Approaching The Season Of Yin

by Nicole Johnson, MFA, CHHC | Acupuncture, Adrenal Fatigue, Anti-Inflammatory, Education, Health and Wellness, Immune Health, Kidneys

In October, we are already noticing the shorter days and longer nights of winter. Nature is pulling back in, and the Yang energy of warmer months converts to the Yin energy of the cooler months. In East Asian Medicine, this is the time when the in-breath emerges into the out-breath.

Approaching the season of Yin Acupuncture in Asheville

Here are some themes present during this transition period:

Last of the Harvest
Getting organized
Recommitting to health
Establishing routines
Warmer foods
Crisp air, invigorating
Romantic relationship with nature
Preparing to go inward (nature)
Preparing for Holiday time (but perhapsnot wanting to)
Harvesting and cover crops

Most animals begin to hunker down and rest, yet we humans start speeding up with holiday shopping and enormous amounts of busy winter-season preparations.

With awareness and intention, we can be mindful and nurture ourselves. Maybe you need a few extra hours of sleep or a joyful activity. When it comes to cooking, we like to make soups, stews, broths, and stir-fries that increase warmth and comfort.

Prepare to Nurture & Nourish Throughout the Season of Yin

At times, when we don’t feel nurtured, we eat emotionally. When coupled with stress, this is a ticket to everything from lowered immunity to inflammation, bloating, weight gain, increased anxiety, general dissatisfaction, fatigue, and melancholy.

You may want to find some delicious indulgences that will make you feel well-loved and won’t throw your system off by making you crave a whole bag of candy corn. Try this easy G olden Milk recipe and add a little pumpkin pie spiceto it for a seasonal Pumpkin Spice Golden Milk to treat and nourish yourself.

As the holidays rapidly approach, ask yourself:

What joy can I gift myself?

What minor changes can I make to simplify?

How can I slow down for the next 8-10 weeks?

We wish you warmth and gentleness for the Yin season to come.

Feel free to contact us by email or phone with any questions.

If you would like to schedule your next Acupuncture session or mini series, click here.

Yours in Support,

Chad & Nicole

6 Foods to Help Your Arthritis

by Chad Johnson, MS, L.Ac | Immune Health, Nutrition, Pain Management

Fish

Fish are full of omega-3 fatty acids, which work as a natural anti-inflammatory. Some of the best fish to consume include salmon, tuna, mackerel and herring, which are all rich in omega-3s. The recommended weekly amount is around six to eight ounces of fish. Of course, be careful to choose fish that have been sustainably caught in cleaner waters.

Oil

Healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil, avocado and safflower oils are packed with healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties.

Broccoli

Because it contains sulforaphane, broccoli has been shown to slow and prevent the progression of osteoarthritis. Broccoli is rich in vitamin K, C and calcium, which is known to help strengthen bones.

Green Tea

Green tea has many health benefits, one including reducing pain of arthritis. The tea is full of antioxidants that work to lower inflammation and the disintegration of cartilage.

Citrus Fruits

Fruits like oranges, limes and grapefruits are very acidic and full of vitamin C. Vitamin C can help aid healthy joints for those with arthritis and work as an anti-inflammatory.

Beans

Beans are beneficial for many reasons. They are a great alternative to meat for protein and are rich in folic acid, magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium. Red beans, kidney beans and pinto beans are known to improve muscle health and the heart and immune system.

Having a natural and well-rounded diet is a part of any healthy lifestyle, but can be especially beneficial for arthritis and chronic pain.