Year Of the Rabbit
I’ve often felt conflicted about celebrating Chinese Lunar New Year. Practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese Acupuncture as some one outside of those cultures, is a sensitive place to be. Through the transculturation of TCM in the West, we as acupuncturists are only taught a fraction of the history & pillars that make up Traditional Chinese Medicine, mostly for the sake of taking a standardized licensing test. In the process, we have left out several branches of healing arts traditions that make up, intersect or influence Chinese Medicine including; astrology, Feng Shui, I Ching prediction systems, and the lunisolar calendar which describes the interrelation of our bodies with the natural world, and the cosmos.
For the past couple of years, I’ve been attempting to fill in some of the gaps in my understanding of the sociocultural context of TCM, by practicing Qi Gong, following the lunisolar calendar, and learning I Ching. While it’s been a mish-mash of self directed study, I would like to acknowledge the teachers I’ve been directly learning from; Dr. Aung and Master ZhongXian Wu. As well as the lineage of acupuncture from Sensei Kiiko Matsumoto, and her teacher the late Master Nagano.
It is impossible to separate Chinese medicine from Chinese culture. With that, I believe comes a process of self reflection and humility on how to engage with and carry these lineages of knowledge in respectful way. I share my ongoing learning in these letters, and on socials, with respect to my teachers and the 3000 years of cultural knowledge and innovation that has allowed me to make a living doing something that I love.
With that I say, Happy Lunar New Year!
If the year has started off slow, sluggish and unmotivated for you, you may be relieved to know that you are right on time with the rhythm of the natural world. Contrary to Gregorian calendar, in the lunisolar calendar we are still amidst the deepest days of rest - these are the last few weeks of the winter qi nodes. This is a time for sleep, contemplation, and saving our resources. This is done so that we are vital, and our energy is abundant when the stirrings of Spring begin to emerge. A shift in our orientation might be to focus on reflections over resolutions. While this is a good time to plan, vision and reflect, it is not the ideal time to take action, or deplete ones energy. The traditional Chinese Calendar follows both the movements of the moon in 12-13 phases of the year, and the sun through 24 solar terms. The year of the rabbit starts the lunar year/Spring festival on the new moon falling January 22, while the start of spring in the solar year falls two weeks later on Feb 4th. (This video explains in detail if you’re curious.)
The Year of the Rabbit brings a slower, gentler, and more contemplative pace for the year. A nice change after a hurried, and often challenging Year of the Tiger. Tiger Years are known for correcting our course, while events may seem dramatic and at times painful, it is usually meant to change what is no longer serving us in our lives. Year of the Rabbit gives us time to heal these wounds, redirect our focus, and renew a sense of hope for better years ahead. You can find a full write up of Year of the Rabbit from local Chinese Metaphysics practitioner Sonia Tan here.
For myself, a contemplative theme emerging for the Rabbit Year is how to align my work with what feels meaningful on a larger scale. After such a deep cultural upheaval during this pandemic, I find myself asking - What truly gives us meaning? What generates hope? What is the world we want to be a part of? And what is our role in bringing that to fruition? A helpful reflection prompt I found was this article Finding Our Place in the Social Change Ecosystem by Deepa Iyer. I love this framing for finding our sense of purpose, and the accompanying diagram because it resonates so beautifully with TCM theory of interconnectedness.
I feel lucky to have such caring & empathetic clients. To support so many of you who in turn support your communities through organizing mutual aid, politics, government, relationships, and parenting. My work feels meaningful in part by being able to support you in your work in the world.
Wishing you all the best in your reflections for the year ahead. May we all know and experience the support of our interconnectedness.
Acupuncture and Somatics for Post-Operative Recovery
Moving beyond pain management and wound care, which is often the extent of the post operative care we receive in hospitals, acupuncture and somatic body work can offer support for looking at whole mind-body integration. From routine dental surgeries to emergency cesarean sections, a good portion of the clients I see have had at least one surgery and yet many do not think it significant enough to include in their medical history, let alone feel it could be connected to their chronic headaches, insomnia or pain distant to the incision site. From the view point of allopathic surgeons and their after care plans, once the wound has healed the complaint is resolved. Acupuncture and somatic theory tell us otherwise. Below are some of note;
Integration of trauma - whether or not you were awake for surgery or remember the original incident that pre-empted surgery, your body holds the implicit (out of direct cognition) somatic memory of being immobilized and operated on. The trauma is held in the local tissues, that may have wanted to mount a self protective response but were unable to, and in a network of neural pathways in subcortical levels of the brain. These implicit somatic memories may be reawakened with direct or subconscious stimuli. This can present post-op as chronic tension, anxiety/depression/sadness, mood swings, flashbacks or ghost/phantom pain to name a few. It may also present as a lowered window of tolerance to daily stimuli such as sensory information, minor stressors, loud noises, or full work schedules as the nervous system remains in a state of self protection.
Somatic body work like SE and craniosacral are helpful for bringing gentle awareness to areas that have been operated on and provide a container for the body to unwind and release some of those self protective responses. For example, working with someone who has had surgery in the area of hips such as a hernia or cesarean, we might find shaking, heat, twitching or even impulses to kick as the fight or flight response is able to resolve and find completion.
Similarly Kiiko style acupuncture can help by stimulating the dorso-lateral Prefrontal Cortex (part of the brain the stores traumatic memories) to release the “bracing” tension from the nervous system and helps to form new neural pathways (over time) around feelings of safety and ease of mobility.
Rebalancing fascial alignment after organ removal: Surgeries to remove organs such as the gall bladder, appendix or fibroids leave an imbalance from left to right in the inner workings of the fascia through the abdomen, which can throw off the alignment and tension patterns anywhere from the deep core abdominals to the spiral lines spanning the ankles to the occiput. Based on the principals of Chinese medicine and Japanese Hara Diagnosis, these stagnant areas can eventually lead to constriction around organs and impaired function, create pain in areas distant to the incision site or lead to alignment patterns that cause strain on other joints. Even if the surgery was 30 years ago, with the right choice of treatment to counter-balance and release adhesions we can bring more ease to your facial alignment.
Speed up healing time - Acupuncture focuses on optimizing your nervous system’s autonomic responses to stress. When the nervous system is in balance, we can reduce systemic inflammation and ensure your immune responses are switched on and targeting the correct tissues. Treating local areas affected by surgery - usually with heat and moxa rather than needles - restores circulation, bringing fresh blood and nutrients to the damaged tissue to be repaired. Ultimately speeding natural healing responses and recovery time.
Release and prevents scar adhesions- Adhesions are like snags in the underlying fascia around the incision site. They present as bumps, uneven dermis, discoloration, numbness, tingling or pain on or around the scar. Scar adhesions block circulation and energy flow and have been linked to some chronic post-operative conditions like pain, headaches, and depression. Japanese Acupuncture protocols never needle the scar directly but instead around and sometimes under the scar. Heat may be used for circulation, and bringing fresh blood and nutrients to the scar site with a combination of Moxa, infrared heat and/or diode rings or ion pumping cords.
Detox anesthesia and pain management medications- Most commonly an anesthesia and/or pain meds will be administered during a procedure. These can be hard for the liver to metabolize, congest lymph, interfere with digestion and/or tax the kidneys. Kiiko style acupuncture has specific protocols for detoxing medications, reducing systemic toxicity, and restoring digestive functioning.
Aids ligament, joint and muscle function: If you had surgery on a limb, the movement patterns are affected both pre- and post-surgically due to casting/bracing/crutches/immobilization. During the recovery period, the gait and movement patterns shift to protect the affected area as it takes time to heal. The body wants to prevent any further injury, which is necessary in the short-term but gets in the way of normal function later on. Without slow re-education that "yes, it is safe to move the area again", the muscles may start to freeze in response to pain. This then creates a cascade effect of over-compensation methods throughout the body (i.e. hip hikes up during a step because knee or ankle won't bend, which then affects the low back, ribcage, shoulders and neck). Acupuncture, in line with somatic therapy, helps safely and gently stimulate the nerves to "wake up", speeding up activation of inhibited muscles and restoring alignment.
Self Care for Seasons Change: Winter and The Kidneys
Snow is right on time today with Nov. 7th being the first day of winter in the solar calendar (winter solstice marks the half way point). Autumn ending in-sync with the lunar eclipse at 3am Nov 8th.
I’ve been feeling energy shifts in pulses and abdomens for the past few weeks. Pulses are sinking, kidneys and adrenals are asking for attention. Listening into cranio rythms, there is more unwinding in stillness than in movement. People are dropping in deeper on the table, some fall asleep in my hands.
I like to think of snow as a blanket. Tucking in the plants for winter. Energy descends into the roots of trees, mirroring our natural desire to turn inwards in the colder months.
The organs ruling the season of winter are the kidneys and bladder. So by extension deeper levels of the nervous system; the brain, spinal chord, bones and adrenals should be tended to. We can help our bodies attune to the seasonal shift by slowing down enough to hear our own internal voice. A feat in itself for most of us surviving capitalism!
Some symptoms you might notice flair during the winter months are fatigue, anxiety marked by fear, or anxiety from depletion/running on empty, frequency in urination, sore low back or knees, insomnia, night sweats, hot flashes, constipation and tinnitus to name a few. As always a TCM practitioner can help support you, but I think it’s nice to lean into accessible self care practices that remind us to pay attention to what’s happening within and see how that’s reflected around us.
Self care for winter Kidneys & bladder:
Epsom salt foot baths - salt is the flavour associated with the season + organ systems of winter. The start of the kidney channel is on the bottom of the foot, when we warm out feet we are helping circulation of energy in the whole body.
Warm cooked meals, soups and stews along with dark coloured foods such as black sesame, blueberry, black fungus, seaweeds, walnut, flax, black beans, black rice & wild rice, goji berry
Keep your feet and low back warm, using hot water bottles on your back and/or foot baths while resting at the end of your days. At home moxa and moxa heat packs are helpful.
Slow resourcing exercise like tai chi & Qi gong + stillness practices like meditation. Cut back on high intensity activities if possible.
Herbs to warm the kidneys: goji, cinnamon, and ginger.
Gentle adaptogens for the nervous system like tulsi and ashwaghanda + supportive nervines like milky oat seed, skullcap, passionflower.
Herbs that support the brain like gotu kola, ginko leaf, and lions mane.
E-booklet: A guide to using stick-on Moxa at home
EBOOK: Acupressure for Climate Anxiety & Wildfire Smoke Exposure
It is a wise and adaptive choice to separate from our embodied experiences in times of stress. Yet it is also a necessary to come back into connection with our physical sensations in order to complete the stress cycle and heal from the fractures of trauma. The practice of acupressure can be a tool to self sooth and reconnect to our embodied relationships with ourselves. The more we practice creating moments of calm, ease or neutrality in our bodies, the more resilience we can cultivate to stress, and the more capacity we create to hold both grief and hope for the times we are in.
Acupressure helps your body in the same way acupuncture does. Relaxing the nervous system, releasing tension, and modulating immune & inflammation responses. I have chosen points to help calm the mind, open the chest and support the lungs.
Take good care!
Scars: How to Help the Body Heal With Acupuncture
Scars are a beautiful example of the bodies extraordinary resiliency and ability to heal itself. Sometimes though, that healing response is so strong that it produces an excess of tissue and collagen that can build up and obstruct the natural flow of energy in meridians, fascia, skin and muscle. Scars are widely treated with acupuncture and may be linked to cases of persistent, chronic and untraceable conditions.
Not all scars are pathological and there are a number of factors to consider when assessing a scar such as depth, size, color. Physical sensations such as numbness and tingling and physical obstruction such as range of motion. If upon pressing or palpation of scar there is any pain or tenderness this may indicate qi and blood stagnation or deficiency. If calcification is present this may indicate phlegm accumulation. These types of reactive scars will benefit most greatly from acupuncture treatment to move stagnant energy and restore balance. Additionally the restoration of proper qi and nutrient flow can help to break up adhesions and improve the cosmetic appearance of both hypertrophic and keloid scars by increasing elasticity, flatness and correcting dis-coloration.
Some types of scars I find especially important to check in my practice are: Abdominal and cesarean scars, post surgery and other deep scars that have penetrated multiple layers of fascia, scars on the head - especially if related to concussions, scars along joints - which may inhibit mobility, scars that clearly cross or intersect TCM meridians.
Needling
There are many ways to needle scars depending on the patients strength of constitution. Be mindful that releasing built up energy and stored trauma can produce strong healing reactions that may be uncomfortable for patients. For example a scar treatment on the liver or gall bladder meridian may trigger a reaction as mild as a headache or as severe as a migraine. In general pattern differentiation is not discussed in texts simply because it doesn’t affect “point prescriptions”.
Classical texts note the technique of “surrounding the dragon” where many needles are inserted transversely toward the center of the scar every few millimetres until the scar is completely surrounded. This technique may be suitable for strong patients with excess scar conditions such as qi/blood stagnation or phlegm accumulation. Needling transversely under the scar is essential for breaking up adhesions and promoting circulation to the area.
Alternatively some suggest palpating the scar and choosing 2 or 3 of the most tender areas to insert thinly gauged needles transversely up to 0.5 cun in depth. This technique may be appropriate in deficient patients and scar conditions such as Qi and blood deficiency or until the patients response to treatment can be accurately assessed.
Additionally in both cases distal points may be added on corresponding affected meridians.
Moxabustion
Undoubtedly an invaluable tool in the treatment of scars. Not only does moxa improve nutrient and energy flow to the area but it burns at in infrared frequency that increases the bodies immune function and builds Qi and blood. Moxa can be applied directly, on needle head, indirectly with sticks, with a moxa box or a tiger warmer. Moxa is especially helpful taught to patients or family members for daily home care. In my practice I have found its most helpful to treat scars with Moxa before needling to avoid adverse reactions such as pain, sharpness and headaches that can happen with needling scars.
Other Methods of Healing:
Intradermals: Can be used in place of needles with proper patient education. Not advised with unhealed scars due to risk of infection.
Lineaments: Can be applied to speed up regeneration of epidermis and improve circulation. Some common over the counter formulas are:
Zheng gu shui – called steaming bone water for good reason. It is said to be “the deepest penetrating of all the Chinese liniments.” Helpful in moving blood stasis, the camphor also reduces swelling and pain.
Vitamin E and aloe vera – especially useful in new and superficial scars. Reduces the appearance of scars, reduces swelling and inflammation and speeds recovery.
Ching wan hung – promotes tissue regeneration, antibacterial.
Wan hua oil -moves blood stasis due to acute trauma
DIY at home lineament – Add 1 tablespoon cayenne to 1 pint of apple cider vinegar simmered over the stove and then let cool, moves stagnation and promotes blood circulation for recovery and reduces inflammation and swelling.
Light guasha, tui na and cupping may also be effective in breaking up adhesions and moving stagnation. As always its important to assess relative condition of the scar to patients constitution to avoid over treating as these modalities tend to be more aggressive.
The treatment results may vary greatly from patient to patient depending on their health and severity/age of scar but one can usually gauge progress after about 3-12 treatments. Weather the scar is from injury, surgery or as old as childhood, moving long standing stagnation can bring radical changes and could be the key to unlocking chronic and idiopathic conditions.
On Spring, TCM and Cultural Nervous System Activation
Tomorrow is the first day of spring in the qi node calendar. Energetically it marks the seasonal shift of energy in the body from the depths of winter and kidneys to the outwards “spring” of energy to the liver. The liver is energetically in charge of action, planning, movement. It’s emotion is anger. It’s virtue is benevolence. We might surmise with recent events that its not coincidental that historically many actions and movements spring forth this time of year. An affirmation that we are apart of the natural cycles of the earth.
We acknowledge that anger is healthy and a natural part of the cycles of emotion. Anger often fuels change and a movement towards justice. It is also a cause of dis-ease if not experienced in moderation or given tools to be experienced in a titrated way. Angry livers can cause sensations of heat and rising in the body experienced as headaches, anxiety, irritability, discomfort/tension in the shoulders/neck/ribs and digestive disturbances.
Biologically when we feel angry, unsafe or as if social engagement is shut off, we will search for information to sooth the left brains need for order and predictability (McGilchrist). We may spend a long time online, reading, engaging in discourse. While this may help create a sense of order, it also uses energy, becomes depleting and keeps us from shifting back into connection with others and our internal felt sense. It is partly how movements and activism have the biological potential to burn us out, keep us feeling isolated and disconnected from our embodiment.
Taking time away from screens, protecting our energy and putting it back into the relationships and causes we love can sooth the liver and help us process overwhelming feelings in a more contained way. Embodying the Livers virtues of benevolence, it can also be soothing to engage in acts of kindness. Cook a meal for a friend, make a donation to your favourite mutual aid group, do a grocery shop for the local free fridge/pantry.
As you welcome in spring, I hope you can take a moment to ground into all the good folks, neighbours, organizers and lineages we are apart of that are doing the actual work of liberation in silence and humility. Our movements/activism need us well slept, resourced by community, embodied, and with well regulated nervous systems.
Practicing Unconditional Positive Regard
Unconditional positive regard is a value I hold central in my treatment room that I feel could be of boarder use in these increasingly divisive and uncomfortable social times.
Developed by humanist physiologist Carl Roger who developed theories on “client centred care”, unconditional positive regard is showing support and acceptance of a person exactly as they are. It is a way to acknowledge that everyone is inherently human and inherently worth of love and healing despite difference in values, morality or harms done.
Some ways we can practice this:
With oneself - what shifts might occur in my thoughts, behaviours and body sensations when I practice unconditional positive regard for myself and my body for the next 15 mins? For one hour? As a daily intention?
In our treatments together - what would it be like to hold unconditional positive regard for each other in the treatment room, the process unfolding interpersonally and the healing your body is engaging with?
With others - How might my conflicts with others transform when I hold unconditional positive regard for them despite our differences? How might my thoughts, actions and sensations change with my neighbours, the cashier at the checkout, the person who cuts me off in traffic when I meet them with unconditional positive regard?
The point is not to excuse harm done but to create conditions for change and healing through safe, respectful relationship that we are innately wired for.
On Watching Plants Grow
A teacher from my lineage of acupuncture, Master Nagano spoke about how people who lived in relationships to the natural world, such as fishermen and farmers were easier to cure of disease than those who worked in cities and with people.
Learning about plants growing around you is a good way to attune your body to the season and start to develop a relationship with the land you live on. When you notice the rhythms of growth and death, action and rest, flowering to seed - you have a deeper awareness of how energy is moving in your own body.
You also might start to form deep relationships with plants and land as you watch their life cycles and return to the same spots for harvest year after year. These deeply reciprocal relationships also help us to understand the importance of the protecting wild spaces like the fairy creek watershed for example.
As a white bodied settler, forming these relationships of respect with the land is not only of benefit to our physical well-being but also can be a part of healing ancestral trauma that informs & contributes to our relationship with on-going colonization. As we reackon with the grief of ancestral displacement and move towards repair of right relationships with plants and land we become accountable to our histories and are less likely to perpetuate harm.
On the body as a site of social change
With all the recent news around land defence, indigenous sovereignty and reconciliation, I’ve had a lot of clients these past weeks processing what it means to show up in solidarity/accountability and how that can move us forward towards change - whether in community, activism, allyship or healing harms from all the “isms”.
A big theme coming up is that we are entering/creating uncharted spaces and opportunities for healing in transformative ways, and with that leaving behind much of the ways we have been relating and organizing. Making space for new ways that prioritize safety, accountability and change. When I think about it somatically, I think our bodies can lead the way on this.
Without having collective embodied experiences of what this can look and feel like, we can turn inwards as a place of reference. How can we first individually hold a space within ourselves that feels grounded, safe, accountable and open to compassionate change? And how can we use our internal somatic experience as an anchor or guide as we enter these uncharted spaces?
As body workers we can offer space to explore this. As a gentle + safe space for relaxing or for facilitating deeper releases of traumatic holding patterns. The more somatic memories we can create for ourselves around safety, accountability and healing the more we can offer to our communities, liberation spaces and movements.
Holistic Vaccine Support
I’m starting to see more folks coming in for vaccine support and it is great to see people thinking holistically about their recovery process. Vaccines can be a big deal for your immune and nervous system, especially with the levels of stress we’ve been exposed to this past year. Acupuncture, along with some pre & post home care can be helpful to support your body through the experience and may help to mitigate some common side effects.
First off as a disclaimer I will say that in BC acupuncturists and TCMPs are not considered primary care providers and as such it is out of our scope of practice to give any medical information or advice on vaccines, the advantages or risks involved or provide personal opinions.
Instead I am compiling some information on how to care for yourself before and after vaccination from a TCM view, should you chose to receive one.
The simplified way of explaining a vaccine is that it teaches your immune system how to fight a specific infection by creating the appropriate immune antibodies (fighter cells). While your body creates antibodies, it is possible to feel similar to if your body was fighting an active infection.
From a TCM view the vaccine by passes the “Wei qi” level (nose, mouth, mucosal membranes) and penetrates directly to interior levels of the body (intramuscular site of injection). This can show up as a “shao yang” pattern depending on your immune system response which causes symptoms like fever/chills, sweats, fatigue, muscle aches and soreness. To best prepare your body you can consider the following:
The week before your shot
treat your body like you are already sick to nurture your immune system
eat warm cooked foods, rest plenty, get adequate hydration
lessen intensity of physical activity, especially with menses, to conserve your qi & energy
acupressure and moxa Stomach qi line to support your immune system
Day of your shot:
avoid getting the shot while you are having any immune system taxation such as: intense allergies, cold/flu, autoimmune flairs
cover your wind gates (the back of your neck) especially if you waiting outside in line
book the rest of your day off if possible
After your shot:
take a day or two off to rest fully
continue acting as if you are sick & fighting an infection - rest, warm cooked & easy to digest foods & hydration
epsom salt baths can help with swollen lymph nodes, body aches and arm soreness
immune points and/or shao yang acupressure points sj5/gb41 if side effects occur
acupressure li 4 for headaches & pain (photo below)
receive acupuncture if possible to help support your immune & nervous systems and to mitigate any side effects that may be present.
Supplements for support:
Traditional Chinese Medicine formula - Jade Windscreen (Yu Ping Feng San) - can be purchased over the counter from any TCM doctor and most stores along lower Fisgard St. Can be taken 2 weeks leading up to and after your shot.
Magnesium - for soreness and nervous system support. Taken internally as powder or transdermal through epsom salt baths.
Turmeric/curcumin - helps with generalized inflammation, can be taken in meals & drinks, capsule form or my perosonal favourite in gummies.
Centralized Sensitivity Syndromes & KMS Acupuncture
It is interesting to note that in TCM disease is a cultural concept influenced by ones environment, climate and most importantly emotional state of health. To me, the increase in centralized sensitivity syndromes is a good example of how our culture of stress, unprocessed trauma and environmental disregard is showing up in the body as hyper-vigilance in the nervous system. Clinically I’ve seen Kiiko Matsumoto Acupuncture (KMS) provide helpful strategies for balancing body systems affected by CSS - namely ANS, immune, adrenal and the prefrontal cortex of the brain.
Central sensivity syndromes (CSS) vary in their presentations and symptoms. Below is some info from the complex chronic disease program at BC women hospital:
What are Central Sensitvity Syndromes?
Central sensivity syndromes (CSS) belong to a family of syndromes that share the common mechanism of “central sensitization.” Central means the problem is at the level of the brain and spinal cord. The neurons (brain and spinal cord cells) are “hyper-excitable” or sensitzed because of changes in the way the cells communicate chemically and through other mechanisms. The sensitized cells amplify, or make stronger, messages that we get from our senses (for example touch can feel like pain, normal lighting or sound can be experienced as uncomfortable). But the cells are not just sensitized; they often send “wrong” information as well, and they can also trigger abnormal responses to the environment. For instance the cells can send information to make your heart race, make you feel dizzy, or not regulate your body temperature normally. New sensitivities to food, chemicals, and medications can also occur.
What are examples of Central Sensitvity Syndromes?
The diagram below shows some of the common Central Sensitvity Syndromes.
What predispose someone to Central Sensitvity Syndromes?
The syndromes can run in families (parents, siblings, children). Also abuse or trauma in childhood also seems to play a role (as it does in many other conditions). Many with these syndromes have neither of these.
What are triggers (precipitants) for Central Sensitvity Syndromes?
In predisposed individuals, there is oIen a trigger (precipitant) in the form of a stressor. This includes infections (for example after a flu), physical trauma (for example after a car accident), or psychological stress or trauma (for example “burn out” or even a single traumatic event).
What else goes wrong with Central Sensitvity Syndromes?
Central sensitization is the result of problems with the endocrine (hormone) system, the immune system, and inflammation. There are also problems with the cell’s mitochondria (the energy power houses of the cell).
Are there any other factors that come into play in Central Sensitivity Syndromes?
Yes. Poor sleep, overexertion, reduced activity, stress, depression and anxiety can all turn up the dial of sensitivity and make symptoms worse.
Kiiko Matsumoto Style acupuncture
KMS acupuncture offers a practical framework for addressing both the root causes and symptoms of CSS. This style of acupuncture uses hands on palpation of the body to assess where the nervous system is holding tension patterns and uses acupuncture to bring completion to long held embodied symptoms. Below are a few of the common KMS treatment strategies for working with CSS.
ANS Treatment - Assessment and treatment of autonomic nervous system imbalances is undoubtedly an important system to help regulate in the context of CSS. The autonomic nervous system can loop us into a pain cycle. Pain leads to stress, stress causes hyper vigilance in the nervous system, the nervous system registers more pain, and so on.
Immune Treatment - these treatments can help to address root causes that may have triggered CSS like infections or parasites, as well as help to modulate immune function in the current immunological cascade of CSS.
Adrenal Treatment - prolonged periods of stress and chronic pain in CSS can eventually lead to adrenal disharmony that can be corrected with acupuncture. Adrenal imbalances may also be part of the root cause of CSS especially in those predisposed to childhood abuse or trauma.
Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex "DLPFC" Treatment - an important strategy for CSS from Kiiko Matsumoto that uses scalp acupuncture to stimulate the dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex in the brain. This is the brain centre responsible for "the off switch" of neurological patterns involving cycling pain & trauma. When we stimulate this part of the brain while the body is in a relaxed state, we can start to override the pain pathways and form new ones around feeling better. fMRI studies have shown that in those patients with chronic pain or PTSD, this area of the brain shows reduced blood flow and when those patients come out of chronic pain or other symptomatology, that area of the brain again shows increased blood flow.
As with any state of prolonged stress on the body, the most important treatment strategy for CSS is to work slowly at the pace of the nervous system to allow for these hyper-vigilant states to feel safe enough. Acupuncture can be a helpful tool in complex chronic disease management.
Detox Guide - Gentle Natural Interventions
I’ve been seeing a lot of folks for detox support lately. From VOC poisoning from cleaning the oil spill in Nootka sound, toxin accumulation from substance dependancy, cancer treatment, and “unexplained” lymphatic congestion. Generally, we can help by supporting the bodies natural detox pathways - the liver and the lymphatic system:
General support
drink lots of warm or room temperature water, add lemon for extra support
get extra rest - fatigue is common while the body mounts a response to toxins
take time off if possible - allowing the body to heal and reducing stress load
Liver support:
avoid sugar, alcohol, smoking, and processed foods
add warm cooked greens, bone broths, culinary mushrooms like wood ear, shiitake & maitake
healthy sours like apple cider vinegar and lemon taken in warm water
milk thistle, burdock, dandelion teas, tinctures or capsules
Lymphatic support:
dry brushing the skin
qi gong tapping, especially around inguinal crease, chest, collar bones and arm pits
bouncing or skipping rope
breast & chest massage - use a gua sha tool if you have one
body work like acupuncture, craniosacral, lymphatic drainage massage - to get fluid systems and detox pathways moving
Supplements:
activated charcoal
reishi, turkeytail, lions mane mushrooms
milk thistle, burdock, dandelion teas, tinctures or capsules
cleavers - tea, tincture, infused body oils for lymph massage
Acupuncture is recommended weekly until symptoms resolve.
Home/Body - Somatic Grounding Exercises Ebook
Somatics is relating to the body. Using the body as a gateway for reconnecting to the safety, vitality and joy that is available to us through our awareness. There are many subtle, and not so subtle ways we become disconnected from our bodies & somas. It is an inevitable, and normal part of this messy human experience. It is extremely useful and a wise adaptation to daily stress and more severe trauma.
These practices are just that - a practice. May you use them with self compassion and a deep reverence for all your bodies wisdom.
Year of the Ox 2021 Predictions By Lillian Pearl Bridges
The Farmer stares out across the fallow field and sees mud and downed branches from the storms of winter, knowing that first he must clean up the field and then wait patiently until the land is ready. When it is time, the Farmer puts the yoke on the Ox and slowly plows the field. Then the Farmer plants the seeds and waits for them to grow. Eventually the Farmer brings in a good crop, maybe two if luck is with him. This is the story of this Ox Year.
February 12, 2021 is the start of the Chinese Year of the Golden Ox with February 3rdrepresenting the start of the Spring Festival. The Ox (Cow) is the second animal in the Chinese Zodiac system and is a respected animal valued for its ability to work hard and endure. The Ox is credited with the values of constancy and cooperation. These are usually slow-moving animals that are even-tempered and placid unless they are provoked. The Element for Ox is Yin Earth, as it is an animal long connected to farming.
The element for the year is Yin Metal, which is harmonious with the Earth Element, as
Earth generates and feeds Metal. This implies a calmer and more stable year with less anger, less contentious behavior and much less potential for violence. Yang behavior will simply not be supported or be sustainable. Yin Metal is about the future and our hopes and dreams, which can start to inspire us again.
The overall outlook for the year is positive, especially towards the latter part of the year. Harvest comes in the summer and fall months, which also correspond to the elements of the year. So there is hope that life will get better in many ways for many people as the year progresses.
Life will feel more peaceful and less stressful, but this year requires patience. Forward movement will be mostly slow going toward desired and more ideal outcomes in the future. There will still be some restrictions on growth and movement, but these will lessen. Yin Metal will make people and governments more efficient and subtly more productive so that by the end of the year there will be incremental achievements that together will amount to something more substantial.
The hindsight gained from looking back to a turbulent 2020 gives this year a special quality and leads to overall themes of the year that involve reactivity and gives rise to many “re” actions: regroup; rebuild; reform; restructure; restore; replace; recycle; renew; reevaluate; reorganize; reestablish; revitalize and reinvent. The bad news is that there is likely to be a recession, but there will be happy reunions, some economic recovery and eventually rewards. This is due to the Yin Earth aspect of the Ox, which is involved with agriculture and the idea that you can plow a field more than once, sometimes several times in a year in order for new crops to grow.
Yin Metal is symbolized by jewelry, particularly precious metals and gems, along with coins. This will lead to a desire to adorn with jewelry again and may lead to a renewed interest in collecting coins or investing in Gold and Silver. Perhaps new caches of ancient coins or jewelry or other artifacts will be discovered due to the combination of Yin Metal and Yin Earth. These treasures would be things that have become shallowly buried and finally have the right circumstances to come to light. A new variation of Yin Metal would be Cryptocurrency and the energies of the year should help increase interest in it or regulation of it. Interestingly, the decentralized aspect of its exchange is given benefit by Yin Earth. And finally, Yin Metal is also associated with metal implements such as forks, spoons and knives so fine dining should return with increased popularity for restaurants that serve beautiful and healthy food.
However, one of the more dangerous symbols of Yin Metal is the jeweled dagger, which is representative of assassination attempts, most likely by individuals (Yin Metal), possibly female or small groups or cells (Yin Earth). The biggest danger is from the lone-wolf assassin or an insider who is close to the target. Because of the Earth Element, they will be homegrown terrorists and not from foreign shores. This could also be translated as an increase in using knives as weapons and potentially more stabbings. But this energy could also be translated as the potential for being “stabbed in the back;” or being betrayed by someone close to you; or being rejected from a group; or suffering from a character assassination. Metal is always about upholding virtues and commitments and those who are shown to be hypocritical will not be easily excused. Conversely, those who do what they promised to do will be very appreciated.
Globally, countries will begin to ease the restrictions after the confinement of the previous year, but it will happen slowly. There will still be some seclusion and feeling the need for security in the earlier half of the year, due to the Metal aspect, but there will be more socializing which is a gift from the Earth aspect of the year. However, most gatherings will be smaller with a special emphasis on cultivating important connections in a social setting, rather than hosting extravagant parties or holding protests or rallies.
Countries will find that people have a renewed interest in repairing the infrastructure and will be much less interested in expanding or fighting about borders. This means there will be fewer provocative actions by neighboring countries or incursions into protected or territorial land or seas. There should be a return to skillful and polished diplomacy, which will result in more civil negotiations between countries, along with the Earth contributing the ability to compromise more than usual. Some important treaties will be signed with more cooperation and collaboration and with concessions made from both sides. Earth appreciates long-term friendships and connections, so previous associations can be easily renewed and strengthened in this year. The countries that show they are reliable and dependable allies will be rewarded and this applies to personal relationships as well.
This is a year where personal responsibility is important, so stepping up to embrace this ideal behavior by admitting mistakes and apologizing will pay off. Those who skirt and evade responsibility for their bad behavior will see a loss in status, popularity and respect. This will unfortunately lead to some public shaming and censure. It is recommended that those in power refrain from blatant and overt political power plays, as they could easily backfire. There is a very strong need for some kind of homeostasis and balance of power politically and culturally. Those who promote these ideals will be revered and appreciated.
Weather patterns will not be as dramatic as last year. In the Five Element Cycle, Yin Earth pushes into Yin Metal, which increases Yin Water, which is rain. This may indicate light rain over long periods of time or more rain in the seasons of these elements - summer and fall, or it could indicate more warm rain. This might lead to a slight increase in water stored in lakes, dams and aquifers by the end of the year, but it may not help drought-stricken areas very much. The Ox in Chinese Astrology is traditionally associated with coldest part of winter even though the elements of the year are related to summer and fall. This means that there may be some weather reversals such as a colder summer or fall, or more warmth in winter in some places. Wind based storms will not be as strong and there will be fewer extreme temperature fluctuations.
The Earth this year is not very strong so that could indicate instability in some places in the world. This could mean land could sink or collapse, as in sinkholes or cave-ins. However, there will be increased interest in mining for precious metals, although that may be somewhat risky this year. The Fire Element is still trapped underground and working its way up (for the next several years) so it is expected that there will be swarms of Earthquakes, with occasional big ones occurring. Some of these Earthquakes may happen in places where they are not commonly experienced. Dangerous Tsunamis are not as likely as in the future when Fire comes even closer to returning above ground, but they are still possible.
Volcanoes will also rumble in more places with eruptions likely to be primarily ash that may affect air quality, which is likely to be more of a problem than lava flow, but lava will still flow. But Fire is not very tameable this year, so wildfires are still expected to burn large areas since there is not enough of the Fire Element this year to control them, because fire fights fire. However, the potential light rain this year may help. The smoke from these wildfires will additionally influence air quality. Unfortunately, this is just one of many signs that air quality may be compromised in numerous places this coming year from a variety of sources. This will turn into a demand for clean air that may translate into new laws. This will increase the interest in Environmentalism in an idealized form, like planning for changes in the future. Scientists will outline the actions needed to deal with Climate Change, for example, which will be adopted by leading countries, but implementation will have to wait until the next two Wood years to be put into practice.
Space Exploration that started last year will continue with new discoveries possible. And the science and medicine fields will become even more respected. Real Estate will also continue to benefit, with particular growth in home sales. Technology is boosted, but Social Media will become susceptible to new restrictions from the Metal desire to limit bad behavior. Innovation is not favored, except for improving already established products.
Agriculture and food production, especially small-scale farming and organic farming will flourish. Those who treat cows well, especially those who revere cows or treat dairy cows in humane ways will see abundant milk production and also receive extra good luck. This is not a good year though for sports that involve bulls, like bullfighting or the rodeo, as bulls can be more easily riled up this year. There will be less food insecurity, as the supply chains will be strengthened this year. There will be more charitable gifts of food, so any charity involved with food and feeding people will benefit from increased donations.
Education is a value of the Metal Element, so when the nurturing of the Earth Element is added, you may see policies developed for assisting and enhancing early childhood education and possibly salary increases for teachers. Overall, teachers and coaches will feel much more valued and appreciated this year and school children will most likely enjoy learning more this year as they return to school. Parents will be feeling more lenient and yet also want to teach children more manners. And people will feel like nurturing others, affecting children more.
The lack of Fire this year is also not good for the stock market and many previously reliable indicators will not be able to accurately predict gains or losses, as there is still an erratic energy present. People will have the urge to save money this year, but will be willing to spend it on home repairs and also on self care as there will be a desire to look more polished. Hairdressers and other beauty related businesses should do well. The fashion business will improve also, but clothing needs to be classic or inexpensively luxurious.
Health-wise, there is still some benefit for the immune system from Yin Metal. Yin Metal lowers the over-reactivity of last year’s Yang Metal that caused so much inflammation. However, it does leave people open to more minor irritations, such as skin rashes, hay fever and other allergic reactions. And while Covid 19 will still be a problem this year, the infections are expected to be somewhat milder for many people and may not spread as rapidly. Lungs, skin and hair will be drier this year, so the use of humidifiers for the lungs, or hydrating yourself more or using moisturizers are all recommended. People will find themselves coughing and clearing their throats more, as phlegm will be harder to move out. It is recommended that people sing more and practice deep breathing to enhance the lungs.
Digestion won’t be as strong this year, so it is advised to eat lighter or smaller meals and perhaps enhancing digestion with natural remedies, such as eating ginger or taking digestive enzymes, especially papaya and pineapple based enzymes as tropical fruit belongs to the Earth Element. People will still crave comfort food and will eat fewer snacks. There will be the desire to eat cleaner and healthier, but most people will want to take shortcuts so prepackaged or precut ingredients will be quite popular. The best advice is to take care of yourself and those you love with special care and consideration, as promoted in the Chinese Medicine teachings of Yang Sheng; nurturing life through positive lifestyle choices. Healthy routines will help your health. Both Allopathic and Alternative Medicine will be considered valuable businesses this year, with more emphasis on prevention, and with some people increasing their use of both pharmaceuticals (particularly vaccines) and natural supplements. Homeopathy will be particularly popular this year.
People will feel fatigued more easily and need to protect their energy by not overdoing, overworking or over exercising. A low-level feeling of anxiety will be pervasive this year, which may make those who struggle with OCD more easily triggered. Other people will find they are a bit more inclined to perfectionism. This may manifest as the desire to have more orderly environments, which will be needed, as the Yin Earth element will make most people somewhat messier.
The ideals of acceptance and inclusion will be promoted, but the Earth part of stubbornness, especially mentally, will still keep a number of people stuck in their intransigent beliefs. However, there will be a lot of facts emerging due to the Yin Metal element of the year to disprove many of these beliefs, making them harder to hold on to and verbalize. People will start to become more clear-minded, levelheaded, less impressionable and less influenced by other people’s opinions. Persuasion will not work well this year, with many people feeling as if they are coming to their senses; coming out of a dream state that is finally cutting through previous delusions or illusions they held that were based on feelings and reactions rather than fact. The black and white thinking of last year yields to grey when more sides to the stories are revealed. This hopefully will lead to more common causes with more positive ideals at the core.
People will feel more affectionate this year, perhaps because they were so deprived of contact last year. Yin Earth is about being of service and engaging in small acts of kindness. People will care about their communities more and want to share resources. Earth is about nourishing others, so people will want to socialize again, especially over meals. However, this will not be a high-energy year, so although there will be this desire to socialize, it is likely to be with smaller groups of people. People will focus on strengthening family ties, which could prompt reconciliations between estranged family members and many people will feel even greater appreciation for their close friendships.
The Yin Metal element will encourage a return to proper behavior and socially gracious behavior such as being well mannered, speaking more tactfully and being polite. People will be appreciated and recognized for their graciousness and their adherence to etiquette. The difference between who resist acting in these ways will be in much starker relief than usual. This is a good year for old-fashioned romance and courting and the Ox year gives special benefit to those who are willing to commit to long-term relationships.
There will also be a clearer distinction between rustic and refined, whether in behavior, in dining, decorating or in fashion. Metal has slightly more strength this year so expect to see popular culture embrace subtle sophistication and understated elegance. Fashion will still focus on comfort, but there will be an increasing interest in dressing up a little and returning to wearing subtle makeup. This means more dresses, scarves and adornment for women. People will be more interested in matching colors, styles and textures. Men will be more interested in shaving their beards or mustaches or trimming them more often. Grooming of all kinds will be important.
There is an overall desire for beauty this year, so it is beneficial to have fresh flowers and grow a profusion of flowers in your garden (along with food), especially summer flowers. This flower theme may also show up in fabrics and clothing. Roses and other fragrant flowers will be especially life enhancing. This desire for fragrance will also benefit the perfume and candle businesses.
The most important ideals this year are kindness and compassion. It is not wise to provoke anger or act in aggressive ways, as the elements will not be with you. Instead, caring for others in small ways will be remembered and make a big difference. These may be small things like helping when you can. The Ox Year suggests that you stay in touch with loved ones, gather together in small family or friendship groups, eat together and share resources with those who have less. More inclusivity and tolerance will be promoted and practiced by many and will make the hardships and struggles of the past start to fade. We are all the same under the skin.
Although the tail of the Rat will cause some trouble at the start of the year, the Ox will take over in a slow and steady way to improve circumstances in our lives in so many ways.
However, it will take time. So be ready to see incremental growth and avoid impulsiveness. Try not to be discouraged and have faith. Better times are coming....
Individual Animal Forecasts for 2021
Rat - Water Element: 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032
The Rat is the secret friend of the Ox, so that means that the Rat gets a lot of secret luck this year too! Plans that were initiated last year can come to fruition but try to complete them before the year’s end. The Yin of this year benefits the Rat so enjoy the slower pace.
Ox* - Earth Element: 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033
The Ox does better in its own year than most animals. This is a good year for financial investment and creating future stability. Ox people will be more social than usual, which will be a strain, but they will be hosting or going to many family gatherings and weddings.
Tiger - Wood Element: 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034
Tigers will feel frustrated often this year and they must learn to handle the delays that will occur. There will be some obstacles to overcome and Tigers need to learn how to be patient and accepting, which is not easy for them! However, there can be payoffs later in the year.
Rabbit - Wood Element: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023, 2035
This is a moderate year for Rabbits. They can make steady progress if they slow down and do things thoroughly. There is happiness in the family and more socializing. There is also the possibility of investing in real estate or remodeling their current home, which are both stressful.
Dragon - Earth Element: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024, 2036
This is not an easy year for Dragons, as they will feel repressed and slowed down. However, steady work brings rewards and there is a good chance for romance and enjoyable social interactions. This is a good year for the Dragon to travel, but make sure your home is secure.
Snake - Fire Element: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037
This is a good year for Snakes. The Yin nature of the year is empowering. There will be financial rewards and opportunities for the Snake that others won’t get, so Snakes need to take them without hesitating. This is also a beneficial year for romance and friendship.
Horse - Fire Element: 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026
This year will feel very slow to Horses and the energy of this year will feel tedious many times. However, family life is happy and it is a good year for reorganizing and planning. Horses need to get ready for the good times coming and they will have to learn patience!
Sheep/Goat* - Earth Element: 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027 This is not an easy year. Sheep will feel blocked in their plans and find themselves saying things that they need to apologize for later. They need to watch their health and avoid dangerous activities. There can be unexpected financial benefit by the end of the year.
Monkey - Metal Element: 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028
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Monkeys will feel restrained, to their benefit. They need to stay closer to home and take care of all the things they have put aside for later. There is business success based on the plans started last year and it may end up being a more social year than expected.
Rooster - Metal Element: 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981,1993, 2005, 2017, 2029
This is a very lucky year for Roosters. They will have opportunities for advancement and recognition and will garner a great deal of respect. This is a good year for promoting themselves and their work and they will be well received. It is also a good year for traveling
Dog* - Earth Element: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030
This could be expensive year for Dogs and they will feel blocked in their progress. It’s an important time to regroup, rethink and get ready for the good luck coming in the next year. They may feel more irritation than usual, but they will also find fun in unexpected activities.
Pig - Water Element: 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031
This is a year with a special emphasis on happiness coming from the family. There may be more weddings and births. Pigs may change homes or change their homes. This is a particularly good year for remodeling and there will be opportunities for financial growth.
*Oxes (except those who are turning 60), Dogs and Goats need to wear or carry a Rat or Mouse charm this year for protection (even Mickey and Minnie will do) and to bring more luck your way. Anyone else can also use the charm, but Rats, Roosters and Snakes won’t need them. Please remember that the Chinese Astrology System involves 4 animals – one for the Year you were born, one for the Month, one for the Day and one for the Hour, so these may also have an impact on your luck. And remember that if you are one of the animal years that is not in alignment with the Ox, it just means that you may have to work harder (and possibly make more money), move, travel more, change jobs, start a new job, get married or have a baby – all things the Chinese consider “Good Bad Luck.”
DISCLAIMER: All information provided in this forecast is based on the ancient principles of the Chinese Five Element Theory and on an understanding of the animal symbolism in Chinese Astrology. It is intended for entertainment purposes only. There is no express or implied guarantee of results from using this information, and individual users are solely responsible for their own interpretation or application to their own circumstances. Further, the information is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for legal, medical, or psychological advice, evaluation and/or treatment. You are welcome to share this post, but please refer to the source.
©Lillian Pearl Bridges, Lotus Institute 2021
Centering In Action - A Guided Meditation
I am deeply grateful to be embedded in a community of healers, activists and care workers that hold me in relationship and mutual care. I received this meditation in my email last week from a dear friend Lou - who is a somatic and ASMR practitioner - and loved it so much I asked if I could share it with my people.
In their words: “ ....one of my favorite practices for coming back into center around action/movements that we care deeply about.”
You can find more about Lou’s work & meditations here:
https://www.somethingsosublime.com
4-4-6-2 Breathing Exercise
A parasympathetic twist on box breathing. This exercise helps to slow breathing & the long exhale engages the parasympathetic system - the rest & digest or feed & breed responses. This is helpful to do when feeling activated or anxious, before bed (sleeping or intimacy), or generally after a period of mask wearing.
Set a timer for 2-3 minutes on your phone
* Inhale through the nose for 4 seconds
* Hold for 4 seconds
* Exhale through the mouth for 6 seconds
* Hold for 2 seconds
Repeat for duration of timer
Winter The Season of Rest
In TCM winter is associated with the water element, kidneys and bladder organs, bones and teeth tissues, and fear and fright emotions. Winter is considered a time to rest and a time where the energy of the body descends deeply inside oneself to allow for quiet contemplation.
The traditional calendar follows 24 solar terms so the first day of winter was Nov 8th with solstice marking the half way point. The beginning of yang building within yin symbolized by the light retuning and longer days. The first day of spring is the first new moon of the lunar year which is celebrated as Chinese new year. This year it falls on Feb 12 - just over a month away.
With these last few weeks of winter it is important to rest deeply so that out energy can re-emerge with vitality in spring. This is important for health of our body, mind and spirit. We are ending a rat year and heading into an ox year. Rats are known for being resourceful at storing and gathering. The ox signals a year of hard work ahead. For me this is a reminder of the need to build our individual resources so that in the coming year we can do the “hard work” - processing all that had happened in the rat year (so much!) and moving forward towards the changes that we want and need in our lives, communities and the collective experience.
