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© 2017 Acupuncture Media Works/AcuDownloads • 866-696-7577 • www.acupuncturemediaworks.com 2.17
“Quiet thoughts mend the body.”- Chinese Proverb
© 2017 Copyright Acupuncture Media Works/AcuDownloads, All Rights
Reserved. The information contained within the AcuNews newsletter is only
used to educate and inform. This newsletter is not a substitute for the advice
of a licensed and registered health care provider. Seek prompt attention for
emergencies. Consult a health care provider for specific health concerns, and
before starting a diet, cleanse or exercise routine.
The Many Dimensions of the Kidney
Acupuncturists understand the body as a complex system of energy
systems, meridians and organs. However, when an acupuncturist
talks about an organ, like the spleen, heart or kidneys, they are not
referring to the physical organ that sits inside your body, but rather the
energetic side of these organs. The energetic system is much bigger
than just the physical organ, and governs certain functions in the body
on many levels.
The kidney system is one of the most important of these energetic
organ systems.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the kidneys represent the deepest,
most fundamental levels of energy in the human body. They are said
to be the root of yin and yang in the body – two fundamental forces
at play in our physiology. The kidneys also store a substance called
“essence” that is our genetic code, our life-force and our reproductive
ability.
The kidneys in Chinese Medicine are related to the water element,
which is the elemental energy of winter. Whereas many energy systems
are all about movement, the kidneys are about rest, relaxation,
rejuvenation – they are the energy of holding, of turning inward, of
protecting that which is most important. Think of still reflecting pools,
or a quiet winter night. These are kidney energy. The kidneys are often
referred to in Chinese Medicine as our “root” – they are tasked with
caring for the most precious parts of us that make us who we are.
On a physical level, the kidneys govern the water passageways within the body (appropriate being the water element!) as well as controlling growth
and reproduction. In a five element understanding of Chinese Medicine, the kidneys are at the end of the life cycle, before reb irth occurs again (such
as winter making way for spring.) This means the kidneys in particular have a vital role to play in end of life transitions.
The spirit aspect of the kidneys is called Zhi, or willpower. Again, the kidneys are our root, our fundamental and core energy. When that system is
weakened, a person may not feel drive, motivation or have the ability to push themselves. Their understanding of who they are and what they can
do has been diminished.
The emotion associated with the kidneys is fear. When the kidneys are weak, a person may be startled or frightened easily, or may experience fear
in disproportionate ways. Likewise, shock, trauma and fearful situations weaken the kidney energy, which is why many of the common symptoms of
PTSD have a kidney imbalance at their root. The person’s core has been shaken.
The kidney energy, being the deepest level of energy in the body, takes time to replenish and strengthen, which means patience is key. Also, the
kidney energy naturally declines over the life cycle, which is the normal aging process. So as we age, protecting the kidneys becomes all the more
important!
Nourish the Kidneys through Food
Being associated with the water element, the kidneys are nourished by foods that come from the water – fish, seaweeds and
shellfish are nourishing to this system. The kidneys are associated with the salty taste, so naturally salty foods such as miso or
millet also are good choices. Avoid foods that are damaging to your root energy, such as sugar, caffeine, alcohol, greasy foods
and highly-processed foods.
Nourish the Kidneys through your habits
The kidneys are damaged by overwork, too much responsibility, lack of sleep and a frenetic schedule. In other words, most of us
living in modern society are taxing our kidneys! This means it is all the more important to
carve out time and space to take part in kidney-nourishing habits.
As we mentioned, the kidneys are nourished through rest and rejuvenation. Pay
attention to your sleep, and be sure you are getting the hours that you need! Take a
nap in the day if you need it. Engage in gentle, relaxing forms of exercise, like yoga
or tai chi. Try meditation or guided visualizations to calm and center yourself. Find a
schedule that works – one that really works – for you.
Bring the water element into your life and your home by getting a small decorative
fountain, using essential oils, taking baths or spending time near rivers or oceans or
other bodies of water.
The kidneys, being the source of our reproductive strength, are also weakened by excessive sexual
activity. So go for quality over quantity.
VOL 2.1
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Golden Dragonfly Acupuncture & Oriental
Medicine LLC
221 Market Street
Denton, Md. 21629
443-448-4833
www.goldendragonflyacupuncture.net
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Ways for a healthy brain
The second week of March is Brain Awareness Week. This is a perfect time to explore ways to keep your noggin working and healthy. Below are easy, simple ways to keep your brain in good shape.

A healthy diet is a healthy mind
There are many reasons to keep a healthy lifestyle and feed your body with foods that make you feel and perform your best. Diets that are low in saturated fats and cholesterol and higher in omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to promote brain health and protect brain cells. Taking a fish oil supplement with DHA or eating fish such as salmon can help improve brain development at any age. DHA, a type of omega-3, may also help prevent certain neurological disorders. Vitamin E and lutein can also help brain health. Incorporate leafy greens such as spinach and kale into your lunch or dinners.

Keep your brain stimulated
At any age, brain exercises are a great thing to get into the habit of. Keeping your brain stimulated can help retain your memory as you get older as well as your capability to learn new skills. The brain is never done learning. Exercises like reading, crosswords, number problems and games like sudoku can help keep your brain stay active and working. If you find yourself experiencing chronic stress, practice daily meditation for as little as five minutes a day to help reduce inflammation and support immune health, which are both controlled by the same area of the brain.

Socialize
Keeping in touch with friends and family and continuously working on building relationships helps your emotional state as well as your physical health. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, understand you and keep a positive tone. Join organizations or clubs you are interested in and make new connections. Feeling connected to others is always important for your mental wellbeing.  

Quit the bad habits
If you smoke, now is never a better time to quit. Consuming an excess in substances such as alcohol, cigarettes and other drugs can lower cognitive processes and decrease overall functioning and health.

Acupuncture
In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is believed that the spleen, kidney and heart organs all impact mental capacity and brain activity. These organs influence memory, concentration and recall. When one of these organs is experiencing deficiency or an imbalance, our brain can not function to its fullest. Acupuncture addresses the organs with specific points on the body to return the body back to balance and health.

Sources: http://bit.ly/1PZsyVf
  

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/funding-for-golden-dragonfly-acupuncture/x/617503#/

The Heart According to TCM/ Acu & Stress

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the heart can be considered the most important organ in the body. All other organs connect to the heart and help the heart function as best it can. According to TCM, regulated blood circulation depends on the heart’s energy flow, or Qi. When the heart does not have enough Qi and is deficient in Yang, it can result in poor blood circulation, weak pulse, palpitations and chest pain.

A Heart Yang deficiency is associated with coldness. When Yang is not in balance, circulation slows resulting in extreme coldness and a pale face. A Yin deficiency happens when one is overworked and does not give the body and mind a chance to slow down. Fatigue and anxiety are symptoms of a Yin imbalance.

Imbalances in the heart can result in many other issues as well. When one is stressed, a domino effect happens in the body. The liver’s function decreases when the body is in high stress, therefore it cannot support the heart.

According to TCM, the heart is also the source of consciousness and thinking. When one’s blood circulation is in balance, their thought processes and mental activities function well. If the heart’s energy is deficient, one can experience anxiety, insomnia and restlessness.

TCM believes that acupuncture treatment can reduce stress and return the heart to health. When one is consistently stressed, there is an increased level in adrenaline and cortisol due to a raised blood pressure. When these stress hormones increase in the body, one is more susceptible to blood clots and a risk of heart attack.

Acupuncture works by lowering the body’s blood pressure and heart rate, which then can lower cortisol and adrenaline levels. Specific acupuncture points are used on the body to relax the mind and address problems like hypertension and symptoms of heart disease.

Acupuncture works by addressing the body as a whole. When there is an imbalance in the heart, acupuncture points work to return the body back to its normal energy flow, which improves the function of the organs.

Sources:
http://bit.ly/1RnEtMK
http://bit.ly/1n1eJdO
http://bit.ly/1mC5ssk

6 Healthy Foods for the Heart

Changing the way you eat is one of the best ways to improve heart health. By making an active choice to improve your lifestyle, you can see your heart health improve greatly as well. Below are superfoods to incorporate into your diet.

Salmon
Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help decrease the risk of an irregular heartbeat, lower plaque build-up in the arteries and decrease triglycerides, the main type of fat in our bodies. It is recommended by the American Heart Association to eat salmon or other fatty fish at least twice a week.

Potatoes
Believe it or not, potatoes can be very beneficial for heart health. Potatoes are packed with potassium and fiber, which can help lower blood pressure and risk for heart disease. As long as they are not fried, potatoes can be a great food option.

Nuts
You can’t go wrong with nuts. Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts and macadamia nuts are rich with fiber and vitamin E, which helps lower cholesterol. Don’t be skeptical by the high fat content of nuts, those who eat nuts regularly have been shown to be leaner than those who don’t. Walnuts among other nuts also contain high amount of omega-3 fatty acids.

Green Vegetables
There are many benefits to vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and kale. These vegetables can especially help your heart because of the high amounts of vitamins, minerals and carotenoids, which act as an antioxidant. Including green vegetables into your diet every day not only can improve overall health but give the heart a boost.  

Avocado
Avocados are packed with monounsaturated fats that can help lower the risk of heart disease and help control cholesterol levels. This fruit is also rich in antioxidants and potassium, making it a superfood that can be easily incorporated into meals.

Oatmeal
Oatmeal is not only practical and affordable, but high in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol. Choose oatmeal or plain oats with no added sugar. Make sure to be especially careful with instant oatmeal, which a lot of times contains added ingredients.

Sources:
http://bit.ly/1MQ6plW
6 Tips to Reduce Your Blood Pressure
Affecting one in three adults, high blood pressure is one of the most common health issues in America and most often the result of busy schedules and high-stress jobs. Sometimes it can be hard to slow down, however, addressing high blood pressure is very important to improving overall health and quality of life. Below are natural ways that can help lower your blood pressure.

Work less
Working less hours is one of the hardest commitments for Americans for multiple reasons. According to a study done by the University of California, Irvine, those who worked more than 41 hours a week had an increased risk of hypertension by 15 percent. Try to stick to 40 hours a week in the office. Take advantage of those vacations days when you can, you deserve it!

Drink less caffeine
A study done by Duke University Medical Center found that consuming around three cups of coffee has a lasting effect on blood pressure. Caffeine tightens blood vessels, which results in an increase in blood pressure. When caffeine increases blood flow, it magnifies the feelings of stress you are probably already feeling. Try to cut down on the coffee and turn to decaf.

Tune in
Researchers at the University of Florence in Italy found that listening to calming music for 30 minutes daily can help lower blood pressure. Listeners who practiced this daily ontop of deep breathing lowered their average systolic reading by 3.2 points. Taking the time every day to listen to music and relax is simple and effective.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an effective natural treatment for hypertension. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that when one has high blood pressure, the body is out of balance. Acupuncture works to relax the body and mind and return the body’s natural energy flow back to balance. TCM believes the Liver and Kidney organs are associated with high blood pressure and focuses on these acupuncture points to relieve stress.

Massage therapy
Massage therapy is well known for reducing stress and hypertension. A study done at the Wirral Metropolitan College Department of Medicine found that patients experienced less muscle tension and a lower heart rate after massage therapy treatment. Massage is non invasive and not only relaxes the body, but the mind as well.

Lowering your blood pressure is not something that happens overnight. Sticking to a healthy diet and exercise plan and finding a natural treatment that works for you can help you get back on the road to health and reduce stress and hypertension.

Souces:
http://bit.ly/1Z2wRzR
http://bit.ly/1mCa7KE
http://bit.ly/1SwfUhw

Heart Healthy Recipe

Texas Caviar

This recipe is filled with vegetables that not only taste delicious but are heart healthy as well!

Ingredients:

30 oz. canned black-eyed peas
2 green onions, sliced
1 cup fresh or frozen corn, thawed
1 small bell pepper diced
½ cup chopped cilantro
3 diced jalapenos
2 cups of diced tomatoes
3 clove minced garlic
2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp. lime juice
½ tsp. lime zest
1 tsp. ground cumin
salt and ground pepper to taste

Combine black-eyed peas, onions, corn, bell pepper, cilantro, jalapenos, tomatoes and garlic into a medium-sized bowl. In another bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, zest and cumin together. Pour over vegetables adding salt and pepper to taste and toss altogether. Served best when chilled for 2-3 hours. Enjoy!

Sources:
http://bit.ly/1JUyloY