The Clinic of Meridian Harmonics

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy

Thursday, February 02, 2023

Feb 5, 2023 Yang Wood Tiger

In the Chinese calendar, February 5, 2023, is the first day of Yang Wood Tiger month. The Chinese calendar assigns one of the twelve animals, five elements, and the polarity of yin or yang to each year, month, day, and hour. The Yang Wood Tiger month extends till March 5, 2023.

The Yang Wood Tiger refers to the 51st hexagram described in the I Ching and used in Feng Shui. Its image is Thunder over Thunder. The Yang Wood Tiger signifies "Arousing" or "Shock". It represents an image of thunder that bursts forth from the earth. Thunder has its source in the Wood element and has the property of movement due to Wind.

The Yang Wood Tiger hexagram:

From the perspective of the body and health, the Yang Wood Tiger hexagram represents a continuation of weakness that was observed from the previous month. The environmental influences continue changing resulting in Qi stagnation, Yang Deficiency, Food Stagnation, and Blood Stasis. The prevailing environmental influences are characterized by cold damp weather which can affect your health in various ways.

Whenever the Thunder trigram is located in both the upper and lower trigrams there tends to be a systemic stagnant and weak energetic state of the Yin channels and their organs. This leads to a buildup of toxins in the body resulting in inflammation in the lymphatic, circulatory, and urinary systems. Inflammation, over time, will weaken and fatigue the digestive tract. In addition to digestive problems, mental-emotional health can be adversely affected. During the Yang Wood Tiger month, it is recommended to be very vigilant with consuming an organic diet simple in ingredients and spices.

So, now that we have a picture of the nature of this month what can we do to optimize our health and wellness? In our family, there are various strategies we use to keep ourselves healthy throughout the year as the seasons change.

Over the last few posts, we began a discussion of the Yin-Yang theory and how to use it to maintain health and wellness. This month continues this topic with another strategy our family uses to optimize health. I want to continue discussing some more important characteristics of the Lungs.

Controls Wei (Protective) Qi. In Chinese medicine, the Lungs have a major function in protecting our bodies from external pathogenic factors or influences. The Wei (Protective) Qi is a layer of Qi within the epidermis and acts as a force field to protect us from outside climatic factors. Recently the weather in Texas turned bitterly cold with sleet, ice, snow, and freezing rain. I have seen people out with shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and no coat or protective clothing. This is what will set a person up for what is called a Wind-Cold Invasion, in Chinese medicine. Wind-Cold is characterized by chills, stiffness (especially in your neck), headache, sneezing, and possibly cold feet. This typically is the first stage of a cold and can last a couple hours or a few days. If not correctly dealt with, Wind-Cold can progress into pneumonia, bronchitis, influenza, or an upper respiratory infection.

During these winter months, it's especially important to wear clothing that can properly protect the body from Wind-Cold. This includes a scarf or gator around the neck, long sleeves, coats, shoes or boots to insulate the feet, a warm cap for the head, and ear muffs. Sure, we look like Eskimos all bundled up, but we won't get sick!

Wind-Cold symptoms can be corrected simply by consuming foods to protect the body from the external pathogenic cold along with foods best suited for your particular constitution. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine does not condone a particular diet. Instead, each person's diet is best suited for them when it is aligned with their own unique constitution. If you're unaware of your unique constitution then schedule a Free 20-Minute Ayurvedic Health Consultation with Michelle. She can help you get started to maximize the nutritional benefit of your meals.

One last note on the Yang Wood Tiger month is that, technically, it is the beginning of the Chinese New Year - the Yin Water Rabbit year. However, the celebration of the Chinese New Year actually began on January 22, 2023, two weeks before. The Yin Water Rabbit year brings a unique presence to the energetic nature of this year. One aspect of the Yin Water Rabbit year is rooted in a high-energy state reflecting more inflammation. The other aspect of the Yin Water Rabbit year reflects a weakness of the nervous system, digestive system, and hormones. As always, we recommend moderation in all areas of life.

If you are in need of remedies from our herbal compounding pharmacy, for any condition, please reach out to us. In most cases, we can schedule a telemedicine visit for you.

Our special this month:

Special: Michelle is still offering a free 20-minute Ayurvedic Health Consultation Schedule today!

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Yin Water Ox Month January 6, 2023

I need to catch up on getting this post out. Life and the holidays threw a wrench into the works. In the Chinese calendar, January 6, 2023, is the first day of Yin Water Ox month. The Chinese calendar assigns one of the twelve animals, five elements, and the polarity of yin or yang to each year, month, day, and hour. The Yin Water Ox month extends till February 3, 2023.

The Yin Water Ox refers to the 8th hexagram described in the I Ching and used in Feng Shui. Its image is Water over Water. The Yin Water Ox signifies "Holding Together" or "Union". It represents an image of water flowing over the earth. Over time Water erodes away Earth. Earth, itself, represents a solid foundation. However, when Water flows over it and wears away the Earth, the Earth becomes weak, fragile, and unable to sustain itself.

The Yin Water Ox hexagram:

From the perspective of the body and health, the Yin Water Ox hexagram represents a weakness in several levels of the body. The environmental influences are changing to even more cold and wet weather than last month. The result is stagnation along even more energetic and fluid pathways in the body.

Whenever the Earth trigram is the lower trigram there tends to be a systemic stagnant and weak energetic state of the Yin channels and their organs. The Yin channels and organs represent the nutritive or nourishing characteristics of the body. Weakness and stagnation here represent malnourished tissues, cells, and organs. This leads to fatigue, wasting and atrophy of muscles and skin, and organ dysfunction. Typical signs and symptoms include palpitations, cold limbs, swollen limbs, shortness of breath, mental fogginess, chronic illness, low back pain, low libido, chronic diarrhea, prolapse, prolonged cough, edema of the lower legs, and urinary dysfunction.

The Water trigram above the Earth represents the image of water filling up all the empty places on the earth, clinging to it. The Yin Water Ox month is characterized by the influence of the Water trigram on the Yang channels or Yang elements of the body. The Yang channels and their organs are responsible for the more active and functional aspects of the body. In comparison to an automobile's engine, the Yang channels represent the moving parts of the engine. With the Yin Water Ox hexagram, the Water trigram's influence on the functional or kinetic activity of the body is hindered. This leads, in general, to a sluggish metabolism, fatigue, lassitude, and apathy.

The Yin Water Ox has several corresponding health issues.

The first is pancreatic dysfunction. In the acute phase, this leads to irritable bowel disease, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, fatty or oily stools, dry skin, depression, edema, fatigue, dizziness, and irritability. Long-term pancreatic dysfunction can lead to Celiac disease, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, muscle loss, and dementia.

Secondly, the Yin Water Ox has the following impact on the upper body: Stiff neck, headache, eye pain, upper arm pain, tonsillitis, chronic cough, croup, asthma, chest congestion, cardiac pain, palpitation, psychoemotional problems,

Thirdly, digestive issues common during the Yin Water Ox month: rib pain, vomiting, hiccup

Common lower body issues this month: weakness, numbness, and pain in the lower extremities, irregular menstruation, urogenital system problems

These conditions often respond well to either acupuncture or a customized herbal formula. It's important to remember that incorrect dietary choices during the Yin Water Ox month often are the catalyst for weakening the body's organs.

The Yin Water Ox month can be a hazardous time from the perspective of health and wellness. This is a good month to conserve energy and rest.

In previous posts, we've been discussing various properties of the Yin-Yang theory and how to use it to maintain health and wellness. This month continues this topic with another strategy our family uses to optimize health.

Understanding the Lungs and their functions, Part 1

The Lungs are the only organ of our body that directly connects to the external environment. No other organ has this characteristic. This makes the Lungs an exceptional organ, as they can be directly influenced by external climatic pathogenic factors. Because of this unique characteristic, it is important to be aware of possible environmental impacts the Lungs may encounter and prepare accordingly.

Chinese medicine recognizes 6 major levels in the body. Each level has specific functions, properties, organs, and regions of the body associated with it. Three of these are various Yang levels and the other three are related to various Yin aspects of the body. The Lungs belong to one of these six major levels of the body, specifically one of the Yin levels. Because of this, the Lungs are considered to be a Yin organ.

Another property of the Lungs is their relationship with the Metal element of Chinese medicine. Each of the five elements has specific characteristics. The Metal element is affected by pathogenic dryness. Therefore, one of the common problems with the Lungs is their susceptibility to dryness. Dryness can occur externally, as in the dryness associated with winter-time dry cold air. Dryness can also occur through diet by consuming foods that are dry and rough, as in many simple carbohydrates: carbonated beverages, baked treats, packaged cookies and crackers, fruit juice concentrate, and breakfast cereal, to name a few.

In any discussion about Chinese medical anatomy and physiology, the Lungs are always analyzed first. This is due to some of its most important functions:

Regulates Qi. Qi is our body's vital energy, literally meaning "vapor", "air", or "breath", the word qi is often translated as "vital energy", "vital force", "material energy", or simply as "energy". Qi is the central underlying principle in Chinese traditional medicine. The Lungs are the major organ for regulating this vital energy throughout the body.

Cleanses Qi. The Lungs, literally, cleanse the body's Qi. A sedentary lifestyle leads to a buildup of stagnant, toxic Qi. To prevent this certain types of exercises are needed to protect the body from an overload of toxins. The Lungs are responsible for this function. Someone who smokes, vapes, or is repeatedly exposed to environmental air pollution and toxins will have a difficult time with this important function. This is why breathwork and cardiovascular exercise are so beneficial. Not only do they help regulate but also cleanse the Qi. My favorites are yoga, tai chi, and qi gong. Anyone can start with one of these exercises. Once your Qi is stronger additional exercises to add in are walking, jogging, rowing, hiking, and bicycling.

Many of the conditions listed during the Yin Water Ox month can begin to become corrected simply by engaging in activities that encourage breathwork. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine does not condone a particular exercise. Instead, each person's ideal exercises are best suited for them when it is aligned with their own unique constitution.

One last note on the Yin Water Ox hexagram is the significant lack of strength in the Yin aspect of the body. This represents a stagnation of food, lymph, fluids, and blood. This is a good month to avoid overexertion, mentally, and physically. Instead, rest.

Our special this month:

Special: 20-minute free Chinese Pulse Diagnosis with our licensed resident Chinese medicine practitioner

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy

Friday, December 09, 2022

Yang Water Rat Month - Dec 7, 2022

In the Chinese calendar, December 7, 2022, is the first day of the Yang Water Rat month. The Chinese calendar assigns one of the twelve animals, five elements, and the polarity of yin or yang to each year, month, day, and hour. The Yang Water Rat month extends till January 5, 2023.

The Yang Water Rat refers to the 29th hexagram described in the I Ching and used in Feng Shui. Its image is Water over Water. Of the sixty-four hexagrams, there are only eight where the upper and lower trigrams are identical. The Yang Water Rat is one of them and signifies "Abysmal" or "Sinking Water". It represents an image of water flowing on and on, without end. Yet, the Water trigram itself is considered to be an energetically, weak and stagnant trigram.

The Yang Water Rat hexagram:

From the perspective of the body and health, the Yang Water Rat hexagram represents a weakness in several levels of the body. The environmental influences are changing to more cold and wet weather. The result is stagnation along various energetic and fluid pathways in the body. The first level affected during this month is the immune system or our defensive mechanism that is attacked by the changing environmental pathogens. This is followed by weakness in the gastrointestinal tract. As the environmental pathogens work deeper into the body they will then begin to weaken the ability of the lymphatic system to drain toxins from the circulatory system and prevent proper endocrine and hormonal functions. The deeper progression of the Yang Water influence then inhibits proper respiratory and digestive functions. Finally, the last level of the Yang Water influence affects kidney and heart functions.

The Yang Water Rat month can be a hazardous time from the perspective of health and wellness.

Some of the symptoms in the Yang Water Rat month are:

Upper body stagnation: headache, neck pain, dizziness, sore throat, cough, asthma, nasal and sinus problems, nosebleeds, arm and elbow pain, blurred vision, red painful eyes, tinnitus, breast distention, laryngitis, palpitations

Lower body stagnation: sciatica, leg pain, lower back pain, hemorrhoids, gastric pan distention and bloating, poor appetite, diarrhea, bloody stools, irregular menstruation, urinary retention or incontinence

These conditions often respond well to either acupuncture or a customized herbal formula. It's important to remember that incorrect dietary choices during the Yang Water Rat month often are the catalyst for weakening the body's organs.

The Yang Water Rat describes Water within Water or the constant or incessant running of water and fluids. The Yang Water trigram corresponds to the Yang aspect of the Water element. This represents the Kidney and Bladder systems in Chinese medicine, our adrenal glands, and an aspect of our endocrine or hormonal system. Yang Water, refers to the more active properties of the Water element with regard to fluid metabolism. However, during the Yang Water Rat month fluid metabolism is impaired leading to joint swelling, stiffness, water retention, and edema.

Each season consists of various energetic states, often in conflict. These energetic states will be reflected in nature and more importantly in our bodies. The influence of Yang Water in the body represents Stagnant Dampness within the body. During this month Damp Stagnation affects the Water element organs, the Kidneys and Bladder. Damp Stagnation causes fluids to buildup in various regions of the body. This leads to a sense of heaviness in the body, sluggishness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, digestive problems and urinary issues.

Last month we began a discussion of Yin-Yang theory and how to use it to maintain health and wellness. This month continues this topic with the another strategy our family uses to optimize health.

Understanding flavors and their influences. In Chinese medicine the flavors of foods have a significant impact on the functions of our organs. Of the five flavors the two which have the most damaging affect on the health of the body are the sweet and salty flavors. These are the two flavors that are most attractive to eat. The sweet flavor is linked to the Earth element and the salty flavor is linked to the Water element. The primary organs of these two elements are the Spleen/Pancreas system and the Kidneys and Bladder. Each of the body's organs has unique functions in Chinese medicine in addition to the ones recognized in western medicine.

For example, one of the most important functions of the Spleen/Pancreas is:

• Governs the Transformation and Transportation of all nutrients and fluids

Unfortunately, in western cultures, we're never taught how important flavors of foods are to the health of the body. The sweet flavor, no matter the source (i.e.: sugar, honey, natural and artificial sweeteners, etc.) over time weakens the ability of the Spleen/Pancreas of its functions of transporting and transforming foods, nutrients, and fluids. This is one of the primary causes of weight gain and obesity.

The Spleen/Pancreas are closely linked to other organs. One of these is the Lungs. Excessive consumption of the sweet flavor leads to a buildup of fluids in the Lungs or what is commonly known as phlegm and mucous. This leads to coughing, shortness of breath, heaviness sensation in the chest, fatigue, wheezing, and asthma.

Another major problem with the sweet flavor is its affect on the Spleen/Pancreas to regulate blood glucose levels leading to hyperglycemia and diabetes. When the transformation and transportation function of the Spleen/Pancreas is impaired, unnecessary fluids are not properly cleansed from the blood. This leads to swollen, painful lymph nodes, cysts, nodules, many types of skin rashes and fatty deposits in the blood more commonly known as cholesterol.

Another organ closely related to the Spleen/Pancreas in Chinese medicine is the Heart. When fatty deposits and cholesterol go unchecked long enough within the circulatory system it begins clogging the arteries and veins of the Heart. This can lead to devastating problems such as congestive heart failure, hypertension, valve disease and heart attack, to name a few.

One of the most important functions of the Kidneys is:

• Primary water metabolism organ

Our Kidneys, along with the Liver and lymphatic system are designed to filter the blood in the circulatory system. One factor that can hinder the Kidneys ability to do this function is by consuming excessive quantities of salt. Weakened Kidney function leads to kidney disease, hypertension, toxic deposits in the kidneys (kidney stones), polycystic kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and cancer.

Wow! I bet you had no idea how much of an enemy the sweet and salty flavors are!

Many of the conditions listed above can be corrected simply by recognizing the flavors of the foods consumed and by eating foods best suited for your particular constitution. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine does not condone a particular diet. Instead, each person's diet is best suited for them when it is aligned with their own unique constitution. If you're unaware of your unique constitution then schedule a Free 20-Minute Ayurvedic Health Consultation with Michelle. She can help you get started to maximize the nutritional benefit of your meals.

One last note on the Yang Water Rat hexagram is the significant lack of strength in the Yang aspect of the body. This represents a weakness in systemic functions. This is a good month to avoid overexertion, mentally, and physically.

A recent news article mentioned that the number of flu cases this past week is the highest ever recorded. Also, we've been seeing quite a number of patients who are getting reinfected with COVID. It seems evident that there is an impending collision of COVID, RSV, and influenza. If you are in need of treatment for any of these conditions, please reach out to us. In most cases we can schedule a tele-medicine visit for you.

Our special this month:

Special: Michelle is still offering a free 20-minute Ayurvedic Health Consultation Schedule today!

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy

Sunday, November 06, 2022

Start of Winter Chinese Festival

In the Chinese calendar, November 8, 2022, is the first day of the Yin Wood Pig month. The Chinese calendar assigns one of the twelve animals, five elements, and the polarity of yin or yang to each year, month, day, and hour. The Yin Wood Pig month extends till December 7, 2022.

The Yin Wood Pig refers to the 59th hexagram described in the I Ching and used in Feng Shui. Its image is Wind over Water and signifies "Dispersion" and represents a dispersion of Qi or vital energy, which in turn creates blockages. Qi or vital energy is needed to maintain good health. When Qi is weak or becomes dispersed it is unable to sustain the necessary movement of blood and vital fluids in the body, thus leading to disease.

The Yin Wood Pig hexagram:

In the Chinese calendar, there are twenty-four festivals that occur in a year. The festivals marked specific times for farmers to plant, grow, and harvest their crops. Consequently, the festivals are related to the solar and lunar calendars and the corresponding weather.

The Start of Winter festival begins on November 8, 2022, and was true for northern China but comes later in the south. For 2022 this festival is characterized by the Yin Wood Pig hexagram. The Yin Wood Pig hexagram is highly energetic and represents inflammation or fever in the upper body along with stagnation in the lower body.

This festival signals a shift in the weather that often kindles many health challenges. Some of the symptoms we typically treat this time of year because of the shifting weather patterns are:

Upper body inflammation: sore throat, headaches, stiff and painful necks, dizziness, fever, tinnitus, red and painful eyes, insomnia, mouth ulcers, cardiac pain, sinus pain, allergies, earaches, bronchitis, pneumonia, chest congestion, influenza

Lower body stagnation: abdominal distention, constipation, gastric pain, swelling of the lower leg and foot, urinary tract infections

These conditions often respond well to either acupuncture or a customized herbal formula. It's important to remember that incorrect dietary choices often are the catalyst for weakening the immune system's ability to ward off infections.

The Yin Wood Pig describes Water within Wood or the descending image of an excess energy state, to a weakened energy state. The Water trigram below the Wind trigram corresponds to the Yin aspect of the Water element. This represents the Kidney system in Chinese medicine and our adrenals from a western perspective. The Wind trigram above Water corresponds to an excessive aspect of the Wood element. Excess energy represents many characteristics. In the case of Wood, it eludes to a strong excessively windy, and dry influence above, indicative of the Fall season. In the case of Water, Yin energy represents stagnant dampness below.

Each season consists of various energetic states, often in conflict. These active states will be reflected in nature and more importantly in our bodies. The influence of Wind Dryness in the upper portions of the body and Stagnant Dampness in the lower body sets up an environment of conflict within the body. During this season Dryness from exterior environmental pathogenic influences affect the Yin Water organ, the Kidneys. The Damp Stagnation below is due to improper diet, overwork or stress. Together, these set up an internal environment leading to extreme immune deficiency.

So, now that we have a picture of the nature of this month what can we do to optimize our health and wellness? In our family, there are various strategies we use in order to keep ourselves healthy throughout the year as the seasons change.

Last month we listed the first two strategies used to maintain health and wellness: food and observation and response to the environment.

The third strategy is adhering to the concept of Yin and Yang. Yin-Yang Theory is a major concept in Chinese medicine. It permeates every aspect of Chinese medicine and Asian culture and is still applicable to modern diseases and disorders. The problem in western societies is that it's not taught. If it were introduced in early childhood development, preschool, and elementary education, many challenges society faces today could be minimized. That's how powerful this concept is! We will spend several months on this theory since it's just too vast to cover in one blog post.

The white portion of the image above represents yang and the black represents yin. The dots of opposite colors within the larger portions signify there is always a bit of yin within yang and yang within yin. The natural progression in a clockwise direction indicates yin will transform into yang and yang eventually transforms into yin. This bi-polar activity exists in all things.

An example of this property is when night turns into day and vice-versa. Each day the yin energy becomes its greatest around midnight and the yang energy becomes its greatest around noon. How can this apply to our daily activities? In Chinese medicine, the twenty-four-hour clock can be divided into twelve two-hour segments each corresponding to the twelve body organs and their meridians. Each organ's energy or Qi is strongest during the two-hour window it corresponds to. For example, our two primary digestive organs peak energetically from 7 AM to 11 AM. If we ignore this and skip breakfast we're doing significant damage to our body by not giving it proper nutrition at the beginning of each day.
Additionally, if we eat large or heavy meals from 7 PM to 11 PM during a time of the day our digestive organs naturally are less active, then we set ourselves up for poor or inadequate digestion leading to a myriad of diseases.

Many conditions can be corrected simply by recognizing this fact and by eating foods best suited for your particular constitution. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine does not condone a particular diet. Instead, each person's diet is best suited for them when it is aligned with their own unique constitution. If you're unaware of your unique constitution then schedule a Free 20-Minute Ayurvedic Health Consultation with Michelle. She can help you get started to maximize the nutritional benefit of your meals.

This is the first example of the Yin-Yang theory that is helpful in maximizing health and wellness. Next month I'll explore additional strategies for keeping ourselves healthy throughout the year.

One last note on the Yin Wood Pig hexagram is the significant lack of strength in the Yin aspect of the body. This represents a weakness in the lymphatic, endocrine, and kidney systems, and an emphasis on our immune system.

As of the writing of this post, it seems evident that there is an impending collision of COVID, RSV, and influenza in the coming months. Many of the local hospitals are already full of patients with these conditions. Our favorite herbal formula for this time of year is BSABV-ES. It is a combination of seven traditional Chinese medical formulas dating back thousands of years for treating a wide variety of viral and bacterial infections. Our family has been using this since early 2020 on a maintenance level to keep healthy from COVID-19, influenza, RSV, the common cold, and many other respiratory infections. Our patients love it! With as many sick people I treat in my clinic I have still not contracted COVID. With the flu season upon us, let us know if you'd like to have this on hand. Unlike traditional western anti-virals and antibiotics, BSABV-ES won't harm your digestive tract. It's safe for children, too. We keep it in stock.

Our special this month:

Special: Michelle is still offering a free 20-minute Ayurvedic Health Consultation Schedule today!

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy

Sunday, October 09, 2022

October 9, 2022 Yang Metal Dog Month

October 9, 2022, is the first day of the Yang Metal Dog month in the Chinese calendar. The Chinese calendar assigns one of the twelve animals, five elements, and the polarity of yin or yang to each year, month, day, and hour. The Yang Metal Dog month extends till October 9, 2022.

The Yang Metal Dog refers to the 33rd hexagram described in the I Ching and used in Feng Shui. Its image is Heaven over Mountain and signifies "Retreat" and as a whole represents a time to withdraw to conserve energy and resources, in compliance with natural laws.

The Yang Metal Dog hexagram:

This hexagram is linked with the forces of winter, which are already showing their influence. The Yang Metal Dog describes a Mountain within Heaven or the ascending image of darkness, whereas light (Heaven) retreats to prevent encroachment from the darkness. The Mountain trigram below the Heaven trigram is rooted in the Yang aspect of the Earth element. The Heaven trigram above Mountain is the Yang aspect of the Metal element. Yang energy represents many characteristics. In the case of Metal, it eludes to a strong excessive dry nature above, indicative of the Fall season. In the case of Earth, Yang energy represents damp heat below.

Each season consists of various energetic states, often in conflict. These active states will be reflected in nature and more importantly in our bodies. The influence of Dryness in the upper portions of the body along with Damp-Heat in the lower body sets up an environment of conflict within the body. During this season Dryness from exterior environmental pathogenic influences affect the Yin Metal organ, the Lungs. The Damp-Heat influence below is due to improper diet or dysfunction in the gastrointestinal tract. Together, these set up an internal environment leading to infections in both regions.

The first strategy is food. For those interested in discovering the best foods for this season along with the best foods for your constitution I recommend having a consultation with my personal health coach or Svastha Acharya, Michelle. Michelle is a Certified Ayurvedic Health Counselor. She can guide you to the proper foods for your personal constitution. We're all different and because of that, we all require different foods. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. According to Ayurvedic medicine from India and Chinese medicine each person has a unique constitution that dictates what is best for them, especially the foods they eat. Michelle can help you optimize your health simply by showing you how your current diet is either helping or hindering your overall wellness. Schedule a free 20-minute Ayurvedic Health Consultation today!

The second strategy is the observation and response to the environment. The Yang Metal Dog month indicates a definite energetic shift in the environment. Yang Metal represents extensive pathogenic dryness that affects the Lungs and Large Intestine. Consequently, it's imperative we protect ourselves from the effect of dryness on these two organs through lifestyle and diet adjustments.

Pathogenic Lung dryness can occur in two ways. First, Dryness in the external environment is very damaging to the Lungs, causing symptoms of dry throat, dry hacky cough with little or no phlegm, tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing, dry skin and hair, dry mouth and lips, thirst, and sore throat. The second way dryness affects the Lungs is from eating an irregular diet or the wrong types of foods for your constitution. Both of these scenarios may lead to Dryness affecting the Large Intestine with symptoms of dry stools, obstructed constipation, or difficult bowel movements.

One last note on the Yang Metal Dog hexagram is the significant lack of strength in the Yin aspect of the body. This represents a weakness in the cardiovascular and kidney systems, and an emphasis on our psychoemotional well-being. So in addition to problems with the respiratory system, other issues involving the heart, circulation, urinary tract, and mental/emotional health are prone to surface this month.

Next month I'll go into additional strategies for keeping ourselves healthy throughout the year during seasonal changes.

Our special this month: Our patients continue to love our most popular herbal remedy. So we're again offering a 10% discount on the price of our proprietary formula BSABV-ES. The BSABV-ES formula comes in a 200-capsule bottle. It's an amazing herbal broad-spectrum anti-viral/bacterial remedy, that we've been using for all kinds of infections, (i.e.: common cold, influenza, bronchitis, COVID, etc.). Just mention this blog post when you place your order.

Special #2: For new patients, we're offering a 30-minute consultation for $63, (30% discount) including our proprietary Pulse Matrix diagnosis to determine the best treatment strategies. Since a one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare often does little to help patients, Meridian Harmonics designs specific personalized treatments for each patient. Your consultation will determine if you are a candidate for any of the following treatment options:

Acupuncture

Cupping

Chinese herbal compounding pharmacy

Bio-energetic sensitivity screening and desensitization: 1) food sensitivities, 2) environmental inhalant sensitivities, 3) vaccination sensitivities, 4) heavy metal toxicity sensitivities

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy

Tuesday, September 06, 2022

September 8, 2022 Yin Earth Rooster Month

September 8, 2022, is the first day of the Yin Earth Rooster month in the Chinese calendar. The Chinese calendar assigns one of the twelve animals, five elements, and the polarity of yin or yang to each year, month, day, and hour. The Yin Earth Rooster month extends till October 9, 2022.

The Yin Earth Rooster refers to the 19th hexagram described in the I Ching and used in Feng Shui. Its image is Earth over Lake and signifies "Growth or Approach" and as a whole points to a time of joyous, hopeful progress.

The Yin Earth Rooster describes Lake within the Earth. Earth represents the Receptive and Lake is the image of Joy. So the Yin Earth Rooster literally means to Receive Joy.

The Yin Earth Rooster hexagram:

This hexagram is occurring during a time of the year when the seasons are changing. Instead of the excessive energetic state of the previous Yang Earth Monkey, the Yin Earth Rooster indicates a definite energetic shift. There exists a weakness in the Yang energy alongside the strength of Yin energy. Yang energy represents many things, light, heat, and movement to name a few. Maybe you've noticed the daylight hours are becoming shorter, the heat is weakening, and becoming more bearable. At home, we celebrate this time of the year by eating dinner by candlelight. With cooler temperatures comes throttling back of activity and movement of the summer. We are beginning to enter a more Yin time of the year. With this in mind, we persist in being vigilant in protecting ourselves from environmental pathogens, which have shifted from Wind-Heat to Wind or Wind-Damp. The Earth above encourages us to slow down or let go. This reminds us during September the daylight hours continue waning and the summer heat gives way to cooler temperatures.

The nature of the Earth is cool and damp. Earth in September reminds us that dampness is becoming more prevalent in the environment. This can mean more rain, humidity, or both. Earth over Lake represents the effect of moisture and dampness on the earth leading to filling of Lake. As of this writing the current weather, locally, is forecast to be cooler for the next seven to 10 days and rainy-humid conditions have replaced the extreme heat we experienced just last month. In general, the late summer is a time that pathogenic dampness can be very detrimental to our health and the earth. Already, in the clinic, we're treating dampness: swollen joints, allergies from increased mold and fungus in the environment, fuzziness in the head, inability to focus/concentrate, and heaviness from dampness weighing down the body, mind, and spirit. Dampness provides a good environment for bacteria and viruses to flourish which normally precedes flu season and for the last 3 years, COVID.

Each region and organ of the body has various aspects and qualities associated with Yin, Yang, and the five elements. The Yin Earth Rooster month predominately affects the Yang aspect of the body by weakening its response to dampness/phlegm. The Yin Earth Rooster month represents a damp pathogen affecting the Metal and Earth's elemental organs, tissues, and regions of the body. Dampness can lead to phlegm in the upper body, toxic conditions in the liver/gallbladder, spleen/pancreas, along with bacterial infections in the intestines, bladder, and kidneys. During this month those regions easily affected are the nose, lips, mouth, ears, stomach, intestines, liver, joints, and lower extremities.

Common disorders during this month can be classified in three different regions, known as the San Jiao, in Chinese medicine. San translates to "three" and Jiao to "warmer or heater". So, San Jiao literally means Triple Warmer or Triple Heater.

Upper Jiao disharmonies this month include:

bursitis, recurring infections of common cold, thyroid conditions

swelling/pain of the arms, elbows, hands, wrists, and fingers

phlegm/mucous and swelling of the esophagus and trachea

asthma, cough, breathing difficulties, shortness of breath

functional heart conditions and chest congestion or infections

febrile diseases, fever, sore throat

Hemiplegia, pain and motor impairment of the shoulder,

Spasmodic pain of the elbow and arm

Headache, dizziness, redness, swelling and pain of the eye, blurring vision, toothache

rubella, eczema, urticaria, erysipelas

Emaciation due to general deficiency, palpitation, shortness of breath, poor appetite, lassitude, dizziness, insomnia

Depressive psychosis and madness

Cough and asthma

tremors

Middle Jiao disharmonies this month include:

lowered resistance, and compromised immune response

adrenal fatigue, galleries, hives, and other skin problems

kidney problems, hardening of the arteries, chronic fatigue, nephritis, pyelitis

Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea

Gastric pain, vomiting, dysphagia, abdominal distention, borborygmus, diarrhea, indigestion, dysentery, constipation, abdominal pain, acute mastitis

Erysipelas, rash, general pruritus, furuncles, carbuncles on the back

Lower Jiao disharmonies this month include:

prostate problems, low back problems, sciatic nerve pain

difficult or frequent urination,

poor circulation in the legs, swollen or weak ankles, cold feet or lower legs, leg weakness, leg cramps

Irregular menstruation,

swelling and pain of the knee

Pain in the knee joint, apoplexy, hemiplegia, beriberi, edema

Lumbar pain, spasms, and weakness of the lower extremities

Enuresis, dysuria

Depending on the organs and regions affected, there are specific herbal strategies that are very effective for treating all the conditions listed above.

Here at Meridian Harmonics, during this month we will supplement our treatments to support Yin Earth Rooster Month for each patient. This can be accomplished using specific acupuncture and herbal therapies. Each patient is different. We will assess each patient, individually, on what strategies are best suited for them.

Modifying one’s lifestyle can support this particular season. This period in the year brings damp humid weather patterns. It’s important to protect yourself from dampness as it weakens the body's ability to transform/transport fluids in the body. Drinking plenty of water and consuming whole foods containing a high-water content are immensely beneficial. Because of the damp influence of Yin Earth Rooster Month, it's important to avoid foods that are oily, greasy, fried, overly sweet, or rich, as these foods clog up the various channels and pathways in the body.

At this time of year, external pathogenic conditions are significant factors in illnesses. Consequently, if you find yourself suddenly sick: eat much less, and use a more simple, liquid-based diet such as vegetable or grain soup if chills predominate over the fever. If the fever predominates, fruit or vegetable juices or fresh fruits are a better alternative.

Bioflavonoid-rich food such as cabbage with hearts, and green peppers with their insides. Other useful foods include parsley, carrots, broccoli, turnips, kudzu (especially good for treating a stiff or painful upper back or neck from an exterior condition; also useful for measles), parsnips, horseradish, scallions, garlic, lemon juice, grapefruit, and most fruits.

In some exterior conditions, either chills or fever will predominate. For pre-dominating chills, use warming herbs and foods, for best results. When fevers predominate, or in the case of measles and similar diseases with rashes, use foods with cooling properties. If fevers and chills are of equal strength, any of the foods and herbs recommended above are helpful.

Once the acute stage and exterior symptoms pass, then gradually introduce normal foods in order to build strength. If colds, flu, and various exterior conditions are frequent, one is probably consuming too many sweets, salty foods, and/or excess dairy, eggs, or other mucus and acid-forming foods. In some cases, colds are not easily cured, and a longer-term lung condition results, marked by strong heat signs, copious mucus, or other attributes. This is exactly what has happened with many who contracted COVID.

One last note on the Yin Earth Rooster hexagram is the significant lack of strength in the Yang aspect of the body. This represents a weakness in the nervous system and the digestive tract with emphasis on the respiratory tract. This month is a time to pivot from excessive yang activities and exercises to those that don't unduly tax the body. Now is a good time to begin building that which has been broken or torn down from the summer activities.

Our special this month involves a 10% discount on the price of our proprietary formula BSABV-ES. The BSABV-ES formula comes in a 200 capsule bottle. It's an amazing herbal broad-spectrum anti-viral/bacterial remedy, that we've been using for all kinds of infections, (i.e.: common cold, influenza, bronchitis, COVID, etc.). Just mention this blog post when you place your order.

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy

Sunday, August 14, 2022

August 8, 2022 Yang Earth Monkey Month

August 8, 2022, is the first day of the Yang Earth Monkey month in the Chinese calendar. The Chinese calendar assigns one of the twelve animals, five elements, and the polarity of yin or yang to each year, month, day, and hour.

The Yang Earth Monkey refers to one of the sixty-four hexagrams described in the I Ching and used in Feng Shui. Its image is Mountain over Heaven and signifies the "Creative" being tamed by the "Keeping Still". This hexagram has a threefold meaning, expressing different aspects of the concept of "Holding firm." Heaven within the mountain gives the idea of holding firm in the sense of holding together; the trigram Mountain which holds the trigram Heaven still, gives the idea of holding firm in the sense of holding back; the third idea is that of holding firm in the sense of caring for and nourishing.

The Yang Earth Monkey describes Heaven within the Mountain and points to hidden treasures. In the words and deeds of the past, there lies hidden a treasure that men may use to strengthen and elevate their own characters. The way to study the past is not to confine oneself to mere knowledge of history but, through the application of this knowledge, to give actuality to the past.

The hexagram for Yang Earth Monkey represents a strong energetic state of Heaven below (the root of the hexagram) captured by the Mountain above.

This hexagram is occurring during a time of the year when the season continues to be strongly rooted in summer. With this in mind, we persist in being vigilant in protecting ourselves from the heat pathogen. The Mountain above reminds us to disengage or let go of what has become obsolete. This reminds us that during this month of August the daylight hours continue waning and the summer heat give way to cooler temperatures.

The nature of the Mountain is warm with a hint of dampness. Mountain in August reminds us that dampness is being introduced during the summer heat. This can mean more rain, humidity, or both. Mountain over Heaven represents the effect of damp heat on the earth on the land governed by Heaven, which represents extreme dryness (drought). As of this writing the current weather, locally, is forecast to be not as hot for the next seven to 10 days but the rain has already transpired, along with increased humidity. In general, the late summer is a time that pathogenic damp-heat can be very detrimental to our health and the earth. Damp heat provides a good environment for bacteria and viruses to flourish.

Each region and organ of the body has various aspects and qualities associated with Yin, Yang, and the five elements. The Yang Earth Monkey month predominately affects the Earth and Metal aspect of the body through damp heat. The Yang Earth Monkey month represents a damp heat pathogen affecting the Earth's elemental organs, tissues, and regions of the body. Damp heat can lead to phlegm heat in the upper body, toxic conditions in the liver/gallbladder, and spleen/pancreas, along with bacterial infections in the intestines, bladder, and kidneys. During this month those regions easily affected are the nose, lips, mouth, ears, stomach, intestines, liver, joints, and lower extremities.

Common disorders during this month can be classified in three different regions, known as the San Jiao, in Chinese medicine. San means three and Jiao means warmer or heater. So, San Jiao literally means Triple Warmer or Triple Heater.

Upper Jiao disharmonies this month include:

headache and body ache, dizziness, congestion, swelling and pain of the eye, sinusitis, nosebleed, toothache in the lower jaw, trismus (lockjaw), deafness, mumps, swelling of the face, facial paralysis, facial tic, swelling of the pharnyx and inability to speak

dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, difficult or abnormal labor/childbirth

cough with a large amount of phlegm, asthma

insomnia, cardiac pain, palpitations, irritability, chest pain

Middle Jiao disharmonies this month include:

gastric pain, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dysentery.

Distention and pain in the chest and hypochondrium

Jaundice, Diabetes, epilepsy, and other tremors

irregular menstruation, metrorrhagia, hernia, enuresis

Lower Jiao disharmonies this month include:

Lassitude and heaviness of the extremities, overweight (systemic dampness)

edema, diarrhea, weakness, numbness, and pain in the lower extremities

impotence, frequent urination

Depending on the organs and regions affected, there are specific herbal strategies that are very effective for treating all the conditions listed above.

Here at Meridian Harmonics, during this month we will supplement our treatments to support Yang Earth Monkey Month for each patient. This can be accomplished using specific acupuncture and herbal therapies. Each patient is different. We will assess each patient, individually, on what strategies are best suited for them.

Modifying one’s lifestyle can support this period and the late summer season. This period in the year brings very hot damp humid weather patterns. It’s important to protect yourself from the heat as it consumes the nutritive or Yin aspect of the body. Drinking plenty of water and consuming whole foods containing a high-water content are immensely beneficial. Because of the damp influence of Yang Earth Monkey Month, it's important to avoid foods that are oily, greasy, fried, overly sweet, or rich.

Late summer meals need to be simpler, with fewer combinations, and easy to digest. Fewer heavy animal-based proteins prevent excessive heat to build in the gastrointestinal tract. Eating lighter whole foods allows our appetites to be more easily satisfied without overeating. Plan regular meals and chew slowly and thoroughly. Eat more bitter whole foods to aid in draining dampness and phlegm.

Drink plenty of distilled water throughout the day to promote drainage.

Avoid spicy/pungent/aromatic vegetables such as pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, and wasabi. These foods and spices will damage the body’s Qi and Yin.

Avoid fried, spicy or greasy foods, refined sugar, tea, coffee, caffeine, salt, chocolate, strong spices, and carbonated drinks. Stay away from sour and acidic food and fruits.

Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine-containing beverages whenever possible. Alcohol and caffeine increase stomach acid and exacerbates internal heat and inflammation.

Clinic hours: Tue - Fri 8:00 - 12:00, 1:30 - 6:30

Closed: Sat, Sun, Mon

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Herbal Compounding Pharmacy