COVID-19 by the Numbers

While the impact of flu varies, it places a substantial burden on the health of people in the United States each year. The CDC estimates that influenza has resulted in between 9 million – 45 million illnesses, between 140,000 – 810,000 hospitalizations, and between 12,000 – 61,000 deaths annually since 2010. In fact, COVID-19 has killed more people than the last 5 flu seasons combined. 

COVID-19, in the US most likely began infecting our population sometime before the first recorded death on Feb 6, 2020. It has infected over 7.7M people in the US, and accounted for over 215,000 deaths in just 8 months, nearly quadrupling the death rate of the influenza virus. 

It also has wreaked lifelong havoc on many people who've survived the illness. Survival doesn't always mean unscathed.

As a reminder, the CDC estimates a safe vaccine won't be available until the end of the second to the third quarter of 2021. 

How does this timeline affect the actual numbers? Let's say the general public will be able to get the vaccine by late June 2021. By then over 16M cases will have occurred and over 452,000 deaths will be recorded. How is this acceptable?

Herd immunity seems to be the way most people expect to return to "regular life". It's estimated herd immunity will require 70% of the population to be infected minus those who have already been infected or over 223M people. For the US, on average 2.8% of cases end in death. This means for herd immunity to play out before a vaccine is ready over 6M people will die in the US. How is this acceptable? 

There seems to be a total lack of logic in dealing with this pandemic. And yet history should have guided us.

Spanish Flu 

Cholera 

SARS 

So why is it that there is such a backlash against common-sense precautionary measures we all can practice to help mitigate this disease? Why is it that certain portions of the population tend to minimize this disease? Why is there such contempt from these people towards those who are willing to practice prevention? Are we free to disrespect others during a worldwide pandemic, endangering their health and possibly their lives? Have we become so self-centered, and entitled that we no longer care for our fellow man? Has life become all about what most can be taken and gotten out of life? 

There's A New C-IAYT in the House

Three years ago our own Michelle began studying in a relatively new field, Yoga Therapy (YT). I kind of envision it as an Eastern approach to western physical therapy. I'm sure there is an actual more correct description, but in any case, needless to say, it's an intense program, as is with any endeavor. 

As of Jun 14, 2020, Michelle Tryling is now Certified in the prestigious International Association of Yoga Therapists (C-IAYT). This is in addition to being an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT). Additionally, she is in her practicum for Integrated Positional Therapy (IPT) and is being mentored personally by the inventor of IPT, Lee Albert, Neuro Muscular Therapist.

We are excited to be able to offer a variety of techniques to help our patients with their health and wellness challenges. With this new certification, Michelle is offering online YT sessions for group or individual classes. To see if your a good candidate for YT or IPT you can contact Michelle directly at yogaharmonics@gmail.com

One of the few exemplary schools of yoga therapy (YT) is in a remote area of western Massachusetts, near Stockbridge, called Kripalu. Every few months since March 2017 Michelle would travel to Kripalu to do training for up to three weeks at a time. It's been a grueling schedule for her, but she toughed it out and came out on top. We're all very proud of her. Please join me in congratulating her on her awesome achievement!

Some better descriptions of Yoga Therapy (YT) from folks actually in the field:

Yoga therapy is the facet of the ancient science of Yoga that focuses on health and wellness at all levels of the person: physical, psychological, and spiritual. Yoga therapy focuses on the path of Yoga as a healing journey that brings balance to the body and mind through an experiential understanding of the primary intention of Yoga: the awakening of Spirit, our essential nature.

Joseph LePage, M.A., Integrative Yoga Therapy (U.S.A.)

Yoga therapy is a self-empowering process, where the care-seeker, with the help of the Yoga therapist, implements a personalized and evolving Yoga practice, that not only addresses the illness in a multi-dimensional manner but also aims to alleviate his/her suffering in a progressive, non-invasive and complementary manner.  Depending upon the nature of the illness, Yoga therapy can not only be preventative or curative, but also serve a means to manage the illness, or facilitate healing in the person at all levels.

TKV Desikachar & Kausthub Desikachar

Yoga therapy is of modern coinage and represents the first effort to integrate traditional yogic concepts and techniques with Western medical and psychological knowledge. Whereas traditional Yoga is primarily concerned with personal transcendence on the part of a "normal" or healthy individual, Yoga therapy aims at the holistic treatment of various kinds of psychological or somatic dysfunctions ranging from back problems to emotional distress. Both approaches, however, share an understanding of the human being as an integrated body-mind system, which can function optimally only when there is a state of dynamic balance.

Georg Feuerstein, Ph.D.

Yoga therapy, derived from the Yoga tradition of Patanjali and the Ayurvedic system of health care refers to the adaptation and application of Yoga techniques and practices to help individuals facing health challenges at any level manage their condition, reduce symptoms, restore balance, increase vitality, and improve attitude.

Gary Kraftsow American Viniyoga Institute

Yoga therapy is the adaptation of yoga practices for people with health challenges. Yoga therapists prescribe specific regimens of postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques to suit individual needs. Medical research shows that Yoga therapy is among the most effective complementary therapies for several common aliments. The challenges may be an illness, a temporary condition like pregnancy or childbirth, or a chronic condition associated with old age or infirmity.

Robin Monro, Ph.D. Yoga Biomedical Trust (England)

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., Dipl. AC, CH (NCCAOM)

Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)

www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, C-IAYT, E-RYT, Yoga Therapy, Integrated Positional Therapy
www.yoga-harmonics.com

Meridian Harmonics - Harmony and Balance for your Good Health

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

2044 Bedford Rd.

Bedford, TX 76021

817-835-0885

Why We Wear a Mask in our Clinic

Wear Your Face Mask

I continue to be surprised at how nonchalant many people are with this disease. As most people know, I am an avid cyclist and ride my bike all around Dalla-Fort Worth. I love riding my bike with other fellow cyclists. However, I decided in March that riding with others was somewhat risky since the aerosol cloud behind a rider can extend 65 feet! Even though the probability of contracting COVID-19 is small while cycling, as a healthcare provider why should I risk it? On one of my rides this past weekend I went by one of the many city parks in our area where little league baseball games were in full swing (pardon the pun). Not one player, parent, or spectator was wearing a mask or practicing social distancing.

Face masks are the most efficient method of preventing the spread of the coronavirus, according to a new analysis of infection data from Northern Italy and New York City. The data revealed that mandates for facial coverings in the two epicenters correlated with a drop in the number of new cases by roughly half and two-thirds, respectively, over the time period, studied (see the paper, Fig. 2).

The results align with previous research showing airborne transmission as the most virulent route for new infections. Though spread can occur by direct (via touching) and indirect (via surfaces) means, viral particles have been shown to survive for hours when aerosolized from coughing, sneezing, or even talking in a closed area. Even imperfect facial coverings may prevent such particles from spreading. Still, researchers warn that face mask requirements alone are not sufficient to halt the pandemic.

Anecdotally, no new cases were observed from two Missouri hairdressers who saw 140 clients while sick but had implemented face mask requirements. 

Cases have begun to spike in places like Florida and Texas. The US has suffered more cases and deaths due to COVID-19 than any other country. The US has reported 2.1 million total cases, with 117,859 deaths. Some respected epidemiologists expect the number of deaths in the US to double by September 2020. See the three-day rolling average here. 

Talk with any frontline healthcare provider and you'll discover how dangerous it is to relax the vigilant procedures set forth in April and May too soon. One expert recently stated that in comparing the COVI-19 pandemic to a baseball game, we're just now in the second inning. Just think about that for a moment. 

In early June I was surprised to learn how little Japan was affected by COVID-19. Their culture naturally promotes more respect for each other and are more conscientious of the world, as a whole. Infectious disease outbreaks are common in Asia and consequently, this population naturally is more vigilant with hygiene, social distancing, and wearing masks. If it works there, doesn't it make sense that it would work in the US?

As always, our desire is to provide a safe, clean place to provide premium health and wellness care. We will continue to wear masks in our clinic and we want our clients and patients to honor our request to do so, as well. This is all about being respectful and caring for the wellbeing of each other.

In spite of the widespread relaxation of health recommendations, we continue to do all we can to make sure our office is cleaner than ever before and we're doing our part to be safe for our clients and patients. It really is each of our responsibility to do our part to prevent the proliferation of infection.

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., Dipl. AC, CH (NCCAOM)

Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)

www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, E-RYT, Yoga Therapy, Integrated Positional Therapy
www.yoga-harmonics.com

Meridian Harmonics - Harmony and Balance for your Good Health

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

2044 Bedford Rd.

Bedford, TX 76021

817-835-0885

Clinic Reopening Part 2: Treating Disharmony Patterns, On-line Yoga Therapy,

It's been two weeks since we reopened the clinic after the mandatory COVID-19 shutdown and shelter-in-place orders came down. All-in-all, our patient's report it has been a resounding success. Some of our patients are in high-risk groups and are still concerned about leaving home or getting out in general. We understand and want to reassure them and our community we are doing our part to make our clinic environment safer and healthier than ever before.

We're all getting used to wearing masks. We want to take the opportunity to thank you all for your help in making our clinic safe and healthy for everyone. Also, the pace here at the office is slower with our schedule only having one patient in the office at a time. We're spending more time cleaning surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, and really every surface touched by us and our patients. One aspect that hasn't changed is our commitment to make our office and treatments feel safe and healthy while you're here.

Our compound herbal pharmacy has been very busy lately. As always, we're committed to investing in the raw herbal ingredients necessary to meet the needs of our patients and our community, as a whole. Our patients are requesting herbal remedies to address a variety of needs. Conditions such as ongoing anti-viral and anti-bacterial solutions are at the top of the list. Texas has been in the throes of an intense allergy season for the last several weeks, resulting in the need for customized herbal solutions for a variety of allergy symptoms. Fortunately, we have all the specific herbal ingredients needed to treat the various allergy symptoms Texas has to offer.

Most patients are surprised to see the quantity of the herbs in our pharmacy and discover we have herbs to treat nearly everything that they would get a prescription or over-the-counter drug for. Chinese medicine has a history that spans 8,000-10,000 years and has the ability to treat, literally, thousands of conditions. In fact for those that wish to avoid acupuncture, there is most likely, an herbal alternative.

Some of the most common conditions patients are seeking acupuncture for can also be treated with a customized compounded herbal formulas:

Stress
Anxiety
Insomnia
Muscle pain
Allergies
Hormone imbalances
Joint pain
Hypertension
High Cholesterol
Hyperglycemia
Hypoglycemia
Depression
Headaches and Migraines
Acid Reflux
Dizziness and Vertigo
Neck pain
Low back pain
PTSD
Postoperative and traumatic injury recovery
Cardiovascular problems
Kidney disease
Constipation and diarrhea
Acne
Asthma
Bells Palsy
Infertility
Fibromyalgia
Chemical dependency
RSD and CRPS
Colitis
Crohn's
Irritable Bowel Syndrome

These are a few examples of conditions we've treated in just the last few months!

Some of the questions we often hear from patients:

How do you determine which herbs are best for me and the medical conditions I'm interested in treating?

This is a great question! There is a huge difference between western medicine, western herbal medicine, and Chinese medicine. Western medicine and western herbal medicine tend to focus on treating symptoms and act more like a band-aid approach. Chinese medicine looks past the symptoms at the underlying root causes to treat symptoms at their root. Chinese medicine recognizes there are underlying patterns of disharmony that are causing all diseases, disorders, conditions, and symptoms. Accordingly, the correct treatment principle is to identify the patterns and treat the pattern rather than band-aiding the symptoms.

How do I find out the patterns of disharmony in my body responsible for my health conditions and symptoms?

Another difference between western and eastern medicines is the diagnostic techniques used. Western medicine uses labs (i.e.: blood analysis, urinalysis, etc.) and imaging (x-ray, MRI, CAT scan, PET scan, etc.). Since Chinese medicine, traditionally, did not have access to these techniques the ancient doctors had to come up with diagnostic techniques that accurately represent the patterns of disharmony present in the patient. These techniques, though thousands of years old are still used today and can even be more comprehensive than modern techniques.

The predominant technique for determining pattern disharmony is called Chinese pulse diagnosis. There are various styles of pulse diagnosis. Each method may take a different route but all tend to reach the same conclusion. Meridian Harmonics has developed a unique style of pulse diagnosis that combines ancient concepts with modern technology to aid in identifying a tremendous amount of information about patient's conditions and the best course of action to treat them effectively and efficiently. This method is called the Pulse Matrix and was developed in 2003. It is a lot more involved than simply determining the heart rate. The Pulse Matrix provides a snapshot in time of what is happening currently inside the body and the disharmony patterns present. It allows us to determine the best treatment options for you. This snapshot is called the Pulse Image.

The human body is never in a stable state. It is constantly changing and adjusting to its environment. Your Pulse Image is constantly changing. Our goal is to provide treatment strategies to move your Pulse Image into a healthy balanced state. For some, this can take some time. It all depends on the severity of inflammation or metabolic sluggishness present in the body. We can help with lifestyle and diet recommendations that will enhance your progress rather than hinder it.

Herbal Appointment Scheduling

The best way to schedule an herbal appointment is to call or email us:

817-835-0885  (Please leave a message if we're with a patient and unable to answer the phone)

info@mhaom.com 

If you're not able to come to the clinic, personally, we're happy to do phone consultations or a telemedicine consult using Zoom. Let us know what works best for you. 

On-site herbal consultations are 30-45 minutes, for new patients and 15-20 minutes for established patients.

Online Yoga Therapy

Michelle is providing one-on-one or group online yoga therapy sessions using Zoom. Check out her website. To schedule a personalized yoga therapy session, email her at yogaharmonics@gmail.com

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., Dipl. AC, CH (NCCAOM)

Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)

www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, E-RYT, Yoga Therapy, Integrated Positional Therapy
www.yoga-harmonics.com

Meridian Harmonics - Harmony and Balance for your Good Health

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

2044 Bedford Rd.

Bedford, TX 76021

817-835-0885

Treatment Reminder in the COVID-19 Era

We are excited to re-open our clinic on May 1, 2020. We miss seeing some of our favorite people - our clients and patients. One of our clinic goals is fostering a safe community of health, wellness, and vitality. COVID-19 requires all of us to make changes so that we can keep our community safe. We are committed to doing the following:

1. One patient in the clinic at a time. We've reduced the number of available appointments each day to minimize exposure and to continue distancing and sanitization protocols between patients.
2. Weekly text reminders will now be sent on Sundays. This is the only reminder that will be sent for the coming week. 
3. Phone and telemedicine consult for herbal orders and refills. Curbside pickup and over the phone payment also available.
4. We will wear a mask when within 6 ft of you.

We need your help. Please commit to doing the following:

1. Please wear a mask. It doesn't have to be N-95, but some sort of covering for your nose and mouth. This is the impact COVID-19 has made on our current medical setting. 
2. Do not smoke or use perfumes or colognes several hours prior to your appointment. COVID-19 presents a very real challenge for any patient with a history of respiratory or auto-immune illnesses. Strong chemical smells exacerbate respiratory problems and can jeopardize the ability for us to provide a safe environment for our patients. You will be asked to leave if you come to the clinic with an odor of smoke, perfume, or cologne. This is considered a last-minute cancellation and you will be charged $35.
3. Please talk softly and turn off all mobile devices while in the clinic. Please respect the staff and other clients/patients by speaking softly and avoid using your phone. 
4. For acupuncture treatments please dress so that the acupuncturist has access to your arms and legs, or bring a change of clothes that will facilitate the same.
5. Please be on time for your appointment. If you are late for your appointment, your treatment time will be cut short. If you have to reschedule, please do so at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, there will be a $35 charge for last-minute cancellations and no-shows. We have an ongoing waiting list and strive to help as many people as we can.
6. Please eat before your appointment. Do not bring food and drinks into the clinic. 
7. Please notify us of all medicines you are currently taking (Rx, OTC, and supplements).
8. We are not available after hours.  Office hours are changing: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:30 pm -6:30 pm. Please leave a message on the clinic phone 817-835-0885, or email us at mtryling@gmail.com

As always, we appreciate the opportunity to be a source of time-honored, yet exciting information, to help you in your journey to becoming the healthiest person you can be. Please use us as an educational source of the two oldest and most complete medicines the world has ever seen: Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine from India.

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., Dipl. AC, CH (NCCAOM)
Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)
www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, 500-RYT, Yoga Therapy, and Integrated Positional Therapy
www.yoga-harmonics.com

Meridian Harmonics - Harmony and Balance for your Good Health

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
2044 Bedford Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021

817-835-0885

Clinic Re-Opening after COVID-19 Thank you for your continued support and interest in our clinic. We will continue to serve you and your family to the best of our ability as we learn to navigate uncharted territory together. We will begin to schedule patients for a limited number of in-person treatments at the clinic beginning on May 1, 2020. Keeping informed of current recommendations to medical practitioners, we will transition to seeing patients by restricting access to the clinic one patient per hour. With thorough cleaning and sanitization techniques, we will also rotate the use of treatment rooms. By limiting our clinic to one person at a time, we hope to limit exposure to you and ourselves in order to be as safe as possible. We will continue to offer phone consults, curbside herbal pickups, online yoga therapy, through Zoom, and herbal shipments as well. Please contact us at any time by email or text us at 682-292-8767. To speak to one of us by phone, please call the clinic at 817-835-0885 to schedule an acupuncture, yoga therapy, or integrated positional therapy appointment. Please note our current hours of operation have changed. Due to high demand and the limited number of available appointments, we will need at least 24 hours notice for rescheduling or cancellation. Please be respectful of others and of our small clinic; you will be charged for last-minute cancellations or no-shows to your appointment. Our current hours of operation are as follows: Tuesday-Friday, 8:00 am to 11:30 am; 1:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Please note the latest acupuncture appointment available is 5:30 pm. We are still connected as a community! Continue to check our websites and blogs (Clinic blog, Yoga Therapy Blog, Yoga Therapy Instagram) for the latest on what we are doing to stay positive and healthy. We also, post interesting articles on the clinic FB page. We love to hear from you so please continue to reach out and update us on how you're doing. Please stay safe and let us know if we can be of assistance in any way. You and yours are in our thoughts and prayers! D. Mark Tryling, LAc., Dipl. AC, CH (NCCAOM) Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board) Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine 2044 Bedford Rd. Bedford, TX 76021 817-835-0885 www.mhaom.com Michelle Tryling, E-RYT, Yoga Therapy, Integrated Positional Therapy www.yoga-harmonics.com

COVID-19 Symptoms Appear Unrelated

In this update, we have some good news and some not so good news. First the not so good news.

This is a frightening prospect - after patients are presumed to be cleared, the virus can still be active in their body. Research has shown that 50% of treated patients still have active virus active up to eight days after their symptoms disappear. This, in turn, allows them to remain infectious, even after symptomatic recovery.

How does this happen? Researchers suspect that the medications used to treat the virus are not treating the entire organ systems of the affected patients, allowing the virus to migrate to other regions of the body. From a western medical pathophysiological perspective migration of the virus can be through various cellular methods allowing the virus to be transported through the cell membrane and then replicating itself. Within the TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) model, there are energetic pathways connecting various regions of the body and various organs to each other. These pathways are similar to a superhighway allowing information and chemicals to be transported throughout the body.

So what's happening here? Many of the drugs used in treating COVID-19 focus on the respiratory system and neglect the other organs that have energetic connections to the other organ systems in the body.

For instance, in the case of the lungs, TCM recognizes several organ system connections. In TCM one model recognizes what is known as the Interior/Exterior organ relationships. One of these relationships is known as the Taiyin-Yangming relationship. Taiyin and Yangming are two of the six energetic levels in the body. They encompass not only specific external and internal pathways but also specific organs. Taiyin relates to the Lung, Spleen, and Pancreas. Yangming relates to the Stomach and Large Intestine.

Let's review what the medical community is witnessing as far as the major symptoms: loss of sense of smell (anosmia) and taste (ageusia), fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, diarrhea or frequent bowel movements. 23% of patients will first experience digestive symptoms, 43% will present with only respiratory symptoms, 33% will have both respiratory and digestive symptoms.

Anosmia
Generally speaking, anosmia in TCM represents an imbalance with the lungs, since one of the functions of the lungs is the ability to discern the Five Odors.

Ageusia
Ageusia, or loss of the sense of taste, generally, is considered as an imbalance in the spleen and stomach. What's interesting about this symptom is that both of these organs are related to the Taiyin-Yangming relationship.

Fever
Fever is not the best factor for qualifying someone with COVID-19. When taking the temporal or forehead temperature the digital thermometer is simply reflecting the temperature of those regions as related to the energetic pathways in those regions. Classically, we've been told 98.6F is the normal body temperature. However, the range for normal body temperature is 97.6 - 99.6℉. The range for fever is at least 100.4℉. A very high fever is one above 105.8℉. Fevers can represent any inflammatory condition whether its an infection or not. So just remember that fever is just one sign of an imbalance in the body. On a side note, I check my temperature every day and it is often in the range from 96.7 - 97.6℉ and rarely registers above 98℉.

Cough, Shortness of Breath
Cough and shortness of breath, though generated from the lungs, has a more complicated pathology. In the Taiyin-Yangming relationship imbalances in the large intestine, spleen/pancreas, and stomach can all create coughs, in addition to an imbalance in the lungs, such as an upper respiratory infection from COVID-19. In addition to the Interior/Exterior energetic relationship, another relationship to consider relates to the regions of the energetic pathways as they correspond to how they are categorized from their Yin or Yang nature and whether they are an upper or lower body pathway. One of these is the Taiyin-Taiyang relationship. As was mentioned earlier, Taiyin represents the energetic pathways of the Lungs, Spleen and Pancreas. The Taiyang level represents the Urinary Bladder and Small Intestine. When assessing the temperature on the forehead one of the pathways in this area relates to the Taiyang energetic level. This is an example of how lower body inflammation or infections can be reflected in the upper body. In this scenario inflammation or congestion in the Bladder or Small Intestine can be transferred to the Lung leading to a cough or shortness of breath.

Fatigue
Fatigue or tiredness is one of the most common conditions that is seen with a number of diseases and disorders. I am constantly cautioning patients to not self medicate with over-the-counter herbs and food supplements when it comes to fatigue. Why? Because fatigue, like any condition, has a number of root causes. Of all the organs in the body, according to TCM, the Lung and Spleen/Pancreas are the only two organs that produce all the energy that is needed by our body to function properly. The Lungs do this through proper breathing while engaged in exercise. The Spleen/Pancreas produces energy from the digestion of healthy food sources. If because of improper lifestyle choices, either one of these organs is negatively affected, then the result will be fatigue. Both the Lung and Spleen/Pancreas are located in the Taiyin level of the body. Weakness in the Taiyin level will cause fatigue, but inflammation in the pathways and organs related to the Taiyin organs will cause fatigue, as well. Namely, the Small and Large Intestines, and Stomach. This is why digestive wreckage can affect the Lungs. This is why eating a clean healthy diet benefits a person's energy and Lungs.

There is another energetic relationship in the TCM model responsible for lung conditions. It's called Taiyin-Jueyin. In this model, the Lungs have an energetic relationship with the Liver. This is important because, from the TCM perspective, the Liver has several functions that play a role in promoting the health of all the organs. Typical symptoms of disharmony in the Jueyin level are vertex headaches, hypertension, spasms, tremors, migraines, vertigo, dizziness, tinnitus, irritability, eye or vision problems, insomnia, palpitations, emotional disturbances, stress, and epigastric or abdominal pain.

Body aches, Runny nose
Body aches and runny nose are very common with what TCM recognizes as an Exterior Invasion of Pathogenic Factors. Typical disorders that include body aches: common cold, influenza, bronchitis, asthma and allergies.

Diarrhea, frequent bowel movements
As was mentioned earlier, the Large Intestine is an aspect of the Yangming level of TCM and is the Interior/Exterior organ relationship with the Lungs. Diarrhea, frequent bowel movements or loose stools indicate an imbalance in the Large Intestine as the result of a pathogenic problem that will begin to affect other organs, in this case, the Lungs.

Now for some really good news. Meridian Harmonics is receiving numerous requests for anti-viral herbal remedies to boost immune function and combat viral and bacterial infections. These herbs have systemic actions. These means they can treat the whole body, not just one organ, disease or symptom. Due to the complexity of the herb’s organic structures, viruses and bacteria are not able to mutate against them as easily as they can with pharmaceuticals.

For thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used in treating bacterial and viral infections. TCM herbal remedies are used to combat the flu and even more recent viral epidemics. Chinese herbal decoctions can be integrated with western modalities and even in conjunction with pharmaceuticals. If you have a question on how to do this safely, contact us at info@mhaom.com or leave us a message at 817-835-0885.

TCM herbs can be tailored to each person’s conditions whether dealing with a cold, ear infection or respiratory virus, shortening the duration of sickness and decreases the severity of symptoms. We recommend taking a maintenance daily dose to boost the immune system prior to the presenting of symptoms. If you have questions regarding these formulations and if they can benefit you, we can be reached at info@mhaom.com or leave us a message at 817-835-0885.

In-Office Procedures 
Due to the recent social distancing requirement, we will continue to suspend all acupuncture, yoga therapy, and integrated positional therapy treatments until April 30.
We apologize for this inconvenience as we would prefer to serve our patients, personally. We will, also, be posting regular updates on our Facebook page, so please Like and check it regularly for news of any changes:  Meridian Harmonics

Our office hours are changing until we're allowed to resume normal operations and interactions with patients and clients. Until further notice, our hours will be: Tuesday - Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

We're doing all we can to help our local community weather the current storm we're facing.
If you need an herbal consult, please contact us by leaving a message at 817-835-0885, or by email: info@mhaom.com  We will be happy to call you and do a consultation by phone, fill your herbal prescription and have them ready for you to pick up or we can ship them to you.
Thank you for your understanding.

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., D. AC, CH (NCCAOM)
Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)
Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
2044 Bedford Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021
817-835-0885
www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, 500-RYT, Yoga Therapy; Integrated Positional Therapist
www.yoga-harmonics.com

If you are currently experiencing any of the symptoms listed contact your primary care doctor or your nearest ER.

Our Proprietary Herbs Now On-line!

We've created several pharmacy-grade compounded herbal formulas over the years. They are the most common herbal ingredients we use in our customized formulas for our patients. These formulas are now available to order on-line. If you would like to know if you're a good candidate for any of these formulations, simply email us or call us at 817-835-0885, and we'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. You may choose to pick up your order curbside at our clinic. We can take your order over the phone to waive shipping fees.

The available formulas currently available on-line can be found here: Herb Order

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., Dipl. AC, CH (NCCAOM)
Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)
Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
2044 Bedford Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021
817-835-0885
www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, 500-RYT, Yoga Therapy, and Integrated Positional Therapy
www.yoga-harmonics.com

Meridian Harmonics - Harmony and Balance for your Good Health

Have you noticed...?

On my way home from the office the other day I was reminded that over the last couple of weeks the sky is a startling blue and the clouds are amazing. Have you noticed this, too? One night last week my wife and I were on one of our after-dinner walks in the neighborhood. After we got back we just were in awe at how bright the stars were. I've heard that the waters in Venice are clear and haven't been that way in years! Does it take a worldwide pandemic to clean up our environment?

Ba Zi

Monday, April 6, 2020

The Chinese calendar combines the Solar calendar, which is what most of us are accustomed to, with the Lunar calendar. The fascinating property about the Chinese calendar is the energetic state associated with each year, month, day and hour.

Most people are familiar with the placemats found in Chinese restaurants and the animals associated with various birth years. Each year the animals cycle through until after twelve animals, the sequence repeats.  For instance, I was born in a Rooster year. Every twelve years from my birth year is another Rooster year. As with every animal year, the ages a person celebrates their animal year are 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84... Three years ago was my fifth Rooster year. How old am I?

There are other aspects to the Chinese calendar. For instance, most people have heard of Yin and Yang. In essence, yin and yang represent two polar opposites with different physical and energetic properties. The 12 animals are classified according to their yin-yang nature. Rooster years are classified as Yin years.

Another property of the Chinese calendar is rooted in the Five Element theory of Chinese medicine and culture. The five elements have various energetic properties, as well. The five elements are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. The Rooster is classified as a Metal element.

Ba Zi translates as eight characters. Four of these characters are related to the twelve animals: year, month, day, and hour. These four characters make up what is known as the Earthly Branch of the Ba Zi.

The other four characters of the Ba Zi make up what is known as the Heavenly Stem. These four characters are based on assigning a Yin, Yang, and Element property to each year, month, day, and hour. These energetic property assignments are independent of the ones in the Earthly Branch.

Each day has a different energetic nature based on the Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch, for the year, month, day, and hour.

This actually explains a lot about what happens in our daily lives. For instance, it can help to understand why some days, sleep is great and other days it's awful. Or when there's a day when drivers seem to be more aggressive. These are just a couple of examples.

Last year, 2019, was a Pig year in the Earthly Branch and a Yin Earth year in the Heavenly Stem. Together these make up a relatively calm year. However, when we begin to look at these energetic characteristics of each month, day, and hour along with the year energetics, there will be times throughout the year that cycle from highly energetic craziness to less energetic stillness.

Back in the summer of 2019, I was telling my wife that I felt like something big and crazy was going to happen in 2020. She asked me why. I told her that 2020 is a Yang Metal year, the highest energetic state of them all. At the time, I told her I thought it would be something political since we would be in an election year. I had no clue it would be related to COVID-19. She asked what month would also be Yang Metal. I did some calculating and it turns out that April is the Yang Metal month. Then she asked about the Yang Metal days. It turns out the craziest days of 2020 will be April 7th, 17th and 24 according to the Ba Zi.

It is predicted that COVID-19 infections and death rates are going to be extremely high in the next two weeks. This is being told to us by the experts in the medical community.  And, it seems to be confirmed by the Ba Zi. We've had other major incidences like COVID-19 throughout history: the Plague of 1720, Cholera of 1820, and Spanish Flu of 1920. All of these were Yang Metal years. So, please, take social distancing seriously for the next month. It could save your life or someone close to you.

At Meridian Harmonics we calculate the Ba Zi for each day and use the results to determine the most effective treatments for that day and with each patient. I'm often asked why I don't use the same acupuncture points or the same herbs. It's because the energetic states for each day vary and require different treatment strategies.

In-Office Procedures 
Due to the recent social distancing requirement, we will continue to suspend all acupuncture, yoga therapy, and integrated positional therapy treatments until April 30.
We apologize for this inconvenience as we would prefer to serve our patients, personally. We will, also, be posting regular updates on our Facebook page, so please Like and check it regularly for news of any changes:  Meridian Harmonics

Our office hours are changing until we're allowed to resume normal operations and interactions with patients and clients. Until further notice, our hours will be: Tuesday - Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

TCM herbs can be tailored to each person’s conditions whether dealing with a cold, ear infection or respiratory virus, shortening the duration of sickness and decreases the severity of symptoms. We recommend taking a maintenance daily dose to boost the immune system prior to the presenting of symptoms. If you have questions regarding these formulations and if they can benefit you, we can be reached at info@mhaom.com or leave us a message at 817-835-0885.

We're doing all we can to help our local community weather the current storm we're facing.
If you need an herbal consult, please contact us by leaving a message at 817-835-0885, or by email: info@mhaom.com   We will be happy to call you and do a consultation by phone, fill your herbal prescription and have them ready for you to pick up or we can ship them to you.
Thank you for your understanding.

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., Dipl. AC, CH (NCCAOM)
Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)
Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine
2044 Bedford Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021
817-835-0885
www.mhaom.com

Michelle Tryling, 500-RYT, Yoga Therapy & Integrated Positional Therapist
www.yoga-harmonics.com

Meridian Harmonics - Harmony and Balance for your Good Health

Clinic Update 4/4/20 - Vertigo/Dizziness Herbs

It looks like we're going to have social distancing around for a while. Please, if you don't need to be out in public, stay home. The more we all adhere to the guidelines the quicker we can all return to some sort of a normal life. However, normal life, most likely, won't ever be the same as it was.

Normal here is different, too. Our treatment rooms for acupuncture, yoga therapy, and integrated positional therapy are quiet, due to social distancing. However, our herbal pharmacy looks like a hurricane hit it. We've had a steady stream of patients coming in picking up herbal prescriptions. We're doing our best to make sure we have the stock necessary to fill your herbal prescription orders.

We had a phone consultation with one of our patients recently regarding a customized herbal formula for dizziness and vertigo. Vertigo and dizziness can be tricky to treat, as there are two major patterns of disharmony that cause these symptoms. A correct diagnosis and treatment are necessary to get the best results. After our conversation, it was determined that we needed to compound a custom formula for resolving stagnant phlegm and dampness leading to a fluid metabolism problem in the head. Mind you, this is just one cause of vertigo and dizziness.

If you need to make an appointment for a phone consult, either email us at info@mhaom.com or call 817-835-0885. We'll either set up Zoom telemedicine consult with you or simply discuss with you over the phone your herbal needs.

MERIDIAN HARMONICS CLINIC UPDATE – 3/26/20

Our patients and clients have been awesome in understanding the temporary suspension of acupuncture, yoga therapy, and integrated positional therapy appointments as a result of the COVID-19 social distancing requirement. As always, our main objective is the health and wellness of our patients, clients, and staff.

Our herbal compounding pharmacy is still very busy. An example of just a few customized herbal formulas we’ve created today for our clients:

Allergies
Sinusitis
Depression and Anxiety
Upper Respiratory Infection
Immune System Support
Anti-Viral/Bacterial

Just about any condition that a patient might receive a traditional western medical prescription for, are good candidates for treatment with pharmacy grade herbal extracts. The beautiful feature of these herbal extracts is the lack of significant side effects, which most western drugs are plagued with.

Meridian Harmonics commonly uses compounded herbal formulas to treat a variety of conditions. Some of the more common conditions suitable for customized herbal formulas in addition to the ones previously listed are:

Migraines & Headaches
Thyroid disorders
Irritable Bowel Disorder
Cohn’s disease
Colitis
Menopause
Traumatic Injuries
Surgical Recovery
Arthritis
Asthma & Wheezing
Bronchitis
Common Cold
Influenza
Constipation
Diarrhea
Vertigo & Dizziness
Edema
Acid Reflux
High Cholesterol
Hypertension
Infertility
Insomnia
Low Back Pain
Kidney Stones
Nausea & Vomiting
Urinary Tract Infection

This, obviously, isn't a comprehensive list, but allows patients to understand that Chinese medicine is a comprehensive and complete medicine.

In lieu of face-to-face visits in our office, we offer the option for patients to set up an appointment by calling us at 817-835-0885 or by emailing us at info@mhaom.com. For local patients, we offer the ability for them to pick up their herbal prescription or we can ship them the same day most anywhere.

COVID-19, The New Normal

Wow! What a difference two months makes. In January everything seemed to be firing on all cylinders. Then all of sudden the catchphrases of 2020 of "social distancing" and "shelter in place" describe the new normal of American life.

Fortunately, we are still allowed to go to work. That means a 5-mile drive to the office along normally busy streets but now look like a ghost town.

Unfortunately, this means our clinic has to change what we offer.

Due to the recent social distancing requirement, we are suspending all acupuncture, yoga therapy and integrated positional therapy treatments until further notice.

If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your primary care doctor or the nearest ER: runny nose, sore throat, fever, shortness of breath, dry hacky cough, difficulty breathing, headache. 

We apologize for this inconvenience as we would prefer to serve our patients, personally. We will, also, be posting regular updates on our Facebook page, so please Like and check it regularly for news of any changes:  https://www.facebook.com/pg/MeridianHarmonics/posts/

Our office hours are changing until we're allowed to resume normal operations and interactions with patients and clients. Until further notice, our hours will be: Tuesday - Friday, 9:00 a - 5:00 pm

Now for some really good news. Meridian Harmonics is receiving numerous requests for anti-viral herbal remedies to boost immune function and combat viral and bacterial infections.

Our Chinese medical doctor colleagues in China are successfully treating and curing patients in China combining traditional western pharmaceuticals with Traditional Chinese herbs. For whatever reason, the mainstream media is not reporting the many success stories from the Chinese medical community in treating the infected portion of their population. As a licensed healthcare practitioner by the Texas Medical Board, Meridian Harmonics has access to the pharmacy grade herbs currently being used in China. However, our supplies are limited as the demand across our nation increases and the supply channels are becoming more restricted. These herbal formulations can be used in low doses to keep infections at bay or larger doses if symptoms begin to appear.

For thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used in treating bacterial and viral infections. TCM herbal remedies are used to combat the flu and even more recent viral epidemics. Chinese herbal decoctions can be integrated with western modalities and even in conjunction with pharmaceuticals. Due to the complexity of the herb’s organic structures, viruses and bacteria are not able to mutate against them as easily as they can with pharmaceuticals.

TCM herbs can be tailored to each person’s conditions whether dealing with a cold, ear infection or respiratory virus, shortening the duration of sickness and decreases the severity of symptoms. We recommend taking a maintenance daily dose to boost the immune system prior to the presenting of symptoms. If you have questions regarding these formulations and if they can benefit you, we can be reached at info@mhaom.com or leave us a message at 817-835-0885.

DIRECTIONS:
For active infection:
Children 1-3 capsules, 2 to 3 times daily with a meal.
Adults 4-6 capsules, 3 to 4 times daily.
Dosage can be modified depending on the constitution and other health conditions of the individual patient. Discontinue usage when symptoms are no longer active.
Contact Meridian Harmonics for specific dosage modifications.
Note: this herbal formulation is also available in 100gm powder taken as a decoction 2 to 3 times daily

CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should consult their health care providers before using. Contraindicated for very weak or deficient patients. Use with caution in deficient patients with loose stools, diarrhea, poor appetite or chronic digestive weakness. Do not use if cold signs are predominant - chills, thin clear mucus, aversion to wind and cold – use only for more heat signs – fever, sore throat, thick and or yellow mucus. 

We're doing all we can to help our local community weather the current storm we're facing.

If you need an herbal consult, please contact us by leaving a message at 817-835-0885, or by email: info@mhaom.com We will be happy to call you and do a consultation by phone, fill your herbal prescription and have them ready for you to pick up or we can ship them to you. 

Thank you for your understanding.

D. Mark Tryling, LAc., D. AC, CH (NCCAOM)
Lic. AC00563 (TX Medical Board)
Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine
2044 Bedford Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021
817-835-0885
www.mhaom.com