Acupuncture at the Olympics
In China, acupuncture is integrated with modern medicine. Most hospitals have a wing or entire floor devoted to acupuncture, and "house calls" are made to patients in other wards. It's no surprise, then, that professional athletes have discovered the benefits of needles in the Olympic Village clinic. You can see gold medal swimmer Daniel Kowalski talk about his shoulders here. Just to name a few more, gymnast Nadia Liukin (who overcame her fear of needles), and volleyball superstar Kerri Walsh have both spoken publicly about the benefits of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine).
Acupuncture is terrific for relaxing tight muscles and decreasing inflammation. It's been used for years on both equine and human professional athletes. Combine it with my therapeutic bodywork for flexibility and breaking up scar tissue, and you'll see big changes in your performance!
I often prescribe "Be happy!" at the end of a session along with the usual physical homework. There's more to this than just smiles: Content minds make for healthier bodies.
Stress causes the release of Cortisol, a hormone known to effect blood pressure, blood sugar maintenance, immune function, and the inflammatory response. It gives us a quick burst of energy for flight or flight, heightened memory functions, a burst of increased immunity, and lower sensitivity to pain.
This is terrific in emergencies, but maintaining "high alert" status over a long period of time takes its toll on the body. Eventually, it can contribute to impaired cognitive performance (brain fog), suppressed thyroid function, blood sugar imbalances, decreased bone density and muscle, higher blood pressure, lowered immunity, slower wound healing, increased abdominal fat... not a fun collection, huh?
To avoid it, all you have to do is relax. Use journaling, working out, yoga, music, meditation or breathing exercises. Watch a funny movie, garden, go for a stroll... whatever makes you happy. Most of you know about my personal addiction to knitting and spinning. It doesn't matter if you're a cat person or prefer feeding your pet alligator, but find a pastime that makes you smile. Here's my husband enjoying his favorite hobby: Look at that grin!
Point of the Month: St-36
Stomach 36 is called Zu San Li, "Leg Three Miles." The ancient texts state that if you are tired on a march and needle this point, you can now walk another three miles. In other words, it's great for general health and energy. It nourishes your Yin and activates your Yang. St-36 is the Ruler of the Abdomen, so it's good for most digestive complaints. Use it to treat indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, gas, malabsorption, etc.
To find it, run your finger upwards along the tibia (shinbone), on the lateral side (outside). As you approach the knee, your finger will fall into a hole. That's it. It's a large point, so trust your instincts. St-36 is deep: Press firmly!
Because of its location, Zu San Li is also good for treating knee pain. Note: Stimulation will increase stomach acid, so it's great for an overfull belly, but bad for ulcers.
Thanks for reading! Next month: GB-21 for neck and shoulder issues.
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