Mon, Oct 10, 2016
1239 N. Country Road, Suite 1D, Stony Brook, NY 11790
631-601-6491
www.HandsOnAcupuncture.com
Welcome to Autumn!
As we finish the vibrant active summer season, and start to slow down into the fall, we begin to start the process of preparing for hibernation. It is the time start harvesting the crops that have grown in the late summer and early fall, and begin to wind down and prepare for the slower, more reserved winter season. Like the Farmer harvests and cultivates the crops, it is important for us to start to cultivate our Qi, particularly the Lung-Qi to prepare for the colder winter.
Autumn is the time of the Lung and Large intestine Meridians
Autumn is the time of the Lung and large intestine meridian. They are in charge of elimination of waste, which is why autumn is a time for getting rid of things that do not serve us. The lung meridian according to Chinese medicine is also in charge of the emotion of grief and sadness, but in addition it represents clear thinking and communication, openness to new ideas, and the ability to relax and let go. Proper maintenance of the Lung meridian, especially this time of year is imperative.
Cold and Flu Herbal supplements that can help support the lung and immune system:
We prescribe a combination of two Standard process herbs for people that are beginning to come down with a cold or flu, this combination can stop or shorten the life of cold and flu. Andrographis with Congaplex. Herbal supplements are available for sale in our office and online.
**Please note that Acupuncture, and Herbal medicine are individualized forms of medicine meaning that certain prescriptions of acupressure points or herbs may not benefit every person in the same way. It is important to see a Licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese medicine herbalist to find out what combination of herbal medicine and acupuncture points may be best suited for you.**
Fall Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Butternut Squash Soup
Ingredients- Serves 8
8 cups cubed seeded peeled butternut squash (2 medium)
1 large apple, peeled, chopped
1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon pepper
3 cups Progresso™ chicken broth (from 32-oz carton)
3/4 cup milk
1 container (6 oz) Greek Fat Free plain yogurt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Directions
- In Dutch oven, mix squash, apple, onion, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon and pepper. Add broth. Cover; heat to boiling over medium-high heat. Reduce heat; simmer about 20 minutes or until squash is tender.
- In blender or food processor, place one-third of mixture. Cover; blend until smooth. Repeat twice to use up remaining soup. Return to Dutch oven, stir in milk and yogurt. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, just until heated through. Ladle into bowls; sprinkle with chives.
(recipe from tablespoon.com)
There you have it folks, these are some great ways to support your lung meridian, boost immune system, and help to balance out the emotion of grief. If you or anyone you know would like to learn more about Traditional Chinese medicine, learn more about acupuncture or herbal medicine and how to prepare for this time of year, feel free to contact our office 631-601-6491
In good health,
Elizabeth M. Martin, MSOM, L.Ac, LMT and the Staff at Hands on Health and Wellness