TOP TEN BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE
As far as I am concerned, acupuncture is magic and can help with just about anything! But there are some conditions in particular, that acupuncture has been proven to provide substantial, documented results. Here are the top ten from my own west village practice:
Back pain -- The benefits of acupuncture for those suffering from pain have been well studied. Back pain in particular responds well. I find that most back pain is caused by repetitive stress and muscle tension. Most patients feel an improvement after one session, and can achieve lasting results with regular treatment.
Fatigue -- Fatigue is almost always caused by a combination of factors. Hormone health (adrenals and thyroid in particular) vitamin and mineral deficiencies, food quality, sleep quality, work habits and stress levels all contribute. Acupuncture is one of the best ways to treat this multi-layered issue. Combined with herbs and nutritional counseling it is one of the best ways to improve your overall energy levels.
Insomnia -- In Chinese medicine, we view insomnia as a “spirit that is not rooted”. Acupuncture -- and points along the heart meridian in particular -- can ground the spirit and improve sleep. Acupuncture increases the production of neurotransmitters associated with relaxation, and in a study of almost 4,000 patients, acupuncture increased sleep duration better than medications
Immune system -- Chinese medicine views the immune system as an invisible “shield” of energy that runs just below your skin called Wei Qi. Acupuncture supports the wei qi, protecting against infections and environmental factors. Studies show that acupuncture increases the number of white blood cells which destroy bacteria and viruses. In addition, stress directly impacts immunity, and acupuncture alleviates stress. If you are treating stress you are also treating Immunity.
Stress -- Chronic Stress affects every system in your body -- From your immune system to your digestive system to your hormones to your heart. One of the best things you can do for your overall health is alleviate the physical, emotional and chemical effects of stress. Studies show a measurable reduction in the amount of stress hormones in patients that receive acupuncture treatments. (Read Don't Stress Out About Flu Season)
Fertility -- A body in balance navigates conception and pregnancy with ease. Acupuncture, herbs, and nutritional counseling help achieve that balance. Stress factors in here too -- when your nervous system is in “fight or flight” your reproductive system is on standby, so relaxation is an important part of the process. It has also been shown to be effective partner for IUI and IVF treatment-- recent studies show a 26% increase in conception rates when acupuncture was used in conjunction with western fertility treatments.
Women’s health -- Acupuncture regulates cycles and alleviates cramps, eases PMS, improves circulation and balances your hormones. It also treats mood swings, irritability, and water retention! It is hands down one of the best methods of treating menopause symptoms. It alleviates many of the symptoms of pregnancy, can turn a breech baby (with moxa!) and even help to induce labor!
Digestive issues -- Stress, poor diet, lack of sleep and overuse of antibiotics can all severely impact our digestion, which in turn affects everything. Research is now showing that almost every bodily function -- from digestion, to immunity, to mood and brain function are all impacted by the health of our gut flora. Acupuncture supports the digestive system and helps “transform and transport” the nutrients we need for overall health.
Allergies -- Allergies are an overreaction of your immune response. Acupuncture is very effective at calming that overreaction. In as few as 12 acupuncture sessions, seasonal allergy sufferers experienced reduced symptoms and dependence on antihistamines. It is best to start treatments before the allergy season hits, so plan to start a few months in advance of the season.
Depression -- Acupuncture can be very effective at moving stuck energy, and elevating the “feel good’ chemicals in the brain. A new study showed Acupuncture and Chinese herbs were proven to be as effective as antidepressants. And with zero side effects!
FLOWER ESSENCE 101
The past year I have been studying and working with flower essence blends and incorporating them into my treatments. I find they treat on a deep level, and can address the often hidden subconscious obstacles we have to healing. I can speak to their transformative powers professionally as well as personally. I recently interviewed the amazing Lindsay Fauntleroy (my teacher, and a master of flower essence therapy!) for NY Yoga+Life Magazine, and here is how she explains what they are, and how they work...
WHAT ARE FLOWER ESSENCES?
Flower Essence are vibrational plant remedies used to help us get out of our own way so that we can live fully and authentically. Often when I am speaking about flower essences, they get confused with essential oils, which are used in aromatherapy. Flower Essences are like a sibling to essential oils, and they are taken internally very much like you could take an herbal supplement. I have a student who once brilliantly called flower essences “vitamins for the soul” and I think that is spot on.
HOW DO THEY WORK?
We often hear that at any given time we are only using 10% of our brain. The other 90% is our subconscious mind. The analogy is like that of an iceberg. The tip of the iceberg that breaks above the water represents our conscious mind; what we can actively perceive with our five senses, study, memorize, and mentally process at any given time. But beneath the surface? That’s where the magic is. Our habits, our instincts, our autonomic nervous system are all relegated to that 90% that we don’t have to think about. And it’s a good thing too, because
imagine how difficult our lives would be if we had to remind ourselves to breathe or remind our hearts to beat…
The problem is that our subconscious mind also contains an encyclopedia of conditioned responses and beliefs that were formed primarily as infants, in early childhood, and in situations of high stress or trauma. In psychotherapy, these patterns are called maladaptive schemas, In Yogic philosophy these patterns are called Samskaras. These emotional responses and beliefs, which are often in conflict to our stated (conscious) intentions, are accessed rapidly without our
even being aware of it.
This is where the magic of flower essences comes in. They bring awareness to the subconscious habits, behaviors, and beliefs that no longer serve us so that we can evolve into our fullest potential. It’s like taking a flashlight down deep under the water to look at “what’s
down there” beneath the waters. As we examine that part of the iceberg, that 90%, change begins to happen. We can start consciously creating new responses to situations, we can start embodying new truths. And as we do so change starts happening around us…
Read the full Interview with Lindsay in NY Yoga+Life Magazine:
For more information or for custom blended formulas contact me or make an appointment!
5SPIRIT OILS FEATURED IN NY YOGA+ LIFE MAGAZINE!
"Witchy Woman Essential Oil Blend. Dark, mysterious, and spiritual, this blend connects you to the divine feminine. With Palo Santo, Frankincense, and more, it nourishes Yin, and supports and elevates the water element and the winter season"
Read full article
GIVE THE GIFT OF WELLNESS!
Scrambling for last minute stocking stuffers? Here are some suggestions from 5Spirit Oils. I created 5Spirit as a way for my patients to treat themselves -- all the oils are therapeutic grade so each oil or product is like an acupuncture treatment in a bottle. They treat the mind body and soul -- Who doesn’t need that? And there is something for EVERYONE on your list….
Winter Goddess Gift Set. Queendom Flower Essence is an elixir specially created for women stepping into positions of leadership and influence. It helps us to trust our intuition and move through the world confidently connected to our Feminine Power.
Combined with Witchy Woman Essential Oil blend - dark, and mysterious. Supports Yang rising from the depths of Yin. Evokes the powerful dark feminine. A delicious blend of essential oils to evoke the Winter Goddess: Frankincense, Ravensara, Palo Santo and Dark Patchouli. $50
For the Sexy Bearded Man in Your Life
Winter Beard Oil. With Vetivert and Rosemary in a sweet almond and jojoba base. Softens, conditions the beard and smells like a man should….seriously the Vetivert will drive you crazy, in a good way. $35
Precious Metal Scalp Oil. With Saro and Holy Basil. Conditions the scalp, promotes healthy hair growth AND opens your crown chakra to the upper realms! It smells divine because it is -- holy basil oil is used by meditating monks to reach enlightenment! $30
For the Constantly Sniffling
Immune Plus Herbal formula and Immunity Essential Oil Blend. Give the gift of a healthy immune system! The herbal blend strengthens Wei Qi, which is like a hidden force field keeping out illness. Immunity is a natural antibacterial and antiviral and can be used in baths and diffusers. Together they will keep you well all winter! $50
For the Stressed Out and Freaked Out
Winter Greens Bath Salts. These are intense times. What better gift than a “time out”? Epsom and pink himalayan salt. Juniper, Atlas Cedarwood, Black Spruce and Birch. The perfect winter soak. Soothes sore muscles, and calms the spirit. Supports the Kidneys, adrenals, and nervous system. Strengthens the constitution. $20
For the Wellness Practitioner
5 Element Practitioner Set. Winter Greens, Spring Fling, Heartbreaker, Earth Mamma and Immunity. One oil for each season and each element. An easy way to incorporate EO's into your practice, and into our life! Mix with massage oil or use on acupuncture points to treat physical imbalances. Point suggestions included. Can also be used in baths or diffusers. $100
CALL OR EMAIL FOR LAST MINUTE ORDERS!
LOULOU@LOULOULAC.COM
917-686-6602
IMMUNE BOOSTERS FOR METAL SEASON
The air is colder and the days are shorter, we are finally entering autumn. In Chinese Medicine, autumn is associated with the Metal Element. Metal rules the Lungs and Large Intestine. It is involved with taking in and letting go, preparing for winter, and developing healthy boundaries (among other things!) In addition, Metal rules the Immune System. Now is the perfect time to give your immune system a little love! Here are some of my immune boosting suggestions:
1. STRESS LESS.
I know this is easier said than done but stress is the number one enemy of your immune system. When your nervous system is in “fight of flight” your immune system is literally switched off. Try and spend some time in “rest and digest’ every day, weather that is meditating in the morning, walking through the park at lunch, yoga after work, or turning your phone off on the weekends. Be disciplined about your downtime!
2. WEAR A SCARF.
In chinese medicine, wind is considered an EPF (external pernicious factor) It can access your system through a point at the back of your neck and bring on a cold. This may sound a little far fetched, but when you get sick your neck gets achy. And your glands get swollen! So I think it is an area we should keep protected. In autumn, especially in recent years, the temperature can drop dramatically from moment to moment. Protect your neck!
3. ESSENTIAL OILS.
Kitchen herb essential oils -- like thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary, clove -- are all great for immune support. So effective in fact that in the middle ages, thieves used to douse their handkerchiefs in oils, to steal from plague victims without getting ill. My Immunity Blend is
an updated “thieves” oil, with all of the above plus Eucalyptus which specifically supports the
lungs. It is best when inhaled -- so use with a diffuser, or in a steam room or a hot bath.
4.STOP...USING...HAND SANITIZER.
I know that sounds contradictory but every time you use something with Antibacterial, or Antimicrobial on the label, you are actually damaging your immune system. Recent research has proven that our immune system is directly connected to our microbiome -- a network of good bacteria that is created in the gut. Our healthy bacteria keep the unhealthy bacteria in check. When you use hand sanitizer, it kills the good bacteria...damaging your body’s ability to fight its own battles. Wash your hands with soap and water instead.
5. GARDEN HERBS.
Astragalus, Echinacea, goldenrod and rose hips can all be grown in your garden! And all are great for immune support. I like to make a tea, but you can also make your own tincture, or buy in supplement form.
6. EAT YOUR CHICKEN SOUP
preferably Bone Broth! Your Grandmother was right! Chicken soup
is good for the immune system! In Chinese Medicine the Wei Qi is like an invisible force field that circulates on the surface of the body, protecting the body from pathogens. Chicken, and specifically the broth, supports the Wei Qi. Go one step further and make (or buy!) bone broth. In Chinese Medicine bone broth is used to strengthen and nourish our essence, qi, and wei qi, as well as warm the yang and build blood. The broth is said to enter and nourish our Kidneys, Liver, Lungs and Spleen. It is rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, silicon, phosphorus and other trace mineral, and contains collagen, proline and gelatin...is it the original superfood!
BONE BROTH RECIPE
Broth can be cooked on the stovetop on low heat, or in a slow cooker (crock pot).
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of bones (Include 2-4 chicken feet, or 1 sliced calf’s foot for added gelatin; if using fish, use non-oily only. If using beef bones, you may want to roast them first for added flavor.)
- 4 quarts of cold filtered water
- 2 Tbsp to ½ cup vinegar (to taste)
- Optionally add 1 -3 onions, 2-3 carrots, 2-3 celery stalks, Spices as desired,
- 1 bunch parsley
Directions:
Put bones, meat, vinegar, water, any spices and all vegetables (except parsley) in stainless steel pot or crock pot. Let stand for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Bring to boil. Skim the scum off of the surface of the water.
Reduce heat, cover and simmer. For fish, at least 2 hours; for poultry, at least 8 hours; for beef, at least 12 hours.
Add the parsley in the last 10 minutes.
Strain, let cool, and refrigerate. Observe amount of gelatin in broth, and make adjustments to cooking time, and vinegar amount, accordingly.
Remove congealed fat that rises to the top.
Freeze any broth that you won’t be using within 7 days.
MY FAVORITE THINGS
I have ALWAYS wanted to do a list of my favorite things...so what better time than my first blog post in December! I think the best gifts are the ones that are a little indulgent, the ones that make you feel good inside and out! So here are some of my favorite things. some I created myself, some are created by people I adore. Mostly created by women and all created by small business owners who care about health of humans and the planet as a whole!
1. EARTH MAMA -- Essential oil blend (in organic jojoba carrier oil). I am a firm believer in strengthening the Earth element. Without a strong center it is hard to do anything else! This blend strengthens digestion, builds Yin, and supports your center. Grounding, Warming, Nourishing. It contains German chamomile, Geranium, Coriander, and a drop of Cinnamon. Apply around your navel, add to your bath, or where on your pulse points. Available at
2. GET UP GODDESS -- Custom Flower Essence. I collaborated with the Amazing Lindsay Fauntleroy of Oceans and Rivers acupuncture on this and we are super excited about it! I see many amazing beings in my practice and it is my mission to help them realize how amazing they are! GET UP GODDESS is a proprietary blend of flower essences which work on a subconscious level. It was created to awaken your confidence, clarity and voice as you step into your own gorgeous power. Available at louloulac.com
3. MERMAID SOAK -- Bath salts from Ariele's Apothecary in Hoboken. Magnesium, Seaweed, Himalayan Pink Sea salt and Essential oils to relax your muscles, detox your cells, relieve skin conditions, soothe achey joints and improve circulation! A step beyond epsom salts...delicious! BTW she also does an all natural bug spray that has people stopping me to ask about my "perfume"! www.arielesapothecary.com
4. FUNKLESS -- Natural Deodorant. I have tried EVERY natural deodorant and this is the ONLY one that works! I absolutely promise! Magnesium and essential oils. Healthy and smells delicious! Available on Amazon.com and Etsy.com
5. NIBI MTK CLUTCH -- brightly colored, tasseled, natural materials....Nibi Mtk is my fav boutique for all things beachy boho and apres yoga! Also check out the Kimonos and tasseled necklaces and bracelets with buddhas and ganeshas! Nibi is the local native american word for water and all sales include a donation to wateraid.org. Available at Nibimtk.com
6. PALO SANTO WOOD -- the new sage. Has the same clearing affect and smells divine. Also! a great alternative to citronella as a mosquito repellent! I use it out in montauk all the time...(also great topically in oil form...) You can buy the wood on Amazon.com and the oil at Enfleurage.com
7. TULSI TEA -- we ALL need to be on adaptogens. They support our adrenal health. They adapt -- so if the adrenals are fatigued they give them a helping hand. If they are overexcited they calm them down. I like the ritual of a cup of Tulsi Tea and the end of the day to hit the "off" switch. Also known as Holy Basil, tulsi was used by spiritual seekers to aid in meditation. It is supposed to help you "see god" -- perhaps that is what happens when we finally relax! It is available as a supplement AND an essential oil, or you can grow it in your garden!
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, heart-centered holiday season! I look forward to continuing the journey in the new year.