Red Cricket Acupuncture

February Kombucha Class!

2012-02-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

I hope you all had a great transition into the Chinese new year! If your body needs a little extra support or you are looking to improve your diet, our kombucha class may be for you!

One of the most effective ways to strengthen your immune system is by having a healthy gut. Kombucha and other fermented foods play an essential part in establishing and maintaining a healthy colony of the friendly bacteria we all need.

I am offering a class on how to make your own health giving kombucha on Friday, February 10th from 6-8 pm for only $10! It will be a lot of fun, and one lucky student will go home with her/his very only scoby!

If you are interested, please contact me at the clinic at 612-824-0037 or send an email to redcricketjoi@rocketmail.com. It will be a very small class, so contact me soon to reserve your space!

Peace and Blessings,

Joi

Beat colds and flu with Kimchi soup!

2012-01-18T10:15:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

Well, it is finally getting cold here in Minnesota and with the cold I am seeing an uptick in colds and flus. My children brought me a doozy this weekend, and as I was whipping out my herbs and trying to remind myself to rest, (doctors make the worst patients) I remembered one of my favorite soups which helps the body to resist a cold or flu.

Most of you know that I am a big fan of both fermented foods and soups and this one is a little of both. It is called Kimchi jigae and it is a delicious korean soup that I was taught to make by my brother Aairam who had the great fortune to live in Seoul for a little over a year. When the avian flu was plaguing Asia I remember reading an article that stated that Korea had experienced no deaths. Some attributed it to the kimchi in their diet - it's fermented, and has loads of both garlic and chili. Yum!

I'll do my best with this recipe, but keep in mind that I learned this dish by taste, so all of the measurements are approximations. Alter this as you see fit.

Kimchi Jigae

1lb pork (chops etc) sliced thinly
1 bunch finely sliced green onions
4-8 cloves minced garlic
5 T sesame oil
salt/pepper
16 oz kimchi (separate cabbage from juice. SAVE JUICE!!!)
1 medium Mu peeled and cubed (Korean radish) see photo below
4-8 c water
2 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
2 tsp miso or dengjang (Korean fermented bean paste)
2 tsp (Korean) soy sauce
8 - 16 oz firm tofu
cooked rice
3 sheets Korean roasted seaweed cut into strips

1. Slice your pork and add to garlic, sesame oil, green onions, salt and pepper. Let sit for a bit. Saute pork mixture in soup pot.
2. When finished, transfer out and saute kimchi until translucent.
3. Add pork mixture to kimchi as well as cubed mu, water, gochujang, dengjang, soy sauce and half of kimchi juice.
4. Let cook for 45 mis to hour until mu is translucent. Check the taste. Add more sesame oil if you desire a richer, fuller flavor, more kimchi juice for spice, and soy to even the two flavors out. Add tofu 10 mins before serving.
5. Serve with a few tablespoons to 1/2 cup rice, topped with the roasted seaweed (laver).

Here's a link to a recipe most like mine. http://norecipes.com/blog/2009/11/18/kimchi-jigae-recipe-kimchi-soup/

I learned to cook from my family members, so I do my best finding a recipe I like and then monkeying around in the kitchen until I perfect my own version of the recipe. So, if you are catching a cold, I would suggest you run over to one of our fantastic Korean restaurants and ordering a nice bowl of kimchi jigae to go! Then you will know the taste to aim for!

If you live in the St. Paul/Minneapolis area, I would suggest you head over to Kim's Market on Snelling for your ingredients. It's a great shop, and they always have the best kimchi in the metro area.

Bon appetit!

Joi

January Healthy Eating Workshop!

2012-01-03T13:42:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a fantastic holiday season! Guess what? It's that time of year to uphold your new year's resolution and usher in the new year with a new you! Yay!

We all know that January is the month to clear out all of the excess from the past months. Start anew this year with healthier eating habits. Learn valuable skills on how to improve your diet and how a healthier diet can produce a happier, more balanced you!

Whether you are looking to finally kick those naughty eating habits, to balance your diet for optimal health, or to improve your intake to aid weight loss, this class could be the help you have been waiting for!

I am offering this healthy eating workshop on Friday, January 13th from 6-8 pm. The workshop will be held here at the Red Cricket clinic, directions can be found on our website www.redcricket.com.

If you are interested, please contact me at the clinic at 612-824-0037. The class will only cost $10, and it will be a very small class, so contact me soon to reserve your space!

Peace and Blessings,

Joi

Winter Newsletter 2011

2011-12-16T14:34:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

Great news! Our Winter newsletter "Your Whole Life" is done and available for your reading pleasure. Get tips on how to fight colds and strengthen your immune system. Learn about CranioSacral Therapy done by our very own Erica Geier. Plus get a yummy recipe for homemade chicken soup!

The newsletter is available on our website, www.redcricket.com, under "Your Whole Life."

Or click on the link below to see the newsletter in a PDF version:
Winter Newsletter - PDF

Health and Blessings,

Joi

Walnuts for fertility!

2011-11-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

Hello again!

One of my favorite foods for boosting fertility and strengthening the body are walnuts. In Chinese medicine, walnuts are one of the best foods for profoundly strengthening the body at its core. If you're trying to get pregnant, walnuts are very nourishing food capable of building your body so it will be ready for the demands of growing a baby. Plus, they also really taste good!

Have you ever noticed that walnuts look like tiny brains? They do! Chinese medicine teaches us that walnuts are chock full of good things to make us smart. So, grab a handful of walnuts next time you sit down to do your crossword!

Here is one of my favorite recipes for candied walnuts - I never measure anything, so you may have to tinker with the measurements a bit...

Candied walnuts (yum, yum, yum!)

1 c walnuts
3-4 Tbsp peanut oil
1-2 tsp soy sauce
1/4-1/3 c maple syrup
1/8-1/4 tsp spice (cayenne, cinnamon, nutmeg, whatever you'd like)

1) Heat walnuts and oil on medium hight heat in a saucepan or skillet until browned.
2) Add maple syrup, soy sauce and spice (if desired) to coat walnuts and heat until boiling. (usually this will happen very quickly)
3) Stir maple syrup until you notice fine threads forming when you lift your spoon from the syrup.
4) Let it cool in the pan.
5) Remove from pan when cool. Store in an airtight container.

You can eat these walnuts as a snack or add to salads (my favorite). Here's my favorite salad..

Beet & Goat Cheese salad

Mesclun greens
Cooked beets, sliced (I like to boil up a bunch on the weekends, peel after they've cooked and keep them on hand to use throughout the week)
Thinly sliced red onion
Candied walnuts (yum!)
Goat cheese (Cypress Groves makes a lavender infused cheese called 'Purple Haze' which is spectacular in this salad!!!)
Simple balsamic vinaigrette (balsamic vinegar and olive oil will do)

You can determine the proportions yourself. This salad is so delicious, and very, very good for you. Still one of my favorite treats!

Enjoy!

Upcoming Kombucha class!

2011-10-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

I hope you all had a lovely summer! Now that it's fall and school has started it's cold season again! Ugh.

One of the most effective ways to strengthen your immune system is by having a healthy gut. Kombucha and other fermented foods play an essential part in establishing and maintaining a healthy colony of the friendly bacteria we all need.

I am offering a class on how to make your own health giving kombucha on Friday, November 4 from 6-8 pm for only $10! It will be a lot of fun, and one lucky student will go home with her/his very only scoby!

If you are interested, please contact me at the clinic at 612-824-0037. It will be a very small class, so contact me soon to reserve your space!

Peace and Blessings,

Joi

Acupuncture and Herbs can help relieve your allergies!

2011-05-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

I hope that you are doing well, and enjoying our spring, now that it is finally here!

After the tough winter that we had, it is such a relief to be able to be outside and enjoy all that the outdoors have to offer. If you have spring or any type of seasonal allergies that may get in the way. Don't let that happen!

I have found acupuncture and chinese herbs to be very effective at treating seasonal allergies. These treatments can not only help to relieve the symptoms you're suffering with, but they can also help strengthen the body so that your allergies can decrease and hopefully disappear altogether!

Here's a great article I found on the subject. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,263787,00.html

Have a lovely day, and get outside, the lilacs are waiting!!!

Yours in health,

Joi

Menopause - It's not the end, it's the beginning!

2010-12-15T11:08:00.000-08:00

Most movies portray a woman who is going through menopause as someone who is crabby or irrational, hot and sweaty, even red faced. Most people think that that is what menopause is like. But that doesn’t have to be the case. Chinese medicine has helped women navigate perimenopause naturally for thousands of years, and it can help you too!

Sooner or later all women will face menopause if they are lucky to live long enough. For many women, this is a time that is looked upon with dread and fear. When most people think of menopause, they think of hot flashes, night sweats, moodiness, headaches, insomnia and weight gain... the list goes on and on. It’s no wonder that it is not a time that most women look forward to!

One of the strengths of Chinese medicine is that it treats every woman as an individual. Every woman knows that although there may be a room full of women who are going through menopause, every woman will be experiencing menopause differently. One will have more hot flashes, where one will have difficulty thinking clearly, another depression, and another insomnia. Chinese medicine finds that each of these symptoms is a clue that the body is exhibiting to show where it is weak, and needs help. One who is trained in Chinese medicine can use those clues to help each woman find the path to wellness. One each symptom is corrected, she can navigate menopause easily.

Each practitioner of Chinese medicine has many tools to help women find relief. Chinese herbal therapy can be incredibly effective at nourishing and balancing the body as well. Herbs are a very important part of treatment of perimenopausal symptoms. Acupuncture is something that can help give the body instructions on how to heal itself and restore balance. Many people are surprised to learn that acupuncture is a relatively painless, and actually quite relaxing experience. Most people usually fall asleep, or they feel as if they have been in a deep meditative state. Most patients who are receiving treatment look forward to the tranquility and the peace that they find during their treatment.

During menopause and perimenopause each woman’s body is saying that the time for growing and enriching others is coming to an end, which is in no means an end to the woman’s fertility. For many women, the time after menopause is a very special time of life. Many women report feeling a freedom they never had before, less of a need to heed society’s view of who/what they should be and do and more of a connection with their heart. Chinese medicine has a very beautiful way of looking at this time. They teach that the heart which is freed from its’ duty of creating of menstrual blood, is suddenly able to use that blood to enrich itself. The heart is fuller, and richer which results in wisdom.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal therapy are a safe, gentle treatment that have been used for thousands of years and has helped millions of people. If you have tried other treatments and have not found the results you're looking for, I encourage you to take action and give acupuncture a try!

Stress is not good for stem cells, but they love meditation!

2010-10-07T14:44:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

I listened to the most amazing show on NPR the other day. Krista Tippet interviewed the researcher Doris Taylor is the director of the University of Minnesota department of the Center for Cardiovascular Repair... Doris is doing amazing things in the lab, and maybe you have heard of her. She is the woman who was able to rebuild a cadaver heart with the help of stem cells and eventually got it to beat!

Here's what she and her team does in a nutshell...they take the cadaver heart or organ and wash it with a simple soap solution. This soap will wash away the original muscle cells while leaving the framework of the heart behind. She says it looks and feels like jello. Stem cells are added to this framework and a new beating heart is, well, born.

One thing that Doris is understandably enthusiastic about is stem cells. There seem to be a lot of misinformation about them. for one thing, stem cells are in humans at all ages, not just fetuses. These stem cells vary in number, decreasing as we age, but they play a vital role in repairing the body as we age or are injured.

One thing that she found is that stress can decrease stem cell numbers and effectiveness. Probably no big surprise. But she also found that meditation can increase stem cell numbers! Although it hasn't been proven, I would bet my hat that acupuncture will increase stem cell numbers and effectiveness as well.

Stress not only damages the body, but it also effects it's ability to repair itself. A one-two punch. She mentioned our presidents as an example. The stress that they have been under is so easily apparent when you see the photos of presidents from the beginning of their terms compared to those of the end.

Very interesting.

Here's a video of Krista Tippet holding a heart; http://being.publicradio.org/programs/2010/stem-cells/video_pigsheart.shtml

Here's a link to the interview, if you're interested; http://being.publicradio.org/programs/2010/stem-cells/

Stress decreases pregnancy rates and acupuncture can help!

2010-10-01T09:30:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!

We have had a very exciting month at the clinic, with 4 of our patients becoming pregnant! It is easily one of the most exciting aspects of my job. One thing that I love the most about my work is that Chinese medicine helps the body to heal itself, so it can not only help the woman become pregnant, but it can also help her have a healthier pregnancy! How great is that?

I recently read a great article about the negative effect of stress on fertility. I know from personal experience that it can be frustrating to be told to, "just relax and you will get pregnant"....especially when you have been trying for a while, but science is beginning to find that the link between high stress and decreased fertility to be real.

The great news is that there are many, many resources out there that can help. Anything from meditation, to yoga (make sure your teacher knows that you're trying to get pregnant), tai chi, qigong, to just spending time with friends and loved ones who make you smile. Whatever makes you laugh, and lightens your load! Oh, and don't forget acupuncture!

These are great skills for a lifetime of health! (Stress isn't only detrimental to pregnancy rates!) As a parent of a two year old, I can say that deep breathing really comes in handy!

Blessings and health!

Joi

P.S. Here a a few studies that you might find interesting.

Reduction in stress and depression can improve conception rates
Rodriguez et al.,1983
Women with unexplained infertility who went through an 8-week program of relaxation training, cognitive restructuring, and self-instructional management were significantly more likely to conceive than a control group who receive no training. Within the 2-month study period, 4 out of 7 experimental subjects conceived, whereas none of the 7 control subjects conceived.

http://www.mindbodywellnessla.com/pdfs/relax_fertility.pdf

Increase your fertility with acupuncture!

2010-10-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

I have had an absolutely wonderful week at the clinic, and I hope that you have too!

We found out this past week that 2 of our patients are pregnant! One of the women was told by her Doctor that she would need western medical intervention, but her body was able to do just fine. It just needed a little help from the needles and herbs to fix itself.

I cherish the opportunity to work with women in their attempt to become mothers. Although I know that parenting isn't for everyone, it has been such an rich experience for me, that I love to help other women begin this journey.

One of the toughest lessons that parenting has taught me is that we are not in control. For many couples, their experience with the difficulty getting pregnant is their first real experience with that fact. Let's face it though, once you get pregnant, this message will continue....and amplify! We have no control over a whole host of things from it's eye color, height, gender, and disposition to it's more importantly it's health. We can't control the birthday, or once it's born...WHEN IT WILL JUST GO TO SLEEP... Our lessons just continue to flow like a river...

I have seen again and again that the time before a pregnancy can be a very fertile time for women and couples. It can be a sacred time, if they let it. In many cases, their bodies are saying that it needs some TLC, and let me tell you, this may be the last time for them to really be able to focus on themself for some time. Instead of being a difficult time, that might make one give their bodies to someone else to fix out of fear, it can be a very "fertile" time where she can increase or create a strong connection with herself through mind quieting activities like meditation, yoga and journalling. Believe me, this will come in handy as a mother!

It is an exceptional opportunity to really work on her health - physical, spiritual and emotional. I have seen Chinese Medicine do wonders in this area!

Let's face it, just as chinese medicine focuses on the whole you, I am focused not just on helping you to get pregnant, but helping you to create a life that is more rich and nourishing. I want to help support you in Motherhood. That can start before pregnancy, just as it will continue all your life after the birth of your child.

Blessings and health!

Joi

Arthritis - Arthur the dance partner

2010-09-24T09:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

I wanted to put the spotlight on one my amazing patients who inspires not only me, but many....

Kim was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis 15 years ago, and has used her experience with RA to lead her to a fuller, richer, more spiritual place. Sometimes sitting patiently with one's body when it hurts and really listening to what it is saying can be difficult. Following through can be even more challenging. I am constantly astounded by regular women and men who do quiet but extraordinary things just like her. It reminds me/us of our ability for greatnessShe is an amazing woman, indeed.

Here are her words about how she 'dances' with RA....

"I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis 15 years ago. As a young 29 year old athletic women, wife and mother it was hard to get my arms around the reality that this intruder was mine for life. Soon, it became clear that life was too short and my family too important not to embrace this change. It was time to view the arthritis as a dance partner rather than an intruder. So it was then Arthur and I hit the dance floor and developed a graceful partnership. This was all possible because of the help of a wonderful doctor and the courage to look at alternative options. There are more than 46 million Americans with doctor diagnosed arthritis. This is 1 in 5 people who live everyday with one or more of the 100+ forms. Athritis is called the everyones disease because it affects people of all ages, even children. Currently there is no cure. This year I am the Official Walk Honoree. I am very proud and grateful for the opportunity of this gift to represent the people in the Twin Cities with Arthritis. Together we can bring valuable awareness to this growing disease. This year Team Arthur has a large donation goal!! The walk is September 25th. Please join me either by offering a financial donation and/or become a member of my team. I am very grateful for any help you can offer!!! Thank you so very much! Hugs, Kim"

If you would like to make a pledge, please go to this link; thank you! http://blba.us/i.asp?id=312304-291966713-1.

Stay warm this weekend!

Blessings and good health!

Joi

School is in session...watch out for the flu!

2010-09-15T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Well, my boys just started school 2 weeks ago, and I am sad to report that we have officially had our first bug invade our home! Ugh! I have noticed a bit of an uptick in colds among my patients, so I thought I'd pass on a few helpful methods to avoid or minimize any flu bugs in your home....

First of all, never underestimate the power of soup! (Especially chicken soup!) I know it's and old wives' tale...but maybe they were on to something! Soup is so important when you're starting to battle a cold because it's very easy nutrition for your body to absorb at a time when it needs to put all of it's energy and attention towards getting rid of those pesky viral invaders. Soup is so easy to make, too! Just buy a whole chicken, and put it in the water(wash it, and clean out the giblets etc) with some garlic, scallions, vegetables, even ginger (if your tummy is bothering you, or you feel very chilled more than feverish). Give it a few hours, and voila...you've just given those flu bugs their first eviction notice!

Please don't forget to rest, rest, rest! The reason that people get fatigued when we are fighting a cold is because out body is devoting it's focus on making us healthy again. If we're too active, it can lengthen the time it takes to heal. Take a break!

Finally, don't forget to take your herbs and drink your K-tea. Kombucha has antibacterial properties, and it can really help. I have avoided a cold just by increasing my kombucha intake alone. We also have a fantastic formula called Yin Qiao San which has been helping probably millions of people avoid a cold for over 200 years! This formula is only to be used when the cold is starting to hit, chills/fever, sore throat, fever etc. If you do develop symptoms, and you would like some help don't hesitate to contact me at the clinic. I have many herbs at the clinic which have amazing anti-bacterial and anti-viral qualities. I'll get you up and going in no time.

Have a great day! Stay well!

Joi

Meditation works!

2010-09-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

So, I think I need to come clean here and say that I have never been much of a meditator. If you have met me, you will know that I have avery active mind, and everything else. I enjoy going a million miles a minute, and although I know that quiet time is necessary, I usually would find that quiet place through exercise.

I have seen the need for quiet reflected through the frantic pulses of many of my stressed out patients, as well as my own. After thinking about the advantages of meditation in regard to my patients, it made me consider giving the 21 day meditation challenge a try myself. (see my earlier blog for details) It has been more than 21 days, and I can now say with confidence that I am now a real, live, regularly practicing meditator! Hooray!

I have noticed so many positive changes, with very little effort on my part. (and so has my family!) Probably the most important change is that I find that I am so much calmer and at peace. I find that my active mind, which is so helpful with my work figuring out patterns of disease, is frequently unhelpful in life. I would often have this mindset that if I only thought about anything long enough a solution would arise, which in most cases is not true. Sometimes it is about surrendering to life, and trusting that it will all work out. (as my Mom used to always tell me....and which by the way has always been the case.) The constant thinking/worrying did nothing but deplete my body and make me feel powerless and fearful among other things.

I have always strived to be the person that believed that I was taken care of, who knew that I was a cared for and cherished part of the universe, but it's one thing to feel that and another to take the leap and just relax. Meditation has helped me to calm down enough to move towards that.

It's a really great place to be.

So, really, think about meditation. For me it's only been 15-20 minutes a day. It hasn't been difficult to incorporate into my day, but I'll tell you what, both my family and I am glad that I do!

Blessings and peace

Joi

PS. 21 day meditation challenge has ended, but if you would like to try it out I have a great link for you. Just email or call me and I can help get you going!

Yummy kombucha!

2010-08-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

As I've stated before, your digestion is the key to achieving and maintaining good health, and today I thought I would add a few more words about those friendly bacteria and what you can do to keep your digestive system in tip top shape.

Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, the author of the book, Gut and Psychology Syndrome, theorizes that there is a link between the health of our digestive system and our brain chemistry. She states that the surface area of our small intestines are about the size of a tennis court. Friendly bacteria help our bodies to absorb the nutrients from the food we eat, as well as keep the numbers of unhealthy bacteria, yeast and other pathogens under control.

Dr. Campbell-McBride laments the fact that our diet is virtually free of fermented foods. In many cultures especially in the past fermented foods were a very important part of the diet. She encourages people to find some way to turn that around.

In my family, kombucha has been a important way for us to achieve and maintain our health. Since we started brewing and drinking kombucha regularly we have had less colds/flu and digestive problems. We've seen dramatic changes with one of my sons especially. He was a very fussy eater, and was very thin. He would catch any cold that came along and had a very difficult time fighting them as well. Once his gut began to get healthy, his appetite increased, and so did his health (as well as his energy level).

Here is a great website with a lot more information about kombucha and it's benefits; http://www.getkombucha.com/koorandbe.html

If kombucha isn't your cup of tea, how about sauerkraut (make sure it's not pasteurized)or other fermented vegetables, kefir (cow/goat milk or coconut milk), good quality yogurt. Try to add a small serving of fermented foods to your diet every day, and see how your health will improve.

Meditation support

2010-08-10T10:55:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

One of the things that most amazed me as I moved from studying Chinese medicine, to actually working with patients in a clinic setting was how essential emotional and spiritual heath is to maintaining physical health. Our lives are so busy now a days running from here to there, with so many things vying for our time.

We really need quiet.

Our bodies, minds and spirits need that time to recharge. It's so easy to get burned out, or worse!

Meditation or some type mind quieting activity is an essential part of health maintenance, it will keep you happy and healthy, and there's nothing better than that. It has even been shown to create changes in the brain to help you to become less affected by stress and more compassionate! (check out this article...http://www.yogajournal.com/health/2601)

If you'd like give meditation a try, check this out... There is a free 21 day meditation challenge, and you can sign up for it here.

http://www.chopra.com/meditationchallenge

They will give you support in daily guided meditations and other support and advice to help you make meditation a part of your life. Did I mention that it's free?

If you're interested, check it out. You have nothing to lose! And if this doesn't work for you, don't give up! There are so many different ways out there to support you in quieting down your mind. It could be tai chi, qigong, yoga or just a quiet walk by the lake. You deserve quiet, and all of the good things that it will bring to your life!

Peace, to one and all on this lovely day!

Joi

Bacteria is good...REALLY!!!

2010-08-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody!

This month I'm planning on posting a number of blogs to help you have the healthiest tummy on the block! It may seem crazy, but the healthier your digestive system is, the healthier you will be! (read...'no, and I mean absolutely no colds or flu this year!!!')

Many people have heard that there are 'friendly bacteria' in our bodies, that help our digestive system to work at it peak. It seems like suddenly everyone is talking about probiotics, which is great. Personally, I think that just 10 years ago I would've been really queasy thinking about adding morebacteria to my body, but now it's a daily event!

Check this article out...

http://news.sciencemag.org/sciencenow/2010/08/western-diet-tied-to-intestinal-.html

As you can see, keeping your digestion in good shape is not only good for preventing colds, as well as a host of other illnesses it's an essential part of health maintenance.

Next week I'll discuss easy and yummy ways to bring friendly bacteria into your life. It will be fun...really!

How to beat a cold before it strikes!

2010-08-03T15:12:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone!

It's August and in Minnesota this is a very hot and sticky time of year! I remember hearing people call this 'the dog days of summer" and I always wondered why. I always thought that maybe after three months of summer the heat and humidity would begin to drive all of the poor four legged furry friends to their limits! Hopefully you are enjoying the weather, and not wilting...

In China this time of year was referred to as late summer and it was associated with the high humidity that we experience as well. August is also associated with our digestive health. In traditional chinese medicine, the digestive system is seen as the most vital part of the body. If you are eating and processing your food properly, you will be well nourished and full of energy and qi which will make you strong and less affected by illness.

Summer was seen as a great time to strengthen the body and prepare for the winter ahead. The warm weather and sun offer us the opportunity to spend time outdoors as it grows and ripens all of the delicious food which will jointly help strengthen you to be ready for all of the naughty bugs that winter might throw your way.

Chinese medicine is all about balance, and part of that is living in harmony with the seasons. So sit back and enjoy the sun and all the local produce you see - like yummy tomatoes,cucumbers, wild blueberries, raspberries or sweet corn, and know that you are helping your body to beat the flu before it comes a knockin' this winter!

Happy eating!

Joi

Make that smoking habit a thing of the past!

2010-01-09T08:02:00.001-08:00

Are you ready to quit smoking? Let us help you naturally and effectively!

How does acupuncture and herbs help?

The first thing to understand is that when you smoke, the body releases endorphins giving that rush of relief and relaxation. Smokers tend to have higher levels of endorphins so upon quitting, levels drop drastically. This leads to those withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety or depression. Acupuncture works with your body to maintain the release of endorphins so symptoms of quitting are greatly reduced. Acupuncture also reduces cravings, changes the taste of cigarettes and addresses secondary symptoms such as mood changes, digestive changes, appetite increase and low energy. Herbal formulas also work in conjunction with acupuncture to help relieve withdrawal symptoms to make quitting easier.

What are the benefits of using acupuncture to quit smoking?

In addition to helping you quit, you will begin to feel other changes such as increased energy, improved sleep, increased immunity, better digestion, mental clarity and even skin clarity. Because acupuncture addresses the entire body, you will not only kick the habit, you will actually be improving your overall health and well being!

If you're ready to quit, we can help! Ask us about our “Quit Smoking” package and make that habit a thing of the past!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2009-12-30T11:20:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!

Its almost 2010! I can't believe how fast this year went by!

I'm like most people looking to start their new year with goals toward personal growth. I'm excited to make changes to my life that will positively better me. I am even more excited that we are here to help and support you with your own personal goals. Ask us about our new packages designed specifically for you. Let this year be your best!

Happy New Year!

Christine

Winter blues / SAD

2009-11-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

Hello!

So after enjoying this beautiful morning, warm and bright outside, I get a call from my mom who happens to live on the west coast. One of her favorite topics to bring up is the weather. Whether its for sake of conversation, or whether she likes to rub it in, without fail she reminds me that she is in a state where over Thanksgiving, she will be enjoying an 80 degree holiday. Ugh! Thanks mom. Although I can't complain about the weather we have been getting, I would prefer 80 degree days.

I grew up on the west coast. I remember when I would watch movies or shows where snow fell, I seriously thought it was fake. I never grew up with it, I never really thought that winters were six months long and I really thought that SAD (seasonal affective disorder) was fake. (Sorry!) My reality was palm trees, beaches and shorts during the holidays. But after 3 years of living here in Minnesota, I realized that every winter I would feel out of sorts. I would go home for the holidays, feel fantastic and energized, and then I'd make it back to Minnesota for the coldest months that winter could bring. With that came my own experiences with SAD. My reality had changed and the novelty winters wore off. I hated being cold and would never partake in winter activities and in fact avoided going outside as much as possible. To me, -20 degree days were unnatural! Well, being cooped up all day, it was only predictable what would happened next. Winter blues.

Winter blues or SAD, can deeply impact the quality of life for people that may experience it. No one likes to feel out of sorts and may not even notice it until they are already down. Its important for people to recognize what might be going on so that effectively reducing symptoms is possible. When I understood what was going on, I became a lot more proactive about not getting in that slump.

If you or someone you know is experiencing winter blues, here are a few things to try or suggest: get as much sunshine as you can! I know we've all heard that vitamin D can help, but its true. Soak up as much light as you can. Open your curtains and sit by the window for a few minutes and soak up the sun. Better yet, get out! I know its freezing and the last thing that might sound fun is to get out of the house, but try and get out for at least a little while. A great tip that I've read and tried is to read a book or watch a movie where the story takes place in sunny warm environment. I really do think that this works. Lastly exercise! Even if its gentle and you have to do it at home, exercise. Exercising will get your blood and qi moving. Stagnant qi can either be a result of, or contribute to depression. Exercising will invigorate you thus lifting your mood. Plus – do you ever regret the way you feel after you work out?

Sometimes being motivated to do these things is easier said than done, especially when you're not feeling your best, and sometimes doing these things just isn't enough. Acupuncture and herbs can help in so many ways. It will balance your body as a whole, so you actually feel good emotionally and physically. Chinese medicine moves qi and blood which helps increase energy, regulate emotions, as well as lift the mood. Plus it has no side effects which everyone can feel better about.

I've lived in Minnesota for almost nine years and have understood a long time ago what was to come with every winter. I'm so happy that I was able to recognize what was going on but its still hard to adjust every year. Personally, I have had great success with Chinese medicine. When winter rolls around I have my routine treatments. This keeps me healthy and happy and feeling great. Now when the topic of weather comes up, I can take it easier and appreciate that what I have to look forward to after winter is beautiful and warm. That makes me happy!

Christine

We want you to feel your best!

2009-11-16T14:32:00.001-08:00

Hello!

As more and more people are getting sick, I'm realizing that few people understand just how effective Chinese herbs and acupuncture are. Every time I offer to help someone I know, I usually get the same response, “Its just a cold, I'll get some stuff from the drugstore”. After everything they've tried still leaves them feeling under the weather (and groggy!), they break down and try Chinese medicine. Wouldn't you know, they end up kicking the bug and feeling better in no time!

Chinese medicine really focuses on individual diagnosis. So, even if ten people all had colds, they all may experience different things. They each could get different herbal formulas to specifically address and treat their symptoms. This is a big difference with treating a cold or flu with over the counter medicine where its kind of like a “one size fits all” type treatment. Sure these meds may alleviate some symptoms, but for how long? This is a temporary fix. How good do they really make us feel? How often do we also experience secondary symptoms like very low energy or as we talked about earlier, sinus infections? Chinese herbs and acupuncture focus on the root of the problem specific to each person, treat the symptoms and boosts the immune system. The results are quick and complete recovery.

Even if its “just a cold”, Chinese herbs and acupuncture can really help you feel better quick.
We want you to feel your best!

Health & happiness,

Christine

Keep colds at bay with these recipes!

2009-11-13T09:04:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone!

We've been having a lovely week up here in Minnesota, which has almost made me forget that it is November and winter is on it's way! Gulp...

Continuing our recent cold/flu theme, I thought I would add a few recipes to help keep you and your loved ones healthy. I love the idea of using food as medicine...very few side effects, and it tastes a lot better! Enjoy everyone!

Ginger and Scallion Soup
A good Sweat inducing recipe for when you feel a cold developing...

2 cups water
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, sliced
2 tablespoons white head of the scallion, sliced

In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the ginger and scallion and simmer over a low flame for 15 minutes, or until the ginger is soft and its smell has spread throughout your kitchen.

Drink hot before bedtime. Keep yourself wrapped up (sweater, scarf), stay away from the cold, and especially cold drafts.

Ginger and Pear Soup

This soup will help you sweat out the pathogens that can make you sick.

2 cups water
1 pear
1 tablespoon sliced fresh ginger
1 tablespoon sliced scallion, white heads only
2 eggs, beaten

Bring water to boil in a small saucepan. Cut the pear in half; do not peel it. Add the pear, ginger, and scallion to the water. Return to a boil, cover the pan, and reduce the flame to low. Simmer for 20 minutes.

In the meantime, thoroughly beat the eggs ina glass or ceramic bowl. When the broth is ready - you will know it when the aroma of the ginger spreads through your kitchen - pour the decoction into the bowl containing the two beaten eggs. Mix and drink the decoction while it is still ho, then get under a heavy quilt or thick blanket for a good sweat.

Take this remedy once a day for three or four days, or until the cold goes away.

Peppermint and Scallion broth

Peppermint rises to the head and has a cooling, pungent effect. It is therefore a good relief for colds accompanies by headaches.

20-30 fresh peppermint leaves, or 2 heaped teaspoons dried peppermint
2 or 3 crushed white heads of scallion
2 cups of water

Place all ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the flame. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until half of the water has evaporated. Drink hot or warm.

- All of the recipes are from The Healing Cuisine of China, by Zhuo Zhao and George Ellis

Open House

2009-11-12T12:50:00.000-08:00

Greetings!

I was sitting here looking out the window and couldn't stop thinking about our open house. We are a great clinic that has so much to offer and the idea of sharing our passion with you is exciting! I can't wait.

If you get a chance, you should stop on in! Its November 18th, 2009 from 4pm to 7pm. We will have coupons and other offers as well as a good time and a fabulous cake!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Health & happiness,
Christine

Sinus infections

2009-11-09T14:18:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!

Hopefully you all had a nice weekend. It was beautiful out! A 63 degree day with lots of sunshine in the beginning of November. I'll take it! I had a great weekend, but unfortunately, at least four people I know were in bed this weekend due to nasty sinus infections. I know from personal experience that sinus infections are downright miserable.

It is important right now to keep our bodies healthy. With the changes in weather and it being cold and flu season, the most important thing we can do is prevention. Sinus infections can be attributed to different things, but they are often secondary to a cold or flu. Talk about dragging out misery! Wash your hands, stay covered during cold and wet weather, get your rest and avoid other sick people.

A few good things to know should you come down with a sinus infection, listen to your body. If it is telling you rest, rest! You need your strength to recover faster. To alleviate pain, you can try putting a warm cloth over your face, especially over the forehead and across the cheeks. A gentle massage to your face above and around your eyebrows, down the sides of your nose and gently over the cheeks can help the movement of mucous blocked in the sinus cavities. Eat your chicken noodle soup! It will help strengthen your immune system, but it is also very easy to digest. This is important because you want your body to focus on getting better. The least your energy is expended to do other things, the better. Avoid greasy, oily or fried food. If you have any essential oils at home, a nice steamy shower with a few drops of eucalyptus, rosemary, lavender, peppermint, or tea tree oil can be used. They can open the nasal passages and alleviate pain. A recipe my grandma always used and swore by is apple cider vinegar and water. Put 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in 8 oz of warm water and drink. You can do this before bed and when you wake up.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is very effective at treating and preventing sinus infections. Maybe the idea of getting poked in the face while it is throbbing doesn't sound fun, but the results are very relieving. Herbal formulas can be used to prevent and help sinus infections. They are natural antibiotics and antivirals as well as pain relievers and astringents.

Its easy to put out of your mind the misery of a sinus infection until your head is throbbing and you can't breathe. I can't stress it enough, prevention is key to staying happy and healthy. Having a health maintenance or preventative regime will greatly benefit anyone that is prone to getting sick or suffering from chronic sinus infections or just anyone wanting to feel their best.

Health & Happiness!

Christine

H1N1 part 2

2009-10-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

One of the most mind blowing things that I learned in school was that just because someone is showing symptoms of catching a cold/flu it doesn't mean that it is a done deal. I was once one of those people that would catch everything that went around. As soon as I the symptoms would start, and you know what I'm talking about....achy muscles, sore throat, fever/chills, headache....I would start feeling sorry for myself because I knew the next few days were not going to be good.

In class I learned that the start of a cold was the perfect time to do some self care, and if I caught it early enough, I could either prevent the cold entirely or decrease it's severity. Both options are great, because no one likes being sick! Here are some of the important things that I learned that have really contributed to my increased resistance to colds and flus.

Keep in mind that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is all about getting out of the way and letting your body do its' work. Once the symptoms start, one thing that is really effective is to get your body to sweat. You can drink some hot tea, or eat a hot bowl of chicken soup (we believe it will help supply your body with the energy to fight the infection) while covered in a blanket, or take a hot shower. (Remember all the movies from the 40's when someone got sick they would often drape a blanket over their head and steam themselves?) After you get a good sweat going, climb in bed and take a nice long nap, and take it easy for the rest of the day, even if you feel better after you wake up.

One of the essential things is to listen to your body when you begin to get symptoms, and rest.... really rest, so that your body can devote all of it's focus and strength upon ridding itself of the bug that's bothering it. It can be so difficult nowadays to just take it easy, but this part is essential.

The other big thing is that we have herbal formulas that are very effective, and acupuncture can really help as well. Remember that it can really help the earlier you get a treatment. Don't forget Chinese medicine when you are ailing, we have very effective treatments for the infinite spectrum of symptoms you may suffer from, and we have been treating cold and flu symptoms successfully for thousands of years!

I know this may sound simple, but sometimes just these steps are enough to keep the cold at bay and help you have a lovely fall, winter and spring.

Welcome Christine Hester, L.Ac., Dipl.O.M.!!!

2009-10-20T11:48:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

We have fantastic news! We are very happy to let you know that Red Cricket has had a new practitioner join our family!

Her name is Christine Hester, and she will be working Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 am to 7 pm, and every other Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm.

Christine is a fantastically skilled and caring practitioner with a passion for Chinese medicine, health and wellness that has made a profound impact on her many clients. We feel very lucky, and blessed to have her here!

Welcome Christine!

Thoughts about H1N1, and other nasty bugs... part 1

2009-10-20T11:36:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone!

As you all know, flu season has arrived a little early... Over the past three weeks we have seen a huge increase in patients with cold/flu symptoms. Suddenly virtually everyone has the sniffles...or worse! Chinese medicine has helped people cope with the flu for thousands of years, and we can be a great resource for everything from helping you get over a cold/flu to helping to strengthen your immunity so you won't get sick at all!

When I was a little girl, my mother would tell me to put on my hat, gloves and not to forget my scarf. It used to drive me nuts! I was famous for 'forgetting' my winter gear...and, of course, karma has done it's thing, and my sons do the same thing every winter....over, and over and over! Although I'm tempted to give up and let them run buck naked in the snow...we learned in acupuncture school that it's really important to dress for the weather.

Think about it, if it's cold out, your body has to use it's resources to keep you warm, which leaves less energy for fighting nasty H1N1 bugs when they your way. The back of your neck is an especially sensitive area, often that is one of the first places that gets stiff when a cold/flu begins, so it's really important to protect that area with a scarf. So, don't forget your scarf, people!!! Who cares about hat-head anyway, right?

Christine and I have lots more information to share about this subject, so check back early next week, for more simple things you can do to keep you and your family healthy and happy this winter. (and some yummy recipes) Keep in mind that acupuncture and herbs can be an important part of your anti-flu plan...but we'll talk more about that, too.

Have a lovely day!

Joi

Cancer support

2009-09-10T12:25:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

As I wrote earlier, I have been coming across a lot of information about cancer recently and it has got me thinking...

I recently became familiar with a fantastic organization called yoga bear. (www.yogabear.com) They provide free yoga for men and women who are coping with cancer. If you are interested, please go to their website and look into it. I believe you have to be at least 18 years old, and you need to finished with active treatment. (radiation and chemotherapy, I assume) If you know anyone that might be interested, please pass this on to him or her! It seems like a fantastic way to continue the healing process.

I also would stress that acupuncture, herbs and qigong can really help, as well. All of these methods can help cope with the side effects of treatment, from nausea, to depression/grief, to immune system suppression.

If you ever have any questions about how traditional chinese medicine can help you or a loved one cope, don't hesitate to give me a call, or email. There is so much help out there, we don't have to go it alone unless we really, really want to!

Have a lovely day!

Peace and love,

Joi

"You can never re-create the past. But you can shape your own future. And you can make a cake." - Jacqueline Deval

2009-09-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's so funny to me how things just come your way. Lately I've been coming across a lot of information about cancer both how it's transformed lives in surprisingly ways and how to get support as well.

I was reading a book that I found at a little thrift store called, Women to Women; a New Plan for Success and Well-Being. It is an inspiring book that has interviews with women who are successful in various fields and provides insights about how they came to stand out and different things they do to maintain their physical, spiritual and emotional health. Right up my alley!

One of the women interviewed is named Sylivia Weinstock. She is a world renown baker whose cakes are eaten by the who's who of the world...and featured in Martha Stewart's Brides magazine etc... Her cakes are beautiful and yummy...and anyone who knows me know how I feel about cakes! You need to see this woman. She is the cutest little thing with these lovely black glasses that makes her look wise, strong, and frisky simultaneously.

This is what she had to say about how cancer changed her life

"It was while I was undergoing chemotherapy that I started my bakery business. My husband Ben, was distressed at the idea of me traveling back and forth from the city for treatment. So he decided to give up his law practice and just like that we sold everything and moved to New York. He became my driving force, as well as my delivery boy. Baking had always been such a passion of mine. It was so enveloping that I had no time to be tired or feel ill. It was a fantastic way to focus my energy on life instead of cancer."

She was a teacher, and her husband was a lawyer, suddenly a tumor appears and she is transformed into a baker and her husband into a delivery man. How beautiful.

Maybe you're wondering why I'm writing about this. Maybe you will never have cancer or some life threatening diagnosis. Chances are, however, that you will at some point experience an event that may shatter your life as you know it. Although it has been said often enough to sound cliche, the beauty of those times is that when your life is in pieces it can be the just the right time to choose which shards to save and which to let go. A time which will thereafter remind you and those around you of grace instead of misery.

And like Sylvia, you can find support in a friend, partner, nature, books or cake... (and I have to add acupuncture, of course!!!)

Peace, love and cake!

Joi

Welcome!

2009-09-02T02:37:00.001-07:00

Thank you for taking the time to check out our blog!

This is my first time trying something like this, and I have to admit that I am a little nervous! I wish there were some type of training wheels or something...but here goes...

I thought it might be helpful to talk a bit about what I would like to provide in our upcoming blogs... Probably the most important thing will be information that you can use to improve the quality of your health. One of the many things that I love about my job is that Traditional Chinese Medicine can be used to heal your physical body, improve your emotional health, and your spirit. My goal is to pass along ideas that you can use as soon as you step away from your computer, to start to live a healthier, happier, more vibrant life....physically, emotionally and spiritually speaking! I'll also pass on upcoming events and changes both at the clinic and in our community.

If you have any questions, or comments please send them my way! I'm assuming this blog will take on it's own life as we all move along, and I'm excited to see what's in store!

Have a lovely day!

Peace and love,

Joi Thomas, L.Ac