natural awakenings magazine articles of 2019

"The Power of Patience" April/2019

Having patience provides the ability to cope and endure with an occurrence that would otherwise lead to anger, annoyance or upset. Working toward developing this ability is a process that yields great healing and power. It provides a method for keeping the peace through steadfast boundary setting within oneself and with others. The cultivation of patience has been an integral aspect of the Chinese exercise art of tai chi for 3,000 years. Its martial arts beginning trained individuals to be patient and wait for the exact time to react to an opponent in a centered and calm manner.

"Cultivating the Power of Joy" March/2019

A cornerstone of Chinese medicine treatment encompasses methods directed toward creating heart health to increase one’s emotional, spiritual and physical wellness. It further serves as a preventative measure for establishing a long and healthy life, where treatment protocol includes caring for the whole body. Traditional methods include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, therapeutic massage, food therapy, lifestyle recommendations and the exercise practices of tai chi and qigong.

"Manifestation Through Mind Intent" February/2019

Chinese medicine texts are filled with metaphors and images that enrich understanding of a variety of energetic components. As such, mind intent practice is based on the principle: “Where the mind goes, the qi will follow.” Directing qi (vital energy or life force) is the primary goal of mind intent practice, which maximizes the body’s natural self-healing power.

Mind intent emerges from a sea of energy known as the upper dantian – more commonly known as “the third eye” and located on the forehead between the eyebrows. Intuitive and psychic ability flourishes, along with ability to stay present in the moment when this area is filled with strong shen substance. Accordingly, one of the first requirements for engaging mind intent is to be centered and integrated within oneself. And the first sign of a strong mind is the feeling of inner calm.

"Acupuncture Resolution for the New Year" January/2019

While acupuncture is best known for treating pain, it is so much more. According to its roots in China more than 2,000 years ago, acupuncture has been used to balance the emotions, strengthen digestion, resolve respiratory conditions, boost immunity, decrease inflammation and maintain vibrant health. Its results are garnered through opening the flow of vital energy (qi / pronounced “chee”) throughout meridian pathways of the body. It is based on the belief that the body holds an innate capability to heal itself. When the body’s energetics are prodded by the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points along these meridians – profound physical healing takes place. The National Institutes of Health (a major component of the US Department of Health and Human Services) has endorsed acupuncture not only for acute and chronic pain, arthritis and back pain but for post-stroke symptoms as well.