05/05/2021
Maybe if we could figure out the Acupuncture meridians on tulips we could keep them alive longer as well. But seriously, Acupuncture is legendary at both restoring the body's natural balance and putting you into a relaxed 'rest and digest' state. If you've been living from stressful moment to stressful moment all day long, you probably forgot what that's like. Here are some helpful ways to increase the 'rest and digest' portion of your day to 40%.
1 - eating hygiene. Cook all your meals at home and make a ritual out of meal time whenever possible. Cooking for yourself and family is excellent self care time. Smell the food as it's cooking and give the body a chance to prepare for all of its deliciousness. Keep all screens off and out of reach at mealtime (extra credit for leaving them on silent).
2 - sleep hygiene. Shut everything down two hours before bed including phones and screens, bright lights, and maybe even the wifi? Read a book that's paper. Talk with your family or call friends you miss and have been thinking about. Sleep in complete blackout darkness with no phones in the bedroom. Tell your friends you go 'off line at 9'. Then do it!
3 - take breaks even when you don't think you need them. A walk at lunchtime or gentle stretching of those tired sitting muscles remind your body that you know it has needs and you are listening to what it is messaging to you.
4 - ask for help! When you're feeling bad, sick, lonely, tired, stressed, sleepless, or just not yourself, get some help! Acupuncture is amazing but of course do what feels right for you at that moment. Meditation, yoga, pranayama, deep breathing, prayer, and gentle movement like qigong and taichi are all helpful but only you know what works for you. Create your coping strategy and don't hesitate to use it.
If you have a few minutes, please check out the amazing new website from Ohana Wellness Clinic. https://ohanawellnessclinic.com/acupuncture/
If you're inspired to try Acupuncture, I'm at Ohana on Thursdays and Sundays. https://ohanawellness.janeapp.com/ #/staff_member/39