Currently, as the end of Summer approaches, many of us will be pulled in many more directions as our various duties and responsibilities return.  Acupuncturists view this time of year and name it "Duo Yuo", a time of change generally moving from one season to another.  Greater amounts of opportunity are available during times of transition.  It is important to clarify parts of life that add vital energy, and the aspects that deplete the best parts of our mind, spirit or body.  Simply put, what adds to your bucket and what aspect of life drains from your bucket and, are they in balance?

Summer is less than a month away marked by the Summer Solstice that follows a full moon.  That is by far the happiest sentence I’ve written so far this year.  Summer is the time of year where temperature, culture, traditions and we as individuals exhibit the most Yang type activities in the most Yang of environments.

Raise your hand if you’re prone to a sniffly, congested nose or red, itchy eyes when the trees start budding every Spring. It may be helpful to know you’re not alone. In the United States, over 60 million people suffer from allergic rhinitis and 30% of the population has experienced allergic conjunctivitis due to pollen exposure. These numbers have been steadily increasing as the world undergoes a change in climate patterns, consequentially making an impact on pollen production. Couple this with the recent discovery that most OTC decongestants don’t really work, and you have quite a large problem needing a solution.

Taking a deep breath simply means inhaling by filling your lungs to capacity, and letting your diaphragm contract. On a day to day basis, deep breathing can be used as a tool for a variety of ailments such as reducing stress levels, stabilizing blood pressure, increasing lung strength, and improving oxygen levels throughout the body. Deep breathing methods have been created to undergo fantastic feats and might even be a contributing factor towards curing diseases. 

Closing out 2023 and entering what will hopefully be a snowy winter is a perfect time to reflect and think about the final element in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Water. It is almost impossible to reflect on 2023 in Maine without thinking about water. What a wet year!

The dark, cozy nights are upon us and warm, sensuous foods are officially in season — and necessary! Try this Thai-inspired coconut, chicken, and mushroom soup to lift spirits and warm stomachs. This soup is a personal favorite for an easy weeknight meal ready in less than an hour. It toes the line of healthy and indulgent and combines traditional Thai flavors for an effortlessly appealing winter repast. And it can easily be made vegan by omitting the chicken or replacing it with shredded tofu.