Healing Focus Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

22/11/2025

21/11/2025

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Winter is considered a season with its own unique energetic qualities and is associated with the Water element. It is a time of stillness, rest, and conservation of energy.

Winter is associated with the Kidneys and Bladder organs in TCM. The Kidneys are considered the foundation of vitality and store our essential energy (known as Jing). The Bladder is responsible for storing and eliminating waste fluids from the body.

During Winter, it is important to support the Kidney and Bladder energies. This can be done by consuming warming and nourishing foods, such as soups, stews, and root vegetables. Salty flavors, such as sea vegetables and miso, are also beneficial for the Kidneys. It is important to stay well-hydrated and rest adequately to support the nourishment and replenishment of our vital energy.

Emotionally, Winter is associated with introspection and reflection. It is a time to conserve energy and turn inward to nourish the spirit. It is important to practice self-care, engage in quiet activities, and cultivate a sense of calm and stillness during this season.

Winter is also a time to protect ourselves from the cold and harsh weather. It is important to dress warmly, especially keeping the lower back and feet protected as they are considered vulnerable areas for the Kidneys.

Overall, recognizing and aligning with the energetic patterns of Winter in TCM can help promote the preservation of vital energy, support kidney health, and foster emotional well-being during this season of stillness and rejuvenation.

18/11/2025

With new flu strains emerging internationally this year, supporting your immune system early is more important than ever.

In clinic, I keep several traditional formulas on hand—Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan, Yin Qiao Jie Du Yin, Er Chen Tang, and Qing Gan Kou Fu Ye (Isatis)—along with Kwan Loong Oil for sinus and chest comfort. These can be helpful allies as we move into the colder months.

If you’re unsure which formula is right for your body, I’m happy to help guide you.

Although the flu season seems off to a quiet start in the US, warnings from abroad suggest that a new strain may yet shake up the US healthcare system. New data reported in the British Medical Journal showed a significant increase in flu rates in the UK, largely among young adults and school-aged children. The cases are dominated by a new H3N2 strain, which mutated several times over the summer, increasing in severity, according to experts. http://ms.spr.ly/6185tuN3S

18/11/2025

08/11/2025

Gan Mai Da Zao Tang, also known as Licorice, Wheat, and Jujube Decoction, is a traditional Chinese herbal formula that is commonly used to address conditions related to emotional disturbances and mental health imbalances.

The formula consists of several key herbs, including:

1. Gan Cao (Glycyrrhiza uralensis): Gan Cao, or licorice root, is known for its ability to harmonize the functions of other herbs, as well as its calming and nourishing properties. It is often used to support the digestive system and alleviate irritability and emotional imbalances.

2. Mai Men D**g (Ophiopogon japonicus): Mai Men D**g is used to nourish yin and moisten dryness. It is often used for conditions such as dry mouth and throat, as well as irritability and restlessness.

3. Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra chinensis): Wu Wei Zi helps nourish yin and tonify the kidneys. It is often used to address symptoms such as palpitations, insomnia, and poor memory.

4. Fu Xiao Mai (Triticum aestivum): Fu Xiao Mai, or wheat, is used to calm the mind and alleviate irritability and restlessness. It is often used for conditions related to emotional disturbances and mental health imbalances.

5. Da Zao (Ziziphus jujuba): Da Zao, or jujube, is known for its nourishing and calming properties. It is often used to tonify the spleen and stomach, as well as support emotional well-being.

Gan Mai Da Zao Tang is often recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and palpitations, especially when these symptoms are related to emotional disturbances.

06/11/2025

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), "jing" refers to one of the three treasures or substances that are considered essential for overall health and vitality. The three treasures are Jing (essence), Qi (vital energy), and Shen (spirit).

Jing can be understood as the fundamental substance that underlies our physical and mental development and plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. It is often referred to as the "vital essence" or "reproductive essence" and is believed to be inherited from our parents at the time of conception.

Here are some key aspects associated with jing in TCM:

1. Essence of Life: Jing is considered the basis of our life force and represents the foundation for growth, development, and reproduction. It is believed to be responsible for our physical constitution, fertility, and longevity.

2. Yin and Yang: Jing is seen as having both yin and yang aspects. Yin jing is associated with the substance and material aspect of our being, while yang jing is associated with the functional and energetic aspects.

3. Preservation and Conservation: Jing is considered a finite and precious resource that needs to be nurtured and conserved throughout our lives. It is believed that excessive physical or mental strain, excessive sexual activity, or a poor lifestyle can deplete jing, leading to various health issues and accelerated aging.

4. Jing and Aging: In TCM, the gradual depletion of jing is seen as a natural part of the aging process. It is believed that by maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle, we can slow down the depletion of jing and promote longevity.

TCM practitioners may diagnose and assess the state of jing through various methods, such as pulse diagnosis, tongue examination, and patient history. Treatment approaches to support jing may involve dietary recommendations, herbal remedies, acupuncture, lifestyle modifications, and practices like qigong or tai chi.

It's important to note that the concept of jing in TCM is not directly translatable to Western biomedical understanding and should be understood within the context of TCM theory and philosophy.

05/11/2025

Fall allergies can make even the crispest air hard to enjoy. Acupuncture can help by reducing inflammation, regulating histamine response, and supporting clear breathing.
🍃 Relief without drowsy side effects.

Ready to breathe easier?
👉 Book here: healing-focus-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine-llc.square.site

03/11/2025

📞 Healing Focus is calling… it’s time to relax.
Appointments available this week 💆‍♀️
Book online: https://healing-focus-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine-llc.square.site

03/11/2025

As the seasons shift, so do our bodies. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, autumn is the season of the lungs and large intestine — both tied to letting go and immunity.
🍁 Acupuncture supports this transition by strengthening the respiratory system, easing allergies, and helping the body release what no longer serves it.

Book your autumn tune-up now:
🔗 healing-focus-acupuncture-and-oriental-medicine-llc.square.site

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