Tag: health

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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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5 Animal Qi Gong Series starts August 12th 2020 with Rev. Marie Regis, L.Ac.

This system can support the immune system, and help us be more grounded, calm and serene; it also will build muscle strength and flexibility, and improve balance. The movements, hand positions and sounds reflect the qualities of each animal. We‘ll experience the strength of the bear, the ferocity of the tiger, the suppleness of the deer, the agility of the monkey, and the elusiveness of the crane. This ancient exercise is attributed to Hua To, a famous Chinese physician from the Han Dynasty (3rd century A.D.). Marie learned this practice from MasterJeffrey Yuen, an 88th generation Taoist Priest Marie has been studying with for over 16 years.

WHEN: Six consecutive Wednesdays from 10-11:15 AM starting August 12th

WHERE: On Zoom

FEE: $90 for the series

*FIRST CLASS IS FREE!*

To sign up please email marie@marieregisacupuncture.com or call 516.455.2206 and Marie will send you the Zoom invitation the day before the first class. Payment for the series will be due by August 17th via Paypal.

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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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Creating True Peace Meditation Series

“If we cultivate the seeds of compassion, we nourish peace within us and around us… Peace is there for us in every moment. It is our choice.”   Thich Nhat Hanh

Join us as we learn practices to calm our busy minds and ease our emotions; we explore simple breathing techniques and affirmations taken from Taoist and Buddhist traditions; bringing harmony to our mind-body helps us BE the Peace we want to create in our family and community. The Buddhist practices are drawn for Thich Nhat Hanh’s book “Creating True Peace: Ending Violence in Yourself, Your Family, Your Community, and the World”. I look forward to creating sacred space and PEACE with you!  Blessings,     MarieB

WHERE:  14 Vanderventer Ave, Suite L3C, Port Washington NY 11050

WHEN:   7:30 to 8:45 p.m. Wednesdays June 19th, July 3rd, July 10th 2019 (we skip June26th)

 FEE:    $60 total for all 3 classes, payable on the first day of class or $25 per individual class

PLEASE REGISTER IN ADVANCE AS SEATING IS LIMITED. THANK YOU!  

You may email or call Marie at 516-455-2206 to register

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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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Introduction to Meditation SPRING Series

DATES: March 5th, 12th and 19th 2019 from 1:30 – 3:00 P.M.

WHERE: Roslyn High School, 475 Round Hill Rd., Roslyn Heights NY 11577

CONTACT: Roslyn High School Continuing Education at roslynschools.org or call 516-801-5091 for more information and to register.

MEDITATION BASICS: Learn EASY meditation and mindfulness techniques from a variety of traditions, so you can finally LET GO.. and enjoy life fully