Liver 3

Liver 3 is a point between the first and second toes, about an inch from the webbing. I needled myself there just now and could feel the air release from my lungs and relaxation spread over me. Liver 3 is the earth point on wood; the Liver being an organ symbolized by wood. The Liver spreads qi throughout the body. All too often we have stuck qi, working long hours, same daily routine, tight in the middle of the body from hunching over a desk or just sitting for long periods of time. Sitting endlessly is proven to be as bad as smoking for people. Needling Liver 3 frees the qi, allowing it to spread through the body and soothe the Liver. Movement and exercise also frees the qi. It isn't natural to sit all day. Try standing up once an hour and breathe deeply. Stand when talking on the phone. Take a walk around the floor during break. In some businesses taking a break is a no no. I say it's a necessity for healthy living and staying alert at work. One should take a break in the late morning and afternoon to feel refreshed and keep a healthy circulation. Try walking outside, maybe just around the building. Any movement is going to be good and keeps the qi from getting stuck. Be well!

constant change: Compassion Fatigue

constant change: Compassion Fatigue: Very recently it was pointed out to me that I had Compassion Fatigue. I had never heard of this and kind of felt insulted when it was pointe...

Compassion Fatigue

Very recently it was pointed out to me that I had Compassion Fatigue. I had never heard of this and kind of felt insulted when it was pointed out to me that I behaved in a negative way and I was suspended for a short period of time. I had to sit back and step away from something that I really enjoy doing. The fact is, the person that revealed this to me was absolutely correct! It is a real syndrome and should be recognized by the care giving profession and those that do volunteer work for people and animals. If the care giver doesn't take care of themselves, they dissolve from lack of self care. One will act out negatively, no longer enjoy what they are doing, and can even exhibit drug and alcohol abuse. As care givers we must become mindful of our own needs and treat ourselves by breathing, meditating, practicing yoga, exercising, eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. Preventive treatments such as acupuncture and homeopathic consultation can also help. Bottom line: take care of yourself FIRST, then you can optimally take care of others.

I found this website about Compassion Fatigue. It's a simple site that can assist you in recognizing symptoms that you may or may not have. They have a test you can give yourself to see if you may fit into the profile. Be aware and be well!

http://www.compassionfatigue.org/

SAD Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder is quite common during the fall and winter months. It brings on low energy and depression. It can affect your every day life and make it difficult to get through each day. Acupuncture is great for treating Seasonal Affective Disorder. There are points that are used specifically for depression and low energy. I have treated patients with these points for SAD and had great success. I've also experienced the results of regular acupuncture and have found it to be extremely helpful in treating these symptoms. This is the season for quiet, solitude, and resting. Some people would prefer to be active, and that's another key to beating SAD. That's not to say that one shouldn't respect the season and what is required to generate energy and growth in the next season, but one can and will beat these low feelings through acupuncture treatment. What do you have to lose?