A Guide to Seed Cycling for Hormonal Balance
A Guide to Seed Cycling for Hormonal Balance In our fast-paced world, achieving and maintaining hormonal balance can feel like a constant battle. From mood swings to irregular periods and even fertility challenges, hormonal imbalances can affect nearly every aspect of a woman’s life. But what if the solution to balancing your hormones could be as simple as incorporating certain seeds into your diet? Welcome to the world of seed cycling for hormonal balance, a natural and balanced approach that has been gaining popularity for its DIY ease and overall effectiveness. Seed cycling involves consuming specific seeds during different phases of your menstrual cycle to support the body’s natural hormonal rhythms. The concept is rooted in the idea that certain seeds contain nutrients that can help promote the production and detoxification of hormones, thus aiding in the overall balance. By understanding how to use seed cycling for hormones, you can take a proactive step toward improving your hormonal health naturally. So, how does seed cycling work? The menstrual cycle is typically divided into two main phases: the follicular phase (the first half) and the luteal phase (the second half). During the follicular phase, which begins on the first day of your period and lasts until ovulation, the body benefits from seeds like flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds. Flaxseeds are rich in lignans, which help bind excess estrogen, while pumpkin seeds provide zinc, which supports progesterone production. By consuming these seeds daily, you can help ensure a healthy balance of estrogen and progesterone, setting the stage for a smoother cycle. As you transition into the luteal phase, which begins after ovulation and continues until your next period, it’s time to switch to sesame and sunflower seeds. Sesame seeds are also high in lignans, which can help modulate estrogen levels, while sunflower seeds are packed with selenium, a powerful antioxidant that supports liver detoxification and hormone clearance. This phase of seed cycling for hormonal balance helps maintain the balance of progesterone and estrogen, reducing symptoms of PMS and promoting overall well-being. The benefits of seed cycling for women go beyond just regulating menstrual cycles. Many women have reported improved skin health, reduced acne, better mood stability, and even enhanced fertility. Because hormones inCluence so many aspects of our health, Cinding a natural way to support them can have widespread positive effects. Additionally, the seeds used in seed cycling are rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, all of which contribute to overall health and vitality. For those new to the concept, starting with a seed cycling guide for hormonal health can be incredibly helpful. Begin by purchasing high-quality, organic flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds. It’s best to use freshly ground seeds to ensure you’re getting the maximum nutritional benefits. You can easily incorporate these seeds into your diet by adding them to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or salads. The key is consistency— consume the recommended seeds daily according to the phase of your cycle. Seed cycling can be a wonderful way to support hormonal health at home in conjunction with Chinese medicine. The practitioners here at Tao to Wellness can help you fine-tune your seed cycling routine, offer acupuncture and herbal remedies tailored to your needs, and provide the support you need to gently bring the body back into balance.
Debunking the NYT Article; “Is Delaying Menopause the Key to Longevity”?
Debunking the NYT Article; “Is Delaying Menopause the Key to Longevity”? It’s an eye catching title and a semi interesting read that discusses how scientists are trying to figure out how to keep the ovaries working longer, and if they can, are we able to prevent the progression of age related diseases? In March, Jill Biden announced a new women’s initiative that is highlighting this question among scientists and researchers. “The ovaries are the only organ in humans that we just accept will fail one day,” said Renee Wegrzyn, director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health, a government agency tasked with steering Dr. Biden’s mission. “It’s actually kind of wild that we all just accept that.” Most think of the ovaries as just a “baby maker”, but as the article states the ovaries act as a control center and have a lot to do with influencing every organ in a woman’s body. It says that scientists don’t exactly understand how this happens but I believe it’s simply a part of the HPO Axis; the hypothalamic, pituitary, ovarian axis. This axis is a highway of constant communication between the ovaries and the brain and vice versa through a feedback loop. There are many ‘loops’ in the body, for example right now a very hot topic is the gut brain connection. On an elementary level, the article says when women’s eggs are depleted the ovaries seem to go quiet, which corresponds to of course an increased risk in age related diseases. The phrase ‘women’s eggs are depleted’, couldn’t be more inaccurate. Doctors say most of us are born with millions of eggs (40,000 – 3 million to be exact), even that is an inaccurate way of describing the beauty that unfolds in a woman’s ovaries. What women are actually born with are millions of opportunities! By way of folliculogenesis, these opportunities rise to the surface and become expressed! Folliculogenesis is a maturing ovarian follicle that will in most cases rear a good quality egg. At any given time, women have many, many follicles that are in varying stages; from primordial, primary, secondary, tertiary to antral follicles. Not all of these are follicles yet, most are flat cells waiting to grow up to be a follicle, for example it takes about 180 days for the primordial stage to reach it’s full potential as a follicle with a good quality egg. So, the idea proposed is that if a woman loses fewer eggs, she can hold on to her ovarian reserves and functionality for longer is slightly preposterous. The article mentions a clinical trial at Columbia University which is attempting to slow the rate at which women lose their eggs with the immunosuppressive drug called rapamycin. Researchers leading the study claim there are two patterns that are already emerging; one that women are appearing to have a normal decline of ovarian reserve, which is measured by ultrasounds and AMH. Ultrasounds cannot detect ovarian reserve only antral follicle counts, which are the follicles that are in the race for ovulation, they are expressed when they are about the ovulate, ultrasounds cannot detect anything else. Most gynecologists and reproductive endocrinologists, do not test AMH because of its unreliability. But in truth, nothing is reliable and there is no possible way to calculate ovarian reserve. It seems to me, that if we look at this through a Chinese medicine lens, the ovaries are the tree trunk, the follicles and eggs are the branches/leaves, so then what feeds the ovaries to be robust and plentiful? The soil! And that soil is lifestyle and genetics. We can’t alter our genes (yet!) but if we want better functionality and longer sustainability we must look to lifestyle and environmental factors, things like pollution, toxins, nutrition, or lack thereof, too much or too little exercise, alcohol, caffeine, smoking, (basically anything that creates free radicals in the body) not enough sleep and the biggest ones; emotional wellness and the management of stress. These are the things that overtime can exhaust ovarian function and cause aging and disease, whether you are approaching menopause or trying to get pregnant at 30 years old, it all looks the same. In the realm of enhancing lifespan and quality of life, we could also talk about telomeres. Telomeres are caps on the ends of our DNA, they are similar to the caps that are on the end of shoelaces. As the plastic ends shred, and the shoelace becomes frayed and damaged, so too the shortening of our telomeres can leave our cells and chromosomes vulnerable to damage. Telomere shortening means the cell’s lifespan is shortening. Recent research shows that telomere shortening plays an important role in human disease and mortality. So how do we support robust ovarian function and lengthen telomeres? Sleep, regular exercise, stress management, a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, namely D, meditation, yoga and acupuncture. (You knew the last one was coming!) There have been endless acupuncture studies and trials over the last two decades, everything from pain management to pregnancy rates to digestive disorders to stroke recovery. Research also shows that acupuncture can actually lengthen your telomeres and, for the purposes of this article, acupuncture plays a major role in Stage 4 follicular recruitment. How does it do that? The magnificence of acupuncture is the fact that it is self regulating, so whatever the body needs, whether it’s a decrease in inflammation, moving emotional stagnation thereby relieving stress, harmonizing an organ system, bringing energy to an organ, clearing away meridian debris, acupuncture and the body work together. You don’t have to believe in it or do anything to facilitate it, it just happens, very much in the same way your heart beats or how minerals like sodium and potassium can enter and exit a cell effortlessly. It just happens. In conclusion, we all want to preserve what we have and no one wants to age. Post menopause brings some risk to diseases, but if it’s not ‘that’ disease then it will
Unlocking Mental Wellness: The Power of Acupuncture
In today’s fast-paced world, mental health has become a crucial aspect of our overall well-being. Many individuals are seeking alternative therapies to complement traditional treatments. One such effective and time-honored approach is acupuncture for mental health. At Tao to Wellness, we believe in harnessing the ancient wisdom of acupuncture to support mental wellness naturally and holistically. Understanding Acupuncture and Mental Health Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This practice is designed to balance the body’s energy flow, known as Qi (pronounced “chee”). When Qi is balanced, the body can heal and function optimally. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, often result from imbalances in the body’s energy. By targeting these imbalances, acupuncture helps restore harmony, promoting mental clarity and emotional stability. Recent studies have shown that acupuncture can stimulate the production of endorphins and other neurotransmitters, enhancing mood and overall mental health. Acupuncture for Anxiety Relief Anxiety can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of life. Acupuncture offers a natural way to alleviate anxiety symptoms by calming the nervous system. During an acupuncture session, specific points are targeted to reduce anxiety levels, improve sleep, and enhance relaxation. Patients often report a significant decrease in anxiety and a greater sense of peace after just a few sessions. At Tao to Wellness, our experienced practitioners customize each session to address your unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Whether you experience generalized anxiety or panic attacks, acupuncture can be an effective component of your mental health regimen. Tackling Depression with Acupuncture Depression is a complex condition that can be challenging to treat. While medication and therapy are often necessary, acupuncture for mental health can serve as a powerful adjunct therapy. Acupuncture can help alleviate the symptoms of depression by regulating the body’s energy flow and balancing hormones. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, we can help reduce feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and fatigue. Patients often experience improved mood, increased energy levels, and a greater sense of well-being. Our integrated approach at Tao to Wellness ensures that you receive comprehensive care that addresses the root causes of your depression. Managing Stress Through Acupuncture Stress is a common factor that negatively impacts mental health. Chronic stress can lead to a host of physical and emotional issues, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. Acupuncture provides a natural way to manage and reduce stress, promoting relaxation and mental clarity. During an acupuncture session, needles are inserted into points that activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, encouraging relaxation and reducing stress hormones. Regular acupuncture treatments can help you build resilience to stress and improve your overall mental health. Balanced Mental Health Support at Tao to Wellness At Tao to Wellness, we are dedicated to supporting your mental health through balanced and personalized care. Our skilled practitioners combine acupuncture for mental health with other TCM modalities, such as herbal medicine and moxibustion, to provide comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your needs. We understand that mental health is multifaceted, and we strive to address all aspects of your well-being. Our serene and welcoming environment is designed to enhance your healing experience, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate during each session. How Tao to Wellness Can Help If you’re seeking a natural and effective way to support your mental health, acupuncture may be the solution you’ve been looking for. At Tao to Wellness, we offer customized acupuncture treatments to help you achieve optimal mental wellness. Our compassionate team is here to guide you on your journey to better mental health, providing the care and support you need every step of the way. Experience the benefits of acupuncture for mental health and discover a path to a balanced, harmonious life. Contact Tao to Wellness today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards mental well-being.
How to Be in Harmony with Summer!
How to Be in Harmony with Summer! As of June 21st it is officially summer 2024 and the season of ABUNDANCE! Summer is the fullest expression of Yang, it’s hot, dry, daylight, it’s active and fiery. Yin is the opposite and is cool, fluid, nighttime, meditative. In these hot summer months, it can sometimes be a challenge to keep the two balanced. In Chinese medicine, each season has a set of paired organs that are associated with it, but for the season of summer, there are actually four! Heart The Heart governs the blood and is responsible for the Shen or Spirit. Pericardium The Pericardium is called the ‘heart wrapper’ and protects the heart from external influences like a temperature change or a pathogenic invasion. Small Intestine The Small Intestine receives food and fluids from the stomach and then separates it into pure and turbid, this also applies to emotions in the sense of making the distinctions between positive and negative thinking. San Jiao The San Jiao is a Chinese organ and is translated as the Triple Burner or Triple Heater. It’s closely associated with the 2nd, 3rd and 4th chakras or energy centers of the body. The San Jiao is a bit of a mysterious organ with it’s main job being a conductor for spreading energy throughout the body. All of these belong to the Fire element, the emotions are Joy or Agitation, the taste is bitter and color, of course, is red. How to Attune to the Season So, now that we are in summer, how do we attune or make friends with the season? Here’s some tips: To be in circadian harmony: Awaken very early in the morning preferably at sunrise. Hey, 5am clubbers! To find comfort: Drink hot liquids and take warm showers, which will open the pores and bring on sweating! Quite the opposite of what we usually think for summer- cold drinks, ice and what not actually blocks the heat from releasing. Not too cold: Try not to overdo raw, cold foods. Combining too much cold food (Ice, ice cream, raw fruits and vegetables) with summer heat can weaken the digestive organs since cold contracts. Practice moderation! To find balance: Depending on how hot it is in your area, you may want to consider adding a mineral supplement to your regimen in the hot summer months. Since we have a tendency to sweat more, we could be losing minerals which can weaken the system. Cooking Tips! The main rule of thumb is to cook things on high temp and for a very short period of time. It’s a great way to warm the food up a bit while also maintaining all of the nutrients. Some cooling fresh foods to incorporate into your diet are salads, sprouts like mung, soy, or alfalfa, fruit, cucumber, tofu, watermelon, lemon, and limes. Also mint, chamomile or chrysanthemum teas are great for the summer heat! One more note, don’t feel like you need to shy away from spice, because they are actually considered helpful in warm weather. Spices will help bring body heat to the surface, open the pores thus allowing the extra heat to be released! This will help you attune to the heat and will help you to feel less affected by it. This Year’s Summer Recipe Pick! We all love watermelon, it’s sweet and cooling and actually can be fabulous as a salad! Of course, if you’re watching your sugar intake, be sure to portion this out accordingly because it can be quite addictive! This is a take on a salad that I had once at Flora in downtown Oakland (RIP Flora) that left such an impression on me. I never forgot it and every time I serve it, people just go bananas for it. It’s a no recipe – recipe, so amounts are really how you like them. Watermelon Feta Salad INGREDIENTS Watermelon Kalamata Olives, chopped. Feta Cheese or if you’re dairy free, vegan feta works just as well Figs, chopped Pine Nuts or any small, soft nut you prefer, like crushed pistachios Mint, chopped, small amount to just give the salad some lift! A simple dressing of Champagne Vinegar and Olive Oil (Good quality) Approximately 3 tablespoon olive oil to 1 tablespoon of champagne vinegar. DIRECTIONS In a large bowl add watermelon, chopped olives, chopped figs, pine nuts and chopped mint. Mix well. In a smaller bowl, mix the olive oil and champagne vinegar. Pour it over your salad and then add the feta over the top. Delicious and refreshing with bursts of flavors! Enjoy the summer and we hope to see you soon!
3 Easy Tips to Stay HYDRATED this Summer!
3 Easy Tips to Stay HYDRATED this Summer! Written By Karleen Tsai Yip Summer officially begins on June 20th and is the height of the Yang, the energy of the fire element, which is the time for activity, growth, and expansion. The fire element includes the heart, small intestine, triple warmer and pericardium meridians. This is the season to use all that stored energy from winter and spend time doing the things we love and spending time with the people we care most about. But it’s also important not to overdo things and completely burn out. Be sure to take in a siesta if you’re waking up early and going to bed late. Balance the activity with adequate rest. And if you need help regulating your sleep schedule, acupuncture can help so be sure to book an appointment! I know we discussed hydration in the spring newsletter but this is paramount in the heat of summer. Most people suffer from chronic dehydration and aren’t even aware of it. Years of chronic dehydration leads to dirty blood and less than optimal health. As a result, our immune system suffers, our skins lack luster, and people can be quick to anger. With the long days and high temperatures, staying hydrated helps our cells stay healthy by moving toxins out and moving the good stuff in. It helps us stay calm so that we’re not as hot tempered. So without further ado; here are some summer wellness tips to help you enjoy this season of activity, all focused on hydration! Tip #1 – Enjoy All the Melons Melons in all forms are extremely hydrating and nourishing for your body. Luckily, they are at their prime in the summer season and there are so many varieties to choose from. They all have a winning combination of glucose, vitamins, and minerals to bring nutrients into your cell bodies. Glucose is the primary source of energy for every cell in the body. We shouldn’t shy away from glucose that comes from fruit. What we shouldn’t do is combine glucose rich foods together with fats, for example: ham wrapped melon. Our livers prioritize processing the fats and aren’t able to absorb the glucose, vitamins, and minerals it needs. So eat melons by themselves. Another thing you should know is that because melons are very easily digested, they shouldn’t be eaten after a heavy meal. This can lead to fermentation and stomach upset. Melons are best eaten first thing in the morning or on an empty stomach. When you see them on a buffet table, eat them first! See how many varieties you can eat this summer season. Your skin will glow and your body will thank you for it. Want more interesting info on melons, check here. Tip #2 – Cucumbers to the Rescue Is your patience running thinner with the summer heat? Looking for the fountain of youth? Then look to cucumbers. They will help you keep your cool, deliver trace minerals, and keep you looking young and hydrated. Eaten regularly, they can help reverse liver damage too. Have them spiraled in place of noodles, juiced, or in salads. Have a fever or suffering from hot flashes? Try to eat two a day. Need more convincing? For a healthy cucumber noodle recipe and to learn more about what cucumbers can do, check here. Tip #3 – Coconut Water Coconut water is another helpful tool to help keep you hydrated. It’s full of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, and is highly nutritious, helping to boost your immune system. It can help bring down high blood pressure and help resolve skin issues. But you want to make sure that it doesn’t come in a can, doesn’t include additives or preservatives, and hasn’t turned pink or purple. So what’s the perfect way to enjoy coconut water you ask? Directly from a fresh coconut! Here’s a video to show you how to safely open a young coconut. Bonus is that you can use the young coconut meat to make a delicious vegan ceviche and pair it with cucumber slices instead of chips for a win-win! Recipe here. If you want more info on the benefits of coconuts, see here. We at Tao to Wellness, hope you enjoy the long days and the beautiful produce that is in abundance during the summer months!
How Acupuncture Helps with Addiction
How Acupuncture Helps with Addiction Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are an incredible tool for healing, the body, mind and spirit. If you’re familiar with the magic of this medicine, you probably have heard it’s a wonderful treatment for pain management. Maybe you’ve heard that patients have found great success in treating fertility or women’s health issues overall. An area that a lot of people might not know about is acupuncture and how it can help addiction. The Buddhist’s say that we are all addicted to something it’s just a matter of degree, except they would probably use the word “attachment” instead of addiction. Our world is practically set up to fuel addictions, whether it’s alcohol, smoking, vaping, cannabis, gambling, food, pornography or even Netflix, we are all on this ride looking for balance. Since Acupuncture has such an enormous impact on brain chemistry and helps activate the body’s natural healing processes which includes releasing endorphins and other transmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin, it makes total sense that it would help with addiction. Over the years, acupuncture has been highly recommended for helping reduce cravings and withdrawals, as well as just improving one’s natural overall well-being and emotional wellness. It all started in the 1970s in the Bronx, one of the five boroughs of New York City, at Lincoln Memorial Hospital. It was here that doctors found acupuncture to be more effective than prescribing methadone for heroin addiction. One of the hospitals doctors, Dr. Michael O. Smith founded the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association protocol, otherwise known as NADA. This protocol is specifically 5 auricular acupuncture points that treat addiction. Those points are Shen Men, Kidney, Lung, Sympathetic and Liver. Since the 70’s these 5 points have been used countless times in clinics all over the world with great success. So what do these 5 magical auricular points actually do? Reduce cravings Alleviated withdrawals Eased physical pain Regulated emotions, like anxiety and stress Improved sleep So in other words, it helped people feel normal again. Isn’t that such a big part of addiction, after you’ve gone down the rabbit hole for so long, in order to feel like you’re functioning you need to reach for the drug of choice in order to feel normal again. One of the major advantages to receiving acupuncture is the ability to improve moods and reduce stress which helped patients feel better equipped to manage their cravings and maintain their sobriety. Why just auricular (ear) points as opposed to doing a full body treatment? There are many Microsystems in the body, meaning ways of treating the entire body through a smaller succinct area. The Koreans use Korean hand acupuncture, massage therapists might utilize the area underneath the foot which is called Reflexology, in this particular situation doctors find the ear is not only easily accessible, especially in groups, but by administering ear seeds or pellets instead of needles, the patient can massage the points throughout the next couple days which can provide more support. Is this NADA protocol only for addiction? No, these points are used for any number of imbalances or symptoms in the body. Shen Men is one of the number #1 points used when it comes to auricular (ear) acupuncture in general. Keep in mind, if acupuncture can do that for opioid addiction, imagine what it can do for alcohol, cigarettes, or food attachments. Is acupuncture painful? Not so much, there is a sensation and that can range from a dull ache all the way to a mosquito bite. The ears tend to have even less of a sensation since the needle goes in just a tiny bit and the needling method is quick. Does that mean acupuncture can treat depression and anxiety in general? Absolutely! At Tao to Wellness, we see patients suffering from depression, anxiety, grief, sadness, fear, worry and just overall stress. Acupuncture can’t not effect the brain in a positive way, which in turn effects the entire body. If you’re curious and have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out, we’d love to hear from you!
Common Ailments and Corresponding Herbal Treatments
In the realm of natural medicine, Chinese herbal remedies have stood the test of time for their efficacy in treating a wide array of common ailments. From digestive issues to anxiety, these herbs offer comprehensive solutions that not only alleviate symptoms but also address the root causes of health imbalances. Let’s explore how traditional Chinese medicine can help you find relief from everyday health concerns. Chinese Herbal Remedies for Colds When the sniffles and sneezes strike, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offers a wealth of herbal remedies to combat cold symptoms effectively. Chinese herbal remedies for colds typically include herbs like ginger (姜, Jiāng) and peppermint (薄荷, Bòhé), which are known for their warming properties that help dispel cold pathogens from the body. These herbs not only relieve congestion but also boost the immune system to aid in faster recovery. Chinese Herbs for Digestive Issues Digestive discomfort is a common complaint, often stemming from diet, stress, or underlying health conditions. TCM addresses these issues with Chinese herbs for digestive issues such as ginger (姜, Jiāng), peppermint (薄荷, Bòhé), and licorice root (甘草, Gāncǎo). These herbs work synergistically to soothe the digestive tract, reduce bloating, and improve overall digestive function without the side effects commonly associated with conventional medications. Chinese Herbal Medicine for Pain Relief Whether it’s chronic joint pain or muscle soreness from intense workouts, Chinese herbal medicine for pain relief offers a balanced approach to managing discomfort. Herbs like turmeric (姜黄, Jiānghuáng) and cinnamon (桂皮, Guìpí) are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, effectively reducing pain and promoting healing. These natural alternatives provide sustainable relief while supporting the body’s natural healing processes. Chinese Herbal Treatments for Anxiety In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety has become increasingly prevalent. TCM recognizes the mind-body connection and offers Chinese herbal treatments for anxiety that not only calm the mind but also harmonize the body’s energy. Herbs such as ginseng (人参, Rénshēn) and chamomile (洋甘菊, Yánggānjú) are used to balance emotions, reduce stress levels, and promote a sense of tranquility without the sedative effects of pharmaceuticals. Chinese Herbs for Skin Conditions Skin conditions like eczema, acne, and psoriasis can significantly impact one’s quality of life. TCM approaches these issues with Chinese herbs for skin conditions such as honeysuckle (金银花, Jīnyínhuā) and burdock root (牛蒡根, Niúbàngēn), which possess detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. These herbs help clear heat and toxins from the skin, promoting clearer complexion and long-term skin health. How Tao to Wellness Can Help At Tao to Wellness, we specialize in harnessing the power of traditional Chinese medicine to address your health concerns naturally and effectively. Whether you’re seeking relief from cold symptoms, digestive issues, pain, anxiety, or skin conditions, our experienced practitioners can create personalized herbal formulations tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to discover how Chinese herbal medicine can support your journey to optimal health and well-being.
Embrace Vitality with Chinese Herbal Detox Programs
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining our health amidst daily stressors and environmental toxins is more crucial than ever. At Tao to Wellness, we embrace the ancient wisdom of traditional Chinese herbal medicine, harnessing its power to support natural healing. Our specialized Chinese herbal detoxification programs provide an integrated pathway to cleanse and revitalize your body, helping you achieve not just health but a renewed sense of vitality and well-being. Understanding Chinese Herbal Medicine Rooted in centuries-old wisdom, Chinese herbal medicine emphasizes restoring balance and harmony within the body. Unlike harsh chemical cleanses, our approach focuses on using Chinese herbal purification plans tailored to your individual needs. These herbs are selected for their unique properties to gently yet effectively support detoxification, promoting the body’s natural healing processes while respecting its innate equilibrium. At Tao to Wellness, we’re committed to guiding you on a journey towards balanced health, where tradition meets modern wellness practices seamlessly. The Benefits of a Chinese Herbal Detox Regimen Enhanced Vitality: By eliminating toxins accumulated from stress, diet, and the environment, our Chinese herbal body cleanse programs help revitalize your energy levels and enhance overall vitality. Improved Digestion: Many herbs used in our Chinese herbal internal cleanse formulas support healthy digestion, aiding in the elimination of waste and promoting gut health. Support for Liver Health: The liver plays a key role in detoxification. Our detox programs include herbs that specifically support liver function, helping to optimize its natural cleansing processes. How It Works: Your Journey to Wellness Embarking on a Chinese herbal detox regimen at Tao to Wellness is a personalized experience designed to meet your specific health goals. Our licensed practitioners begin with a comprehensive assessment of your health history and current concerns. Based on this evaluation, a customized herbal protocol is crafted to support your body’s natural detoxification pathways. Throughout your journey, you’ll have access to ongoing support and guidance from our experienced team. We believe in empowering our clients with knowledge about their health and the benefits of traditional Chinese medicine. Experience the Difference with Tao to Wellness Imagine feeling lighter, more energized, and in harmony with your body’s natural rhythms. Our Chinese herbal detox programs offer a gentle yet profound way to achieve these goals. Whether you’re looking to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle or support your body during seasonal transitions, Tao to Wellness is here to guide you. At Tao to Wellness, we are committed to your well-being. Contact us today to learn more about how our Chinese herbal detoxification programs can help you achieve optimal health and vitality. Let’s embark on this journey to wellness together. In conclusion, Tao to Wellness provides comprehensive support through personalized Chinese herbal detox programs that cleanse the body gently and effectively. Whether you’re seeking enhanced vitality, improved digestion, or overall wellness, our experienced practitioners are dedicated to helping you achieve your health goals naturally. Discover the transformative power of traditional Chinese herbal medicine at Tao to Wellness today.
The Comprehensive Guide to Moxibustion Therapy and Its Therapeutic Effects
The Comprehensive Guide to Moxibustion Therapy and Its Therapeutic Effects As modern wellness trends continue to evolve, many are turning to ancient practices for balanced health solutions. One such practice that has stood the test of time is moxibustion therapy. This traditional Chinese medicine technique offers a range of benefits that modern science is beginning to validate. At Tao to Wellness, we embrace these ancient methods to provide our clients with comprehensive care. Let’s delve into the world of moxibustion and explore its remarkable therapeutic effects. What is Moxibustion Therapy? Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves burning dried mugwort (moxa) near the skin’s surface to stimulate specific acupuncture points. The heat generated by the burning moxa is believed to enhance the flow of qi (vital energy) and blood, promoting healing and balance within the body. Exploring Moxibustion Techniques There are several moxibustion techniques used in practice, each with its unique approach and benefits: Direct Moxibustion: Involves placing a small cone of moxa directly on the skin and igniting it. Once the individual feels a warm sensation, the moxa is removed before it burns the skin. Indirect Moxibustion: This safer method involves placing a layer of insulation, such as garlic, ginger, or salt, between the moxa and the skin. Alternatively, practitioners may use moxa sticks, which are burned close to the skin without direct contact. Needle Moxibustion: Combines acupuncture and moxibustion by placing moxa on the end of acupuncture needles, enhancing the therapeutic effects of both treatments. The Benefits of Moxibustion Therapy The moxibustion therapy benefits are diverse and can address a variety of health concerns. Here are some key advantages: Pain Relief: Moxibustion is particularly effective for managing chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, lower back pain, and menstrual cramps. The heat generated by moxa helps to improve blood circulation, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. Boosts Immunity: By stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, moxibustion can enhance immune function, helping to prevent illnesses and promote overall wellness. Digestive Health: This therapy can improve digestive issues by warming the digestive tract, reducing symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and diarrhea. Stress Reduction: The soothing heat and relaxation induced by moxibustion can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting mental clarity and emotional balance. The Science Behind Moxibustion Therapy Recent moxibustion therapy research has provided scientific backing for the therapeutic effects of this ancient practice. Studies have shown that moxibustion can effectively modulate the immune system, improve blood circulation, and enhance the body’s natural healing responses. For example, research indicates that moxibustion may increase white blood cell counts, which are crucial for fighting infections and maintaining immune health. Additionally, studies have demonstrated that moxibustion can activate specific neural pathways, leading to pain relief and improved function in patients with chronic conditions. This growing body of evidence highlights the potential of moxibustion as a complementary treatment for various health issues. Therapeutic Effects of Moxibustion The therapeutic effects of moxibustion extend beyond pain relief and immune support. This therapy can also benefit individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis, by improving lung function and reducing symptoms. Furthermore, moxibustion is often used to support reproductive health, addressing issues like infertility and menstrual irregularities by promoting blood flow and hormonal balance. Moxibustion for Pain Relief One of the most celebrated applications of moxibustion is its use in pain management. Moxibustion for pain relief has been practiced for centuries, offering a natural and effective solution for those seeking alternatives to pharmaceutical interventions. By enhancing circulation and reducing inflammation, moxibustion can alleviate pain from various sources, including musculoskeletal injuries, migraines, and neuropathic pain. How Tao to Wellness Can Help At Tao to Wellness, we are dedicated to integrating traditional practices like moxibustion into our comprehensive wellness programs. Our experienced practitioners tailor treatments to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive the maximum benefit from moxibustion therapy benefits. Discover the healing power of moxibustion techniques and experience the profound therapeutic effects of moxibustion at Tao to Wellness.
A Guide to Healthy Sunscreens
A Guide to Healthy Sunscreens April showers, bring gorgeous May flowers and soon enough we will be deep into the heat of summer! Beach days, long walks, street fairs, music festivals and tons of outdoor activities! With all that warm weather action, sunscreen protection tend to be on our minds with good reason! Whether you are prone to skin issues, just want to stay protected or are a full on sun worshiper, we all need protection from UV rays. Keep reading to find out which common US ingredients are banned in the European Union (and Hawaii!) and what’s the deal with SPF. Choosing sunscreens can actually be quite tricky! Now most of us know about SPF, annnnnd that’s about it. There’s so much more consideration that goes into it like what’s the GRASE scale and broad spectrum? The GRASE scale GRASE stands for “generally recognized as safe and effective”. Receiving a GRASE designation means that that particular ingredient is safe and according to experts, also effective. In 2021, the agency reviewed 16 ingredients, all the usual suspects when it comes to sunscreens, they reported that only TWO are SAFE- those two are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. The following are the most common ingredients found in sunscreens in the US, none of these have received the GRASE designation: Avobenzone, cinoxate, dioxybenzone, ensulizole, homosalate, meradimate, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone, padimate O, and sulisobenzone. Oxybenzone, homosalate and octocrylene were found not safe in high amounts in the European Union and as a result have put a cap on those. The US cap far exceeds the EU. These three ingredients can be found in the blood weeks after its last use and have been detected in breast milk, urine and plasma samples. They have also been known to cause hormone disruption. The most worrisome of the three is oxybenzone and should be avoided at all costs. Oxybenzone has been known to cause skin reactions, behaves like a hormone disruptor and is harmful to children. Studies have shown that young boys with higher oxybenzone measurements have lower total testosterone levels which greatly effects stages of puberty. As mentioned, Oxybenzone is a hormone disrupter. In four separate studies in 2020 it showed that Oxybenzone can actually impact fertility, increase the risk of breast cancer and cause endometriosis. Also the National Toxicology Program performed a study where they found massive evidence of carcinogenic activity in rats. The European commission reports oxybenzone is unsafe and any product containing it cannot exceed a 2% restriction in its concentration, that being said US sunscreens limit it’s restriction to 6%. We can go one step further with oxybenzone, several European countries and Hawaii have actually banned the sale of sunscreen with this ingredient because it harms aquatic life. All of the remaining 12 ingredients play a hand in endocrine disruption as well, but Octinoxate or octyl methoxycinnamate, a non-mineral UV filter has been reported to have effects on thyroid hormone production and other hormones, like androgens and progesterone. Again, several European countries and Hawaii, also ban the sale of this ingredient in sunscreen due to it’s harm to aquatic life. Also, Homosalate another non-mineral UV filter listed above which is also an endocrine disrupter has been capped in Europe with a maximum concentration of 1.4%, in the US it’s 15%! Just that alone, makes me worry! What to do? Play it safe with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide These are both mineral sunscreens. In 2021, the FDA approved and classified these with GRASE designation. Evidence suggests that these sunscreens do not penetrate the skin to the living tissues. One thing to mention that although the spray sunscreens are so convenient, inhalation of these nano particles can cause cancer so only use lotion or cream. An important word about SPF and Broad Spectrum Most people will reach for a higher SPF thinking that they are getting better protection from the suns harmful UV rays, but that is just not the truth. A good sunscreen should protect from UVA AND UVB rays, in other words, broad spectrum. The SPF rating only reflects how well a product protects against UVB rays. Reducing sunburn was the original intent of sunscreens but now research is finding that some UV rays cause other health issues, specifically aging and skin cancer, otherwise known as melanoma. It’s important to make sure the sunscreen you choose is Broad Spectrum. There’s also a ton of research that sunscreens above 50 SPF do not provide any additional protection, so don’t be fooled. Researchers have also said that people using massively high SPFs typically stayed out in the sun longer thinking that they were protected better. Most studies showed that SPF 30-50 is more then sufficient. So, in conclusion, stick with mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium oxide, be sure your sunscreen is broad spectrum and stay in the 30-50 SPF range. If you have a medicine cabinet full of sunscreens and not sure, head over to ewg.com to check their rating system, they’ve been testing and researching sunscreens for 17 years!
