Acupuncture and Classical Chinese Medicine: Fall Newsletter 2024
“Autumn, the season that teaches us that change can be beautiful.”
~Heather Stillufsen, artist/author
Change is good and when seasons turn to the next chapter it is a chance for us to do the same. Welcome to Fall 2024, a period in temperate climates of colorful landscapes, invigorating temperatures, and a scent that can transport one into the feeling of a warm cuddle. Like any seasonal change, it is an opportunity to reap all the rewards accompanying such change on many levels. One level is feeding the body with seasonal fuel which should be relished as recommended in this Chinese proverb: “The more you eat, the less flavor; the less you eat the more flavor.”
During the time of autumn, foods that can invigorate the essential life force known as qi (“chee”) include:
- Cabbage
- Pumpkin
- Apples
- Pears
- Bananas
- Squash
- Broccoli
- Ginger
- White mushroom
- Sweet potatoes
- Wild rice
- Yams
- Carrots
- Cranberries
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
These and many other foods, according to Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) , correlate with the energy of the fall season. What is consumed during each season is essential to that season’s associations particularly the organs, which with fall, is the lung and colon. The CCM ancient text, ‘Huang Ti Nei Ching Su Wen, The Yellow Emperor’s Classic Of Internal Medicine’ gives specific instructions for approaching the fall season, stating:
“Reel in your mental energy to be in harmony with the condensing quality of autumn qi. Do not disperse your energies, and the lung qi will be clear. This is the way of nourishing life in accordance with the nourishing and constricting qi of the autumnal harvest season. Going against these principles will harm the lung network, eventually causing diarrhea in winter, when things should really be in a state of storage rather than leakage. The qi of Autumn is dry, and so it is advisable to consume some moistening sesame to counteract the dryness. Avoid cold drinks, and do not wear damp and cold clothing close to your skin.”
Another level of change during autumn is the cognitive state or ‘state-of-mind’ which, through utilizing the associations of fall, could be enhanced, enriched, and enlightened. These associations offer clues as to what may be imbalance and need assistance in rebalancing.
Fall associations include:
- Dry
- White
- Metal
- Lung
- Colon (Large Intestine)
- Letting go/grief
- Weeping voice
- Connection
- Contracting
Applying naturopathic remedies according to how these associations correlate during the autumn seasonal change is using the power of nature for healing, rejuvenating and recharging. In this IMS Fall Newsletter 2024, explore how various naturopathic remedies such as acupuncture, botanical medicine, and clinical nutrition can bring the body and mind to new heights during this crisp, colorful season.
The DOYO Period
Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) teaches of a time at the end of each season called the DOYO period. This period is governed by the spleen, an organ associated with conversion such as transforming food into energy and crafting thoughts into purpose. A healthy spleen means a healthy transition between seasons.
According to Chapter 29 of the ‘Yellow Emperor’s Classic…’,
“The spleen, that is the soil. It governs the center. Throughout the four seasons it tends the four depots. In each [season] it is entrusted with government for eighteen days.”
So, the eighteen days at the end of each season signifies a time of profound change within the body and mind which correlates with the changing of the earth. More proof that humans are intertwined with the world around them and should do everything in their power not to deviate from all there is to learn and benefit from. Therefore, it is imperative to maintain a healthy spleen, even if the eighteen days has passed, as strengthening this unique organ can be paramount in how all the other organs integrate. Unfortunately, in a modern society of rapid communication, rapid dietary choices, and rapid activities it is no wonder so many people struggle with various health issues, in many cases according to CCM, linked to a weak spleen.
Some examples of a weak spleen which has caused too much dampness and what is considered a “fungal terrain” include:
- Hoarding
- Feeling stuck
- Lack of clarity
- Digestive compromises
- Elimination struggles
- OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) manifestations
Tips on strengthening the spleen:
- Eat less carbs
- Eat less dairy
- Eat less sugar
- Drink less caffeine
- Drink less alcohol
- Exercise regularly
- Meditate regularly
- Incorporate an acupuncture protocol
- Cook meals instead of purchasing them
- Eat at regularly scheduled times
- Add root vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips)
- Add DGLV’s (dark green leafy vegetables)
- If possible, avoid excessive medications such as antibiotics, sulfa drugs, chemotherapy, birth control pills, corticosteroids, antacids and acid blocking medications.
Acupuncture for Transitioning
Even though acupuncture has been embraced by many western medical organizations including Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, Columbia University, and the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) many mainstream people still don’t have any idea of how it works or how to use it. The change of seasons is an excellent time to embrace an acupuncture protocol which could not only strengthen the spleen but may work with fall associations to reduce lingering pain, increase stamina, and improve the flow of qi (“chee” – life force).
Transitioning into fall could affect the large intestine (colon) causing what is known as functional constipation (FC). As the colon is a fall associated organ it is imperative to re-balance it and acupuncture has some good science when it comes to this (and many other applications). A study on acupuncture and its effect on FC was published in ‘Frontiers Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Pharmacology’ which concluded,
“Acupuncture could effectively improve clinical symptoms in FC patients, and was associated with gut microbiota reshaping and increased butyrate acid levels. Moreover, key microbial genera such as g_Coprobacter and g_Lactobacillus was predictive of acupuncture efficacy in treating FC.”
Another study on acupuncture published in ‘Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy’ Volume 170, January 2024 looked at the effect on the lungs and related connections such as stamina, allergy symptoms and even anxiety. The lungs are another fall association that need to remain strong. The study concluded,
“…Through an extensive review of the relevant literature, we have established that acupuncture in clinical treatment can significantly alleviate patients with COPD [chronic obstructive pulmonary disease] with cough, cough sputum, shortness of breath, and chest tightness and other clinical symptoms, [], improve lung function, respiratory muscle and diaphragm function, reduce dyspnea [shortness of breath], and improve exercise tolerance…”
Acupuncture can address colon and lung weakness to improve energy flow and take full advantage of these fall related organs. At Integrative Med Solutions, licensed acupuncturist and naturopathic doctor, Fred Lisanti approaches each client with an individualized application for optimal, personalized results.
Shed Your Leaves
Fall is a time of shedding. In temperate climates the leaves falling off the trees are a sign that it is time to declutter. This applies to mind, body and space clutter usually in the form of something negative. This may include:
- Shedding a toxic relationship
- Leaving an unappreciated career
- Starting talk therapy to sort out mind clutter
- Straightening surrounding clutter such as a stuffed garage or attic to a messy office desk
Any form of clutter often shows the clutter of the mind and by shedding these, one can inevitably reduce unnecessary stress. Even making the bed each morning is a good start especially coming from former Navy SEAL and four star general William McRaven, who famously said,
“If you make your bed every morning, you will have accomplished the first task of the day. It will give you a small sense of pride and it will encourage you to do another task and another and another. By the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many tasks completed.”
Task the clutter and walk through autumn much lighter.
Autumn Adaptogens
One good way to assist shedding the mind of clutter is reducing stress by adhering to a protocol of adaptogens. Working with IMS and Dr. Lisanti, who is trained in botanical medicine, various adaptogens could be applied for calming and rebalancing. Adaptogens are plant-based sources, usually in the form of herbs, roots and mushrooms, with polyphenol (plant derived) properties capable of calming the human CNS (central nervous system) which, when consumed properly, could be highly beneficial for reducing anxiety and other stressful symptoms. This is essential during the season of fall with the The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine advising,
“Let the mind-will be peaceful and tranquil, so as to temper the punishment carried out in Autumn. Collect the Shen [Spirit] Qi and cause the Autumn Qi to be balanced. Do not direct your mind-will to the outside so the Lung Qi remains clear.”
A study of one popular adaptogen, ashwaganda (withania somnifera), published in the Journal of Functional Foods, found that,
“According to our meta-analysis, Withania somnifera treatment of at least 56 or 60 days results in a clinically relevant improvement of stress level and serum cortisol level of stressed healthy adults [] thus, this treatment might be used in stress management.”
Other adaptogens include:
- Holy basil
- Ginger
- St. John’s Wort
- Rhodiola
- Schisandra
- Cordyceps
- Maca
- Turmeric (Curcumin)
- Astragalus
- Mushrooms
Working with adaptogens is an excellent way to navigate the changing aspects of autumn, particularly the diminishment of light which could be linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This condition is when certain individuals may have trouble adjusting to more autumn darkness and less summer light resulting in possible depression, lethargy, joint pain, insomnia and anxiety. Working with the guidance of Dr. Lisanti, an adaptogen protocol, particularly ashwaganda and rhodiola, may help.
Kitchen Kickoff Recipes for Seasonal Aligned Eating
Energetic autumn eating will nourish associated organs and feed the calming energy of yin. These recipes are a good example of seasonal eating for fall.
Carrot and Tofu Quiche
Ingredients:
4 carrots
1 pound tofu
Pinch of salt
1 small onion
1 clove garlic
½ teaspoon of dill seed
1 teaspoon grated orange rind
2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Sprinkle of sesame seeds
One 9″ pastry pie dish
Steam the carrots until soft, and then strain and mash.
In a separate bowl, blend the tofu with some of the leftover carrot water and add a pinch of salt. Use enough water to give the tofu a creamy consistency.
Chop the onion and garlic, add to the tofu mixture with the grated orange rind, dill, and parsley.
Stir in the mashed carrots and mix ingredients well.
Pour mixture into the 9″ pastry dish, sprinkle some sesame seeds and bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes.
“The combination of tofu, carrot, and parsley provides nourishment for the yin, blood, and qi. The onion, garlic, dill, and orange rind add warmth as well as counteract any dampness or stagnation that may occur from the richness of a pastry.”
*Recipe courtesy of Yinova
Spiced Squash & Orange Soup
Ingredients:
1 large butternut squash
1 red onion
2 cloves garlic
1 can coconut milk
1 litre stock or broth
½ tsp cumin seeds
¼ tsp ground coriander
1 tsp garam masala
¼ tsp chili
1 tbsp coconut oil
Zest of ½ an orange + juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare the squash first by de-seeding and chopping into cubes
Heat the coconut oil in a large pan, then chop the onion and garlic and fry for a couple of minutes
Add the spices and stir well
Add the squash and stir well, then leave to cook for 5 mins stir often.
Meanwhile, zest ½ the orange and squeeze the juice from it.
Add the orange zest and broth to the pan and bring to a simmer, then add the coconut milk.
Continue cooking on a low heat for 20 mins, or until the squash is soft.
Turn off the heat, pour in the orange juice and stir
Leave to cool and blend in batches, or use a hand blender to whizz up your soup to the desired consistency
“The recipe is high in vitamins C, A, and B as well as gut-friendly fiber. Potassium, magnesium and manganese are also in this soup which can assist in calming nerves and muscles.”
*Recipe courtesy of Ekhart
Use these recipes to get started on a path to seasonally aligned eating. This could help rebalance qi and move essential energy in a more optimal direction leading to improved body and mind health.
News and Noteworthy
Parkinson’s Help
Acupuncture may help those suffering with Parkinson’s disease improve their sleep. Results from a randomized clinical trial posted on the Jama Network concluded,
“In this randomized clinical trial, acupuncture proved beneficial in improving sleep quality and quality of life among patients with PD. These findings suggest that the therapeutic effects of acupuncture could continue for up to 4 weeks.”
Tai Chi Helps Relieve Breast Cancer Symptoms
Breast cancer is a prominent disease responsible for taking many lives as science rushes to find a cure. Various alternative approaches have helped mitigate debilitating symptoms such as insomnia and inflammation. One alternative approach is tai chi, slow martial arts derived movements that helps harness and move energy. A study of the effects of practicing tai-chi by researchers at the University of California – Los Angeles Health Sciences stated that,
“New research confirms that both Tai Chi and cognitive behavioral therapy can reduce insomnia in breast cancer survivors but also may provide additional health benefits by reducing inflammation and bolstering antiviral defenses.”
May this fall bring you an abundance of peaceful, transformative energy through mindfulness and kindness. At Integrative Med Solutions, we will design a ‘Fall 2024’ health treatment program that works for you. In many cases, insurance covers portions of the treatment. Allow us to support you to achieve optimal health. To make an appointment or find out more about how acupuncture and naturopathic medicine can benefit you, please call our office at 914-337-2980 or Click Here to schedule an online appointment.
*Please Click Here to see a current list of insurance companies that commonly carry acupuncture benefits for its members. For more info, please call 914-337-2980 or securely email us at info@intmedsolutions.com.
Best in health from Integrative Med Solutions.
Sources:
https://www.pure-moon.com/taoinstitutvarna.com/Bases_of_TCM.html
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2023.1223742/full
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332223017249
https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.115032/page/n37/mode/2up
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464623002955
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2820371