Psychology and Chinese Medicine

May 20, 2013 by /

Chinese medicine is a system of healing that often takes the patient on a journey of self-discovery.  The physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of each individual are examined together in this natural approach to medicine.  After 20 years of practicing acupuncture, I have witnessed many instances where illness or physical pain resolve when a patient’s emotional issues are simultaneously addressed with the use of acupuncture and Chinese herbs.

Years ago as a student at Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I first saw this connection when I treated a fifty year-old female patient whose main complaint was acute shoulder pain.  I questioned her about the nature of her pain; sharp or dull, constant or intermittent, etc.  As I was new to clinic I neglected to ask any questions of a more personal nature.  As I placed the fine needles along the appropriate acupuncture meridians…she immediately burst into tears!  I asked her why she was crying and she responded that her needles were comfortable, but she had no idea where her feelings of sadness had come from.  My clinic supervisor, Dr Hao, guided me in asking my patient additional questions.  We discovered that her son had left for college a couple of months prior and she was missing him very much.  He was understandably excited to be in his new environment and had neglected to stay in touch with his mother, a single parent.  Her shoulder pain had begun within a couple of weeks of his moving to a different state.  I proceeded to add points to effectively treat grief, “letting go”, and relationship boundaries, in addition to the needles I had already inserted earlier for pain.

The following week my patient returned pain-free and smiling!  I asked her about her son and she responded that she had called him following her treatment and asked that he consider being in closer communication with her.  He had readily agreed and they had arranged to talk a couple of times a week, and for him to return home for Thanksgiving.  This experience early in my acupuncture career was the first of many situations where I clearly saw how our emotions and physical well-being can be intricately connected.

The theory behind Chinese Medicine is based on the energetic interaction between the Five Elements of nature; Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth.  When the flow of Qi (or energy) between these aspects of nature is balanced and flowing with ease, the body is healthy and a person’s energy is sufficient.   Unfortunately factors including, illness, injury, fatigue, poor diet, stress, exposure to toxins, or emotional duress can easily create an imbalance in the smooth flow of Qi.  The Five Elements effectively illustrate the connection between our emotions and our physical well-being.

The Metal Element, which corresponds to the Lung, is related to the emotions of sadness and grief.  Patients experiencing emotions from a death, divorce, or other loss often present with a persistent cough or phlegm that feels stuck in their throat.  The Water Element corresponds to the Kidney and is characterized by fear.  Patients experiencing deeply-rooted fear may also have low back pain, urinary issues, or joint pain.  The Wood Element corresponds to the Liver; anger, irritability, and frustration are the associated emotions.  Physical conditions resulting from chronic stress are numerous and include migraines, hormonal imbalances, infertility, and high blood pressure.  The final two elements are Fire and Earth, which respectively correspond to the emotions of anxiety and worry.  Patients with insomnia frequently describe anxiety as their main emotion, while individuals who are constantly over-thinking issues may find themselves facing conditions including food allergies, hemorrhoids, hernia, irritable bowel syndrome, gluten-intolerance, and indigestion.

Filed Under: Chinese Medicine, Psychology  / Tagged: ,

The First Line Of Defense – Easing Flu Fears With Chinese Medicine

May 20, 2013 by /

Thirteen years ago, almost to the day, I opened the door to A Balanced Crane Acupuncture Clinic here in Breckenridge.  My primarily commitment then, as it remains today, was to educate my community about natural health care, what it can treat and how it can be used for preventative health care.  In other words, how you can not only maintain good health, but how to be motivated, creative, and enthusiastic along life’s journey!  So to diverge from the current symptoms of conditions such as seasonal allergies, I would like to reassure my patients and community in light of the recent swine flu scare.  I would like to inform the members of my community that there are very effective ways to be proactive about preventing and treating the flu.   I wish to provide knowledge and some peace of mind.

Prevention should be the first line of defense.  Strengthening one’s immune system, not only by including healthy foods in one’s diet and avoiding processed foods and sugar,  but by taking nutritional supplements under the direction of a qualified practicioner (not off the internet!), should be the initial protocol.   Boasting one’s immunity is not a last minute effort, ideally it should be something that people strive towards in their daily routine.   Keeping your body free of toxins and maintaining a healthy colon is important in creating an environment that can defend itself from disease.  If one’s defense systems are not strong enough to fight off an illness such as the flu, then natural treatments are safe, effective, and available.   Symptoms of illness are a message that one’s body is out of balance.   Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are highly effective in restoring balance and resolving symptoms including high fever, cough, chills, body aches, nasal congestion, headache, and sore throat.   Homeopathic remedies are also safe and useful methods with which to address the flu.

Most people are familiar with using the western herbs echinacea and goldenseal, for prevention and treatment of illness.  But it is important to know that there are many other, and much stronger and more effective Chinese herbal prescriptions available to address the flu.  Everyone knows to take their vitamin C, but what type of vitamin C and in combination with which other supplements are important questions to ask your health care practicioner.  What is the role of probiotics, such as acidopholis, in strengthening one’s immune system?  Again, it is important to consult with a qualified practicioner to get the best and safest natural treatments available for both prevention and treatment of acute illness.   Utilize your natural health care resources!  Ask questions, get answers and peace of mind!

Filed Under: Chinese Medicine, Influenza  / Tagged: ,

Healing Digestive Disorders Using Chinese Medicine

May 20, 2013 by /

In Chinese Medicine the earth element is the system primarily responsible for healthy digestion.  The earth reflects the stability of the ground and nourishment imparted from its soil.  It provides structure and security.   The “Qi” or energy from the food we eat is essential to our bodies functioning at their optimum level!

When our bodies become out of balance due to internal or external pathological influences, our digestion can be negatively affected.   STRESS can attack our stable earth element causing digestive disturbances including ulcers, diarrhea, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and acid reflux among other illness’.  Our digestive system can also become weak and unhealthy from eating a diet of excess fast food, meat and dairy products, processed foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbohydrates or sugars.  Other disorders that can be readily treated using Chinese medicine include indigestion, diverticulitis, constipation, parasites, candidae, gastritis, nausea, fecal incontinence, Chrohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, anal spasms, hiatial hernia, and other disorders.

Frequently my patients present with complaints of severe abdominal pain and cramping, irregular bowel movements, gas and bloating, and nausea.  The first inquiries I always make in these cases include asking about their diet and any changes to it when their symptoms began.  Often, patients have added more fiber in the form of bars, powders, cluster-type or granola cereals, raw nuts, and sulfur-preserved dried fruits. Coffee is commonly a trigger as well.  Removing these convenient “health” foods, fiber supplements, and stimulants generally solves their problems within a couple of days.  If a patient has weak digestion to begin with, they will not be able to process these foods effectively and without problematic symptoms.  Of course fiber in one’s diet is extremely important for many reasons, but try it in the form of peaches, plums, cooked green beans, steamed carrots, hummus, rice, and other foods without labels!

Frequently patients who come to me with digestive complaints have had costly abdominal scans and been put on antibiotics or medications that suppress stomach acid.  Excess use of antibiotics has been shown to lead to overgrowth of candidae and extended use of antacids suppresses stomach acid that actually functions in healthy levels to destroy unwanted bacteria, virus’, and fungi.   These treatments can sometimes provide temporary results, but exacerbate or make one’s symptoms worse in the long run.  At times, use of western medications may be warranted and recommended, but I would make sure that your health care practicioner has reviewed your dietary habits with you first.

Chinese dietary therapy recommends eating primarily a diet of cooked foods including vegetables, grains, proteins, and fruits.  Your acupuncturist should include a discussion of healthy eating specifically for your individual constitution at your initial visit.  If you are being treated specifically for a digestive disorder, this discussion should be extensive and include suggestions of foods to avoid and include in your daily diet.  Acupuncture and the use of Chinese herbal prescriptions are also extremely effective methods to use in conjunction with nutritional therapy to address many types of digestive illness’.

Filed Under: Chinese Medicine, Digestive Health  / Tagged: ,

Seeing Pink! Inviting Joy Into Your Life Using Chinese Medicine

May 20, 2013 by /

Having practiced acupuncture in Summit County for over 15 years now…..I have asked many people questions about their health and well-being in my office.    I ask about their sleep, their energy, their menstrual cycle, their digestion, if they have headaches, etc.  I also inquire about their stress level and emotional state.  The recession has brought with it an inordinate amount of pressure for people to deal with….reflected in the worries of most peoples’ day to day life.  But when I ask what my patients would like more of in life….I hear again and again…the answer is.….JOY!

In Chinese Medicine, JOY is the emotion belonging to the fire element.  It is housed in the heart along with love.  Peacefulness of the spirit and tranquility of the mind are indicative of the harmonious workings of the heart.  If the heart energy is disturbed by confusion, stress, or anger it becomes out of balance and emotionally results in anxiety, fearfulness, and sadness.   My patients who are lacking joy in their life often report conditions including insomnia, heart palpitations (feeling one’s heart beating in their chest), night sweats, excessive or disturbing dreams, irregular or rapid pulse, shortness of breath, mouth or tongue sores, edema (retention of water), nervousness, emotional sensitivity, lack of energy, and high blood pressure.

So how does one invite JOY into their lives?  Of course one can visit their local state- and nationally-licensed acupuncturist (Me!), who then inserts fine needles along pathways in the body to balance the patients’ heart energy.  Acupuncture provides nourishment and strength where there is a deficiency or weakness, and can promote the free flow of Qi or energy so that stress is alleviated.   Chinese herbs, when prescribed by your acupuncturist, are another extremely safe and effective method to address any imbalance along the heart meridian causing the above conditions including insomnia, anxiety, agitation, stress, “wired and tired” feelings, palpitations, etc.

And what can one do at home to encourage that tranquil and peaceful state of being???  The color of the fire element is red.  So perhaps place a red rose-scented candle on your table, or a vase filled with bright pink gerbera daisies in your bedroom, wear a magenta top with your favorite jeans, watch the colors of the sunset over the mountains, and read a poem or two about love.   Meditate, open your heart, exhale, and place your intentions towards seeking and finding JOY in your life.

Filed Under: Chinese Medicine  / Tagged:

The Way of the Water Element… Seeking Balance this Winter

May 20, 2013 by /

“…Water gives way to obstacles with deceptive humility.  For no power can prevent it from following its destined course to the sea.  Water conquers by yielding, it never attacks but always wins the last battle.  The Sage who makes himself as Water…embraces passivity, acts from non-action and conquers the world.”  -Tao Cheng

In Chinese Medicine there are five elements identified in nature that provide information about one’s health and well-being.  These elements include Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal.  Of these elements, Water signifies our deepest energy, reflecting our inner-most thoughts and fears.  The season of the water element is winter, when bears slumber in dark caves and water flows under streams, coated with a hard layer of ice.  Movement is slowed, trees echo a high-pitched creak as their sap freezes, and plants’ energy is directed to their roots.   It is a time for reflection, for stillness, and for solitude.

In Chinese Medicine, illness’ that are associated with an unhealthy Water element include conditions such as, arthritis, which is characterized by stiff, swollen, and creaky joints that often are worse with cold, blustery weather.  Other conditions suggesting that the Water element is out of balance might include frequent urination, lowered libido or sex drive, water retention or swelling, adrenal or chronic fatigue, and low back or knee pain.  Patient’s presenting with deficient water energy will often moan and groan, complain of fatigue, lack of motivation, depression, difficulty getting out of bed in the morning, and weight fluctuation.

Healthy Water type individuals are tenacious, tough, and have significant reserves of energy that lie beneath the surface.  These individuals are often represented by the strong endurance athletes that continually push onward.  But if their solitary character is in excess, and Water proceeds to suppress the naturally opposing Fire element, they will appear inflexible, hard, and insensitive to others.  Sadly in this case….faith, desire, and motivation all weaken and leave one feeling cold and alone.  They may lose their direction in life.  In these cases mile to severe depression may even set in.

So where does one go when the solitary nature of winter isolates them from not only their friends and family, but also from themselves?  The answer can be found in the healing use of acupuncture and Chinese herbs, proper nutrition including savory soups and hearty grains, and also in changing our surroundings.  Incorporating colors including warm oranges, fiery reds, and bold bronzes into ones daily life in the form of candles, flowers, clothing, or other décor will invite a balance of Fire into the picture.  Seeking relationships and friendships where one can trust enough to be open as opposed to shutting down or hardening one’s heart can also encourage harmony in one’s life.  Alpenglow…that soft pink hue on the snow….is a good example of a healthy Water element, balanced nicely by Fire, in the high country.  Seek it.

Filed Under: Chinese Medicine, The Elements  / Tagged: ,

Enhancing Winter Athletic Performance Using Chinese Medicine

May 20, 2013 by /

Chinese Medicine dates back to four thousand years ago, a time when people based their understanding of their health on what they knew best…. how the processes of nature worked.  They observed how natural balance was restored over time to areas devastated by fires, floods, droughts, and other environmental processes.   They applied their understanding of these natural changes to their own bodies and a beautifully effective system of medicine began……

Winter  is a  time of hibernation and solitude, when Yin energy naturally dominates.   It provides an  opportunity to examine our focus and inner strength.   Athletes who reside in  high altitude mountain communities present an interesting dichotomy of energy during the winter months.  Instead of hibernating they often seem to be found exhibiting their Yang nature by blasting through powder light snow drifts, gracefully navigating endless mogel fields, leaping skyward off jumps, and rhythmically skating through the trees…….ALWAYS MOVING!   Finding stillness in movement, discovering  one’s center,  encountering Yin within Yang are the moments we are seeking in the mountains in order to understand the Yin nature of the winter and within ourselves.    As everything in Chinese Medicine, enhancing athletic performance is about finding an energetic and physical balance – moving what is stuck, nourishing what is weak, and dispersing what is excessive.  Chinese Medicine provides an exceptionally useful and creative  realm within which to become stronger,  more motivated, and more focused.

Chinese Medicine offers several very effective methods with which to enhance athletic performance including, acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, and moxibustion.   These methods may be used alone or in combination depending on a patients overall health and personal goals.  .  Acupuncture is the more familiar technique and involves the placement of sterile needles into acupuncture points along pathways called meridians which travel through the body.  Each patient is individually evaluated and diagnosed according to which factors, such as Yin, Yang, and  Qi (or energy), might be out of balance.  Then an appropriate treatment plan is developed and  put into action!

The condition of the YIN energy in the body helps determine one’s motivation and focus, and helps to define the connection of  an athlete with their environment.   Yin energy is strongly reflected in the female nature, and is calm, cool,  and meditative.  Emotionally it is what keeps an athlete focused and level-headed during competition.  Physically, it includes the fluids in the body that are required to  keep the  tendons, ligaments, muscles, and bones  strong.    Tendonitis, chronic or repetitive injuries, and joint pain may indicate a deficiency in Yin energy.   Additional symptoms of Yin deficiency include hot flashes, night sweats, heart palpitations, insomnia, dry skin and hair, and excessive thirst or dehydration.  Other related symptoms often seen in female athletes include dizziness, anemia, scanty or no menstrual periods, spots in the field of vision, a pale complexion, fatigue, infertility, and depression.  An excessively active lifestyle may deplete an athlete’s Yin and make it challenging to reach one’s peak performance.

In Chinese Medicine the YANG energy is strongly reflected in the male nature.  It includes the outwardly directed power, strength, and movement exhibited by athletes.   Yang energy is active and warm in nature and is required to maintain one’s endurance whether skiing with friends for an afternoon or maintaining a high level of performance during a competitive hockey game.   Pain in the low back, knees, and other joints may indicate a Yang deficient condition especially if accompanied by an overall sensation of cold in the body.  General symptoms of Yang deficiency include cold hands and feet, loose stools or diarrhea, a pale complexion, edema, poor appetite, decreased libido, desire for warm drinks, frequent urination, and fatigue.  One method that effectively addresses Yang deficiency is moxibustion, where an herb called mugwort  is used to warm acupuncture points.  Moxibustion not only strengthens the Yang, but also encourages the free flow of Qi along the meridians.

The free flow of QI or energy is essential to one’s athletic performance, and may feel like what is referred to as a “runner’s high” or simply that feeling that one is in synch with their body and the environment.   When the flow of Qi is blocked or stagnant, healthy energy is inaccessible to the rest of the body.   There are several reasons for this lack of flow in the body.  One common reason is stress, which is often due to overwork and never enough time in the day to go out and play!  Physical injury, chronic or acute pain, and fatigue are additional causes of a lack of free flowing Qi.  Often these reasons occur simultaneously.   When stress  is the main problem  the blockage in the body can be similar to pressure building up behind a dam.  Emotions seen  when energy is stagnant  include irritability, anger outbursts, mood swings, and anxiety.   Physical symptoms include migraine headaches, indigestion, painful periods, tinnitus, a bitter taste in the mouth, and discomfort under the ribcage.    Regular exercise, acupuncture treatments, herbal prescriptions, and proper nutrition  are all effective methods to stimulate energy flow.

Chinese herbs, which can  provide that competitive edge that many athletes are seeking,  should be  prepared  in carefully selected combinations by a qualified herbalist.  Formulas are determined based on each individual patient’s symptoms and goals.  Herbal formulas are typically taken two or three times a day  and are available in different forms including tablets, capsules, powders, or liquids.  Herbs that nourish the Yin and Yang, and the Qi are all appropriate to include in formulas that enhance athletic performance.  Herbal linaments  may also be applied topically to injured areas.

Healthy nutrition is an essential component to achieving one’s goals as well.  As a practicioner, I find that in general, high altitude athletes have healthy appetites, but do not eat quite enough.    So I would encourage athletes to make some simple changes and additions to their diets.   In today’s world of low carbohydrate diets, I believe that a balanced diet of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates is the healthiest way to go for energy, endurance, decreased recovery time, and long-term health.   As in the discussion on herbs, foods that nourish the Yin and Yang, and the Qi are all important to include in one’s diet.  Your  practicioner can help you choose specific foods depending on your individual needs.

As a health care practicioner, striving to maintain her own athletic performance,  I would encourage those interested in achieving their athletic goals, no matter how large or small they may be, to try to connect to and to nourish your bodies more.  To not only exercise regularly, but also to take the time to find that place of inner stillness, of  focus, of intent, of  YIN.

Filed Under: Chinese Medicine, Sports Medicine  / Tagged: ,

The Year Of The Secretive, Seductive Snake!

January 20, 2013 by /

“Vibrating with her reptilian presence the arid air released pungent scents of musky sage, as raindrops scattered on the parched earth.

Warning of the eminent Summer monsoons, deep-throated thunder rumbled in the distance, in contrast to her graceful desert dance….”

Chinese Astrology is an integral part of an ancient culture that seeks balance in and connection to the world around them.   As an acupuncturist, I see our bodies seek the same as we move along our individual and collective journeys towards physical and emotional well-being.  Chinese Astrology is a fun and interesting way to learn more about how we relate to the world, ourselves and each other by exploring the nature of our Chinese animal signs.

Ancient legend tells us that the Buddha summoned all the animals to come bid him farewell before he departed the earth.  According to the story, twelve animals came and he named a year for each animal in the order of their arrival…..the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and lastly the boar.   Each animal represents one year of five separate twelve year cycles composing the Chinese lunar calendar.  The lunar calendar was introduced by the Emperor Huang Ti in 2637 BC.

The Year of the SNAKE began on February 10, 2013 and ends on January 30, 2014.  The SNAKE is a symbol of tenacity and elegance.  Snakes are typically independent and illusive, but also are provocative creatures focused on achieving their goals.  They have powerful internal energy and will effectively move past anyone and anything that stands in their way.  The Snake, may be skeptical at times, but typically keeps his suspicions to himself…constantly watching and evaluating his surroundings whether for safety or opportunity.  Generosity is another prominent quality of the Snake, who is always ready to offer up a place to stay or to cook an elaborate meal for friends.  He is alluring and irresistible to others.  In decision-making, he will quietly weigh his options, observe the situation, gather his information, and then strike when ready.  Snakes lie quietly hidden beneath a pinon pine tree or sandstone boulder….waiting, evaluating, plotting….they appreciate their privacy and quiet moments.

In love, Snakes are seen as seductive, serene creatures.  They have a distinct feminine nature and attract partners who are initially drawn to their magnetic, alluring energy.  Snakes appreciate beauty and elegance in their surroundings in the form of fine fabrics, flickering candles, creative art, and sparkling jewels.  But deep down Snakes are primarily seeking complete devotion from their partner, and a strong emotional and physical connection.

In the career-world Snakes are typically effective at whatever area they pursue as they have a high sense of purpose and responsibility.  In light of their finely-tuned observational skills, Snakes often pursue careers involving problem-solving.   Snakes may be found in health-related fields, such as psychologists, nurses, massage therapists, etc. as they are enjoy taking health histories or evaluating their clients’ diagnosis and needs.  These same skills are helpful in research-based or business/political careers as Snakes never miss out on details, taking in all the information presented to them,  The Snake is easily stimulated by elegance, intelligence, and expression, and is therefore attracted to the creative arts including photography, theater, writing, modeling, acting, etc.  It is no coincidence that well-known personalities including Oprah Winfrey, Audrey Hepburn, Edgar Allen Poe, Picasso, Carole King, and Greta Garbo are members of the Snake family.

The sky is the limit for Snakes in career, love, and spirituality…if their intensity does not get in their own way!  2013 is a time to take advantage of the Snake’s tenacious energy and make masterful changes in life.  It is time to move beyond the unyielding energy of 2012’s Year of the Dragon and explore the depth of the possibilities that exist.   Creativity is on the forefront during the Year of the Snake so pull out those watercolors, your writing journal, or try out for a role at the theater.  Explore the depths of who you are!   So take a relationship workshop, read a Buddhist or Christian text, join a meditation group, schedule an acupuncture session, or take a Yoga class.  2013 is a time to be conscious of your journey and discover a path to connect to your deeper self.

Filed Under: Astrology  / Tagged:

Taking that Leap of Faith in the Year of the Dragon!

January 1, 2012 by /

“Only people know just how to change the world,
only people realize the power of people,
so come on, get it on!”
– from Only People by John Lennon

Chinese Astrology is an integral part of an ancient culture that seeks balance in and connection to the world around them.   As an acupuncturist, I see our bodies seek the same as we move along our individual and collective journeys towards physical and emotional well-being.  Chinese Astrology is a fun and interesting way to learn more about how we relate to the world, ourselves and each other by exploring the nature of our Chinese animal signs.

Ancient legend tells us that the Buddha summoned all the animals to come bid him farewell before he departed the earth.  According to the story, twelve animals came and he named a year for each animal in the order of their arrival…..the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and lastly the boar.   Each animal represents one year of five separate twelve year cycles composing the Chinese lunar calendar.  The lunar calendar was introduced by the Emperor Huang Ti in 2637 BC.

The Year of the DRAGON, which began on January 23, 2012 and ends on February 9, 2013, is characterized as an energetic period, a time for innovative change, setting goals, and achieving one’s purpose in life.  The Dragon is a symbol of dazzling beauty, vitality, and strength.   This magical, mythical creature is focused on the challenges and issues at hand and is extremely loyal to his family and friends.  He is confident in his abilities and powers, and is always ready to take that proverbial leap of faith.  Dragons, though outgoing and even outspoken, do have a sensitive side and quietly appreciate knowing others trust and believe in him.  The decisiveness and motivation of the fire-breathing Dragon suggest that 2012 is a time to take advantage of this energy, move forward, and make positive changes in our lives.  It is high time to move beyond the reserved nature and subtlety of 2011’s Year of the Rabbit!   The Year of the Dragon is a time to speak out  and explore change on all levels.  It is time to move forward in your career, open a new business, start that non-profit you have been thinking about, write that best-seller, ask out that cute guy/gal, move to a new town, make a difference…!     Don’t just think about your cause…DO something about it!  And for those of you out there feeling stuck and afraid….take that LEAP OF FAITH!  And remember, change may feel uncomfortable, but movement in one’s life is typically a very positive journey.  The Dragon is not ruled by his fears….but by having a purpose, a goal, or a mission to strive for.

Dragons, due to their high energy and eagerness are typically better leaders than followers.  They may be outspoken, but rule fairly and are able to meet deadlines and get projects done.  By their charismatic nature they are well-liked and effectively earn the respect of their peers.  Their no-nonsense and sincere nature directs them to careers in many areas requiring a strong leader including politics, finance, medicine, academics, and business management.  It would be common to find a Dragon successfully organizing a non-profit business, running a publishing company, being a chief of surgery, managing a busy restaurant, teaching a classroom of students, coaching a basketball team, or instigating political change.   The Year of the Dragon is a good time to be dynamic, flashy, creative, and motivated…..Dragons are doers, not observers….2012 is a time to make things happen!

Filed Under: Astrology  / Tagged:

Discovering Peace and Harmony in the Year of the Rabbit

January 20, 2011 by /

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.”
– Jimi Hendrix

Chinese Astrology is an integral part of an ancient culture that seeks balance in and connection to the world around them.   As an acupuncturist, I see our bodies seek the same as we move along our individual and collective journeys towards physical and emotional well-being.  Chinese Astrology is a fun and interesting way to learn more about how we relate to the world, ourselves and each other by exploring the nature of our Chinese animal signs.

Ancient legend tells us that the Buddha summoned all the animals to come bid him farewell before he departed the earth.  According to the story, twelve animals came and he named a year for each animal in the order of their arrival…..the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and lastly the boar.   Each animal represents one year of five separate twelve year cycles composing the Chinese lunar calendar.  The lunar calendar was introduced by the Emperor Huang Ti in 2637 BC.

The Year of the RABBIT, which began on February 3, 2011 and ends on January 22, 2012, is characterized as a peaceful period, a time for a respite from conflict and aggression.  The Rabbit, being a quiet and reserved symbol reflecting kindness, sensitivity, and graciousness suggests that this year is a time to subdue the challenging nature and drama of 2010’s Year of the Tiger.  The Year of the Rabbit is a time to explore stillness and tranquility in our lives and to find inner peace and harmony.  This year should also hopefully see progress towards ending conflict in war-torn countries including Afganistan, Iraq, and Pakistan.

Rabbits, due to their unobtrusive and observant tendancies, often have good intuition and insight.  They are effective leaders in business and tend to be soft-spoken, fair, and known to rule with a velvet glove.  Their sensitive and compassionate nature lead them to careers in medicine, counseling, massage, and teaching.  Rabbits are also drawn to careers in the creative arts, as they enjoy expressing themselves thru avenues including theater, music, sculpture, and writing.  It would be common to encounter a Rabbit enjoying viewing unique pieces at a gallery opening.  The Year of the Rabbit is a good time to step back, take a deep breath, and exhale slowly.

2011 is a good year to connect with romantic partners who are sensitive to each others feelings and who can express their emotions with a relative lack of conflict.  Attraction and communication may revolve around both intellectual and artistic qualities in each other.  While the Rabbit is likeable by most, he can also be frustrating in his overall lack of willingness to enter into any difference of opinion.  He can at times be moody and detached as he attempts to maintain his passiveness at any cost.

The Year of the Rabbit is a good time to discover your inner strength as you seek inner peace.  As the rabbit is comfortable with stillness, as a wintery white snowshoe hare blends silently into the drifts around him, the Year of 2011 is a time to opt for signing up for a Yoga or Tai Qi class.  Or perhaps a time to take the opportunity to go to a Buddhist meditation retreat!   Fashions and design will take on an elegant, but understated style with loose, comfortable sweaters of soft cashmere, and silk and cotton blends draping gently over faded designer jeans.  Geometric designs and loud colors will offend the Rabbits sense of ease and natural tendency to blend into the background.

In closing, to quote anthropologist Margaret Mead, “ Never believe that a few caring people can’t change the world.  For, indeed, that’s all who ever have.”  The Year of the Rabbit will be a period to find your inner strength, to stand strong, and to also find the courage to trust and take that leap of faith to find your way through those winter storms.

Filed Under: Astrology  / Tagged:

Welcoming The Year of the TIGER!

February 14, 2010 by /

Chinese Astrology is an integral part of an ancient culture that seeks balance in and connection to the world around them.   As an acupuncturist, I see our bodies seek the same as we move along our individual and collective journeys towards physical and emotional well-being.  Chinese Astrology is a fun and interesting way to learn more about how we relate to the world, ourselves and each other by exploring the nature of our Chinese animal signs.

Ancient legend tells us that the Buddha summoned all the animals to come bid him farewell before he departed the earth.  According to the story, twelve animals came and he named a year for each animal in the order of their arrival……..the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and lastly the boar.   Each animal represents one year of five separate twelve year cycles composing the Chinese lunar calendar.  The lunar calendar was introduced by the Emperor Huang Ti in 2637 BC.

The Year of the TIGER, which begins on February 14, 2010 and ends on February 2, 2011, is characterized as a dynamic period of awareness, persistence and accomplishment.  The Tiger, being a captivating symbol of courage and calculated action, suggests that this year is a time to move beyond the drudgery of 2009’s Year of the Ox.  The Year of the Tiger is a time to invite positive change into our lives and to move forward with new and unique ideas to reach our goals.  Progress and achievement will be made this year as long as we are willing to tap into our sense of adventure in life.  As the Tiger is headstrong and courageous, 2010 is a year to perhaps stand up for a cause or fight the system in order to make some changes and move forward in life.  As the nature of the Tiger is to continually be moving, shifting and aware even at rest……it will benefit us to remember to move gracefully and stealthfully in all our endeavors.

Tigers naturally like to be in control of situations and those who readily take on leadership roles will tend to prosper this year.  Those who are in more subordinate positions may need to take steps to pull directive qualities into their careers to achieve their goals and be successful.  The Year of the Tiger is a good time to finally open that business you have dreamed of, move forward with a creative project, and take some calculated risks in both your personal and professional lives.

As the Tiger is a lively, energetic and courageous animal, this is a good year to connect with romantic partners who have a sense of adventure and who wish to experience new activities together.  The Tiger is a generous and often sensitive creature.  While his allure captivates those around him, his headstrong qualities can be rather frustrating to others at times.  The Year of the Tiger is a good time to challenge yourself physically and test your level of stamina and endurance.  As the Tiger is accustomed to roaming the outdoors, 2010 is a time to opt for vacationing in the beautiful wilderness as opposed to in populated urban areas.  Dance, yoga, pilates, martial arts and rock climbing……..any activity with graceful movement involved would be quite beneficial to participate in this year.  Fashions and design will take on a flashier style with reds and golds predominant, along with animal-print patterns of course!

“Trust the Process”, “Change is Good” and “Just Do it!”  will be the mantras to follow as we make our way courageously and gracefully through the year of the Tiger.  This may be the year for many of us to take the time to explore what motivates us in our lives and what goals we wish to accomplish.  Patience will be a helpful quality to have as you wait for that precise moment to take action or POUNCE!!!

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