Let Acupuncture Help Releive Your Holiday Stress

Holidays can be such a stressful time. There are many tasks to add to our already busy days.  The days themselves are short and the temperature is cold. This can lead to feeling stress and tension throughout your mind and body.

Acupuncture can be used to help reduce the stress and tension. This ancient system of healing relies on the movement of energy in nature and the body. This vital energy (called chi) flows through the body in a network of pathways that function like a system of rivers. When healthy, all runs smoothly and the rivers run clear. When there is a blockage, illness arises and presents as physical and/or emotional symptoms. By using acupuncture needles to stimulate specific points on the necessary pathways, health and harmony are restored. 

Keeping your body healthy will help maximize the healing effects of acupuncture.  Drink plenty of water, get enough rest, and exercise.  On the day of your acupuncture treatment, eat moderately, avoid caffeine, alcohol, and unusually strenuous activity. 

The holidays are meant to be enjoyed.  Focus on the positive.  Take care of yourself and remember to smile. Karen Giles Acupuncture wishes you happy and healthy holidays!

Use the Winter Months to Replenish and Strengthen Your Phsyical Reserves

The winter solstice will be here shortly.  The solstice marks the official beginning of winter.  Some view this to mean that the days will now begin to get longer as they anticipate the end of winter.  But don't miss the value of intentionally using this season to better your health.

Winter has a powerful impact on life.  Things literally shut down around us.  We are forced to spend more time indoors, regardless of outdoor activities such as skiing, skating, or snowshoeing.

By using the extra time indoors for rest and more sleep, you can help replenish and strengthen your physical reserves.  Sleep is a critical part of staying healthy.  Adequate sleep can affect your memory, cardiovascular health, immune system, emotional well-being, and weight.  And not surprisingly, getting good sleep impacts the level of performance in whatever you do.

Sleeping more is a natural thing to do at this time.  Use the shorter days as "permission" to nap, go to bed earlier than usual, and perhaps sleep in later.  Getting an appropriate balance of rest right now can support your overall health.

Karen Giles Acupuncture