Tag: acupuncture

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Maximize your immune system before Flu Season

Acupuncture to strengthen immunity

by Rev. Marie Regis, M.S., L.Ac.

 SUBJECT: MAXIMIZE IMMUNITY AND METABOLIC HEALTH WITH ACUPUNCTURE

The best way to increase immunity is to improve metabolic health and lower stress levels

What is metabolic health? 

Mainstream medicine defines it as the absence of Metabolic Syndrome. 5 key factors are your blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar and waist circumference. If 3 of these 5 factors are above or below “normal” range, you have “Metabolic syndrome”; this puts you more at risk for type 2 Diabetes, stroke, and heart disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. We now know that you’re also at greater risk of serious complications, even death from Covid if you have Metabolic syndrome.

Chinese medicine raises the bar in their definition of Metabolic Health. You might be surprised to know that having an appetite for breakfast is one of several defining factors in healthy metabolism. Metabolic health and immunity are intrinsically linked, and consists mainly of:

  • A healthy digestive system
  • Endocrine and hormonal balance
  • A healthy respiratory system

Acupuncture, along with healthy lifestyle can improve function in digestive, endocrine and respiratory systems.

Let’s take a closer look at what this means:

  1. Healthy digestive system
  • Signs of chronic digestive deficiencies include
    • Lack of appetite, especially in the morning
    • Bloating or gas,
    • Fatigue after eating or general fatigue
    • Loose stools
    • Foggy mind, difficulty concentrating
    • Lack of sense of taste
    • Legs feel heavy or weak
  1. Endocrine and hormonal balance
  • Signs of imbalance include:
    • Overactive or underactive thyroid
    • Mood swings
    • Difficulty sleeping through the night
    • Night sweats and hot flashes
    • Infertility and irregular menstruation
    • Chronic lower back weakness or pain
  1. Healthy respiratory system
  • Signs of weakness include:
    • Fatigue upon exertion, easily out of breath.
    • Shallow breathing
    • Chronic cough
    • Weak voice
    • Lack of sense of smell
    • Chronic allergies or sinus congestion

HOW ACUPUNCTURE CAN HELP:

Acupuncture can support the function of any internal organ system. This has proven true in my 15 years of clinical experience, though the degree of success varies from patient to patient. Your willingness to commit to a healthier lifestyle (willingness to change) is key. According to the Chinese newspaper Xin Hua Net, Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal medicine have proven effective against the Coronavirus. Read more at http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-02/18/c_138796123.htm?utm_source=ShenClinic.com+subscribers&utm_campaign=bcbcd41b61-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_05_05_02&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_9644564526-bcbcd41b61-158307937&goal=0_9644564526-bcbcd41b61-158307937&mc_cid=bcbcd41b61&mc_eid=b228b4dece

How it works:

Here’s how it works: Acupuncture supports the energy grid that underlies the biochemistry of the body. It can increase the flow of energy to particular organ systems, decrease inflammation, and help unblock areas of poor circulation. As it regulates the flow of Qi, or life force, lymph and blood circulation improve; chronic pain subsides, and seemingly unrelated physical problems often resolve.  Clients suffering from Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder get significant reduction of their symptoms with Acupuncture. The United States Army has been treating soldiers for PTSD with Acupuncture with excellent results. Emotions are intrinsically linked to the physiology; that’s why acupuncture helps lower stress even if that is not the primary focus of the treatment.

In my practice, listening closely to your concerns and helping you make better lifestyle choices is central to my success in helping patients’ making lasting positive change and resolve chronic health issues. I also teach simple meditation techniques that can be profoundly calming and centering.

Please call me for a FREE PHONE CONSULTATION to see if Acupuncture is right for you Call 516-455-2206 today!

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Virtual Health Consultations offered in response to the current pandemic

Every acupuncture session begins with a health consultation, where we discuss progress and new issues that come up for the client. Even mild symptoms can be very significant diagnostically, as they inform us of the underlying pattern of disharmony to be addressed. This is followed by a clinical observation of your symptoms, some of which can be detected visually via zoom, and diagnosis of the problem. At this very special time, if in person treatment is not possible, I am offering Lifestyle Counseling and Self Care recommendations to lower stress, regulate your physiology and enhance your immune system. This can include:

  • ACUPRESSURE: alone or combined with essential oils application on points
  • ESSENTIAL OIL recommendations for diffusing
  • EXERCISE: including specific Qi Gong and breathing practices to regulate the energy system
  • GUIDED MEDITATIONS AND EXPLORATIONS
  • DIETARY AND HERBAL RECOMMENDATIONS
  • LIFESTYLE COUNSELING
  • DISTANCE REIKI

The quickest way to reach me is by calling 516-455-2206. You can also reach me via email at mregis51@gmail.com

I wish you and your loved ones Peace and Health in the weeks and months to come!

Blessings, Marie

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Chinese herbal medicine is being used in China to treat Covid-19

by Marie Regis, L.Ac.

Chinese medicine has centuries-old protocols for treating epidemics including viruses; this includes sophisticated herbal formulations and acupuncture. In Chinese hospitals, patients are being offered Chinese herbs as a primary treatment for Covid-19, at all stages of the illness, often supplemented with Western treatment, with great success. This news should be printed on the front page of our major newspapers. Please read more here:

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-02/18/c_138796123.htm?utm_source=ShenClinic.com+subscribers&utm_campaign=bcbcd41b61-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_03_05_05_02&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_9644564526-bcbcd41b61-158307937&goal=0_9644564526-bcbcd41b61-158307937&mc_cid=bcbcd41b61&mc_eid=b228b4dece

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Covid-19: Protecting ourselves and our communities

Safety in community

The current state of panic is being fueled by an irresponsible and sensationalist media. Panic directly and quickly weakens immune response. In the words of Epidemiologist Dr. Abdu Sharkawy, MD (facebook post dated 3/5/20) , let’s return to talking reasonable precautions, lowering our stress levels and being there for each other and our communities. This will go a long way in maximizing our health and immunity. The following are important preventative measures we can take to increase our likelihood of staying healthy:

  1. CREATING STRONG VITAL ENERGY / QI: In Chinese medicine, the ability to fight and expel pathogens is based on strong Qi (Vital energy) . This is dependent on a few things:
  • Having sufficient quantity and quality of Blood (including red and white blood cells, adequate nutrients including minerals) 
  • A strong digestive system is the basis of a strong immune system; it insures we can actually be nourished by the foods we eat (assimilation). 
  • Having strong lungs to directly support Qi.
  • Adequate quality and quantity of sleep
  • Regular exercise
  • Low toxicity levels in the body. Toxicity includes an overabundance of parasitic microbes such as yeasts, harmful bacteria and protozoans.

2.  WHAT TO AVOID: 

  • Poor diet weakens digestion: irregular eating schedule, eating too much raw or canned foods, cold or raw foods, too much or too little protein, late night eating, eating in front of the TV or while reading, etc…
  • Regular or excessive intake of alcohol and other drugs, smoking. Alcohol is used in Chinese herbology to warm and speed the flow of blood circulation. It also will bring harmful bacteria and viruses deeper into the body, thereby making colds and flu symptoms worse. The “heat” from the alcohol adds to the “heat” of bacterial infections. Normally, the body will try to clear infections outwards via urination and sweating. But in this case the alcohol directs the harmful pathogens to deeper organs: ie: Liver and Spleen. Also the SUGAR from alcohol would make any infection spread more quickly
  • Chronic stress will dramatically weaken immunity. When we are in the fight or flight response (angry or scared), the immune system automatically shuts down. Prolonged stress can have long term consequences, lowering immune response and making us vulnerable to opportunistic infections and even chronic degenerative diseases such as cancer.
  • Fatigue from chronic lack of sleep or poor quality sleep.

4.  WHAT TO DO:

  • Reduce stress: 
    • Have a daily meditation program. There are several excellent meditation Apps out there including the popular “Headspace” with many choices of guided meditations. I have regular meditation groups Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings which are now meeting on Zoom.
    • Exercise daily: walking outdoors especially in this beautiful spring weather will help lower stress. Also, Yoga, T’ai chi or Qi gong practices can quickly change your state of mind
    • Don’t engage with people who always see the glass as half-empty. Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you.
  • Eat fresh foods, and avoid raw and cold foods as much as possible
  • Get to bed early and allow yourself to have at least 8 hours of quality sleep
  • If needed, get a few acupuncture treatments to maximize your immune system, lower your stress and help with sleep
  • Trust your body; it was designed to protect you!.

Although my clinic is open, I am also offering Zoom health consultations; this can provide you with a Chinese medical evaluation of your state of health and immunity based on your symptoms, history, tongue diagnosis, life style factors, etc., and a detailed plan to support health and well-being. This can include dietary and lifestyle changes, herbal and essential oil recommendations, meditation and mindfulness practices to lower stress.

Take the best care, and stay safe!

Peace, Marie

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Summer soup recipe

Summer is a time of plenty and variety in fruits and vegetables. Our eating should reflect that. Foods can be cooked a shorter time than in colder seasons. Many people avoid soup in warm weather, but soups are actually healthier than salads even in the summer. They are hydrating and offer plenty of electrolytes to compensate for sweating. The below recipe is light and easy to make. Enjoy!

Jade Green Soup

  • 1/2 cup Tofu, diced
  • 2 cups of leafy greens, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
  • 3 cups of broth
  • 1/2 tablespoon kudzu dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
  • Saute or steam tofu 5 min. Add salt
  • Add greens. Saute 2 min.
  • Add broth and simmer until greens are bright-colored
  • Add kudzu mixture and simmer until thickened
  • Serves 3-4

This recipe is borrowed from Paul Pritchard’s classic book: Healing with Whole Foods: Oriental Traditions and Modern Nutrition

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ACUPUNCTURE HELPS RESOLVE BINGING DISORDERS

By Rev. Marie Regis, M.S., L. Ac.

Binging: An addictive process

As with any addiction, the process of binging is an attempt to numb against painful recurring feelings. Its relief is very temporary, and is often followed by frustration, guilt or shame.  What is needed is an awakening: a clear realization of the destructiveness of that behavior, a sense that we deserve better, and faith and vision that a far greater quality of life is there for us.

Acupuncture’s effect on the mind

Anyone who has experienced acupuncture will tell you that it has a relaxing effect, regardless of the condition being treated. Classical Acupuncture developed, over centuries of research and practice, many protocols for treating mental and emotional problems.. Here are a few issues I have treated successfully in my clinic:

  • Anxiety and PTSD, panic attacks
  • Recorring nightmares
  • Depression 
  • Eating disorders
  • Alcohol and drug addiction
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • Difficulty concentrating, ADHD
  • Prolonged difficulty with loss
  • Hoarding disorders

How it works

Acupuncture is based on Chinese medical theory. It sees the spirit, mind and body as  inseparable. The harmonious flow of the Qi (life force)  is key to the function of the muscles, internal organs, immune, hormonal and nervous systems.  Chronic emotional problems can create illness over time, and vice versa.  Acupuncturists stimulate points along the energy pathways to create specific effects on these internal systems, thereby altering the biochemistry and fostering an experience of greater mental and physical well-being.  

Healing includes a process of deepening awareness. Acupuncture helps facilitate this in different ways, depending on your unique needs at the time. It can:

  • Help us be more aware of our emotional experience
  • Improve our ability to focus so we can think clearly and stay on track
  • Bring awareness to unproductive attitudes we have towards ourself, or towards the outer world
  • Support our feeling grounded and centered
  • Calm the nervous system
  • Improve memory and cognition.

Patient responsibility

Healing comes from within. Your readiness, openness to change, and participation is always key. A number of bad habits probably caused us to develop our problems. I will gently guide you identify these one by one, so you can make the changes needed, at your own pace.

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Studies show Acupuncture helps Acid Reflux better than medication

acupuncture

By Marie Regis, M.S., L.Ac.

Classic Esophageal Reflux Disease or GERD, also called Acid Reflux, has become alarmingly high in recent years. Conventional treatment with acid-blocking medication (Proton Pump Inhibitors) is often ineffective and can lead to serious side-effects over the long term. Studies have found that Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal therapy are  more effective than medication for the treatment of this common ailment.A

Increased incidence of GERD

In the past, GERD used to be mainly seen in overweight middle aged people. Not any more. A 2010 study found that of a randomly picked sample of 686 US citizens, “40% had reflux disease, 22% having GERD, and another 18% had LPR (airway reflux). The most striking and unanticipated finding was that 37% of the 21 to 30 year old age group had reflux.”   Conventional treatment with acid blocking medication was intended for short term use only due to unhealthful side effects. Many are ignoring the directions for these drugs and taking them for months or years. “Blocking stomach acid fosters the growth of bacteria that cause gastritis and are associated with GI cancer, pneumonia and with antibiotic resistant bacteria”.T

Types of Reflux

  • Acid Reflux, or GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) happens when digestive juices from the stomach rise up causing irritation and inflammation in the esophagus
  • LPR (Laryngo Pharyngo Reflux) Airway Reflux is where the stomach juices enter the Larynx (voice box), which is part of the Trachea.
  • With GERD, there will be discomfort in the upper abdomen or chest
  • With LPR, also called Silent reflux, there are no such symptoms. Instead, people may experience sinus congestion or irritation, sore throat, a feeling of a lump in the throat, coughing or asthma, hoarseness especially upon waking, difficulty swallowing.

Western pathophysiology

  • GERD is caused by the malfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, a valve at the top of the stomach that is supposed to keep digestive juices in. These juices, consisting primarily of the digestive enzyme Pepsin and stomach acid, cause inflammation and erosion along the esophagus.
  • LPR (Laryngopharyngo Reflux) is caused by dysfunction of the Upper Esophageal Sphincter, allowing fluids to rise into the Trachea, or airway, and from there into the Larynx or voice box. The lining of the airway is thinner and much more vulnerable to attack. It is the Pepsin, a digestive enzyme that digests protein, that attacks the lining of the Trachea in the presence of acid.  Pepsin can settle into the cells of the lining and be activated by acidic foods even if the person temporarily is not experiencing Reflux. The Pepsin then attacks protein in the lining.  Long term reflux can lead to Oesophageal cancer.

Eastern pathophysiology and treatment

Chinese medicine considers that reflux is often due to dysfunction of the stomach, liver, and spleen/pancreas. Stress affecting the liver and stomach is a major factor in this disease, contributing to increased acidity, inflammation and causing stomach juices to go up instead of down. Emotions such as chronic worry, anger, frustration or rebellious attitudes are common culprits. Stress also impairs the spleen’s ability to transport and transform digestive fluids. Food in the stomach fail to be digested and assimilated. As a result, the stomach contents backflow into the esophagus. Reflux esophagitis in TCM focuses on transforming turbid fluids, supporting stomach function and restoring the downward movement of stomach Qi (energy) to prevent counterflow. This focus restores normal functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), enhances gastric motility, and improves gastric emptying.

Food and drinks to avoid

  • Additives in prepared foods (canned or bottled food and drink) designed to acidify the food to help preserve it.  This has been required by the FDA since 1973 to prevent spoilage. Ie: Citric Acid.
  • Acidic foods such as tomatoes, peppers, citrus fruit.
  • Coffee and chocolate
  • Saturated fat
  • High Fructose Corn Syrup and other sugars in foods
  • Organic pollutants such as DDT, PCB’s and Dioxins
  • Gluten and flour products
  • Carbonated beverages including soda and seltzer

Other factors

  • Alcohol consumption
  • Smoking
  • Stress
  • Lying down immediatly after eating
  • Over-eating or late night eating (within 3 hours of bed time)
  • Dry mouth, especially after head and neck irradiation for cancer

Treatment of Reflux and LPR

  • AVOID  harmful foods and bad eating habits listed above
  • Lower your stress with meditation, Tai chi, Qi gong or Yoga
  • Consult with an Acupuncturist, and schedule a series of treatments to gradually restore normal digestive function. Often at least 4-6 bi-weekly treatments are necessary to provide lasting change.
  • Always consult with your medical doctor to rule out other medical conditions

Studies

  • According to a study by Hebei Privincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China, Acupuncture plus Chinese Herbal Medicine outperformed omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid) for the treatment of acid reflux. Important features of Chinese Medicine protocols is that they produce a high total effective rate, low relapse rate, and no significant adverse effects.
  • A 2007 study by the University of Arizona studying patients who did not show improvement with a standard PPI dose, showed that Acupuncture plus standard PPI dose was more effective than the accepted protocol of doubling the standard PPI dose
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Learn Qi Gong and feel vibrant again! Starts June 7th

In keeping the Spirit and Vital Soul together, are you able to maintain their perfect harmony? In gathering your vital energy to attain suppleness, have you reached the state of a newborn babe?.. Tao Teh Ching, by Lao Tzu

Five Animal Frolics Qi Gong 

with Marie Regis, L.Ac.

Learn a set of five gentle exercises that support physical and emotional health and help you feel grounded and energized. The five animals are the Deer, Bear, Tiger, Crane and Monkey. This ancient practice regulates the nervous and cardiovascular systems, reduces muscle tension and improves sleep quality. And it’s FUN! It is attributed to Hua To, a famous Dr. from the Han Dynasty (3rd century A.D.). No previous experience necessary.

Five classes, 1 1/2 hours each – $25 per class or $100 paid on or before June 7th (by cash or check)

Classes meet Fridays June 7, 21, 28, and July 7th, from 10 to 11:30 AM. Location to be determined, in or near Port Washington.

Please Register by emailing or texting me at 516-455-2206.

I look forward to sharing this wonderful practice with you!  

Peace,   Marie

More about 5 Animal Frolics:

Hua To’s Five Animal Frolics Qi Gong is one of the oldest Qi Gong systems, dating back 2,000 years. it’s originator, Hua To is one of the most famous physicians in Chinese Medicine. This system of exercises supports flexible and strong muscles and tendons, promotes blood flow and revitalizes the internal organs. As we practice, we embody the strength of the bear, the ferocity of the tiger, the suppleness of the deer, the playfulness of the monkey, the centeredness of the crane. Numerous versions of this practice have evolved over the centuries. This version includes hand positions, sounds and postures that express qualities of these five animals. Students are encouraged to have their own unique experience of the spirit and “feel” of each animal as they practice.l

About my teacher, Master Jeffrey Yuen

This version was taught by Taoist Master Jeffrey Yuen, an 88th generation Daoist Master of the Jade Purity Tradition. Immersed in the practice and study of Daoism and the Classics of Chinese Medicine since early childhood, Mr Yuen offers unparalleled knowledge of the rich traditions that fully integrate the physical, psycho-emotional and spiritual. Jeffrey is internationally recognized as a Master of Classical Chinese Medicine, Daoism, Acupuncture, Chinese Herbology, Tai Chi, Essential Oils and Qi Gong.

To purchase the DVD of Jeffrey Yuen’s Five Animal Frolics class please go to: http://daoisthealingarts.com

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Parkinson’s Disease: Nutritional factors

By Marie Regis

PARKINSON’S DEFINITION According to conventional medicine, “Parkinson’s disease is an idiopathic, slowly progressive, degenerative disorder of the Central Nervous System characterized by four main features:

  1. Slowness and poverty of movement
  2. Muscular rigidity
  3. Resting tremor
  4. Postural instability..”

(Taken from the book “The Treatment of Modern Western Medical diseases with Chinese medicine”, by Bob Flaws and Phillippe Sionneau)

Parkinson’s includes severe depletion of Dopamine.

According to Chinese medicine, this disease can be caused by constitutional weakness, aging, longstanding illness, physical taxation, chronic emotional problems and poor diet. Emotional trauma can lead to a decline in Dopamine levels. Dopamine is a pleasure hormone; therefore doing things that bring us joy may bring back Dopamine.  Dopamine makes us feel nourished, and that life is worthwhile. It also reduces pain.

  • DETRIMENTAL FOODS and EATING HABITS
  • Eating sugar depleats Dopamine and Serotonin levels. It also weakens the digestive system, which is where 80% of the Serotonin is produced. Serotonin is a mood regulating hormone.
  • Skipping meals and eating a lot of cold or raw foods will weaken digestion, which makes the stomach unable to digest protein in particular
  • A vegetarian diet is problematic for many people in that it often leads to amino acid / protein deficiencies. This will lead to an insufficiency in neurotransmitters that are important to brain health
  • Caffein intake in combination with a stressful lifestyle can add to the physical taxation mentioned above.
    • Alcohol and drugs leach out Mg, leading to increased acidity / oxidative stress in the body
  • HELPFUL FOODS
  • Dopamine is found in flesh, meat. 
  • Dark leafy greens are alkalizing and high in many minerals and B vitamins
  • Legumes are very important: velvet beans esp., Fava beans. These beans have high amounts of Tyrosine to build back Dopamine
  • Mushrooms are high in nutritional value. They are a great source of fiber and protein, as well as B vitamins, copper, potassium, selenium and vitamin D
  • Quinoa has all essential amino acids. The Chinese use Buckwheat (not as high as Quinoa) to build Dopamine
  • Our Dopamine can become deficient because the stomach isn’t able to digest it. The easiest thing to digest meat are enzymes found in fruit: Pineapple (bromaline), apricots, figs, jujube have enzmes. We stew meat with figs in meditarreanian cooking. Cook the meat with the fruit, so body can easily get the raw material. Helps with depression- trouble managing  pain, the pleasure principle. 
  • GABA: Epinephrine and Norepinephrine relate to the flight or flight response. Fear shuts down the pleasure principle and reduces pleasure hormones. GABA is antagonist to the fear hormones. Foods high in GABA include: seeds (sunflower seeds) and shellfish, shrimp, halibut, grouper. 
  • Antioxydants can help reduce  the fight and flight response
  • Adequate concentration of Mg is very important for Ph balance. Low Mg can lower dopamine. Diet can affect alkaline-acid balance (7.2-7.3 is balanced). Increasing acidity means increasing Sympathetic Nervous System activity (flight or flight). Increasing alkalinity leads to increased Parasympathetic Nervous System activity (Digestion, healing, immunity). *Note that testing is not accurate in blood tests because Mg stays in cell. A swab from the tongue could measure it..

This is by no means a comprehensive list of foods that are either beneficial or harmful to people with Parkinsons. Please consult with your physician regarding any possible interaction between supplements and medicine prescribed to you.

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Acupuncture for Peace of Mind

The Mind and Body are ONE. Many people report feeling more peaceful after Acupuncture, even if they have come for strictly physical issues. Chinese medicine believes when we improve the body’s function, the mind will follow. Marie has found that people in psychotherapy make faster progress WITH acupuncture treatments. She has had success with people suffering from:

  • PTSD, anxiety and panic attacks
  • Difficulty concentrating, ADHD
  • Low self-esteem or confidence 
  • Irritability and depression
  • Obsessive-compulsive  and addictive disorders
  • Eating disorders: binging, anorexia, bulimia.
  • Difficulty with loss and grieving
  • Bonding and intimacy issues

Consistent treatment over time can help re-program the brain and nervous system to function more harmoniously, helping to cultivate virtues that support life: 

  • Faith in ourselves and in our social environment
  • The ability to let go
  • Feeling grounded and centered
  • Calmness, presence and resilience
  • Improved memory and cognition

PEACE , Marie