Tips For Fall

Autumn is in full swing! Hurricane Irene shuffled off the remnants of summer and hurried away the last stretch of late summer in September. But with that comes some beautiful times to still be outdoors. If you continue to be active outside, you may notice an increase in seasonal allergies this year.

In August, ragweed in particular started in full force. And with the hurricane rain and wind, along with a rainy stretch in early September, it has been growing, well, like a weed! The body’s reaction to this plant may seem like a slight cold or even flu but could actually be an allergic reaction. When faced with an allergen or pathogen that our body wants to rid, it goes into a histamine response, fighting to push it out. And with the falling leaves, mold can also trigger a similar physical response. For such allergic reactions, that can mean itchy eyes, sneezing, post-nasal drip, scratchy throat and breathing difficulties. Even slight nausea can occur as a result of post-nasal drip, which goes to the stomach, being added like corrosion to the delicate balance of digestion.

So how can you keep enjoying the outdoors with less of these symptoms? Sinus rinses are a good way to keep things washed clean after you have been outdoors. Several products are available but I use Neilmed Sinus Wash with its easy-to-use bottle. And an herbal supplement called Stinging Nettle is another tool to use. It acts as a natural anti-histamine in the body and also has anti-inflammatory properties for the respiratory system. So it can help open sinus passages and also alleviate some asthma symptoms. (Please consult your health care professional before taking any herbal supplements.)

At home, this time of year means that many people enjoy opening their windows as the cooler, drier air has arrived. But dawn and dusk are the most prevalent times for pollens to travel, so closing your windows for a bit around sunset till dark and then in the early morning may help. Keep this in mind with your riding as well, for those who ride early morning or later in the day close to dusk.
Science is reporting the potential for a longer “fall allergy” season this year. Being aware of your own body’s response to what’s blooming now can help you enjoy the crisp autumn days ahead.

A Thought About Flu Prevention

Early Autumn greetings.

As the last of Late Summer fades and we begin to welcome Autumn, it is time to think about flu prevention.  While acupuncture helps build the immune system, many people also turn to flu shots for additional protection.  I recommend people do their own research on flu shots, understand the pros and cons and then discuss their particular health situation with their health care provider before taking the shot.

An alternative to the flu shot is a homeopathic product called Triple Flu Defense (TFD).  Developed and reformulated each year by Dr. Steven Nenninger, a Naturopathic Doctor in Port Jefferson, TFD is used for flu prevention but also to fight off a cold or flu once infected.  And it can be taken as added support by anyone who has had a flu shot.  For more information on how it was developed and its effectiveness, please go to www.triplefludefense.com.

You can find the 2011 formula of TFD in many health food stores, but I will also have it available in my office.  One bottle, which will support you through the eight month flu season, is $25 ($5 off the retail price, as a courtesy to you).

Please let me know if you would like me to put a bottle aside for you here.

More news coming soon on Autumn’s seasonal gifts, as well as upcoming workshops!

Karen~

Five Element Acupuncture - Metal

Karen Giles utilizes the Five Element style of acupuncture which is based on the laws of nature. Diagnosis and treatments are derived from the movement in nature’s cycles and seasons, which correlate with the flow of meridians and points in the body. 

The elements are recognized as Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Each element has its strength in a season of nature and is represented in the body by specific organ systems and functions, as well as a person’s vocal sound, facial color, emotion and scent. Just as all the seasons make up the whole of nature, all the elements make up the whole individual.

Metal corresponds to fall and it represents the ability to keep what is of value and let go of what is no longer needed. The Metal element influences one’s values, rhythms and inspirations.

Healthy Metal energy allows for good self-worth, breathing, bowel functions, ability to grieve appropriately and let go of “stuff” in life and body. Out of balance, Metal can present as ENT issues, skin conditions, bowel issues, breathing difficulties, lack of respect for self or others, excessive grief.

For more information, please contact Karen Giles.