Laureen Macintosh Dr.Ac.

01/20/2026

Add acupuncture to your health care routine to help manage chronic back pain.

A new study looked at how much acupuncture might help older adults with chronic back pain.

01/14/2026

Cool research.

Taiwanese researchers discovered acupuncture triggering stem cell release healing damaged organs naturally. Scientists at China Medical University found that electroacupuncture at specific meridian points stimulates bone marrow to release mesenchymal stem cells into circulation, which then migrate to injured organs and promote tissue repair. This mechanism explains acupuncture's therapeutic effects through measurable biological processes rather than placebo.

Traditional Chinese medicine has used acupuncture for thousands of years, but Western medicine dismissed it as placebo due to lack of biological mechanism. Taiwanese researchers using advanced imaging and cellular tracking discovered that needle stimulation at specific points triggers measurable stem cell mobilization—providing the first clear biological explanation for acupuncture's effects.

Electroacupuncture (needles with mild electrical current) at ST36 (Zusanli point) and GV20 (Baihui point) causes a 300% increase in circulating stem cells within 24 hours. These mobilized stem cells express homing signals drawing them to damaged tissues—injured liver, heart, kidneys, or brain—where they differentiate into organ-specific cells and release healing factors. It's like acupuncture triggers the body's internal repair dispatch system.

Stroke patients receiving electroacupuncture within 48 hours of stroke showed 40% better functional recovery than those receiving standard care alone. Liver cirrhosis patients showed reduced fibrosis markers. Heart attack survivors demonstrated improved cardiac function. The mechanism is entirely biological—traced stem cells from bone marrow to damaged organs. Skeptical Western physicians are reconsidering acupuncture given this mechanistic evidence. We're discovering that ancient healing practices work through sophisticated biological mechanisms science is only now capable of detecting.

Source: China Medical University, Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2025

12/29/2025

Mindfulness is the practice of bringing awareness to the present moment. Whatever you are doing, be present in that moment. Bring your awareness to the sights, sounds, smells around you. Being mindful can bring peace to your nervous system and balance qi flow.
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12/28/2025

Acupuncture supports the flow of qi and blood, helping the body regulate and heal. It is an ancient therapy that complements modern medicine for a wide variety of health complaints.
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Consistent treatments—rather than one-offs—support lasting change.

12/26/2025

Boxing Day was once a day when people boxed up extra food and gifts to donate to those less fortunate. A good day to reflect on all the gifts of the season and feel grateful for everything you have.
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The practice of gratitude has been found to improve happiness. Spend a few minutes each night finding at least one thing that you were grateful for that day. Challenge yourself to find different things each day.

12/23/2025

In Chinese medicine, immunity is known as *wei qi*—the body’s protective energy. Stong wei qi helps protect against bacteria and viruses. In the old days these illnesses were thought to be caused by the wind. We know today cold & flu are due to viruses. Eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, frequent hand washing are all things we can do to stay healthy.
✨ TCM tip: Wear a scarf to protect your neck and upper back from wind and cold to help preserve immune energy. Being cold drains the body's resources and may make you more susceptible to viruses.

12/18/2025

Wellness starts with how you fuel your body. Balanced meals support steady energy, hormone health, and stable moods. It’s not about perfection—it’s about consistency and listening to your body’s needs.
✨ Tip: Aim for protein, healthy fats, and fibre at each meal to support blood sugar balance.

12/16/2025

Movement is the focus of Day 3 of the 12 Days of Wellness. Regular movement and physical activity is essential for a healthy life.
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In this cold, dark, stressful time of year bundling up for a brisk walk can boost mood and mental well-being by releasing endorphins and reducing stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression.
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Find an activity you love and get out there and move. Your body will thank you.

12/15/2025

Day 2 of the 12 Days of Wellness is all about sleep. Getting enough good sleep is crucial for maintaining good health and overall well-being.
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Some of the benefits of a good night's sleep include improved cognive function, enhanced immune system, better emotional well-being, repair of body tissues, and reduced risk of chronic disease.
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12/13/2025

Good hydration is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. It is also one of the easiest things to add to a self-care routine.
🥛 A few of the benefits of good hydration include:
* stable body temperature
* better digestion
* better blood circulation and heart health
* prevention of kidney stones
* healthy skin (especially in the dry YYC)
* better concentration and mood
🥛 Grab a glass of room temperature water and drink up for a quick health boost.

11/25/2025

It’s a beautiful morning! ❄️ Crisp air, warm sun, a low fog and frost crystals sparkling on the branches.
🥶 It can be tempting to look at the thermometer and stay inside. Dress in layers and get out there. You’ll feel better and be rewarded with beautiful sights. And rosy cheeks.

10/18/2025

🤔 Did You Know?

Many of the challenges that come with aging, like vision changes, spinal pain, and bladder issues, can be supported through acupuncture when treatments are adjusted for the unique needs of older adults.

By gently strengthening Qi and Jing, modifying needling techniques, and incorporating touch therapy, acupuncturists can help promote stability, clarity, and comfort in later life.

Aging doesn’t have to mean decline, it can be a time to restore balance and support the body’s natural wisdom.