Monthly Me Time: The Ultimate Self Care Routine in Vail Valley

Take time to recharge

Taking care of yourself is not just a luxury; it's a necessity.

Incorporating self-care routines into your monthly schedule can have profound effects on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. One of the most effective self-care practices you can adopt is regular acupuncture sessions. Think of it as a monthly “tune-up” for your body, ensuring everything is running smoothly.

Let’s dive into the importance of monthly self-care and how acupuncture can play a pivotal role in maintaining optimal health.

The Importance of
Monthly Self-Care

In today's fast-paced world, it is easy to get caught up in daily responsibilities and forget to take care of the most important person—yourself. Monthly self-care is essential for…

• Reducing Stress: Taking time to relax and focus on yourself can significantly lower your stress levels. Higher stress can lead to various health problems, including heart disease and depression.

• Preventing Burnout: Regular self-care helps prevent burnout by allowing you to recharge your energy levels. When you are constant on the go and never slowing down, your body does not get it’s “reset” time.

• Maintaining Mental Health: Mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Self-care practices like acupuncture can help maintain emotional balance and mental clarity.

• Boosting Immunity: Self-care practices can help strengthen your immune system, making you more resilient against illnesses.

The Cumulative Effect
of Monthly Acupuncture

Getting acupuncture on a monthly basis has a cumulative effect, meaning the benefits build up over time. Each session contributes to an overall improvement in your health and well-being, much like a regular tune-up for your car. Here’s how:

• Promotes Balance and Harmony: Regular acupuncture helps maintain the balance of your body's energy systems. By keeping your Qi flowing smoothly, you can avoid disruptions that lead to ailments.

• Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone. This helps in reducing stress and anxiety levels over time.

• Improves Sleep Quality: Sleep is crucial for overall health. Regular acupuncture sessions can help regulate sleep patterns, making it easier for you to get a good night's rest.

• Boosts Immunity: Monthly acupuncture sessions help strengthen your immune system by improving the function of your body's natural defense mechanisms.

• Enhances Digestive Health: Regular acupuncture can help regulate digestive functions, alleviating issues like bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

• Manages Chronic Pain: For those suffering from chronic pain, such as back pain, arthritis, or migraines, monthly acupuncture can provide sustained relief and prevent flare-ups.

Monthly Acupuncture:
A Tune-Up for Your Body

Just as your car requires regular maintenance to run smoothly, your body benefits from regular acupuncture sessions. When you invest in your health, the benefits are abundant! Think of these monthly sessions as a tune-up for your body:

Fine-Tuning Your Systems: Each session helps fine-tune various body systems, ensuring they are functioning optimally.

Preventing Issues Before They Arise: Regular acupuncture can help identify and address potential health issues before they become serious problems.

Sustaining Long-Term Health: The cumulative benefits of monthly acupuncture contribute to long-term health and well-being, helping you lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Conclusion

At Krystal Kinnunen Acupunture in Vail Valley, we love encouraging self-care! After all, you cannot pour from an empty cup — when you feel healthy, happy, and restored, you can show up more radiantly in the rest of your life.

Incorporating acupuncture into your monthly self-care routine offers a comprehensive approach to maintaining your health. The cumulative benefits of regular sessions make it more than just a temporary solution; it becomes an integral part of your overall well-being strategy.

If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, feel free to reach out to us at 828-739-0345. We’re here to support you on your journey to better health!

How Acupuncture Benefits Prostate Health: Evidence-Based Insights from Dr. Krystal Kinnunen

Prostate health is a significant concern for many men, especially as they age. In Edwards, CO, and the wider Vail Valley, CO area, holistic and alternative treatments like acupuncture are gaining popularity for their potential benefits in prostate health. This ancient practice, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a natural approach to maintaining and improving prostate function. In this blog post, we'll explore how acupuncture can support prostate health with evidence-based insights and why you should consider receiving acupuncture from Dr. Krystal Kinnunen at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture.

Understanding Prostate Health

The prostate gland plays an essential role in male reproductive health. However, as men age, issues such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and even prostate cancer can arise, leading to discomfort and medical complications. Maintaining prostate health is crucial for overall well-being and quality of life.

What is Acupuncture?

If you have read our blogs before, you are probably very familiar with what acupuncture is. Acupuncture is a holistic treatment method that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. These points are thought to stimulate the body's energy flow or "Qi" and promote healing and balance within the body's systems.

Evidence-Based Benefits of Acupuncture for Prostate Health

• 
  Reduces Inflammation: Acupuncture has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help manage conditions like prostatitis and BPH. A study published in Urology (2019) demonstrated that acupuncture significantly reduced inflammation markers in men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), leading to symptom relief.

• 
  Relieves Pain: For those experiencing discomfort due to prostate conditions, acupuncture can provide significant pain relief. A meta-analysis in the Journal of Pain Research (2018) concluded that acupuncture is effective in reducing chronic pelvic pain, which is often associated with prostate issues.

• 
  Improves Urinary Function: Acupuncture can help manage urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate, such as frequent urination, urgency, and incomplete bladder emptying. A clinical trial published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine (2017) showed that acupuncture improved urinary function in men with BPH, resulting in better quality of life.

• 
  Supports Hormonal Balance: Acupuncture may help regulate hormones, which can be beneficial for maintaining prostate health. Balanced hormones are crucial for preventing and managing prostate-related issues. Research in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies (2016) found that acupuncture could influence hormone levels, supporting prostate health.

• 
  Enhances Immune Function: A robust immune system is vital for fighting infections and potentially reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Acupuncture can boost the immune system, helping the body to ward off illnesses and maintain overall health. A study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2018) demonstrated that acupuncture enhanced immune responses in participants.

Additional Tips for Prostate Health

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Avoid processed foods.

• Make time for exercise

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

• Work on stress management - find ways to relieve stress in your life. This could look like breathwork, meditation, or acupuncture!

Why Choose Dr. Krystal Kinnunen at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture?

1. Experienced Practitioner
Dr. Krystal Kinnunen at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture is a highly trained acupuncturist specializing in general health for men and prostate care. With a deep understanding of both traditional techniques and modern evidence-based practices, Dr. Kinnunen provides personalized and effective treatments for her patients.

2. Holistic Health Community
Vail Valley, CO is known for its vibrant holistic health community. By choosing acupuncture at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, you become part of a network of like-minded individuals who prioritize a natural, whole-body approach to health.

3. Peaceful Environment
The serene and scenic surroundings of Vail Valley, CO area provide a perfect backdrop for healing. The peaceful atmosphere at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture can enhance the therapeutic effects of acupuncture, contributing to overall well-being. We are a small, local owned business and pride ourselves on providing a relaxing environment.

Conclusion

Acupuncture offers a promising complementary approach to maintaining prostate health and managing related conditions. If you're in Vail Valley, CO, or the wider WNC area, consider incorporating acupuncture into your health regimen to benefit from its holistic healing properties. For more information and to schedule an appointment with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen, visit Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture today. You can schedule an appointment here.

Celebrating World Breastfeeding Week: How Acupuncture Boosts Breast Milk Production

Happy World Breastfeeding Week from Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture!

World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) is a time to celebrate and support breastfeeding mothers all around the globe.

At Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, located in Vail Valley, CO we believe in providing holistic support to new mothers to enhance their breastfeeding journey. One powerful yet often overlooked solution is acupuncture.

Boosting Breast Milk Production with Acupuncture

For many new mothers, struggling with low breast milk supply can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that acupuncture offers a natural and effective method to stimulate milk production. By targeting specific acupuncture points, practitioners can promote the flow of vital energy or "Qi" through the body's meridians, which can lead to an increase in prolactin production—the hormone directly responsible for milk supply.

Key Acupuncture Points for Breast Milk Production:

1. Stomach 36 (ST36): This point, located on the lower leg, is known for boosting energy and enhancing digestive function, indirectly supporting milk production.

2. Ren 17 (CV17): Located on the chest, this point is directly related to breast health and lactation.

3. Liver 3 (LV3): Found on the foot, this point helps regulate the liver and flow of Qi, crucial for hormone balance.

Beyond Milk Production: Holistic Benefits for Postpartum Mothers

Acupuncture doesn't just stop at enhancing breast milk production. It also offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve the postpartum experience.

• Reducing Postpartum Stress

The postpartum period can be an emotionally taxing time. Acupuncture helps by stimulating the body's parasympathetic nervous system, resulting in a calming effect that reduces cortisol levels. This helps new mothers manage stress more effectively and supports mental well-being.

• Alleviating Pain

Postpartum pain, including back pain, pelvic pain, and other discomforts, can be effectively addressed through acupuncture. By releasing endorphins and enhancing blood circulation, acupuncture provides natural pain relief without the need for medications.

• Balancing Hormones

Hormonal imbalances postpartum can lead to conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety. Acupuncture helps in balancing estrogen and progesterone levels, ensuring a smoother transition for new mothers.

Scholarly Research

According to a 2017 study:
“Acupuncture restores normal breast milk production to lactating mothers with low milk secretion levels. Research conducted at the Hanzhong Shanxi Hospital demonstrates that the application of a specific set of acupuncture points significantly boosts lactation quantities. In a controlled investigation of 116 women with deficient secretion of milk (hypogalactia, hypogalactorrhea), acupuncture successfully increased breast milk secretion from an average of 49.63 ml to 115.21 ml. In addition, lactating mothers receiving acupuncture had a concomitant improvement in prolactin (a hormone that stimulates milk production) levels.”

Check It Out Here!

Why Choose Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture?

At Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, we provide personalized care designed to meet the unique needs of each mother.

Our acupuncturist, Dr. Krystal, specializes in Women’s Health and is passionate about providing high quality care. She is known for providing outstanding services for Fertility, Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Perimenopause/Menopause.

Beyond her vast knowledge of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for pregnancy and postpartum care, Dr. Krystal is also a Trained Midwife’s Assistant. She studied with world-renowned midwife Ina May Gaskin at The Farm in Summertown, TN. Dr. Krystal understands the complexities of the postpartum period and is committed to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being so that you can thrive.

Benefits of Choosing Us:

• Expertise in Maternal Health: Specialized knowledge in acupuncture techniques tailored for breastfeeding and postpartum care.

• Holistic Approach: Comprehensive care plans that address physical, emotional, and hormonal needs.

• Convenient Location: Situated in the serene and accessible area of Edwards/Vail Valley, CO.

• Supportive Environment: A nurturing and empathetic setting that prioritizes your comfort and relaxation.

Conclusion

This World Breastfeeding Week, celebrate the incredible journey of motherhood by exploring the benefits of acupuncture. Whether you're struggling with milk production or seeking relief from postpartum issues, Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture is here to support you. Experience the transformative power of acupuncture and take a step towards enhanced well-being for both you and your baby.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, visit us at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture in Vail Valley, CO.

Avoiding Annoying Summer Colds: Tips from Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture

Have you been soaking up the summer sun? Summertime is filled with adventure, fun, and lots of outdoor activities. However, nothing can put a damper on your summer plans quite like a cold.

Surprisingly, summer colds are just as common as those in the winter months, but can feel even more annoying when you'd rather be outside enjoying the weather.

At Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, we believe in holistic health and are here to help you stay healthy all year round. Here are some essential tips to avoid those pesky summer colds.

1. Boost Your Immune System

This seems obvious, but the key here is preventative care! A strong immune system is your best defense against summer colds. Upkeeping healthy habits and routines can make a lasting impact.

Here are some healthy habits that keep your immune system happy and strong:

• Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods

Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet, focusing on those rich in vitamins C and E, such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens. These nutrients support immune function and help ward off colds. We have talked about eating seasonally before and highly recommend visiting a farmer’s market to get fresh, local, in-season produce.

• Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining good health, especially in the summer heat. Proper hydration helps your body function optimally and supports your immune system. I highly recommend adding electrolytes into your water, Ultima is a brand I use often.

• Get Enough Sleep

Let’s face it - we cannot function properly without good sleep! Quality sleep is essential for immune health and gives our body the down time it needs to reset. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to give your body the rest it needs to stay strong.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Good hygiene practices are important year-round but especially during summer months when you're often around more people.

• Wash Your Hands Regularly

Frequent hand washing with soap and water helps prevent the spread of germs. Be especially mindful after being in public places or touching shared surfaces.

• Avoid Touching Your Face

Germs can enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth. Avoid touching your face to reduce the risk of infection.

3. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Going from the hot outdoors to an air-conditioned indoor space can stress your immune system.

• Moderate Air Conditioning Use

Keep air conditioning at a moderate temperature to avoid the shock of a drastic temperature change when coming in from outside. You can also create a gradual change in temperature by turning off the AC for a bit before going outside and running a fan before turning the AC back on right away.

#4. Incorporate Acupuncture into Your Routine

You knew this was coming, right? The power of acupuncture is amazing at maintaining overall health and preventing illnesses like summer colds. Acupuncture can help:

• Strengthen Immune Function

Acupuncture helps boost your immune system by promoting circulation and balancing energy (Qi) in your body. Regular sessions can help you stay healthy and resilient against infections.

• Reduce Stress

Stress weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to colds. Acupuncture is an effective way to manage stress, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.

• Improve Sleep Quality

By targeting specific points, acupuncture can enhance the quality of your sleep, ensuring your body gets the rest it needs to maintain a strong immune system.

5. Stay Active and Enjoy What Vail Valley Has To Offer

Vail Valley, CO offers a wealth of outdoor activities that can keep you healthy and fit. From amazing hikes to our excellent greenways, this city is perfect for hiking, biking, running, and exploring.

• Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity boosts your immune system and improves your overall health. Hiking, biking, and yoga are great ways to stay active in Vail Valley's beautiful surroundings. Its an area full of fun fitness classes and experiences - try dance fitness, pilates, barre, crossfit, rock climbing, or boxing classes!

• Get Fresh Air

Spending time outdoors in nature can increase your overall well-being. Sunshine and fresh air do wonders for our health! Take advantage of Vail Valley's parks and trails to bask in nature’s medicine.

Are you ready to feel your best in the summer?

Avoiding summer colds involves a combination of healthy habits, good hygiene, and mindful practices. At Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, we're here to support you with holistic approaches like acupuncture that enhance your immune system and overall health.

Don't let a summer cold ruin your plans—embrace these tips and enjoy a healthy, vibrant summer in Vail Valley, CO.

Contact Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture by texting/calling 828-301-7166 today to schedule your session and keep your health on track this summer! See you soon!

Debunking Myths About Acupuncture: Separating Fact from Fiction

Have you ever heard people talking about acupuncture and say it is all a placebo or fake? Maybe you have heard people calling it “woo-woo”. The truth is, acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine. TCM has been used for thousands of years to treat a multitude of symptoms and issues. Even though this ancient practice is rising in popularity and acceptance in the Western medical world, there are still many myths and misconceptions floating around.

In this blog, we'll separate fact from fiction and provide a clearer understanding of what acupuncture is and how it works.

Myth 1: Acupuncture is Painful

Fact: One of the most common myths about acupuncture is that it is painful. People hear “needle” and immediately think of getting a shot or getting blood drawn. However, acupuncture needles are extremely thin, much thinner than the needles used for injections or blood draws. The majority of our patients at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture report little to no pain during the insertion of the needles. Usually, patients will experience a tingling sensation, warmth in the area, or a feeling of relaxation. If there is discomfort, it usually subsides quickly. Our acupuncturist, Dr. Krystal, has been described as very gentle and compassionate. The experience should be very relaxing…. many people fall asleep :)

Myth 2: Acupuncture is Just a PlacebO and Not evidence based

Fact: While the placebo effect can play a role in any treatment, multiple scientific studies have shown that acupuncture has measurable effects beyond placebo. Research indicates that acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, influence the autonomic nervous system, and affect various biochemical processes in the body. It has been proven effective in treating conditions like chronic pain, migraines, infertility, osteoarthritis, among many others. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognize acupuncture as a legitimate treatment for several health issues. Check out Evidence Based Acupuncture to read the extensive research.

Myth 3: Acupuncture is Only for Pain Management

Fact: Although acupuncture is widely known for its effectiveness in pain management, its applications extend far beyond. It works by promoting balance within the body's systems, which can help improve overall health and well-being. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including: immune system issues, digestive issues, mood issues and addiction, sleep disorders and fatigue, circulation issues, neurological issues, fertility, menopause and pregnancy support. You can explore what acupuncture can support on our pages: Acupuncture for General Health, Acupuncture for Women’s Health, Acupuncture for Pregnancy, Acupuncture for Fertility, and Acupuncture for Pain Management.

Myth 4: Acupuncture is Only Effective If You Believe in It

Fact: While a positive mindset can enhance any therapeutic experience, acupuncture's effectiveness does not rely solely on belief. Clinical trials and research have shown that acupuncture can provide relief even for skeptics. Its benefits have been observed in diverse populations, regardless of individual belief systems.

Myth 5: Acupuncture is Dangerous

Fact: It is extremely important for acupuncture to be performed by a trained and licensed professional. When acupuncture is performed by someone with this expertise, it is very safe! The needles used are sterile, single-use, and disposable, reducing the risk of infection. Side effects are rare and typically minor, such as slight bruising or soreness at the needle site.

Myth 6: Acupuncture is Incompatible with Western Medicine

Fact: Acupuncture is an excellent complement to Western medical treatments! The term “it takes a village” applies to our health as well. Rather than replacing Western Medicine entirely, we work to compliment the health and wellness support you are already receiving. Many healthcare providers now integrate acupuncture into their practice to provide a more holistic approach to patient care. It is often used alongside other treatments to enhance overall effectiveness and promote faster recovery.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a time-honored practice with a wealth of benefits that extend beyond pain relief.

We hope that by debunking these common myths, we can inspire more people to try acupuncture and experience the amazing benefits. You will leave feeling like a renewed version of yourself!

If you're considering acupuncture, reach out to Dr. Krystal by texting/calling us at 828-301-7166 or by emailing us at krystal@krystalkinnunen.com to discuss treatment options and determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Unlocking Wellness: How Acupuncture Helps with Adrenal Fatigue in Vail Valley, CO

Adrenal fatigue is a common yet often overlooked condition that affects many individuals in Vail Valley, CO and beyond. It results from prolonged stress leading to the adrenal glands' diminished ability to function properly, causing symptoms like chronic tiredness, body aches, and even mood swings.

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese medical practice, offers a promising solution to this modern issue. Let’s explore how acupuncture can help alleviate adrenal fatigue and why you should consider booking your session with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture.

What Is Adrenal Fatigue?

Before diving into acupuncture’s benefits, it’s essential to understand adrenal fatigue. The adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, are responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol that help regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress. When these glands are overworked, they can't produce enough of these hormones, leading to a myriad of symptoms, including:

• Persistent fatigue

• Brain fog

• Difficulty getting out of bed

• Cravings for salty or sweet snacks

• Increased effort to complete everyday tasks

• Weakened immune system

How Acupuncture Can Help with Adrenal Fatigue

Acupuncture is a holistic therapy that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. Here's how it can particularly help with adrenal fatigue:

1. Restores Hormonal Balance

Acupuncture aids in stimulating the body’s energy flow or "Qi" and restoring hormonal balance. By targeting specific acupoints related to the adrenal glands, it helps regulate cortisol levels and other crucial hormones, thereby reducing symptoms of adrenal fatigue.

2. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

One of the primary causes of adrenal fatigue is chronic stress. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels by triggering the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators.

3. Enhances Energy Levels

Regular acupuncture sessions can help restore your energy levels by improving blood circulation and the overall function of the body’s organs. This holistic approach ensures that you not only recover from adrenal fatigue but also maintain higher energy levels in the long run.

4. Supports Immune Function

Acupuncture strengthens the immune system, which is often compromised in those suffering from adrenal fatigue. It helps the body fight off illnesses more efficiently, giving the adrenal glands a chance to recover.

5. Promotes Better Sleep

Good quality sleep is essential for adrenal recovery. Acupuncture has been shown to improve sleep patterns by balancing the body’s internal clock and calming the mind.

Why Choose Acupuncture with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen in Vail Valley?

Vail Valley, CO, is home to a variety of health practitioners, but when it comes to treating adrenal fatigue, Dr. Krystal Kinnunen in Vail Valley, CO offers unparalleled expertise and personalized care. With years of experience and a deep understanding of holistic healing, Dr. Kinnunen specializes in helping patients recover from adrenal fatigue through tailored acupuncture sessions.

Booking Your Session in Vail Valley,CO

Taking the first step towards relieving adrenal fatigue is easier than you think. At Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, we offer convenient booking options to fit your schedule. You can book your session online or call/text our office directly to speak with our friendly staff.

Conclusion

Adrenal fatigue can be debilitating, but with the right approach, recovery is entirely possible. Acupuncture offers a natural, effective solution that addresses not just the symptoms but the root cause of adrenal fatigue. If you are in Vail Valley, CO, exploring acupuncture with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen could be the first step toward reclaiming your energy and well-being.

Ready to experience the benefits of acupuncture? Book a session with Dr. Krystal Kinnunen in Vail Valley today and begin your journey to better health!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our contact page for more info.

Learn More About Our Services Here…

Acupuncture for General Health

Acupuncture for Women’s Health

Acupuncture for Fertility

Acupuncture for Pregnancy

Acupuncture for Pain Management

Beating the Summer Heat with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Summer is a season of warmth, vibrancy, and abundant energy. However, it can also bring about discomfort due to the intense heat and humidity. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers time-honored wisdom and practices to help us stay cool, balanced, and healthy during the hottest months of the year. Let’s explore how TCM can help us beat the summer heat and maintain our well-being.

Understanding Summer in TCM

In TCM, summer is associated with the Fire element, which governs the heart and small intestine. The season is characterized by Yang energy, which is expansive, active, and hot. While this energy aligns with the growth and activity seen in nature, it can also lead to heat-related imbalances in the body if not managed properly.

Symptoms of summer heat imbalance might include:

• Excessive sweating

• Fatigue and lethargy

• Dehydration

• Heatstroke

• Digestive issues

• Irritability and restlessness

To counter these effects, TCM emphasizes cooling practices, foods, and herbal remedies that harmonize the body’s internal environment with the external heat.

Dietary Tips for Staying Cool

Diet plays a crucial role in TCM for maintaining balance during summer. Here are some dietary recommendations:

1. Hydrating Foods:

   • Watermelon: Known as a natural coolant, watermelon hydrates and cools the body.

   • Cucumber: High in water content, cucumbers are great for reducing internal heat.

   • Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, and bok choy help clear heat and nourish the body.

   • Mint: Adding fresh mint to drinks or dishes can provide a refreshing cooling effect.

2. Cooling Beverages:

   • Herbal Teas: Chrysanthemum tea and peppermint tea are excellent for cooling down the body.

   • Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants and slightly cooling, green tea can be a good summer choice.

   • Barley Water: A traditional drink in TCM, barley water helps to clear heat and support digestion.

3. Avoid Overheating Foods:

   • Reduce intake of spicy, fried, and greasy foods, as they can increase internal heat.

   • Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate the body and exacerbate heat symptoms.

Herbal Remedies for Summer Heat

TCM utilizes a variety of herbs to mitigate the effects of summer heat. Some commonly used herbs include:

• Honeysuckle (Jin Yin Hua): This herb is known for its cooling properties and is often used to clear heat and relieve thirst.

• Lotus Leaf (He Ye): Used to treat summer heat and dampness, lotus leaf is beneficial for reducing internal heat and aiding digestion.

• Mung Beans (Lu Dou): Often used in soups and drinks, mung beans are excellent for clearing heat and detoxifying the body.

Acupressure Points for Cooling Down

Acupressure can be a practical tool to help regulate body temperature and relieve heat-induced discomfort. Here are a few points to focus on:

• Neiguan (PC6): Located three finger-widths above the wrist on the inner forearm, this point can help calm the mind and relieve nausea associated with heat.

• Hegu (LI4): Found between the thumb and index finger, applying pressure here can help clear heat and alleviate headaches.

• Quchi (LI11): Located at the outer end of the elbow crease, stimulating this point helps to clear heat and reduce fever.

Lifestyle Practices

In addition to diet and herbal remedies, certain lifestyle practices can enhance your ability to stay cool:

• Wear Loose, Light Clothing: Natural fabrics like cotton and linen allow your skin to breathe and help regulate body temperature.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.

• Avoid the Midday Sun: Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense.

• Practice Tai Chi or Qi Gong: These gentle exercises promote the flow of Qi (energy) and help maintain balance in the body.

Conclusion

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to managing the challenges of summer heat. By incorporating cooling foods, herbal remedies, acupressure, and mindful lifestyle practices, you can stay cool, balanced, and healthy all season long. Embrace the wisdom of TCM and enjoy the vibrancy of summer without the discomfort of excessive heat.

Remember, it's always best to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner before starting any new herbal or dietary regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions. Stay cool and enjoy the summer!

When Women Come to Pray

Photo By Krystal Kinnunen

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has." 

-Margaret Mead

Many years ago, in my photojournalism days, I was inspired to collect stories of people worldwide doing uplifting, inspiring things- the change makers. I wanted to call it A Culture of Peace—a compilation to be a bridge between people, a reminder of all the fantastic things happening in the world. It would also show all the ways that we are similar, as we are bombarded with negative media regularly that continues to separate and divide humanity. 

Gather with me now and listen with your heart. 

Today, I am finally beginning my passion project, which starts with something happening in my backyard. 

There is a sweet group that I want to share with you called…

When Women Come To Pray. 

(Not a religion, and everyone is welcome who identifies as a woman)

Let me share the back story of how it all started.

This all began three and half years ago when our dear sister (friend) Melanie passed away from Breast Cancer in December 2020. You see, I live where conscious community is the mainstream. Asheville is a role model for how to offer support for birth and death. When I gave birth to my second child here, I was in awe of how women circled me. That’s for another story. All I will say is thank you, you know who you are. In fact, many of the same women I’m about to mention below were also there for me pre and post-pregnancy. Hmm, what a gift to know such thoughtful and kind humans.

Let’s talk about death. I invite you to close your eyes, place your hand on your heart, and take three slow, deep breaths in and out of your heart. 

Melanie (Mela) was a courageous woman on her healing journey regarding her breast health. She was very private and wouldn’t call it cancer. She was determined to heal it in her unique alternative way. This was her business, her choice. Some were afraid and didn’t agree, but in the end, she lived five years, about the same amount of time someone using traditional Western medicine typically lived with the same type of aggressive cancer. As hard as it is to swallow, sometimes dying is the healing that our soul needs. It is part of the mystery we all face. 

Her death was healing for our community, and birthed a new project. 

Several women, myself included, gathered on the phone to make a plan to support her at the end of her life. Groups went down to Texas, where she resided with family members to help out. It is such a deep and beautiful story; it is not all mine to share. In short, friends gathered around her to hold a sacred ceremony led by our dear sister Cat so that she could face her fears, heal, and hopefully gain clarity. In this ceremony, she finally accepted that she was dying. Several others and I created altars in our home to support Mela from a distance. A few weeks later, my dear sisters Luna and Ellen went down to be at her side and were present as she took her last breath. 

The most beautiful thing happened: They organized all of Mela’s friends and family far and wide to show up on Zoom to sing to her and pray with her. 

This was a part of her final wishes... 

Luna and Ellen anointed Mela with roses and oils and surrounded her with love and song, a testimony to the love she gave all of us during her time on earth. 

After she passed, a group of amazing people, inspired by Jackie, gathered nightly for 40 days to pray for her soul’s journey. Jackie was one of Mela’s best friends. She and others devotedly showed up nightly for 40 days to pray for Mela and read prayers from the Tibetan Book of the Dead. 

This was the initiation of When Women Come to Pray.

Luna, who I lovingly call Sparkie, saw the power in our gathering and continued it. Luna has an inner compass for igniting sparks of life into existence to make our world a better place. 

Below are some images I took from a day retreat held at the Center for Conscious Living and Dying, which gives you a sense of the essence and power of When Women Come To Pray. It is important to thank Aditi, the founder of CCLD, immensely for also guiding us when we knew Mela needed our support. 

Wow! 

What a legacy Melanie left. Her death catalyzed all of this. As I write this, I remember Mela calling her business Creation Catalyst as she wanted to be an activator in people’s lives. She clearly accomplished this and continues to do so.

Mela had a beautiful singing voice and often sang in Kirtans. It was her dream to make a CD. Luna and her family, with donations, made her dream of publishing an Album come true. You can hear Mela’s angelic voice on Spotify.

And now, three and half years later, Women Who Come To Pray are a strong force, thriving, growing, and evolving. Mela’s catalyzed legacy lives on. Thank you, Sparkie and Ellen, for making this dream a reality and allowing Mela to catalyze positive change. 

If you want to be a part of WWCTP….

“This is a circle of presence, trust and support to empower women, to uplift our spirits, and to feel the ancient ways of harmony. We gather two times weekly to read prayers and blessings from all traditions, hold each other in all cycles of life and offer prayers to the world. This is a simple, accessible and underground way to rebuild the paradigm of our world. When Women Come to Pray is all-inclusive, non-denominational and anyone who identifies as woman or girl is welcome.”
- Luna & Ellen

They meet on Zoom weekly ~
Sundays, 8:30-9:00 pm & Tuesdays, 8:30-9:00 pm

You must register ahead of time, to ensure the group remains private and intimate. You will receive an email with a unique link that you will use to get on the group each week.

For more information, click HERE 

The also hold annual retreats, the next When Women Come to Pray Women's Retreat is August 2-5th, 2024 in Black Mountain at the Wheel of Bliss Retreat Center. You don’t want to miss this beautiful retreat! Click here for more details.