small metal scraping and tapping tools that are part of a ShoNiShen kit. Children have zone that need to be treated rather than the specific points like adults do. In treating, I used the tools to gently brush, scrape, and tap along these zones to promote the movement of blood, oxygen, nutrients, and the immune system throughout the body with a specific focus on improving his respiration while addressing some underlying health concerns that I discovered in my examination. In addition to the ShoNiShen treatment, I also prescribed two Chinese herbal pediatric formulas. One of them was for improving his lung function while the other was for the parents to give him if he began to come down with an acute illness.
A week later, I saw [Alex] again and was pleased with his progress even though he had a battle with a stomach bug for 2 days. We treated him again using the ShoNiShen kit and adding in a few minutes of cranio-sacral therapy to relax his dural tube (a saran wrap like structure that encircles the spine). Considering his progress we set an appointment for him to return in 2 weeks.
A week later while I was charting in my office, [Alex]'s mom comes in and says that he is out in the car wheezing and they are on their way to the ER but wanted to stop by to see if I could help. Since I knew his history, I agreed to see what I could do. [Alex] came in to the office with a sallow look on his face. He was lethargic and had labored breathing with a loud wheezing rattle. After a quick exam, I started to work on clearing his lungs using both the ShoNiShen kit along with Tuina hand techniques (Chinese Massage). Within a few minutes his wheezing began to lift and by the end of the treatment he was vibrant, laughing and had nearly completely clear breathing. A few days later I received this testimonial from his parents:
Mountain Spirit Acupuncture is amazing!! After [Alex]’s first trip to the ER for breathing issues where they pumped him full of more steroids than a bodybuilder needs, my husband and I decided we needed to try something different. [My husband] was already seeing Brian & convinced me that this was something that could help [Alex]. [Alex] had a couple of treatments and before his 3rd treatment, he got sick. This time, instead of a trip to the ER, I decided to take him to see Brian. I stopped by the office to see if I could get an app’t that morning. Brian was there doing paperwork and told me it was his birthday and he planned to take the day off. However, when I told him what was happening with [my son], he happily agreed to work on him. [Alex]'s wheezing and coughing were better by that night. I honestly think by seeing Brian we avoided a trip to the emergency room. Brian is GREAT with kids too and [Alex] LOVES him. ... When we had to go to the ER, he ripped off his oxygen monitor about 10 times and screamed bloody murder when they put it back on. What amazes me is that he got so much better with NO drugs in his system tackling his little immune system. I can't thank you enough!
While we still have a ways to go with [Alex] we have seen a marked improvement in his breathing and hope to continue making improvements over the next few months until we reach the point where he only needs maintenance treatments every 2-3 months.
In addition to respiratory disorders, acupuncture has been shown to be effective in the treatment of digestive issues, ADD/ADHD, weakened immune system, allergies, and pain. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of Chinese medicine for the child in your life, please contact Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 today. Thank you and be well.
4-12-11 - Acupuncture in the News
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine has received more free publicity than any other health care modality in the history of the United States. Acupuncture gained attention in the United States when President Nixon visited China in 1972. Traveling with Nixon was New York Times reporter James Reston, who received acupuncture in China after undergoing an emergency appendectomy. Reston was so impressed with the post-operative pain relief he experienced from the procedure that he wrote about acupuncture upon returning to the United States. 39 years later, acupuncture is the fastest growing medical modality in America largely due to it's ability to stimulate the body to heal itself thus addressing the root causes of disease. With in the media there is typically a story every week about the effects of acupuncture in the treatment of a certain disease. For links to these articles look for us on Facebook under "Mountain Spirit Acupuncture".
If you'd like to experience why this growing trend in healthcare is becoming more popular please call Mountain Spirit Acpuncture at 303.929.7334
3-29-11 - The Oath of Sun Si Miao
Years ago when I graduated from Acupuncture school, I was part of a class that was challenged to update the Oath of Sun Si Miao who wrote the Eastern equivalent of the Western Hippocratic Oath sometime in the 6th century CE. The following is the oath that we ended up compiling and ultimately taking upon our graduation. I choose to share this oath on this blog because I think it clearly presents my philosophies in treating those who come to my office for help and guidance. I strive to live up to the ideals that are represented here and hope that you will call upon Mountain Spirit Acupuncture in your time of need.
Oriental Medical Oath of Service
On my honor I solemnly promise, as a physician of the oriental medical arts, to humbly practice my profession to the best of my ability. This means that when I treat an illness I will calm my spirit and fix my resolve. I will not give way to wishes and desires but develop an attitude of compassion and vow to rescue from suffering all sentient beings. When someone comes to me for help, I will not ask if the patient is noble or common, rich or poor, old or young, beautiful or ugly. Strangers, family, good friends, foolish and wise are all the same and I will think of them as my closest relatives. I will look on others sufferings as my own and be deeply concerned and anxious to relieve the distress. Day and night, in cold and heat, in hunger, thirst, and fatigue I will help with a kind heart and a kind treatment. I will be respectable and listen with love and understanding to my patients. I will strive to master all the medical literature, working carefully and tirelessly. I will be modest about my abilities and respectful with other physicians. I will have integrity with my patients and my business practices. I will be proud enough to practice my medical art to the best of my ability and be humble enough to call for assistance when necessary. I see my ability to be a great physician of Oriental Medicine as a gift to be shared with humanity.
3-01-11 - Modern Research & Acupuncture
Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of over 43 common ailments including:
Food allergies, Peptic Ulcers, Chronic Diarrhea, Constipation, Hypertension, Anemia, Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, Alcoholism, Nicotine and Drug Addiction, Post-Operative Pain and Nausea, Chemotherapy Nausea and Vomiting, Shoulder Pain, Neck Pain, Urinary Track Infections, IBS, Painful Menstruation, Incontinence, Anorexia, Indigestion, Gastritis, Asthma, Sinusitis, Bronchitis, Migrane Headaches, etc. The following is a short list of some of the most common ailments treated at Mountain Spirit Acupuncture and the results of the modern research that has been done to date.
Acupuncture & Insomnia - In the treatment of insomnia, acupuncture yields significant results with a total effective rate of 90.44%. It also improves the quality of sleep and overcomes complications induced by sleep medication. Sok, SR, et. al., The effects of acupuncture therapy on insomnia. J. Adv Nurs., 2003 Nov;44(4):375-84. J Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2002 Dec.;22 (4):276-77.
Acupuncture & Gastritis - A study from the Guangxi College of Traditional Chinese Medicine concluded that acupuncture was effective in the treatment of chronic gastritis, resulting in a 95% effective rate. J. Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2003 Dec.;23(4):278-79.
Acupuncture & Shoulder Pain - Acupuncture is effective in the treatment of shoulder periarthritis. Of the 210 subjects studied, 158 were cured, 40 improved and 12 showed no significant improvement. J. Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2003 Sept.;23(3):201-02.
Acupuncture & Fibromyalgia - A study conducted showed that acupuncture, when added to traditional fibromyalgia treatments, reduces pain and improves the quality of life for up to three months following treatment. J. Rehab. Med., 2008 Jul.;40(7):582-88.
Acupuncture & Blood Pressure - A German study concluded that acupuncture can create a significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. At the end of six weeks, subjects who received acupuncture achieved a reduction in both systolic and diastolic readings from their base-line. Researchers noted no noticeable change in subjects who received sham acupuncture. J. Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2003 Mar.;23(1):49-0.
Electro-Acupuncture & Immune Function During Chemotherapy - Electro-acupuncture can strengthen immune function, hematopoietic function and improve appetite, sleep, alleviate pain and digestive distress. Another study suggests acupuncture is able to normalize the pattern of leukocytes. J. Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2002 Mar.;22 (1):21-3. Mori, H., et. al., Unique Modulation by Electro-acupuncture in Humans Possibly via Stimulation of the Autonomic Nervous System. Circulation J., 2007 June
Acupuncture & Migraines - Researchers concluded that acupuncture can significantly reduce migraines better than medication alone. Subjects who received traditional acupuncture showed lasting improvement in migraines when compared to participants who received mock acupuncture plus Rizatriptan. J. Headache, 2008 Mar.
Acupuncture & Depression - All subjects receiving acupuncture for major depression significantly improved by a greater margin than those not receiving treatment. Another study suggests that electro-acupuncture can produce the same therapeutic results as tetracyclic drugs, but with fewer side effects and better symptomatic improvement. Acupuncture Treatment for Major Depression, the Tenth Annual Symposium of the Society for Acupuncture Research, 2003. J. Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2004 Sep.;24(3):172-6.
Acupuncture & Allergic Rhinitis - In a German study, researchers noted improvements in patients who suffered from allergic rhinitis. After three and six months, researchers followed up with subjects and concluded that subjects who were in routine care with acupuncture had clinically relevant and persistent benefits. European. J. of Int. Med., 2008 Nov.;10(5):535-43.
Acupressure & Morning Sickness - A study was set up to determine the efficacy of acupressure in the treatment of pregnant women suffering from nausea, with or without vomiting. The study concluded that acupressure was extremely effective in controlling symptoms of nausea and vomiting, without adverse side effects, when compared to the placebo group. Comp. Therapy Clin. Practice, 2008 Feb;14(1):46-52.
Acupuncture & Asthma - Symptoms of bronchial asthma were markedly improved after acupuncture treatments, and the dosage of patient’s medication was gradually reduced. Another study suggests improvement of the quality of life for patients with clinically stable, chronic obstructive asthma when conventional care is combined with acupuncture. J. Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1998 Mar.;18 (1):27-0. J Altern. Comp. Med., 2003 Oct.;9(5):659-0.
Acupuncture & Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) - A randomized, controlled study compared the efficacy of acupuncture with steroid treatment in patients with mild to moderate CTS. Researchers concluded that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for patients who have CTS, but experience side effects to oral steroids or those who opt out of surgery. Clinical J. of Pain, 2009 May;25 (4):327-33.
Acupuncture & Osteoarthritis (OA) - A randomized, controlled study showed that acupuncture can provide improvement in function and pain relief as an adjunctive therapy for OA when compared to sham acupuncture. Berman, BM., et al., Effectiveness of Acupuncture as Adjunctive Therapy in Osteoarthritis of the Knee: a randomized, controlled trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, Dec.21,2004;141(12)901-910.
Acupuncture Cupping (AC) & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) - A study was conducted using AC in subjects suffering from CFS. After six weeks of receiving AC, subjects showed improvement in fatigue levels, sleep, memory and digestion. Flaws, B., et al., Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Cupping. 2001; 70-71.
If you have one of the above listed conditions or would like more information about whether acupuncture can be effective for your specific health concerns, please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 today. Thank you and be well.
Resources:
National Institute of Health (NIH) - National Institute of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture, Program & Abstracts (Bethesda, MD, November 3-5, 1997). Office of Alternative Medicine and Office of Medical Applications of Research. Bethesda.
Neuro-acupuncture, Scientific evidence of acupuncture revealed, 2001 Cho, ZH., et al., page 128.
Acupuncture - A scientific appraisal, Ernst, E., White, A., 1999, page 74.
Acupuncture Energetics - A clinical approach for Physicians, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, page 41-42.
Anatomy of Neuro-Anatomical Acupuncture, Volume 1, Wong, Dr. J., page 34.
Han, J.S. “Acupuncture Activates Endogenous Systems of Analgesia.” National Institute of Health Consensus Conference on Acupuncture, Program & Abstracts (Bethesda, MD, November 3-5, 1997). Office of Alternative Medicine and Office of Medical Applications of Research. Bethesda.
Neuro-acupuncture, Scientific evidence of acupuncture revealed, Cho, ZH., et al., page 116.
Acupuncture Energetics - A Clinical Approach for Physicians, Helms, Dr. J., 1997, pages 41, 66.
Astin, JA., et. al., A review of the incorporation of complementary and alternative medicine by mainstream physicians. Arch Intern Med., 1998;(158):2303-10.
National Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance (http://www.acuall.org)
Nature Neuroscience, Needling adenosine receptors for pain relief, Mark J Zylka, 13, 783 - 784 (2010)
2-03-11 - 2011 - Year of the Rabbit
Welcome the New Year in your Life! February 3, 2011 marks the beginning of the Year of the Rabbit on the Chinese calender. The following article contains all you will need to know about the Year of the Rabbit and how to thrive throughout the next 12 months.
Mountain Spirit acupuncture would like to wish you a prosperous and healthy Year of the Rabbit. We hope that you find the following article educational and think of us to help to support you along your path towards a healthier you. To book an appointment or to speak with an acupuncturist about your specific health concerns please call Mounatin Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334. Be well.
Year of the Rabbit - 2011
By Dr. Maoshing Ni
Welcome to the year of the Rabbit! For almost 20 years I have given yearly forecasts based on the ancient Tao system of the Five Elements energetic phases, which predicts the global trends that affect us on a personal level. How do you benefit from this forecast? By taking note of the predictions for health, relationships, and finances, you can make some positive changes to dodge any potential negative effects.
This ancient system has its roots in the I-Ching, known here as the Book of Changes, system of predictive probabilities based on nature’s cyclical rhythms; the Taoist sages of China observed and practiced, and eventually gave the modern world the binary language of 0’s and 1’s—the basis for computer language. In other words we don’t need to look any further than the universe to predict our future. So what’s in store for 2011?
Get Ready for the Rabbit
The Year of the Rabbit officially begins on February 3rd, 2011 and the elemental energies are again metal and wood, similar to the Tiger year we’re leaving behind. Therefore, some of the unpredictability and conflicts of the Tiger year will carry over to the New Year; however, Rabbit years are usually calm, creative, and positive -- a much-desired change from the volatile Tiger! Rabbit is a peace-seeking symbol, and we can expect that there will most likely be more effort at diplomacy politically. But don’t expect everything to go smoothly, because any accord is always underscored by discord.
The focus of this year will orient towards reviving the arts and culture, getting our financial house in order, cultivating intimate relationships, and building family and community. As a result, industries that will likely benefit include entertainment, finance, energy, especially alternative energy, commodities like metals and agricultural products, mining, shipping, transportation, and hotels. Industries that will continue to lag include forestry, textiles, media, newspapers, and magazines. Due to the still-weak economic conditions of the West, environmental protection may unfortunately take a backseat to economic priorities. Because of the inward focus on the Rabbit, domestic agendas at home will trump those outside of the border and the appetite for playing Big Brother internationally will assuredly wane.
Prediction for your health
Chinese calendar year 2011, like last year, is represented by the elements metal and wood. The metal element corresponds to the respiratory and immune systems, while the wood element correlates to the digestive and nervous systems. These organs and systems will be vulnerable for breakdown so be on the lookout for frequent colds and flu that turn into bronchitis and pneumonia, digestive disorders including acid reflux, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, diverticulitis, liver and gall bladder diseases, and injury and pain related to the neck and spine.
Here are some tips to keep you in tip-top shape!
1. Stay Healthy with Healing Foods and Herbs
Chinese medicine is based on the concept that you can prevent illness from occurring in the first place by eating foods and taking herbs that possess healing properties.
• Defend against assaults on your immune and respiratory systems by eating plenty of antioxidant-rich vegetables of all colors every day, and eat grains like amaranth, quinoa, and brown rice.
• Keep your digestion flowing with herbs that settle the stomach. Drink a digestive tea an hour after meals: mint, gentian, ginger, chamomile, and licorice are excellent choices.
• To prevent diseases and counteract imbalances in the above organ systems, I suggest staying away from smoking and pollution, avoid consuming alcohol, caffeine, sugar, dairy products, deep fried, fatty foods, overly spicy foods, and gluten grains like wheat, barley, rye and oats, and processed, refined foods.
• See an acupuncturist or Chinese herbalist regularly to help keep your body balanced and functioning.
2. Exercise tips for Year of the Rabbit
Be sure to exercise regularly to increase lung capacity, strengthen the immune function, and reinforce the core abdominal and back muscles to protect your spine.
• I especially recommend learning and practicing mind-body exercises like tai chi or qigong. These gentle, but powerful exercises engage deep breathing to increase your lung capacity, lower your stress hormones, and help strengthen your core muscles. To learn Tai Chi and Qigong, you can work with a teacher or use instructional DVDs.
• Practice meditation and other calming body-mind exercises to reduce tension on the nervous system. Start small if need be: For five minutes every day, close your eyes and take deep, slow breaths.
3. Focus on Art, Family, and Finances
Now is a good time to start your art and spend time exploring cultural opportunities. Because it is also a good time to focus on relationships and family, consider bringing your special someone(s) along to an art show, on a historic walk, or perhaps try a culturally themed meal together. Strengthen your personal financial foundation by laying your finances all out on paper as they are now. Make a realistic saving goal and a reasonable paying off debt goal; then keep weekly track of your evolving financial picture.
In summary, the year of the Rabbit will be considerably calmer from the volatility and conflicts of the past Tiger year. You will still need to be on guard, like the rabbit, for sudden, unexpected changes that may throw you off balance. The good news is that peace, love, and family are the natural traits of Rabbits. Defend against assaults on your immune and respiratory systems and take care to keep your nervous system calm and your digestion flowing. Finally, work on your inner self spiritually so that no matter what challenges occur, you shall be connected to your unshakable faith in the positive, constructive, and creative energies of the divine universe as expressed through you and manifest in your life.
May you live long, live strong, and live happy all year long!
—Dr. Mao
This blog is meant to educate, but it should not be used as a substitute for personal medical advice. The reader should consult his or her physician or clinician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field is ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
1-15-11 - Current Theories on the Mechanisms of Acupuncture
There are currently 5 prevailing theories on the mechanisms of how acupuncture effects the body. These theories are as follows:
1. Neurotransmitter Theory: Acupuncture affects higher brain areas, stimulating the secretion of beta-endorphins and enkephalins in the brain and spinal cord. The release of neurotransmitters influences the immune system and the antinociceptive system.
2. Autonomic Nervous System Theory: Acupuncture stimulates the release of norepinephrine, acetylcholine and several types of opioids, affecting changes in their turnover rate, normalizing the autonomic nervous system, and reducing pain.
3. Gate Control Theory: Acupuncture activates non-nociceptive receptors that inhibit the transmission of nociceptive signals in the dorsal horn, “gating out” painful stimuli.
4. Vascular-interstitial Theory: Acupuncture effects the electrical system of the body by creating or enhancing closed-circuit transport in tissues. This facilitates healing by allowing the transfer of material and electrical energy between normal and injured tissues.
5. Blood Chemistry Theory: Acupuncture affects the blood concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, and phospholipids, suggesting that acupuncture can both raise and diminish peripheral blood components, thereby regulating the body toward homeostasis.
Regardless of the theory, the end result is that the body communicates more effenciently with itself thus promoting a more balanced circulation of blood along with homeostasis. A body in balance has the resources that it needs to address both the symptoms and causes of disease provided the damage isn't permanent. Over time, the body returns to homeostasis and the individual enjoys a healthier, more balanced life.
If you are ready to return to homeostasis, please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 to schedule an appointment today.
1-02-11 - The Three Steps of Healing
We live in a fast paced world where results frequently aren't fast enough. We have deadlines looming, customers waiting, soccer practice to get the kids off too, and dinner still has to be prepared. The pace of life continues to accelerate even though we have been struggling to keep up for a long time. Eventually our bodies decide for us, that enough is enough and develops an illness to force us to slow down. Whether the illness is a common cold or an auto-immune disease we need to give our bodies time to mend.
One way to expedite the natural healing process that occurs in the body is with acupuncture and Chinese herbology. There are 3 unique steps to wellness that one passes through on their quest to become healthier.
Step One – Relief Care
This step of care is designed to eliminate the problem or come as close to it as possible. Treatments are often done one to three times a week to stimulate the body to heal itself as quickly and as thoroughly as possible. Envision the body as a garden that has become overgrown. The first step in revitalizing the garden would be to cut back the excess growth and weeds. The symptoms of a disease are similar to the weeds. Depending on the size of the garden and the amount of overgrowth, it can take a long time to prune back the “symptoms”. Typically most patients see improvement with the first visit, but it doesn't last because the body needs time to heal itself. With subsequent treatments, results become greater and longer lasting. This is due to an accumulative effect that occurs with acupuncture. Each treatment reminds the body that it has a problem that needs to be addressed and slowly the message begins to sink in.
Step Two – Stabilization Care
This step of care addresses the root cause of the disease. Returning to the garden analogy, if the weeds are trimmed back but not removed from the soil then they will regrow and the garden will be come quickly overgrown again. Clearly, the next logical step of preparing the garden would be to remove the weeds from the soil and prepare the soil for new seeds to plant. Using appropriate tools, the roots are extracted leaving healthy plants and rich earth behind. Stabilization Care is focused on treating the root dis-harmonies that have lead to the symptoms that were addressed in the Relief phase of care.
Step Three – Maintenance Care
This step of care is designed to make a person very healthy and do everything it can to keep them there. In our analogy, this means that the soil of our reclaimed garden is fertilized and treated to prevent the return of weeds, while building a healthy foundation to support the growth of beautiful plants and flowers. In this final phase of care, treatments are on going since relapses are simply unacceptable when the modality to keep dis-ease away exists.
To summarize the three steps of care, let's look an analogy of a water dike in Holland. If one of the dikes is leaking the first thing to do is to plug the holes and stop the leaks - that’s step 1 or relief care. The second thing to do is to strengthen the dike so it doesn’t happen again – that’s step 2 or stabilization care. The last thing that needs to be done is to send an engineer up there once or twice a month to make sure that everything is okay and holding – that's step 3 or maintenance care.
If you are ready to “clear out the weeds” and “stop the leaks” to create a healthier you, please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 today to schedule an appointment.
12-13-10 - How to Sleep Well
A good night’s sleep is essential to feeling good during the day. Depending on who you are and your body type, anywhere between 7-9 hours of sleep per night is optimal. For a good night’s sleep follow the guidelines below:
Be asleep by 10pm. One of the functions of the liver is to store your blood. This is an important function that your liver performs. While it is storing your blood it is cleaning it and cooling it down from the day. Your liver does this function between 10pm and 12am. Your body needs to be asleep in order for this vital function to happen.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine. Both inhibit proper sleep. If you must do caffeine, do it before noon and not any time after.
Eat a diet that consists mostly of lean meat, whole grains, and vegetables. Avoid refined carbohydrates like muffins, breads, bagels, & crackers. Avoid sugar. If you have craving for sweets try dried fruit. Use stevia or honey as a sweetener instead of sugar.
Sleep with the seasons. Winter is the natural time for all living things to be quiet, dormant and introspective. You may find that you need more sleep during the winter months and less sleep in the summer months.
Think about the days when there wasn’t electricity. Most of our ancestors probably went to bed when it got dark and rose with the sun because of the practical nature of this. This is nature’s rhythm. As I have said before, anything you can do to go with the flow of nature will enhance your body’s natural healing rhythm’s. Things that go against the flow of nature decrease your body’s ability to heal itself. Electromagnetic fields emanate from electrical appliances even when they are off. These electromagnetic fields can co-mingle with your own electromagnetic field throwing it off its normal rhythm. It is best to sleep in a room with few or no electric appliances. Use a battery operated clock, unplug your bedside lamp before you fall asleep, and do not sleep with a television in your room
According to Chinese Medicine, different times of the day correspond to different organs in your body. From 1am to 3am is the time of the Liver and from 3 am to 5 am is the time of the Lung. If you are waking between 1am and 3am, it is useful to look at either stress or anger in your daily life as these are attributed to the liver. If you are waking between 3am and 5am it is useful to look at grief in your daily life as this is the emotion of the lung. These emotions are not always the cause of disrupted sleep, but can sometimes be useful is diagnosing sleep problems.
Waking at 2am is common. It is at this time when your blood sugar drops to its lowest point and your cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal gland that is vital in your level of energy, also drops to its lowest point. If this is a common time for you to wake up, it is important to look at whether or not you are depleted. Some questions to ask yourself are: how is my daily energy level?, how well am I digesting my food?, how is my mental clarity? Getting regular acupuncture and taking the proper herbs and supplements can be beneficial when depletion is the cause of insomnia.
From a Chinese Medicine perspective, sleep involves the heart. Your heart houses your shen, or your soul. When you sleep, your shen needs a quiet, anchored, cool place to rest. If there is unrest in your heart it is hard to sleep. One of the ancient traditions of the Chinese is to soak your feet in warm water before bed. This drains some the the heat, or frenetic energy, from your head and upper body and warms the lower body creating a cool calm head and warm feet. This is optimal for sleeping. Try adding a few drops of lavender oil to the warm water for added calming effect.
12-02-10 - How to Eat Well
Eating well is one of the most important things we can do for ourselves. Your digestive system is intimately interconnected with so many of the other functions in your body. Some of the things that are affected by digestion in addition to the obvious weight gain and digestive issues are: energy level, mood, mental clarity, and sleep.
Many health issues are associated with an acidic pH level and inflammation in your body. Chronic disease and pain are almost always associated with both of these. For more information on this, I recommend reading The Perricone Prescription by Nicholas Perricone, MD. In order to reduce inflammation in your body and maintain an alkaline pH follow these guidelines:
• Drink 6-8 glasses of filtered water every day. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can create an alkaline environment in your body. The water should be room temperature. Drinking iced drinks of any kind especially at mealtime inhibits proper absorption of your food. In many hot climates such as India and Africa, they drink hot tea throughout the day to induce the body’s natural cooling system: sweat. When drinking the hot beverage you break a sweat and cool down naturally.
• Eliminate highly refined foods such as sugar and refined carbohydrates. Some examples of these are cookies, bread, cereal, bagels, muffins, pasta, potatoes, rolls, crackers, etc. These all contribute to inflammation and acidic pH in your body. In addition, these foods break down quickly which spikes your blood sugar levels. Once your blood sugar levels spike you feel temporarily energized. But what goes up must come down and and when your blood sugar drops you become mentally cloudy, low energy, and irritable. Unstable blood sugar levels contribute to poor mental function, depression, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, digestive disorders, and increased inflammation in the body perpetuating chronic disease.
• Eat plenty of vegetables, lean meat, and whole grains. This should be the basis of your diet and should generally be what you eat for most of your meals. These are broken down differently by your digestive system than refined carbohydrates and sugars. These foods create an even and stable blood sugar level because they take more time to break down.
• Eat organic fruits and vegetables and free range meat, eggs, and dairy. Pesticides used on fruits and vegetables are absorbed into your body and processed through your liver. Commercially fed cows, chickens, pigs, etc are given antibiotics and hormones which are stored in their fat. When we eat their meat, the fat in our bodies stores the hormones from the animals.
• Your biggest meal of the day should be breakfast or lunch. Dinner should be lighter and eaten before 7pm. Your digestive fire is at its strongest between 7am and 11am and at its weakest from 7pm and on through the night. Breakfast literally means to break the fast of the night. For some people it works better to eat several small meals throughout the day instead of 3 main meals. For people who are low energy and fatigued eating smaller meals at 7 or 8am, 10am, and noon can be beneficial. This helps to keep blood sugar stable throughout the time of day when you are exerting most of your energy.
• Establish a regular routine of eating. In Chinese Medicine, digestion is associated with the Earth element. There is a very regular routine that the earth adheres to: the sun rises and sets, spring is followed by summer, and so on. Your digestion loves to have a regular rhythm and routine.
What To Eat:
• Protein: eat protein with every meal to reduce inflammation and create an alkaline pH. Women need about 50 grams of protein a day and men need about 60. Good sources of protein are free range chicken and turkey, grass fed beef, buffalo, lamb, or wild game. Salmon, tuna, cod, sardines, and other fish. Dairy is also a good source of protein: greek yogurt, cottage cheese, cheese, goat cheese, feta, string cheese, etc. Those with allergies may not tolerate dairy well. Nuts are a good source of both protein and healthy oils: almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts, etc. Beans and lentils are a good source of protein and they bind with fat in the intestines and help to move that fat out.
• Whole Grains: Because they are not refined these take a longer time to break down in your digestion creating even and stable blood sugar levels. Some examples are rice, millet, quinoa, oats, etc. In Chinese Medicine, black rice has the most nutrients of all rice. The easiest way to cook these grains is to to use a 1:2 ratio (1 cup of grains to 2 cups of water), add a little salt for flavor, bring both grains and water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until grains are done. Black rice takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Basmati white rice takes about 20 minutes.
• Bread: our dear friend bread has been left out of the mix here and I want to address that. It is hard to think of eliminating bread from our diets. There are some breads that are okay. Sprouted grain breads break down more slowly in your system and do not cause a dramatic spike in blood sugar. You can find these at your local health food store in the refrigerated section.
• Vegetables: from a Chinese Medicine perspective, these are better eaten cooked. The premise for this is that all food leaves your body at about 98.6 degrees, which means that your vital energy warmed up that food. And for so many of us, that vital energy is already deficient. Eating cooked vegetables not only is very alkalinizing, but it doesn’t take so much energy for your body to break them down. If you are someone who loves salads, consider adding some steamed vegetables to it. In the summer, when it is hot and fresh vegetables are in season, it is okay to eat raw vegetables, if your digestion allows it. If you deal with Irritable Bowel Syndrome or other digestive disorders, loose stools, low energy, fatigue, and/or poor mental function you need to be eating steamed, sauteed, or baked vegetables. Also worth noting is that in Chinese Medicine, the color orange is the color associated with your digestion. Orange colored foods are particularly good for your digestion like sweet potatoes, yams, carrots, and butternut squash. I love to eat a sweet potato along with sausage for breakfast. I put it in the toaster oven at 450 when I first get up and by the time I am ready to eat it is ready for me. (It takes about an hour or so to cook.) Oranges, cantaloupes and peaches. as wonderful as they are, are energetically cold in nature and are harder to break down. When they are in season, it is okay to eat them, but otherwise should be avoided.
• Eat what is in season and what is locally grown: Your body’s natural rhythm goes with the natural rhythm of nature. In the spring, eat berries. In the summer, go to the farmer’s market and have a smorgasbord! In the fall, eat apples, pears, and squash. In the winter, eat cooked root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, and beets. For more information on eating with the seasons, read The 3-Season Diet, by John Douillard. It is so important for your own body and for our planet to eat locally. I heard a statistic recently that said that our fruits and vegetables travel an average of 1000 miles to get to us. That is a lot of gasoline! Whole Foods has an initiative and commitment to buying locally grown produce. And, of course, farmer’s markets are a great way to support local farmers.
Avoid eating:
• All sugar: cookies, muffins, pastries, candy, candy bars, cereal, etc. These all spike blood sugar and are an instant dose of inflammation. High fructose corn syrup is in many things these days and should be avoided. Stevia, honey, and maple syrup are acceptable sweeteners in moderation.
• Trans Fats: partially hydrogenated and hydrogenated oils. Use butter instead of margarine.
• Soda: most soda contains high fructose corn syrup and are acidic in nature.
• Coffee, black tea, caffeine: these drinks contribute to inflammation and acidic pH especially when combined with sugar and milk. If you're not willing to give up your morning cup of coffee we recommend a cold brewing system like Toddy (toddycafe.com)
• Soy: energetically soy is cold and hard for your digestion to break down. Use rice or almond milk instead.
• Refined carbohydrates: breads, pasta, potatoes, cereal, muffins, bagels, etc.
Supplements: not everyone should be on the same supplements, but here a few that are generally universally beneficial. If you are dealing with health issues, chances are these would
benefit you.
• Fish Oil: fish oil is one of the best ways to get Essential Fatty Acids which are vital in many functions of your body. Fish Oils have anti- inflammation properties. They are very helpful with mental function as well. It is important to find a good quality fish oil. If you find that you are burping up the taste of the fish oil, it is a sign of poor quality.
• Probiotic: this supplement consists of acidophilus, bifidus, and other “good bacteria” that already exist in your intestines, but may have become depleted. These “good bacteria” ensure proper assimilation of your food. Intestines that function well are essential to health and this is one way to boost that function. If you deal with digestive disorders and/or allergies, this is a good supplement for you. Note that these need to be refrigerated.
• Multi-vitamin with B vitamins: Taking a multi-vitamin ensures that you are getting essential vitamins and minerals that may be missing from your daily diet. B vitamins boost energy. If you feel fatigued and low energy consider taking this.
Other tips:
• Don’t skip meals: this is a sure way to drop your blood sugar and create a craving for sugar.
• Ume plums are one of the most alkaline foods available. You can buy the actual plums, or a paste, or it comes in a vinegar. I love to use the vinegar as a condiment for my steamed vegetables. It is very salty and a bit sour. It can be very beneficial for people dealing with digestive issues. Another way to use it medicinally is to mix it with a little water and drink it. This can be good for the onset of heartburn and diarrhea.
• Enjoy your food: in Chinese Medicine, the tongue is associated with the heart and the emotion of the heart is joy. Take a deep breath, eat with people you love, and relax while you eat.
• “Everything in moderation, including moderation.” one of my favorite professors, Ted Hall, says this often and I whole heartedly agree. Try not to be hard on yourself and do the best you can with this. Life is busy and it takes a lot of time to eat well. Do what you can and the rest will take care of itself. As John Douillard says, “If you can eat this way 51% of the time, then you are doing great.”
If you would like to learn more about Chinese Medical nutrition please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture @ 303.929.7334 to schedule an appointment today.
Many thanks to Mary Saunders and Holly Scalmanini for thier help with this article. For more information about Mary, visit her website CommunityAcupuncture.org. For more information about Holly, visit her at website AcupunctureLakewood.com.
11-30-10 - Flooded
On Tuesday November 23rd sometime during the middle of the night a pipe burst in the mechanical closet for the tenants who live upstairs. Since they were out of the country on holiday, the burst pipe flowed unchecked for an untold number of hours filling the residential entryway, garage, and our office with 2-3 inches of water before it spilled out onto the street from the office front door, the residential front door, and under the garage door. By 8 o'clock in the morning when we arrived, it was clear that water has been spilling out of the building for quite some time. After shutting off the water and spending hours in tragic comical hijinks attempting to rescue what we could from the flood we left the office in the capable hands of Puroclean, the paramedics of property damage. The technicians at Puroclean brought in a mega-vacuum to suck out the estimated 1800 gallons of water, plus 2 dozen high powered floor fans and 6 dehumidifiers which they let run for 6 days continuously until everything was dry. While the fans were running the decision was made that the floor was beyond salvation so the baseboards and flooring was removed in an effort to control the threat of mold.
So here we are, working on paper placed on a sticky concrete floor doing our best to create a therapeutic atmosphere while we wait for the necessary steps to take place so that we can have our placid healing space returned to us. We are told that it will be 2-3 weeks before the astetic qualities of the office are back in place, but in the mean time we are still welcoming patients, both new and returning, to our office and look forward to working with you soon.
To book an appointment at Mountain Spirit Acupuncture, please call 303.929.7334.
11-18-10 - How to Live Well
According to both Native American lore and ancient Chinese traditions, the life span of the human body is 120 years. Living with the rhythms of nature is the optimal way for your body to thrive. When your body is healthy and well, your soul is able to live out its highest potential. In Chinese Medicine, certain hours of the day correspond to certain organs in your body. Following the natural rhythm of your own body enhances health. Going against the natural rhythm of your own body decreases health. Here is a guide as to when certain daily activities are most optimal.
3am-5am: Lung: Inspiration and grief. Many spiritual practices like meditation and yoga are said to be more effective in the early morning hours. This has to do with inspiration, or inhaling spirit, into your life. Many people who are grieving the loss of something in their lives experience loss of sleep during this time. One helpful method of dealing with this grief is to allow yourself to feel the emotion fully. Emotions have a natural course of working their way out of your system. Suppressing them only holds them in your body longer. I recommend sitting with the emotion without the need to change it or fix it. Like all things, this emotion is temporary no matter how overwhelming it seems and will pass like all things do with time.
5am-7am: Large Intestine: This is the optimal time for your body to move its bowels. This is also the optimal time to drink warm water. Drinking 8 oz of warm water before taking anything else into your body gets the lymph system moving. Your lymph system is in charge of eliminating toxins from your body. You can add the juice from half of a lemon to the water to help alkalize your body. It is recommended to brush your teeth after doing this.
7am-9am: Stomach: It is during this time and the 9am-11am time of the Spleen that your digestive fire is at its highest. This is the optimal time for the largest meal of the day. Our ancestors who worked physically farming and laboring needed a hearty breakfast to get them through the day. Even though most of us do not labor physically, we do work hard and face many stresses during our day. Eating a big breakfast keeps your blood sugar even, your mood even, and gives you the stamina to not just get through the day, but to enjoy your day. There is an old Chinese saying: ”Eat breakfast like a King, lunch like a Prince and dinner like a pauper.”
9am-11am: Spleen: In Chinese Medicine, the main organ of digestion is the spleen, but many think that this is a mistranslation and could more accurately be called the Spleen and Pancreas. Ideally you want to have eaten your largest meal of the day my 9am so the Spleen will have enough time to digest all of your food. The Stomach and the Spleen are paired together in Chinese Medicine and are intimately connected.
11am-1pm: Heart: The organs of the Heart and Small Intestine are also paired organs and are attributed to the element of fire. This is the time of day for action and to get things done. This is also an acceptable time of day for your biggest meal.
1pm-3pm: Small Intestine: Again, this is associated with the element of fire. This is the time of day for action. Still time to get your biggest meal in! If you wait until after 2pm or 3pm there will be hell to pay. Read on to find out why.
3pm-5pm: Urinary Bladder and 5pm-7pm Kidney: I have combined these 2 sections because they are so inter-related. The time from 3pm-5pm really has nothing to do with the organ of your bladder. It really has to do with its paired, or mother, organ the Kidneys. This time should really be called the Brain time. The Kidneys in Chinese Medicine rule the brain. Starting at around 2pm your brain demands about 80% of the the glucose (or sugar) in your bloodstream. This is the optimal time of day for mental clarity and function. So why do so many of us crash at this time and crave sugar or coffee? Because we haven’t eaten wisely enough before this time to create stable blood sugar levels. Look for my“Eat Well” blog in a few weeks for more information on how to eat wisely. Here are some tips to deal with this crash:
• Don’t go for the sugar, caffeine, or stimulants. This creates a temporary high by spiking your blood sugar. What goes up must come down and you will crash again usually causing you to eat too much for dinner which stimulates you and makes it hard to go to bed before 10pm.
• Eat protein like chicken or turkey slices, almonds and cashews, cheese, hard boiled egg, turkey bacon, etc. This creates even and stable blood sugar.
• Take a time out: many people get wiped out during this time of day. This is okay. Give yourself twenty minutes to be quiet and still. Or if your schedule allows it, take a nap. In some cultures,
this is siesta time.
• Get upside down: I know this sounds funny, but it is a great thing to do. In yoga, inversions are an essential part of any practice and are said to regulate many of your body’s vital functions. It
also gets blood to the brain quickly which is what your brain is wanting. There are many ways to do this. A slant board or hanging in ropes are both great. But you can also just put your legs up a wall for 10 minutes or so. Try to have your buttocks touching the wall for properalignment. Don’t get up too quickly. Give yourself a few minutes to get up.
7pm-9pm Pericardium: The Pericarium is also called the Heart Protector. Anatomically it is the tissue that surrounds and protects the Heart. This time is attributed to the element of fire which is very social in nature. This is the optimal time to commune with family, friends, and loved ones.
9pm-11pm San Jiao: In Chinese, san means three and jiao means level or area. The “three levels” in Chinese medicine refer to three sections of your torso. The upper jiao contains the Heart and Lungs, the middle jiao contains the liver, spleen, and stomach. And the lower jiao contains the kidneys, bladder, and large intestine. This is the time to begin to slow down and prepare for bed. It is optimal to be asleepby 10pm. It is during this time that your Liver stores the blood, cooling it down and cleaning it from theday. You need to be asleep in order for this function to happen. Look for my “Sleep Well” blog in a few weeks for more information. If you have difficulty winding down I recommend soaking you feet in hot water with Epsom salts for 10-15 minutes before bed. This will stimulate circulation through the three burners, move qi and blood outward to the extremities, lower stasis within the internal organs. It will also eliminate cold hands and feet and improve sleep quality.
11pm-1am Gall Bladder: Again, this is during the time when the Liver is cleaning and cooling your blood down from the day. The Liver and Gall Bladder are paired organs in Chinese Medicine
1am-3am: Liver: This is a common time to wake up. At 2am, our blood sugar drops to its lowest point. If you consistently wake during this time, ask yourself if you are depleted. Examine your energy level during the day. If you are depleted acupuncture, herbs, and supplements as well as eating healthily is important for you. Stress effects the liver as well. Doing things like yoga, meditation, and exercise can help the Liver to function better and may help with sleep problems during this time. Anger is the emotion attributed to the Liver. It may be useful to look at how well you deal with the emotion of anger in your life.
Exercise: Exercise is an important part of feeling healthy. Moving your energy is so vital to so many processes in your body. If time is an issue for you, try just taking 5 minutes at some point during your day to take a few deep full breaths and stretch...maybe take your chin to your chest or stretch your arms above your head or stand up and lean to the side stretching the side of your body. Just this little bit willmake a difference and will help you feel better. Here are some recommendations for an exercise routine:
A 20 minute walk every day is a good amount of exercise for most people. This is a very manageable way to get the exercise you need in a minimum amount of time. Try setting your alarm 20 minutes earlier and begin your day with a brisk walk. This gets your blood flowing and increases endorphins to keep your mood even and stable throughout the day.
I highly recommend Yoga, Tai Ji, Qi Gong, and Nia. From a Chinese medical perspective, the cause of pain and disease is improper, or blocked, flow of energy, or Qi, through your body. These forms of exercise move, stretch, strengthen, and lengthen your body allowing energy and qi to flow optimally to all parts of your body. This not only addresses the musculo-skeletal body, but it effects the internal organs and glands creating health. What I have noticed is that these forms of exercise effect the emotional and spiritual sides of ourselves. I find that these forms of exercise strengthen the part of ourselves that is connected to a higher power or divine source. They also make smaller the parts of ourselves that create drama in our lives.
Get into nature. If possible take a hike, walk, snowshoe, etc. somewhere that feels remote and quiet. Being in nature balances the natural rhythms of your body and is healing in and of itself.
If you have identified an imbalance in you life from the above article then please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 to schedule an appointment so that we may help you to regain balance and live well.
11-02-10 - Oriental Medicine in the Treatment of the Flu
How to Prevent the Flu without Getting a Flu Shot
For most people the flu shot does not make you healthy; it does just the opposite and weakens your immune system.
If you follow a healthy lifestyle, you will not have to worry about getting the flu. The key steps to stay flu-free include:
• Wash your hands frequently and often
• Get plenty of sleep. This means 8 hours, for those of you who think you can run on less, your body is simply compensating. It'll catch up to you eventually.
• Take a high quality multivitamin daily.
• Exercise.
• Reduce your level of sweets and junk food that you consume because refined sugars negatively influence immune system functionality.
• Drink half your body weight in ounces of water everyday to keep up your hydration levels. Also by adding lemon to your water you can boost your vitamin C levels and helps to alkalize your body.
• Get plenty of sunshine, safe tanning bed exposure or supplemental Vitamin D3 to keep you Vitamin D levels up. Vitamin D is essential for the immune system to work properly.
• Address emotional stress. The more stressed you become the greater the negative impact on your immune system will be.
Should you begin to feel the symptoms of influenza, which include fever, chills, runny nose, sore throat, cough, muscle aches, fatigue, and decreased appetite, we recommend the following:
• Keep the homeopathic Oscillococcinum (Oh-sillo-cox-knee-um) (Oscillo for short) and the herbal preparation Cold Quell close at hand so that if you feel the symptoms of the flu coming on you have the tools to fight it off quickly. Recent Chinese and Homeopathic research shows that both products have anti-viral properties and are effective against the flu.
• At the first sign of illness, slow down immediately, take your Oscillo & Cold Quell & rest to prevent the illness from taking hold. It is better to stop activity in the short term rather than having your activity stop you.
• Contact your acupuncturist within 24 hours for his assistance in boosting your immune system.
• Another useful supplement you could try, should you come down with a case of the flu, is olive leaf extract, which you can find in most any health food store. Olive leaf extract has been found to be a potent broad spectrum antiviral agent, active against all viruses tested, including numerous strains of influenza and para-influenza viruses.
To prepare your family for the Flu season please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 to purchase Oscillo & Cold Quell. If you think you already have a cold or the flu please call to book an appointment today so that we can expediate your path towards recovery.
10-18-10 - Change: It's more than the coins in your pocket
Two years ago America voted for change. Whether you agree with the manifestation of that message or not the fact still stands true that change is needed. In his acceptance speech, President Obama spoke of a "new spirit of service ... where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves but each other." While he was speaking of patriotism and the steps necessary to repair our national crises, he forgot to mention an important first step: Lasting change can only come from within.
The change that is needed is on a personal level. Americans need to begin to take a personal responsibility, accountability, and integrity for themselves. The quickest path to creating change can be found by focusing on individual health. The tensions that can be seen in America can be traced back to the individuals who live here. I'm not talking about the obvious tensions that the media sensationalizes. The tensions that need to be addressed are those that exist inside of everyone. The tensions that we have built up over a lifetime. Tensions that come from traumas, chaos, and the unpredictable nature of life. Within America we have developed a culture that is addicted to stress and we as a collective whole build upon each others tensions to ever raise the agitation level in our country. We are quickly approaching the point where we either need to create a meaningful change in our culture or it will be thrust upon us.
Where to start?
"We must be the change we wish to see in the world."
-- Gandhi
First we educate. Where does our tension come from? Whether they come from car accidents, abusive relationships, financial hardships, loss of loved ones, or any of the many forms of human suffering, the way that we define our world has been written in the personal journals of our life. These pages are our reference materials that determine how we will proceed and react in the future.
The sticking point is that our reference material continues to attract other events that are similar to original trauma that we survived. For example, if a woman is abused by a significant other, she will continue to attract other abusive partners towards her until she relinquishes the old energy pattern(s). She is holding on the original trauma because her reference materials tell her that she deserves that type of relationship whether her conscious mind agrees with her or not.
Another way of looking at it is that her trauma has left behind a nonphysical scar that manifests an energy cyst. This cyst affects the cells around it causing them to resonate with the emotion from the trauma. Over a decade ago science discovered that the lowest level of human consciousness exists on the cellular level. Cells can be angry, happy, depressed, or express any emotion that you are capable of. So if we have a group of cells that are injured while we are angry, then the cells will heal themselves to be angry thus forming the energy cyst. Since these cells are use to being angry then they will lead us to create events where we will be angry.
Returning to our example of the abuse woman, the emotional quagmire that comes with an abusive relationship can be stored anywhere in the body. If the abuse was physical or sexual then the energy cyst may take hold in the injured area. If the abuse was emotion then the energy cyst can take hold above the emotional heart, in the gut, or more commonly in the throat or jaw. The energy cysts take hold in the throat and jaw because the individual isn't speaking up for themselves, is biting their tongue, and has something to say.
The same concept of an energy cyst can hold true in children as well. Infants who are colic often are reacting to their parent's stresses. Babies come into the world expecting it to be calm and mellow but are quickly blasted by the stress of the world through their parents. Since babies lack the ability to reason and process events they act out against the energy cyst as it forms trying to disperse it before it has a chance to take hold. Unfortunately, even something as simple as watching the nightly news or talking about a difficult day at work can stress a child. Children are affected by the negativity, pain, & suffering that flows from the television just as much as they are a stressed parent or sibling. Over time as children grow they loose the ability to disperse an energy cyst and typically begin to have digestive issues due to the Standard American Diet (SAD) compounded with their emotional confusions about the world around them.
Regardless of the emotion or the cause, if emotions are trapped in the body for long enough then the surrounding cells can begin to cause dis-ease with in the body and over a long enough period of time have the potential to become cancerous.
How do we get rid of emotional cysts?
"Situations are neither positive nor negative, but our reaction to them that makes them so."
-- Eckart Tolle
We need a change. We need a paradigm shift. We need to take time to focus on ourselves to work on our issues so that we can be, do, and live better. Put simply we need to let go of old patterns and embrace the new ones that are emerging everyday around us. We need to give ourselves permission to let go. The difficulty is that no one has ever taught us how to truly let things go. Talk therapy can help us better define the event that occurred but the trauma is still trapped inside. Pharmaceuticals can help in easing the chemical processes that occur with depression, but they are only masking the underlying cyst which continues to attract chaos. Fortunately there are therapies that exist that can aid the cells to remember what it's like to be calm and health if they are addressed early enough.
Acupuncture is one such therapy. With its unique ability to treat the 4 levels of human existence (physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual) acupuncture can calm the reaction to everyday stress thus creating a placid environment in the trillions of cells in the body which will ultimately help transform and relinquish the energy cysts. The ancient Chinese considered emotions that were trapped within the body what roughly translates as "internal demons". Much like "skeletons in the closet" these "demons" could reek havoc on a person's body, mind, and spirit if left unattended for long enough. With acupuncture the "demons" are addressed through using a set of "spirit" points that work on the emotional connections within the body. Through the appropriate placement of needles, these "demons" can be released and relinquished regardless of whether the individual is aware of their existence or not. Depending upon the number, intensity, and longevity of the "demons"/energy cysts it can take numerous treatments before an individual is ready to let go of their old patterns so that they are ready to embrace lasting change from within. Once they let go, life opens up. The old patterns dissolve and new opporknockities (when opportunity knocks) present themselves in abundance.
In terms of treating children for their dis-harmonies, acupuncture is typically replaced with acupressure since children can heal much faster than the average adult and the use of needles is unnecessary. If a child has built up an energy cyst then they are typically easy to disperse since they have not had enough time to become deeply lodged into the child's body. Most children see lasting change occur within a few treatments because they have not yet defined themselves in the world as what is possible and what is not.
What happens next?
"If I let go of what I am, I become what I may be."
-- Lao Tzu
As more people begin to relinquish old patterns and lay down their tensions the change will begin to manifest. It's clear that we are all in this together and everyone must do their part. Let go to the angst, hurt, anger, frustration, and fear. Refuse to pick it up again and focus on bettering yourself so that you are creating a foundation of calmness around you so that others may stand on it too. Encourage each other to turn and face your demons with love and gratitude for the lessons that they have taught you then politely ask them to leave. As American's de-stress, calm down, and let go of their old ways we will see the future blossom in ways that we are only now beginning to imagine.
If you are ready for a change and willing to establish a "new spirit of service" for the benefit of yourself and those around you please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334303.929.7334 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlightito make an appointment today.
10-08-10 - Treatment of neck pain with acupuncture: a case study
A few months ago I had a 19 year old female come into my office with a chief complaint of occipital headache, neck pain, restriction movement in the neck and occasional searing spinal pain. Four months earlier she had been jumping on a trampoline and landed forehead first after attempting to do a back flip in mid-air. Since the initial injury she has been in a supportive neck brace for 3 months and has been going to Physical Therapy weekly. She reports daily pain as constantly being an 8/10 or higher and gets little relief from the high potency narcotics and muscle relaxants that her doctors have her on. Upon palpation and inspection of her neck, shoulders, and upper back her skin has a faint purple hue that can bee seen deep under the skin. The muscles are hard and knotted and are very painful with minimal touch. Her pulse indicated that there was blood stasis in and around her neck in addition to a fair amount of emotional stress. Upon further questioning she reviled that her stress was from a difficult home life mixed with tensions from school and work in addition the the unyielding pain.
I diagnosed her as having extreme blood stagnation due to trauma with a lack of free flow with in the Liver from her stress. We started her treatment with her face up and used points that would remind her body what it means to relax in addition increasing the blood circulation into her neck and shoulders. After letting her rest for 25 minutes I removed the needles and had her change into a gown so that we could do some cupping on her (see blog entry on Cupping for more information about this technique). The cup marks on her shoulders and scapula were dark red with small scattered petechiae which is an average reaction to cupping. The cup marks on the neck were significantly more reactive and left the skin blackened with stagnant blood. The patient left the office pain free for the first time since her accident.
The next week she returned on a follow up visit and reported that she was pain free for all but one day during the week. On the day that she had pain she reported that it was a 5/10 and was probably due to a particularly stressful day. Her cupping marks were nearly healed so we did a back treatment being sure to isolate the numerous muscle groups that work together to support the head and neck and increasing the blood circulation through them. After 25 minutes with the needles in we repeated the cupping, but decreased the cup size so that I could navigate around her neck easier and thus treat a larger area than the previous week. The marks left on her back we 50% lighter than the previous week. On the neck the areas that had been cupped the previous week were without sha (no bruising), but the surrounding areas were a dark purple and had the appearance of a blood blister. She left the office pain free again.
The next week, the patient returned for what was to be her final visit. She reported being completely pain free and had full range of motion in her neck. We treated her face up to keep her body focused on her upper third and decided that cupping was no longer necessary for her case. We spoke at length about her stress management and the benefits that acupuncture has to offer her. She declined to continue treatment stating that she thought she could handle her stress better now that her pain was gone.
One month later I called her to follow up and make sure that she was still pain free. She reported that she had not experienced any pain since her last treatment and was working on making the necessary changes to reduce some of her stress at home, work, and school.
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If you or a family member has had an accident and are suffering with pain from the physical trauma that western medicine is having difficulty treating, then please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture to schedule an appointment and explore if acupuncture and ancient herbal medicine can be the turning point for the better in your health condition. Our number is 303.929.7334. Be well.
9-30-10 - Healthcare by Donation
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY AND GET HEALTHY DOING IT?
Healthcare by Donation Explained:
The first Saturday of every month Acupuncture Treatments by Mountain Spirit Acupuncture, Chair Massages by Nancy Doherty CMT, and treatments by a guest practitioner will be made available strictly by your honorable cash donations!
What this Means: All new or current patients receive an acupuncture treatment and/or massage that day at no usual set costs, rather by cash or check the monies go in our "Donation" box at the front desk......period, end of story, no catch! We then take at least 20% of these monies and give them to local charities, groups, etc. The rest goes to help subsidize care for patients that otherwise couldn't afford it.
How to Participate: Show Up! Our hours are 10am-2pm. All treatment time on this day is "first come, first served" If you like, we can even provide you with a receipt of your donation for tax purposes, although we are not registered with 501 C(3) status.
Questions: Don't hesitate to give us a call at 303.929.7334 to clear up any questions that you may have.
We want the benefits of Oriental Medicine & Massage Therapy to reach our entire community!
We look forward to helping you get healthy again!
9-14-10 - Treating the Evacuees of the Four-Mile Canyon Fire
This past week a fire broke out in Four-mile Canyon just west of Boulder displacing thousands of residents and destroying 159 homes. Shortly after the Red-Cross set up their evacuation shelters a call for help went out to members of the Acupuncture Association of Colorado to come treat the evacuees, rescue workers, and volunteers for their stress, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The response was impressive. From Friday 9.9.10 through Sunday 9.12.10 there were 21 acupuncturist that volunteered their time and expertise in a tent under the auspice of the local chapter of Acupuncturists Without Borders (AWB). All of the evacuees who were interested were treated using a protocol developed by the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA). The protocol was initially created to aid in the treatment of addictions, but it has since been discovered to be effective in treating individuals who have recently under gone a stressful situation. The NADA protocol uses 5 needles in each ear to address the body's stress reaction. Points used include:
-- “Autonomic” -- The Autonomic point is used to relax the sympathetic nervous system which is active during times of stress.
-- “Kidney” -- The Kidney point promotes positive Kidney functionality in the metabolism of water and address the emotion of fear and shock.
-- “Liver” -- The Liver point relaxes the Liver from it's reaction to stress helping it to better filter the blood and addresses the emotion of anger.
-- “Lungs” -- The Lung point increases the fluidity of transference of gasses within the Lungs and addresses the emotion of depression.
-- “Shen Men” -- This point is thought of as the “spirit calming point” and is highly effective at aiding the individual to feel at peace in addition to releasing traumas from the body.
Once the individual was needled, the patient was then left to relax of 30-40 minutes in a community style setting with the other participants. Everyone was encouraged to enjoy a few moments of peace and to leave their stress behind for us to clean up after they left.
Having the anchor shift on Sunday afternoon, I had the honor of witnessing dramatic changes in the people who came to us for help. Most were nearly in tears, highly agitated, and having difficulty focusing while we checked them in and talked through the process of what the treatment involved. Once the needles were in, most participants went into a meditative space and literally let their stresses go. The worry lines disappeared from their faces, the hardened look of stress in their eyes melted away, their posture improved as their shoulders relaxed, and their body language softened. After their treatment had concluded they looked calm, focused, and like a different person. They were able to articulate what they had been through and the gratitude for all the love and support they had received during their time of need.
So far the practitioners working with AWB have treated well over 100 individuals out of the northern Boulder evacuation center at the Mapleton YMCA and have plans to relocate by the end of the week to the hotels that are hosting the evacuees.
It was an pleasure to help support the people who's lives had been effected by the Four-Mile Canyon fire. I would like to thank all of the other volunteers, rescue workers, and anyone who did what they could to help out on behalf of the evacuees. Your efforts are appreciated on many levels. Namaste.
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If you or a family member has been effected by a traumatic event and would like to recieve acupuncture for your PTSD please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 to schedule your initial appointment. Be well.
8-25-10 - How Qualified is your Acupuncturist?
To become an Acupuncturist, a student must attend an accredited graduate school program in Chinese medicine for 3-4 years. Most accredited acupuncture schools require 2,500-3,000 hours of training before graduation. Once the training has been completed, graduates sit for the national exam given by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) which is the ONLY national board examination certifying Acupuncturists in the United States.
In order to sit for the National exam, which includes acupuncture and Chinese herbology, a minimum of 2,850 hour program must first be completed. For acupuncturists who do not want to certify in Chinese herbology and instead specialize in acupuncture, a minimum of 1,490 hours must be completed before graduation just to sit for the exam.
After passing the NCCAOM exam, an acupuncturist is awarded the title of either, “Diplomate of Acupuncture, Dipl. Ac.” or “Diplomate in Oriental Medicine, Dipl. O.M.” (this includes Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology). This certification is renewed every four years with the requirement of completing at least 60 hours of continuing education.
The Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) regulates acupuncture in the State of Colorado. Only those who pass the NCCAOM exam are awarded the title of “Licensed Acupuncturist, L.Ac.”.
The Acupuncture Association of Colorado (AAC) is the professional association for NCCAOM Board Certified Licensed Acupuncturists in the State of Colorado.
IN COLORADO THERE ARE DIFFERENT STANDARDS FOR OTHER HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS CALLING THEMSELVES “ACUPUNCTURISTS” AND USING DIFFERENT TERMINOLOGY BUT THE SAME TOOLS OF ACUPUNCTURE.
• Chiropractors (D.C.): Need only 100 hours of training, review 25 case histories and have NO EXAMINATION to legally practice acupuncture in Colorado. However, there is a rule pending that would make an exam mandatory. That exam would be administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and is no the same as the NCCAOM exam that Licensed Acupuncturists take. The Board of Chiropractic Examiners oversees the certification of chiropractors who perform acupuncture.
• Physical Therapists (P.T.): recently the Department of Regulatory Agencies decided to approve a rule in favor of allowing P.T.'s to insert acupuncture needles into their patients. They call this procedure “dry needling”. This procedure is allowed for any P.T. That has had two years of practice as a Physical Therapist and takes a 46 hour course. No certification of separate license is needed.
• Medical Doctors (M.D.) & Doctors of Osteopathy (D.O.): Have NO MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS for training to perform acupuncture in Colorado. They call themselves Medical Acupuncturists.
▪ UCLA offers a class especially for physicians to learn “acupuncture”. It is 350 hours.
So how qualified is YOUR Acupuncturist?
Ask them what their training was and ask them if they are an L.Ac. and/or NCCAOM Certified.
Article courtesy of the Acupuncture Association of Colorado
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To answer the above question, the answer is yes. I am both certified nationally by the NCCAOM as a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine and am a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.) in the State of Colorado. To learn more about me, my treatment styles, and philosophies on health please browse through the tabs on the left. Once finished please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 to book an appointment.
8-02-10 - Ancient Chinese Herbology
The following is an excerpt from a conversation I had with a student volunteer who is helping me out at my clinic this summer with the intention of learning as much as she can about the Oriental Medical Arts.
Student: Why are you buying an herbal pharmacy when you can do so much with acupuncture.
Me: Excellent question. The quick answer is because not everyone likes needles. The real answer is a little more in-depth. To understand why I am broadening the base of my practice we have to look at how each of the therapies work to promote health in the body. As we have already discussed, acupuncture works by stimulating the circulation of blood through the body through increasing the nerve conductivity of the proprioceptive nerves so that the body is better able to communicate with itself. The ancient Chinese described this process as the movement of Qi though the body. As I'm sure you remember, the movement of Qi describes the numerous circulations that exist within the body such as breathing, digestion, movement of blood, wake and sleep cycles, female menstrual cycles, and the aging process. Acupuncture works to promote the healthy flow of these and other cycles in the body, and if the cycles are flowing as they should then balance is reestablished and the body will heal itself to the best of it's ability.
Student: I remember our discussions over Qi, the flow of it through the body, and the ways that it can be effected with acupuncture and even our intentions, but what do herbs do in the body?
Me: Before I answer we need to take a brief glance back in history. Over the past 2,500 years Chinese herbalists have been observing plants, how they interact with their surroundings, when they sprout, bloom, seed, and die, in addition to what animals eat or avoid them. All of these observations were recorded and then taken into account when the herbalists began to gather and brew the herbs into teas. Frequently herbalists would drink the tea being sure to notice what effect the tea had on their body. Some of the famed herbalists would taste up to 60 herbs a day in an effort to expand their knowledge base on herbs. Once an herb had been tasted it's taste, thermal quality, and actions were recorded into one of 4 famous texts that have survived through thousands of years. From these compendiums of knowledge we can find herbs that will treat nearly the entire spectrum of human suffering. There are herbs that will treat the common cold, digestive issues, pain, female health concerns, anxiety, insomnia, and so many other dis-eases in the body we don't have time to name them all. Getting back to your question, when I treat a patient with herbs, after I diagnose I will write them a formula consisting of 10-15 herbs. A properly prescribed herbal formula is basically a snap shot of how we want the body to behave and a plan on how to obtain it. Herbs work in the body on what herbalists call the Xue (sh-way) level or blood level. The Xue level is deeper in the body than the Qi level where the Qi flows through. The Xue level is much more than the red stuff in our blood vessels. It is a large part of the form of our body, it is measurable, it is the structures of the body that exist for the Qi to flow through. If it is the structure that is damaged the body needs help more substantial that what acupuncture has to offer.
Student: I thought acupuncture could help the body repair itself, thus repair the structures in the process?
Me: It can but you are thinking to linear about things. Remember that within Chinese medicine there must be balance. Black will always have some white, wet will always have some dry, yin will always have some yang, and Qi level will always have some Xue level. They are inseparable in the medicine. It is the percentage of each that is the determining factors. Acupuncture works mostly on the Qi level which will effect the Xue level where as Herbal medicine works mostly on the Xue level which will effect the Qi level.
Student: Ok, I think understand. Regardless of the condition of the body if it isn't circulating then there is no reason for it to exist. Likewise if there is no body, then the circulations are pointless.
Me: Good job, that is close enough for this level of comprehension.
Student: Thank you. Tell me about the herbs that you purchased.
Me: Gladly. In the US there are 3 forms that herbs can come in: bulk, pill, and granular.
Bulk herbs are the sticks, roots, leaves, and rocks that have been gathered, dried and packaged. These are the most effective form of herbs but they are also the most work since the patient has to boil the herbs for 5-30 minutes 2-3 times a day. My old pharmacy consisted of ground up bulk herbs which reduced the cooking time, but I found that my patients were not very compliant with taking their formulas consistently.
Herbs in pill form are easy for Americans to take since they are already use to the method of delivery and thus have a fairly high level of compliance. However, I'm not a fan of them. Since the pills come premade from the manufacturer as a classic formula it is impossible to customize them. If a patient has multiple diagnoses then I would have to give them a different pill for each diagnosis. The other down side to pills is that they tend to be the least effective form of herbal medicine.
Granular herbs are the happy compromise in my mind. They are customizable unlike pills and they don't have to be cooked like bulk herbs. Granular herbs are made by cooking the herb according to the classical preparation as described in the classic texts. Once cooked properly, the herbal decoction is concentrated and dried into a powder which is what it ultimately sold to me.
Student: Very cool. Are there any risks to taking herbs and can they be taken with western medicines?
Me: Generally, herbs are very safe for patients. The most common side effect of herbs is gas, bloating, and upset stomach. As for whether they can be taken with western medicines? When herbs are prescribed by a licensed practitioner, most of the time herbs are safe when taken with most medications. However, in some cases there are risks for interactions. So I always check a patients medications against a list of known herb-drug interactions when I prescribe a formula.
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If you are interested in being treated with Chinese herbal medicine or have questions, please Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334.
7-15-10 - Ten Tips to Quit Smoking
1. Make a plan. Spend some time to discover what triggers you to desire to smoke and write down a plan on how you intend to overcome your cravings.
2. Identify and write down WHY and WHEN you want to quit on an index card and carry it with you everywhere you go. Look at you list every time you light up prior to you quit date to remind yourself why you quitting and on what date you will be smoke free.
3. Exercise more. Getting moving is a great way to remind yourself why you shouldn't smoke. Exercise can reduce your stress and help you relax far better than cigarettes.
4. Get plenty of fresh fruit and vegetable juices to neutralize and clear the blood of nicotinic acid and to fortify blood sugar.
5. Carrots, Carrot juice, celery, leafy green salads, citrus fruits, and lemon juiced into water promote body alkalinity and decrease cravings.
6. Avoid junk food, sugar and coffee. They can upset blood sugar levels and increase blood acidity which can aggravate smoking withdrawal symptoms.
7. Lobelia Tea or Green Tea can be sipped daily during the detox period to keep tissues flooded with elements that discourage nicotine cravings. Lobelia is traditionally used to rid the body of a strong toxin such as a snake bite.
8. Drink water. Research shows that dryness causes cravings. Sip water frequently throughout the day.
9. Practice deep breathing exercises to increase body oxygen and keep calm.
10. Come in for your acupuncture treatment which you have schedulled by calling Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334.
7-01-10 - Smoking Cessation with Acupuncture
Stop Smoking with AcupunctureAmong current U.S. adult smokers, 70% report that they want to quit smoking and millions try to quit every year. If you have attempted to quit smoking, you know how difficult it can be. Nicotine is a powerful addiction. In fact, research suggests that nicotine is as addictive as heroin, cocaine, or alcohol.
It is estimated that most smokers will attempt to quit two or three times, or more, before finally kicking the habit. When conventional methods to quit smoking have failed, smokers often look outside mainstream approaches and turn to alternative medicine.
Acupuncture as an alternative approach to smoking cessation has a growing number of converts. In fact, acupuncture is often a court mandated treatment for drug addicts because of its ability to reduce cravings and alleviate withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety and difficulty concentrating.
A Formidable Addiction
More than 50 million Americans smoke. The numbers are even higher in other parts of the globe, with worldwide statistics showing that one out of three people over the age of 18 are smokers.
The reasons to quit smoking are endless. Cigarettes have 4,000 chemicals, including 43 known cancer-causing (carcinogenic) compounds and 400 other toxins. These include nicotine, tar and carbon monoxide, as well as formaldehyde, ammonia, hydrogen cyanide, arsenic and DDT. According to the CDC, tobacco is the cause of 443,000 premature deaths each year, and is associated with emphysema, lung cancer, high blood pressure, shortness of breath, chronic cough and an increase in frequency of colds and flu.
Many people want to quit because of the enormous expense of a cigarette habit or are just plain tired of being dependent on a substance. There is also considerable social pressure not to smoke. Most smokers can recall a dirty look or rude comment from someone that was nearby when they lit up.
How Does Acupuncture Help Break the Cigarette Habit?
Acupuncture is successful with smoking cessation and has turned a growing number of cigarette smokers into permanent ex-smokers. Treatments take all of your symptoms into account and aim at balancing the energy within the body to optimize health.
The acupuncture treatments focus on jitters, cravings, irritability and restlessness; all symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification.
In one study conducted at the University of Oslo, Norway, acupuncture was found to significantly reduce the desire to smoke up to five years after the initial treatment. Subjects of the study also reported that cigarettes tasted worse than before treatment and that the treatments had effectively reduced their taste for tobacco.
The acupuncture needles used are hair-thin. They are superficially inserted into various points in the ears and body to assist with smoking cessation. In between treatments, small pellets are often taped to the acupuncture points on the ear. When a cigarette craving hits, gently pressing on the pellets stimulates the acupuncture points to calm the mind and eliminate the craving.
Acupuncture is not a panacea or a magic cure in the treatment of any addiction, including smoking. But, acupuncture is effective in making it easier to quit and remain smoke-free for good.
If you are ready to quit, call 303.929.7334 for a consultation to see how acupuncture can empower you to take control and begin a healthy and smoke-free life!
Source: Preventive Medicine. Volume 33, Issue 5, November 2001, Pages 364-372
6-05-10 - Treatment of Headaches with Acupuncture
The other day I had a meeting with a sales rep who very clearly had a headache. Half way through the meeting she stopped to dig through her purse for some pain medicine. The following conversation ensued:
Me: Before you take your pain medicine please tell me on what region of your head your headache is on and how intense is it on a scale of 1-10.
Sales Rep: I have pain at the back of my head that is shooting through to my left eye. I'd say it's about an 8/10.
Me: And how long have you had your headaches?
Sales Rep: They started 15 years ago after I was in a car accident. I went to the doctor after the accident to be told that I was fine. A few weeks after the accident the headaches begun. We've tried nearly a dozen drugs and a few MRI scans with little to no results. About 10 years ago I resigned myself to living my life in pain. Ever since then I have had a low grade headache with daily spikes of pain that last for hours. The headaches are usually worse right before my menses begin and are accompanied by nausea and light sensitivity.
Me: Interesting, thank you for sharing. Want me to take care of it for you?
Sales Rep: You're welcome to try.
Me: Great! There is a balancing point in the palm of your hand that can address the type of headache that you are presenting with. If I may, please let me see you right hand.
Sales Rep: But the pain is on the left.
Me: I know. Most people are cross wired such that the most effective side is the one opposite from the pain. It is tender here?
Sales Rep: Yes, but I don't know why.
Me: [ putting firm pressure on the tender point ] As I was saying, your body has balancing points located all over it. This point in your hand happens to balance out the pain that you have in your head. It is my “acupressure band-aid” point for nearly all headaches because it works so well. People get headaches for lots of reasons. In your case we have trauma as the precipitating event, but headaches can come from numerous sources in Chinese medicine. For example, having a poor diet, poor sleep, being dehydrated, or inappropriate moderation of stress can all lead to headaches. Regardless of the cause, the result is your body communicating with you that something is wrong. There is a line in the ancient texts that states that “where there is no free flow there is pain, where there is pain there is no free flow.” Simply translated pain tells you that something is stuck. My job is to figure out what is stuck and help to unravel the cause of the pain so that eventually it goes away. Speaking of which, how's the headache?
Sales Rep: Um … wow! It has decreased to a 3/10 but moved into my temple.
Me: It's a good sign that it has moved. Is this point in your hand tender anymore?
Sales Rep: No
Me: [ adjust pressure point to correspond with new pain location ] How about here?
Sales Rep: Yes, how do you find those points?
Me: The Chinese mapped out the entire body in relation to itself. In reality there are at least half a dozen points that I can use to treat your headache. The only reason I'm using this one is because it's the easiest to get to since many of the others are on your feet. In a full treatment we would start by investigating your diet, sleep patterns, digestion, levels and causes of stress in addition to your menstrual cycle. Once I've had a chance to fully diagnose you we would do a complete acupuncture treatment, give you an herbal formula and possibly a some nutritional suggestions. How's your head?
Sales Rep: Pain free! How did you do that?
Me: The secrets of Chinese medicine lie in their approach to the body. Their entire medical model is based on a system of excesses and deficiencies. You had an excess in you head and all I did was find the corresponding deficiency and give it some attention. Your body did the rest.
Sales Rep: Amazing! How long will this last?
Me: That depends on you. What kind of day have you created for yourself? Is it a stressful day filled with running from meeting to meeting or do you have plans to take some time to nourish yourself? The more time you can spend nourishing yourself the greater your reserves will be for you to draw off of during your times of stress.
Sales Rep: Food for thought. Thank you for sharing.
Me: My pleasure.
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8.10.10
Follow up: The Sales Rep booked an appointment a few weeks later and after a series of treatments has had her headaches reduced in intensity and to occurring only around menstruation.
Acupuncture does not have the unwanted side effects of pain medications and can give you relief in a very short period of time. Furthermore, the main goal of acupuncture is to treat the root of the problem, not just the symptom of the headache, so the patient can experience permanent relief from the headaches.
If you are experiencing headaches, give Mountain Spirit Acupuncture a call today at 303.929.7334 to schedule an appointment and begin your path to wellness!
5-17-10 - Chilly Wet Water
Drink to Your Health . . . With Water! Mother Nature's Healthy "Cocktail"
Some nutritionists insist that 80% of the country is walking around dehydrated. We drink too much coffee, tea, and sodas containing caffeine, which prompts the body to lose water. More troubling is that fact that when we are dehydrated, we don't know what to drink. The answer is simple: drink water!
Water is pure liquid refreshment and accounts for a large percentage of what makes each of us "human." The average 150 lb. adult body contains 40 to 50 quarts of water. Almost 2/3rds of our body weight is "water weight":
● Blood is 83% water
● Muscles are 75% water
● The Brain is 74% water
● Bone is 22% water
The Fountain of Youth, Health, and Everything Else that's Good
Water is necessary for your body to digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients. It also detoxifies the liver and kidneys, and carries away waste from the body. And when it comes to digestion . . . it's just not happening without water. Fiber alone cannot aid proper digestive function by itself. In fact, without water as its partner, good fiber goes bad, causing constipation and extreme discomfort.
If you're dehydrated, your blood is literally thicker, and your body has to work much harder to cause it to circulate. As a result, the brain becomes less active, it's hard to concentrate, your body feels fatigued, and you just "poop out."
Water - The Miracle Worker
Simple water -- when it's pure and free of contaminants -- is truly a "wonder drug." Without chemicals, additives, or anything unnatural, a steady dose of 8 glasses of water a day (ideally ½ your body weight in ounces of water) will:
● Improve Your Energy
● Increase Your Mental and Physical Performance
● Remove Toxins & Waste Products from your body
● Keep Skin Healthy and Glowing
● Help You Lose Weight
● Reduce Headaches and Dizziness
● Allow for proper Digestion
● Help to keep you more Alkaline
Drinking Water is Heart-Healthy
The findings of a six-year study of more than 20,000 healthy men and women aged 38-100 in the May 1, 2002 American Journal of Epidemiology found that women who drank more than five glasses of water a day were 41% less likely to die from a heart attack during the study period than those who drank less than two glasses. The protective effect of water was even greater in men.
Drinking Water and Weight Loss
Water is a natural appetite suppressant, so developing a good water drinking habit can be a long-term aid in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Doctor F. Batmanghelidj MD, author of "Your Body's Many Cries For Water" says most times your “hunger” is your body asking for water – not food.
It's also important to remember that when the body is dehydrated, fat cells get "rubbery" and cannot be easily metabolized. This means that it's harder to lose when you don't drink your water.
Who Can Benefit From A Water Regimen? Everyone . . . including YOU!
Water is especially important for pregnant women and nursing mothers. For athletes and work-out fanatics, drinking water reduces cardiovascular stress and improves performance. And, since water reduces body temperature, it makes the whole exercise process safer and more effective.
Water is also an important "healing tool" for people with a history of kidney stones. Since water dissolves calcium in the urine, downing at least 8 glasses daily reduces the risk of stone formation. Drinking water is also valuable in preventing urinary tract infections in both men and for women, flushing impurities out of the system.
Even mild dehydration makes you more susceptible to viruses. When your body is hydrated, drainage from allergies and colds doesn't stick and collect in your throat and lungs, and your cough is more "productive". Even cold sores that appear on the lips are minimized by drinking water because those eruptions tend to favor dry areas on the body.
For more suggestions on gaining health through diet call to schedule an appointment with Mountain Spirit Acupuncture today! Our number is 303.929.7334. Be well.
4-15-10 - Moxa 101
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the burning of mugwort, a small, spongy herb, to facilitate healing. Moxibustion has been used throughout Asia for thousands of years; in fact, the actual Chinese character for acupuncture, translated literally, means "acupuncture-moxibustion." The purpose of moxibustion, as with most forms of traditional Chinese medicine, is to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of qi, and maintain general health. Translated in to Western terms it is the metaphoric multivitamin of the acupuncture world in terms of its ability to increase the strength of a treatment through the increase of blood circulation and oxygenation of body tissues.
How does moxibustion work? Does it hurt?
There are two types of moxibustion: direct and indirect. In direct moxibustion, a small, cone-shaped amount of moxa is placed on top of an acupuncture point and lit, but is extinguished or removed before it burns the skin. The patient will experience a pleasant heating sensation that penetrates deep into the skin, but should not experience any pain, blistering or scarring unless the moxa is left in place for too long. Indirect moxibustion is currently the more popular form of care because there is a much lower risk of pain or burning. In indirect moxibustion uses both acupuncture needles and moxa. A needle is inserted into an acupoint and retained. The tip of the needle is then wrapped in moxa and ignited, generating heat to the point and the surrounding area. After the desired effect is achieved, the moxa is extinguished and the needle(s) removed. Another form of moxibustion, a practitioner lights one end of a moxa stick, roughly the shape and size of a cigar, and holds it close to the area being treated for several minutes until the area turns red. Due to legal concerns, most acupuncturists in America tend to only use indirect moxibustion if they use moxa at all.
What is moxibustion used for?
In traditional Chinese medicine, moxibustion is used on people who have a cold or stagnant condition. The burning of moxa is believed to expel cold and warm the meridians, which leads to smoother flow of blood and qi. In Western medicine, moxibustion has successfully been used to turn breech babies into a normal head-down position prior to childbirth. A landmark study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1998 found that up to 75% of women suffering from breech presentations before childbirth had fetuses that rotated to the normal position after receiving moxibustion at an acupuncture point on the Bladder meridian. Other studies have shown that moxibustion increases the movement of the fetus in pregnant women, and may reduce the symptoms of menstrual cramps when used in conjunction with traditional acupuncture. In addition to treating female health concerns, moxa has been shown to increase energy levels, promote circulation of blood and healing of injured tissues, and improve overall well being.
Why do acupuncturists use mugwort? Why not use some other herb?
Mugwort, also known as artemesia vulgaris or ai ye in Chinese, has a long history of use in folk medicine due to its malleability, slow burning rate, and ease of use for the practitioner. Research has shown that it acts as an emmenagogue – that is, an agent that increases blood circulation to the pelvic area and uterus and stimulates menstruation. This could explain its use in treating breech births and menstrual cramps.
Are there any precautions I should be aware of?
Although moxibustion has been safely used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, it is not for everyone. Because it is used specifically for patients suffering from cold or stagnant constitutions, it should not be used on anyone diagnosed with too much heat. Burning moxa also has the potential to produce a great deal of smoke and a pungent odor and should be used with caution for people who have respiratory illnesses.
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Call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture today to schedule an appointment and experience the theraputic effects of Moxa. Our number is 303.929.7334. Be well.
3-30-10 - Cupping 101
Cupping 101: a brief history
Sixteen hundred years ago in China a famous herbalist by the name of Ge Hong wrote about a method of treating patients through the application of suction cups or cupping in his book A Handbook of Prescriptions. Later books written during the Tang and Qing dynasties described cupping in great detail; one textbook included an entire chapter on “fire jar qi,” a type of cupping that could alleviate headaches, dizziness and abdominal pain.
Over the centuries, cupping has been discovered to be an effective method of treatment for ailments such as:
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Asthma
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Colds
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Cough
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Stomach pain
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Back pain
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Shoulder pain
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Leg pain or injury
Cupping 101: the technique
For a practitioner to obtain a therapeutic amount of suction on the body, most find it necessary to do what's called “fire cupping”. Fire cupping is done by soaking a cotton ball on the end of a hemostat in rubbing alcohol, lighting it of fire, and placing the fire up inside of the cup to burn out the oxygen thus creating a vacuum. With the formation of a temporary vacuum inside the cup, the practitioner quickly removes the cotton ball and places the cup on to a predetermined area on the body. The application of suction to the body pulls the skin up inside the cup which increases blood flow to the area and can pull toxins out of the tissues. To increase the therapeutic efficacy of cupping, practitioners will either use numerous cups or apply a liniment to allow the cup to smoothly slide across the skin.
Cupping is generally used on parts of the body where there is lots of muscle and connective tissue, such as the back, legs, or shoulders. It is not used on areas affected by skin disease, on bony areas such as the hands, feet, and face, or on the abdomen or lower back of pregnant women due to the risk of causing a miscarriage.
Modern day cups are made out of glass because they are easy to clean, and the practitioner can see through them and closely monitor their technique. Historically cups were made of bamboo, animal horns, or earthenware. Bamboo is still used today by some practitioners, but horns are not used due to animal protection laws and advancements in technology.
Cupping 101: the results
Cupping is considered relatively safe although it can cause some swelling and bruising on the skin due to the nature of the procedure. Typically patients have a series of faint circular bruises that feel like a mild skin burn for a day or two. Depending upon the diseased state being treated and the intensity of the treatment, some patients have bruises that look like they lost a wrestling match to an angry octopus. This type of result occurs most commonly in people who have a lot of tension in their back from either traumatic injury or years of carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Regardless of the intensity of the bruises, they tend to last for 1-2 weeks and heal faster if the patient is diligent about keeping themselves warm, covered up, and well hydrated.
Cupping can be a great way to augment an acupuncture treatment. It can increase the therapeutic effects of acupuncture needles and help you heal faster.
If you are interested in cupping and think that it would aid in the treatment of your health concerns the please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 for more information and to schedule an appointment today. Be well.
3-15-10 - How to Palpate for a Heart Attack
The following blog entry is written for my colleagues in Chinese Medicine although patients, friends, and family members may find in educational as well.
Eighteen months ago I came across the teachings of Dr. Jimmy Wei-Yen Chang who has a unique perspective on interpreting the anatomy of the classic Chinese Pulse. His diagnostic methodology does away with the traditional 29 pulse qualities that are taught in Oriental Medical Schools around the globe, and in its place he has developed a system that encompasses both an eastern and a western medical diagnosis. Although his system is too complex and in depth to describe in a blog, there is a pulse presentation that I have had the unfortunate pleasure of palpating a handful of times.
Dr. Chang calls the pulse a “constrained pulse” and describes it as being “the center of the left Cun position is Wiry, fine, firm and appears with strength.” He goes on to describe the pulse as “feeling like there is a bundle of electric wires (that are thin, straight, tight) within the artery with the tautness of the outside artery varying.” To feel the pulse you need to flatten the artery and feel for a thin, straight tight “wire” inside that cannot be rubbed away. We know from the Traditional Chinese pulse positions that the left Cun position is related to the heart and the same holds true for Jimmy's system. According to Dr. Chang a constrained pulse in the left cun position is an indicator of severe cold in the heart and is a warning sign for Xiong Bi, myocardial infarction, or coronary heart conditions. In other words it is necessary to get the patient to the Emergency Department as fast as possible (note ... do not drive them yourself unless you want the liability). So far in my career I have sent 3 patients to the hospital who had this pulse presentation. One of them ended up having a heart attack while in the hospital, one had evidence of a recent heart attack and one of them had a pulled an intercostal muscle in the left rib cage causing chest pain. Fortunately all 3 patients were able to get the help that they needed to keep their pulses flowing for another day. Of interest the 3rd patient ended up being diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes which upon later inspection of the pulse was also present.
While I am still in the process of learning from Dr. Chang's 30 plus years of clinical experience I am grateful for the information of his that I have been able to assimilate so far. If you are interested in Dr. Chang's method look for his seminars through elotus.org. I hope today's post has given you a very tool that you will never need to use. I end this blog with some information from The American Heart Association that is good for all of us to review.
Heart Attack Warning Signs
Some heart attacks are sudden and intense - the "movie heart attack," where no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:
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Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
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Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
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Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
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Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness
As with men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.
Learn the signs, but remember this: Even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, have it checked out (tell a doctor about your symptoms). Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives — maybe your own. Don’t wait more than five minutes to call 9-1-1 or your emergency response number.
Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive - up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room.
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If you or a loved one have experienced a Heart Attack and are looking for alternatives therapies that can help to facilitate the circulation of blood throughout the body thus speeding up the healing process then please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 end_of_the_skype_highlighting for more information.
3-03-10 - Shen: The Intersection of Mind and Body
The Shen, often translated as the spirit or mind, plays a vitally important role in determining out state of health. Ancient Chinese medical texts place great importance on the delicate interaction between the emotions and physiological functions of the body. As such, the shen represents both the aggregate of all mental and physical activities as well as the chief executive of the human system. Physical distress causes the shen to go into decline, while a weakened spirit will also manifest in physical dysfunction.
Illness creates a complex circle of emotions and psychological associations that are often difficult to release ourselves from. While acupuncture and herbal medicine strongly benefit the spirit, a regular practice of meditation is the most effective way the “dust off the mirror”. 15-20 minutes of daily focused breathing and quiet reflection can clear the mind of unneeded clutter and relieve psychological and emotional stress at the deepest levels. The results are a healthier body, quieter mind, and brighter spirit.
If you would like to strengthen you mind body connection so that your Shen is calmer and better able to address the stresses of everyday living then call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334 today.
2-21-10 - Treating the Patient, Not the Disease
The importance of individual characteristics in the disease process has been recognized in China for centuries. Each individual has their own unique constitution, a physique that whether through nature or nurture can become unbalanced and eventually develop illness. It is however, possible in many cases to recognize this imbalance before illness takes hold and to correct it through a combination of treatment methods and conscientious changes in lifestyle. The emerging modern concept of “preventative medicine” is an accurate reflection of the Chinese tenet that “to treat an illness that has already formed is like digging a well when one is already dying of thirst, like sharpening one's weapons when the battle has already begun.” (SuWen)
2-14-10 - 2010 - Year of the Tiger
Happy Chinese New Year! We are finally leaving the slow moving Year of the Ox behind and transitioning into the aggressive and active nature of the Year of the Tiger. The following article contains all you will need to know about the Year of the Tiger and how to thrive throughout the next 12 months.
Mountain Spirit Acupuncture would like to wish you a prosperous and healthy Year of the Tiger. We hope that you find the following article educational and think of us help to support you whether you need pain management, help balancing emotions, treatment for gastrointestinal disease, are a female with health concerns, or simply want to be healthier. Be well.
2010 - Year of the Tiger
by Dr. Maoshing Ni, Ph.D., D.O.M., ABAAHP, L.Ac.
WELCOME to the Chinese Year of the Tiger, which begins on February 14, 2010! Every year for almost twenty years, I’ve written forecasts based on the ancient Taoist system of Five Elements Phase Energetics that predict global trends that affect us personally. By attuning yourself to these forecasts, you can side-step or minimize negative tendencies, whether in health, relationships or finance, and make the most of positive trends.
In Chinese astrology, the Tiger is a dynamic and powerful sign. Its nature is unpredictable, courageous and volatile. Therefore, the Year of the Tiger is usually associated with big change and social turmoil, making 2010 likely to be a volatile year globally and personally. Those who gain an understanding of it through this article and their own spiritual awareness should have the flexibility to adapt to changes and keep a steady hand on the keel through rough waters.
In the Chinese calendar, 2010 is represented by the elements of metal and wood. The elemental interaction is symbolized by an ax cutting down a tree. What this means is the potential for more conflicts on the world’s political stage. It is a more combustible year resulting in increased military engagements. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that a troop surge in Afghanistan will take place, and threats from North Korea and Iran might continue to escalate. It is critical for world leaders to exercise calmness when dealing with confrontations and to seek peace and harmony as the ultimate objective in any interaction.
Dogged by worldwide recession, countries will continue to wrestle each other over protectionist policies enacted in response to weakened domestic economies. However, with optimism from the Tiger, economies around the world should stabilize and improve in 2010. The conflicting dynamics of the metal and wood elements shall spark more volatile times ahead for both the economy and the stock market. Industries favorable for an upturn include precious metals, finance, entertainment, energy, defense industry, high tech, engineering, machinery, cars and airlines. Sectors like banking, insurance and mining will see more stability and investments. Challenging industries that may lag include wood products, paper, newspaper and magazines, fashion, textile, furniture, property development and forestry, as well as ocean shipping, transportation and communications.
Environmentally, 2010 may be challenged by extremes of hot weather and droughts, flooding, man-made damages and natural disasters. Possible environmental disasters include nuclear accidents, earthquake and volcanic eruptions. Evidence of global warming will become more obvious as leaders of nations and industries work to hammer out agreements that will limit greenhouse gas emissions.
On the health front, metal represents the lungs, colon, skin and the immune system. Therefore, you may be predisposed to develop conditions like sinus allergies, infections, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, constipation, rashes, compromised immunity or autoimmune inflammatory conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. The Wood element corresponds to the liver, gall bladder and nervous system, which may lead to increased stress, tension, depression, anxiety, gallstones, hepatitis and cirrhosis. I would advise you to work on prevention of immune, respiratory, digestive and nervous system conditions. Exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, effectively manage your stress and see an acupuncturist or Chinese herbalist regularly.
Consistent and regular exercise strengthens your respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Learning and practicing mind-body exercises like tai chi or chi gong will induce deep breathing that helps make your lungs stronger and will reduce stress and tension by lowering your stress hormones. Incorporating functional foods that possess healing properties into your diet helps you to avoid illness. This is the foundation of Chinese medicine. Increasing your intake of the following foods can be beneficial: dill, oregano, cilantro, rosemary, sage, peppermint, turmeric, basil, coriander, fennel, anise, cardamom, ginger, collard greens, Swiss chard, kale, mustard greens, parsley, dandelion greens, daikon radish, turnip, beets, artichoke, pear--especially Asian pear--persimmon, papaya, pineapple, cherry, grape, blueberry, almond, pine nuts and flax seeds while avoiding dairy, alcohol, caffeine, sugar, wheat, deep fried and fatty foods, processed and refined foods, excessive red meat, tomato, eggplant, peppers and potatoes.
To support your health and wellness proactively, visit an acupuncturist or Chinese herbalist regularly and take the appropriate herbal and nutritional supplements. Herbs and nutrients are part of my family’s diet, and for many years we have used them effectively for prevention. In addition, taking fish oil, probiotics, digestive enzymes and a quality vitamin and mineral supplement will round out your nutritional program.
In summary, the Year of the Tiger will bring about more change, even turmoil in the world and in your life. However, by using this as an opportunity to shape your life as if you were using metal such as an ax or chisel to sculpt a beautiful and useful object out of raw wood, you can ride the tiger triumphantly toward your goals. Cultivate patience, kindness and peace so that your interactions with others can promote harmony and love. Take walks and spend time in nature to refresh your lungs. Undertake cleansing and detoxification programs at the start and throughout the year to support your liver and other body functions. Eat well, get plenty of sleep and cultivate health in the five areas of your life—body, mind, spirit, finance and relationships—so that you will manifest balance, wellness and fulfillment in 2010.
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Mountain Spirit Acupuncture would like to wish you a prosperous and healthy Year of the Tiger. We hope that you call upon us to help support you whether you need pain management, help balancing emotions, treatment for gastrointestinal disease, are a female with health concerns, or simply want to be healthier. Be well. Be Love
2-02-10 - The Root of Illness
Chinese medicine teaches that all chronic illness represents a decline in the body's vitality, or Zheng Qi. This results in a weakened immune response that is strong enough to challenge the pathogenic qi that has taken up residence within the body, yet not healthy enough to overcome and expel it. Therefore, the body become akin to a battle-ground where symptoms reoccur intermittently as the body alternates between the accumulation of resources and the active struggle to regain balance.
The body is divided into three main regions based upon their energetic composition and function, referred to as the upper, middle and lower burners. They maintain a complex relationship characterized by constant cyclic movement both horizontally within a single layer, and vertically through multiple layers. The root of illness lies in the breakdown of this movement due to two main factors: insufficient storage and transformation of essence in the lower burner and poor production and circulation of energy and blood in the middle burner. Therefore, treatment is focused mainly on these underlying problems to restore a natural state of energetic balance among the three burners. It is far less concerned with any given symptom, which is treated as no more than a localized manifestation of a much larger systematic problem.
If you are tired of treating the branches of your diease and would like to focus on the root of the problem. Call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture today to have your Zheng Qi evaluated and learn about the benefits of ancient Chinese medicine. Our number is 303.929.7334. Be well.
1-02-10 - How Acupuncture Works From a Western Perspective
Acupuncture works. In fact it works very well. To truly understand the how of why it works, you either need to spend 4 years getting a Master's Degree in Oriental Medicine or for a general idea please continue reading.
To simplify the following explanation, we will use an example of acupuncture for pain management. In order for the body to experience pain there are 2 nerves that play a crucial role: the Afferent nerve fibers which are responsible for the “ouch” sensation, and the Proprioceptive fibers which tells the brain where the problem is. The combination of the two nerve signals alert the brain to the pain which triggers the body to restrict blood circulation to the area. Why restrict blood circulation? The body is unsure as to why there is pain so it defaults to addressing the worse case scenarios of either tissue damage or infection. In either case the body wants to isolate the area to prevent further damage to the rest of the system. If the body is able to determine that there is no infection or damage to the tissues it will release enkaphlins (endorphins) which plug up the pain receptor sites around the injured area. With the receptors on the afferent nerve fibers plugged two processes occur. First, the pain sensation is eliminated; second, normal blood circulation is returned to the area.
That's all fine and good if you've just stepped on a child's rouge matchbox car in the middle of the night. The pain is nearly gone before the swearing stops. However if the a fore mentioned toy causes an unplanned physics experiment in the rapid acceleration forces of gravity and the sudden body traumatizing stop that occurs at the bottom of the stairs then the body will clearly need more than a few seconds to heal itself. So you head to the Emergency Department to make sure your body is merely bruised and not broken. After being given a diagnosis and a few pain killers you wonder how long it will take for your body to heal itself.
In the above example, the body is unable to heal itself quickly and so it continues to produce a pain signal that there is something wrong. The problem is that the flow of blood to the area is restricted due to the body's natural response to pain which in turn prolongs the healing process. The pain killers also add to the problem since they decrease pain in the body by slowing down the Central Nervous System which in turn slows down the circulatory system thus decreasing the flow of blood around the body. To get the body to heal itself quicker an alternative to western medicine needs to be sought out.
Enter the Acupuncturist. Thousands of years ago the ancient Chinese described the root cause of pain in the following medical proverb: “Where there is pain there is no free flow; where there is free flow, there is no pain.” The term “free flow” in this proverb implies circulation of blood into the pained area. To treat pain with acupuncture, an acupuncturist needs to promote the circulation of blood thus “freeing the flow” and stopping pain. To accomplish this, acupuncture points or nodes are stimulated along proprioceptive nerve fibers that are associated with the problem area. By stimulating these points the nerves are better able to communicate with the brain where the afferent nerve fibers are that are sending the pain signal. With a clearer message reaching the mid-brain, the body is able to confidently release the enkaphlins to plug up the pain receptors thus stopping the pain. Once the brain no longer receives a signal of pain, it frees the flow of blood by dilating the blood vessels so that blood can bring oxygen, nutrients, and the immune system to the damaged area. With all the essential components present for tissue to heal itself the injured area gets to work repairing the damage. Depending upon how serious and how chronic an injury is will determine the amount of time the body will need in order to heal itself. Remember, not even paper cuts go away over night.
This same process of increasing the nerve signal to the brain to treat dis-ease in the body is virtually unchanged for the 50 plus diseases and aliments that the World Health Organization and National Institute of Health recognize as being effectively treatable by acupuncture.
If you would like to learn more about how acupuncutre can help you along your path towards becoming healthier please call Mountain Spirit Acupuncture at 303.929.7334