Can Acupuncture Help You?

I firmly believe that every single person would actively pursue acupuncture treatment IF they understood more about it.

I understand that it can be uncomfortable to try new things, especially when it involves needles, along with a lot of new theories and ideas. If you have felt reluctant to try acupuncture, we totally understand. And we are here to help.

The truth of the matter is that acupuncture is not for everyone. Some people have severe acute medical issues that require other forms of intervention. Others are unable to relax because acupuncture does involve the use of needles.

It's also true, though, that the vast majority of people in our modern world would greatly benefit from regular acupuncture treatment. Most people are just amazed by how great acupuncture makes them feel.

It is very common for someone to say, 'that was it??' after I insert the first needle, as they are shocked that they felt so little. Even if you are sensitive, there's a good chance that you will notice little if any discomfort from the acupuncture needles. They are so fine that the patient rarely notices more than a little pressure, tingling, or mild ache around the needles (which is often described as pleasant).

Our point is this: If you have been reluctant to try acupuncture because it is new, but you could use some help with your health, energy, or overall quality of life, then we welcome your phone call. Our mission is to make your acupuncture experience not only tolerable, but deeply relaxing, invigorating, and healing.

Many of our patients were reluctant to make that first call, yet almost all of them have been beyond pleased with how gentle and effective the treatment has been for their health care needs. We want to the same to happen for you!

Call us today at 817.835.0885

To trying new things,
Mark Tryling, L.Ac.,
Phone # 817.835.0885
www.meridianharmonics.com

Meridian Harmonics Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine
2044 Bedford Rd.
Bedford, TX 76021

Acupuncture: Understanding An Invisible Process

Acupuncture is both an art and a science. Acupuncture involves inserting hair-fine needles into specific points along meridians in order to assist the free flow of qi (a combination of energy and information). I know that this isn’t an easy idea for those of us used to Western ‘science’. I have a wonderful analogy, borrowed from my personal mentor Dr. Richard Tan, that will make the concepts of acupuncture, meridians and qi clearer.

Imagine an overhead light (a single bulb or fancy chandelier, whatever you prefer) and now picture the switch on the wall that turns it on and off. You don’t see the wires that connect the light to the switch but you feel confident that, when you flip the correct switch (the one corresponding to that particular light), the light will indeed go on. Now, apply this concept to acupuncture and meridians: Think of the light bulb as your health problem and the switch as the needles and the wires that connect the two places as the invisible networks called meridians. When I insert the needles (flip correct switch) that link to meridians (wires running through the wall) sending qi (electric current) to reach the light bulb (your health problem) it changes the situation from dark to light.

The key is using the correct switch. Meridian Harmonics is the premiere clinic of acupuncture and Oriental medicine in North Texas. Meridian Harmonics is only clinic that uses the Pulse Matrix diagnostic system for determining each patient's internal medical imbalances. In this way Meridian Harmonics designs and implements customized and correct Acupuncture and Herbal strategies to treat each patient.

What is Herbal Medicine?

Herbal medicine, also called botanical medicine or phytomedicine, refers to using a plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. Herbalism has a long tradition of use outside of conventional medicine. It is becoming more mainstream as improvements in analysis and quality control along with advances in clinical research show the value of herbal medicine in the treating and preventing disease.

What is the history of herbal medicine?

Plants had been used for medicinal purposes long before recorded history. Ancient Chinese and Egyptian papyrus writings describe medicinal uses for plants as early as 3,000 BC. Indigenous cultures (such as African and Native American) used herbs in their healing rituals, while others developed traditional medical systems (such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine) in which herbal therapies were used. Researchers found that people in different parts of the world tended to use the same or similar plants for the same purposes.

In the early 19th century, when chemical analysis first became available, scientists began to extract and modify the active ingredients from plants. Later, chemists began making their own version of plant compounds and, over time, the use of herbal medicines declined in favor of drugs. Almost one fourth of pharmaceutical drugs are derived from botanicals.

Recently, the World Health Organization estimated that 80% of people worldwide rely on herbal medicines for some part of their primary health care. In Germany, about 600 - 700 plant based medicines are available and are prescribed by some 70% of German physicians. In the past 20 years in the United States, public dissatisfaction with the cost of prescription medications, combined with an interest in returning to natural or organic remedies, has led to an increase in herbal medicine use.

How do herbs work?

In many cases, scientists aren' t sure what specific ingredient in a particular herb works to treat a condition or illness. Whole herbs contain many ingredients, and they may work together to produce a beneficial effect. Many factors determine how effective an herb will be. For example, the type of environment (climate, bugs, soil quality) in which a plant grew will affect it, as will how and when it was harvested and processed.

How are herbs used?

The use of herbal supplements has increased dramatically over the past 30 years. Herbal supplements are classified as dietary supplements by the U.S. Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. That means herbal supplements -- unlike prescription drugs -- can be sold without being tested to prove they are safe and effective. However, herbal supplements must be made according to good manufacturing practices.

The most commonly used herbal supplements in the U.S. include echinacea (Echinacea purpurea and related species), St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), garlic (Allium sativum), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), ginseng (Panax ginseng, or Asian ginseng; and Panax quinquefolius, or American ginseng), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), chamomile (Matricaria recutita), feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), ginger (Zingiber officinale), evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), and milk thistle (Silybum marianum).

Often, herbs may be used together because the combination is more effective and may have fewer side effects. Health care providers must take many factors into account when recommending herbs, including the species and variety of the plant, the plant's habitat, how it was stored and processed, and whether or not there are contaminants (including heavy metals and pesticides).

What is herbal medicine used for?

Herbal medicine is used to treat many conditions, such as asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, and cancer, among others. Herbal supplements are best taken under the guidance of a trained health care provider. For example, one study found that 90% of arthritic patients use alternative therapies, such as herbal medicine.Be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbs.

How is herbal medicine sold in stores?

The herbs available in most stores come in several different forms: teas, syrups, oils, liquid extracts, tinctures, and dry extracts (pills or capsules). Teas can be made from dried herbs left to soak for a few minutes in hot water, or by boiling herbs in water and then straining the liquid. Syrups, made from concentrated extracts and added to sweet tasting preparations, are often used for sore throats and coughs. Oils are extracted from plants and often used as rubs for massage, either by themselves or as part of an ointment or cream. Tinctures and liquid extracts are made of active herbal ingredients dissolved in a liquid (usually water, alcohol, or glycerol). Tinctures are typically a 1:5 or 1:10 concentration, meaning that one part of the herb is prepared with 5 - 10 parts (by weight) of the liquid. Liquid extracts are more concentrated than tinctures and are typically a 1:1 concentration. A dry extract form is the most concentrated form of an herbal product (typically 2:1 - 8:1) and is sold as a tablet, capsule, or lozenge.

Are there experts in herbal medicine?

Herbalists, chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, pharmacists, medical doctors, and practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine all may use herbs to treat illness. Naturopathic physicians believe that the body is continually striving for balance and that natural therapies can support this process. They are trained in 4-year, postgraduate institutions that combine courses in conventional medical science (such as pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, and surgery) with clinical training in herbal medicine, homeopathy, nutrition, and lifestyle counseling.

For more information about Herbal Medicine, contact us at the phone numbers listed below, or check out my website.

5 Misconceptions about Acupuncture

If you’re like most residents of Texas, acupuncture isn’t a totally foreign term. You’ve probably heard it mentioned before and may even know someone who’s tried it. But, this ancient practice is still plagued by many misunderstandings. The falsehoods about acupuncture range from plausible to absurd, but five of the top misconceptions are:

1. It’s old, outdated, and dangerous.

While acupuncture is not outdated or dangerous, this myth at least has some truth to it: acupuncture is indeed a practice with a lengthy history. In fact, it can be traced back to 200 B.C. But, that doesn’t mean that today’s acupuncture is the same as that practiced in ancient China. While nearly every medical treatment carries some amount of risk, issues arising from acupuncture are exceedingly low, and the FDA classified acupuncture needles as Class II medical devices, meaning they are generally recognized as effective and safe when utilized properly by a professional. Practitioners must be licensed acupuncturists, and in 23 U.S. states, they must hold certification from The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). In Northern Virginia, an acupuncture professional must pass five separate exams.

2. It can only be used for pain management.

Since it deals with the whole body’s life force (qi), acupuncture has a huge variety of applications and is used for everything from migraines to addiction treatment. Some of the most common issues that acupuncture is used for include:
•    Sinusitis
•    Illnesses relating to environmental toxins
•    Various Ulcers
•    Aging
•    Inflammation
•    Most digestive issues
•    Headaches
•    Tinnitus
•    Stroke Paralysis
•    Osteoarthritis
•    Many types of chronic pain
•    Addiction treatment (in the form of aureculotherapy, a type of ear acupuncture)
•    Mental issues like schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and insomnia

3. Acupuncturists don’t want you to use any other treatment.

While some people choose to use acupuncture as their main form of treatment, many other therapies can be used in conjunction with it, and many health care providers encourage the use of acupuncture alongside other treatments for a more thorough approach to healing. In Texas, acupuncture practitioners offer an updated form of the ancient practice and complement it with holistic treatments such as herbs and diet planning, as well as modern therapies.

4. Doctors don’t trust it.

While the scientific and medical communities continue to conduct studies on the efficacy of acupuncture for various applications, it nonetheless has a dedicated following. In fact, a 2005 study by HCD Research showed that the majority of physicians – 59% – believed that “acupuncture can be effective to some extent.” In addition, the U.S.’s National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization have agreed that acupuncture can be effective in pain relief and treatment of specific conditions.

5. It’s a placebo effect.

Even though acupuncture is an accepted therapy by many health organizations, the debate still rages over whether acupuncture actually heals or if it’s just a placebo effect, and much of this stems from the fact that it’s very difficult to simulate acupuncture. For many people, though, the argument of whether or not it’s a placebo effect is irrelevant. If the patient has been helped by acupuncture, meaning their pain has faded, they’ve finally managed to kick their addiction, or they have been helped in whatever other issue they were having, then the acupuncture has worked, regardless of whether or not scientists can find a physiological cause.

These are just five of the top myths surrounding acupuncture, and you’ve doubtless heard many more. The best way to find out for yourself, though, is to get in touch with the professionals. We suggest contacting a reputable wellness center that offers acupuncture, whether in Texas or any other region, and speaking with a trained acupuncturist.

Why Do I Compound Chinese Herbs?

The two primary ways of administering Chinese herbs are: 1) patent formulas or 2) Chinese herbal teas. Patent formulas are available in a wide assortment of ways. The most common patent formula methods are: pills, tablets and capsules.

Pills & Tablets

Capsules

Pills, tablets and capsules have become the method, of choice, for most westerners for the consumption of food supplements, vitamins, minerals and herbs. The reason for this is simple. They're convenient.

The problem with pills, tablets and capsules is that it is just about impossible to match a patient to a pill, tablet or capsule. They're designed in such a way that most people who use the recommended dose are not receiving the correct amount of the ingredients. Either they're too strong or ineffective. This can be very frustrating for patients.

To correct this problem, a remedy should be tailored, specifically, to the patient. To do this, properly, the practitioner must have advanced knowledge of specific pathogenic factors present so that the most accurate combination of ingredients can address the signs and symptoms of a patient's particular disease in the most expedient and effective way possible.

Diagnosis of disease processes is a combination of science and art. The two pillars of Chinese medical diagnosis is tongue and pulse diagnosis. Various systems of both have been developed and used over thousands of years. Mark Tryling of Meridian Harmonics has developed his own unique style of pulse diagnosis called The Pulse Matrix. He combines this with traditional Chinese tongue diagnosis to determine the underlying pathogenic factors present within each patient receiving treatment.

Tongue Organ Correspondences

Once the correct diagnosis has been made, definite treatment strategies are implemented. This could include both Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture. With regards to herbal medicine, once an accurate diagnosis is achieved, its a simple matter of combining or compounding the correct ingredients in a patients customized herbal remedy.

Happy Chinese New Year 2011

February 3, 2011 marks the beginning of the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Rabbit. There are 12 animals in the Chinese calendar. Every 12 years the animals repeat. Examples of previous Rabbit years are 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999. In addition to being a Rabbit Year, 2011 is also considered to be a Metal Element Year. In the Chinese philosophy of the Five Elements, each element has a Yin or Yang nature. 2011 is a Yin Metal year. Metal years are characterized by a contraction or consumption.

A placid year very much welcomed and needed after the ferocious year of the Tiger. We should go off to some quiet spot to lick our wounds and get some rest after all the battles of the previous year.

Good taste and refinement will shine on everything and people will acknowledge that persuasion is better than force. It is a congenial time in which diplomacy, international relations and politics will be given a front seat again. We will act with discretion and make reasonable concessions without too much difficulty.

It is a time to watch out that we do and not become too indulgent. The influence of the Rabbit tends to spoil those who like too much comfort and thus impair their effectiveness and sense of duty.

Law and order will be lax; rules and regulations will not be rigidly enforced. No one seems very inclined to bother with these unpleasant realities. They are busy enjoying themselves, entertaining others or simply taking it easy. The scene is quiet and calm, even deteriorating to the point of somnolence. We will all have a tendency to put off disagreeable tasks as long as possible

Money can be made without too much labor. Our life style will be languid and leisurely as we allow ourselves the luxuries we have always craved for. A temperate year with unhurried pace. For once, it may seem possible for us to be carefree and happy without too many annoyances.

THE RABBIT PERSONALITY

A person born in the year of the Rabbit possesses one of the most fortunate of the twelve animal signs. The Rabbit, or Hare as he is referred to in Chinese mythology, is the emblem of longevity and is said to derive his essence from the Moon.

When a Westerner gazes at the Moon, he may joke that it is a ball of cheese or tell a child the story of the Man in the Moon. When a Chinese looks at the Moon, he sees the Moon Hare standing near a rock under a Cassia tree and holding the Elixir of Immortality in his hands.

During the Chinese mid-Autumn festival when the Moon is supposed to be at its loveliest, Chinese children still carry lighted paper lanterns made in the image of a Rabbit and climb the hills to observe the Moon and admire the Moon Hare.

The Rabbit symbolizes graciousness, good manners, sound counsel kindness and sensitivity to beauty. His soft speech and graceful and nimble ways embody all the desirable traits of a successful diplomat or seasoned politician.

Chinese symbol for Beauty

Likewise, a person born under this sign will lead a tranquil life, enjoying peace, quiet and a congenial environment. He is reserved and artistic and possesses good judgment. His thoroughness will also make him a good scholar. He will shine in the fields of law, politics and government.

But he is also inclined to be moody; at such times he appears detached from his environment or indifferent to people.

The Rabbit is extremely lucky in business and monetary transactions. Astute at striking bargains, he can always pop up with a suitable proposal or alternative to benefit him. His sharp business acumen, coupled with his knack for negotiation, will ensure him a fast rise in any career.

Although the Rabbit may assume an outer air of indifference to the opinions of others, he actually withers under criticism. His "rather switch than fight" technique can be deceiving and he can be diabolically cunning when he puts his mind to it. So while the Rabbit person is tender and obliging to his loved ones, he can be superficial and even ruthless in his dealings with outsiders. Suave and self-indulgent, he enjoys his creature comforts and likes to put his own wishes first. It irks him terribly to be inconvenienced for he is a considerate, modest and thoughtful person and he would like others to be the same. He sincerely believes it costs people nothing to be nice to each other and he will always make an effort to be civil, even to his worst enemy. He abhors brawling and any sort of overt animosity.

 

For all his quiet and misleadingly docile nature, a Rabbit person possesses a strong will and an almost narcissistic self-assurance. He pursues his objectives with methodical precision but always in an unobtrusive manner. If there is anything he isn't going to be accused of, it is that he is an obvious or thick-skinned person. He won't make waves. The special trait that makes the Rabbit person a formidable negotiator is his inscrutability. It is difficult ever to assess his thoughts correctly.

The Rabbit usually has impeccable manners. He seldom uses harsh words and will never resort to foul language or vulgarisms to bring home a point. There is little need to anyway, as he has his own techniques. The Rabbit could hide under this cloak of decency to undermine his opponents. His credentials are usually flawless or at least in good order. He will wine and dine you in the best places and cater to your every whim when he is after something. Then, when you have eaten your fill and are puffing away contentedly at that expensive cigar, he will pull out the contract for you to sign. Before you know it, he has cut you off at the knees. He was so deft; you didn't even feel any pain. It was all over with the stroke of a pen. My sympathies are with you, friend. You are just another victim of the incomparable Hare. Now do you understand why Bugs Bunny always gets his carrots in all those cartoon strips?

Courteous, Polite & Shrewd

The Rabbit may appear a bit slow or overly deliberate at times, but this is due to his inborn sense of caution and discretion. One can be sure he is going to read the fine print before signing any document. Because of his ability to assess people and situations, the Rabbit can afford to be conceited--which, by the way, he is.

The demure Ms. Rabbit is very considerate and understanding with her friends: a great gal to work with, shop with or just tell stories with. She is delightfully warm and witty and her company is always relaxing. She has a lot of energy for the things she likes to do and can tirelessly track down antique shops or plan a friend's wedding to the last detail. But when she feels she has had enough of all that rigmarole, well, you can expect her to drop whatever she is doing, prop up her dainty feet and go limp. That is the philosophical part of the Rabbit. Do you know why she can keep so serene with all that frantic action going on? The secret is to know when your batteries need recharging, and no one has better knowledge or timing on this than the Rabbit.

Energetic & Vigorous

While everyone is killing himself in a mad rush to get somewhere, the Rabbit knows that the world will still be here tomorrow. So, what's the big hurry? Why don't you sit down, too? She will probably make you a nice cup of tea and help you forget all about that crazy rat race outside.

In any situation, you can always rely on the Rabbit to be in control of her. She will notice the license number of the getaway car or remember that the driver was wearing camel-colored trousers or elevator shoes. And while you are at the police station filing that report, she will calmly recall all the details and help you answer all those irritating questions.

All in all, the Rabbit is one who really knows how to live. What's more, he or she is more than willing to let live. Not a spoilsport or disciplinarian with an ever-watchful eye, the Rabbit knows when to refrain from criticism. He never likes to embarrass anyone in public. He is adept at the art of saving face, both yours and his, and if there is any way he can spare your feelings, he will.

Have no doubt, he makes mental notes of your mistakes or progress. But if things are not serious or beyond redemption, he will kindheartedly let you pass. For this trait, he is well liked and popular. An advantage of this philosophy is that the Rabbit makes few enemies and thus rarely gets into trouble. People respond by being generous to him and letting him pass, too.

No one has a more sympathetic ear to lend you than the Rabbit (except the Sheep) should you need one. But while he is an excellent soother and compassionate listener, he will only take the role of a passive adviser. He is, above all, an intellectual, a realist and a pacifist. Do not expect him to go out with all colors flying and do battle for you. That would be asking too much of him. Let's face it, the Rabbit will never elect to trudge up Mount Calvary with you, no matter what great buddies you two claim to be. He'll lend you the money for the lawyer or bail you out of jail if he can afford it, but that's about all. And if you are getting to be too much of a nuisance, you can count on his making a quick but graceful exit from your life.

The comely and refined Miss Rabbit will not be averse to marrying a good old-fashioned millionaire instead of a handsome but penniless swain. The former will be able to provide her with the advantages and luxuries she demands as necessities. Her man must be powerful enough to protect and support her in style, and sensitive enough to politely disappear when she is in a sullen mood and wishes to remain undisturbed.

When given the choice, the Rabbit will vote for the easy and good life every time. He or she will wear loose comfortable clothing of superb cut and fabric. Cashmere sweaters, pure silk blouses and durable linens and tweeds are in order. A mink or chinchilla carelessly thrown over the shoulder in a calculated air of nonchalance could also identify the elegant Rabbit native. Flashy, geometric or shocking designs offend the Rabbit's sense of conformity and balance.

While gracious to friends and coworkers, the Rabbit person may be somewhat distant from his own family or simply bored by domestic routine and duties. He or she hates too close associations; he will shake off an encroachment on his privacy or clinging parasitic friends with no regret. He can be bureaucratic and edgy over difficult issues. As he is one who hates binding commitments or over-involvement, he can also be an expert at passing the buck.

Mr. Rabbit is singularly debonair. He moves with grace, charm and gentlemanly, in spite of the fact that while he was singing your praises, he was also drinking all your best wine. Yes, the Rabbit gravitates toward the cream of society and gentlemanly leisure. On second thought, the cream of high society could well be made up of poised and genial Hares.

At his best, the Rabbit is admired for his suaveness and intelligence and sought after for his sensible advice. At his worst, he is too imaginative, oversensitive or just acidly indifferent. He avoids coming into contact with human suffering or misery, as though it were some highly contagious disease.

The Rabbit is not at all easy to trap. He can also become very repressive in his predilection for secrecy or privacy. When the Rabbit person feels threatened, his subtle brooding or concealed antagonism could be expressed by the use of subversive tactics. Joseph Stalin and Fidel Castro and South Africa's Johannes Vorster are Rabbits. It is also worth noting that Thailand's King Bhumibol, admired and well loved by his subjects for his exemplary life and devotion to music, art and domestic harmony, was born in the year of the Rabbit. So were King Olav V of Norway, Queen Victoria, Albert Einstein, David Rockefeller and David Frost.

For all his positive qualities, a native of this sign will still value himself above all else. When pushed too far, he will discard anything or anyone who dares upset the calm of his existence. His beliefs are known to be flexible and he has the knack of playing both sides for insurance. Security could be an obsession to the weaker types of this specimen; you rarely find a Rabbit in areas of high risk.

This love of ease coupled with his distaste for conflict may give the Rabbit a reputation for being weak, opportunistic and self-indulgent. Unlike the Dragon, Dog, Tiger, or Rooster, who all enjoy a hearty fight now and then, and may even thrive on it, the Rabbit has no relish for combat. He was not born to be a warrior. He is more effective working behind the scenes. Do not be concerned about the Rabbit's well being. He is agile and sagacious and armed with the good sense to keep out of harm's way. Unlike other signs, which may pursue lofty ideals, the Rabbit's main objective in life is simply self-preservation.

The Rabbit year is said to bring peace or at least a respite from conflict or war. Likewise, its native will do everything in his power to restore harmony or he will leave the scene.

The Rabbit person makes a good entertainer and is a wonderful host. Pleasant and warm company, he has a good word to say of everyone. But don't let that fool you. He knows more than he will say and you can easily recognize him by his finesse. He will be the best of friends so long as you take care not to ask too much of him.

The well-groomed Rabbit is most compatible with those born in the Sheep year. They will share the same good taste and love of material comforts. Equally well suited will be a relationship with the Dog person or the honest, unimposing Roar native. The Rat, Dragon, Monkey, Ox, Snake and Rabbit will make good secondary matches for him. But he will not be able to tolerate the vanity or criticism of the Rooster, is unimpressed by the dramatics of the Tiger and unappreciative of the quick-tempered and mercurial ways of the Horse.

To sum it up, the Hare simply leaps over obstacles in his path and recovers from calamities with remarkable resilience. No matter how he is tossed, he lands on his feet. He may not be close to his family but will make every effort to provide them with the best of everything. His soft, vulnerable-looking exterior is protected by an armor of cautiousness and sagacity. In life, the Rabbit will avoid being drawn into conflict at any cost, unless, of course, it affects him directly, at which time he will take the appropriate measures to protect his interests.

There is no great inner struggle in the Rabbit's heart between the forces of good and evil. He believes in his own ability to survive, relies on his own judgment and is at peace with himself. His is the sign most apt to find happiness and contentment.

THE RABBIT CHILD

A child born in the Rabbit's year will have a sweet disposition. Even-tempered and obedient, he will be sensitive to the moods of his parents and act accordingly. He may or may not be talkative, but he won't be rowdy or offensive. He can sit quietly and concentrate on one toy or game at a time.

Usually he is a light sleeper and may fret a lot when he is sick. He will be easy to discipline and should have little trouble fitting in at school. He learns his lessons well and with ease. But although he has better than average manners, this does not mean he will not be argumentative in his own soft-spoken way. He can grasp both sides of a question quickly and debate his point with intelligence.

At times, it will be difficult to decipher his thoughts or deeds. Smooth at masking his feelings, the Rabbit will only say what he knows will please you and thus maneuver you to his way of thinking without your even noticing it.

He will be able to fend for himself and protect his possessions. Remarkably observant, he can calculate his chances for getting his way. Instead of directly resisting rules, the subtle Rabbit will carefully devise ways around them. In short, this polite little angel is going to bargain for a better deal every time.

He can take reproach with a defiant or philosophical sort of indifference. Shrugging off his setbacks, the Rabbit will patiently start again from square one. Helpful at home, conforming in school and well-tuned to his environment, this child will know his way around people and problems. Rest assured he would be well liked and accepted in all circles.

THE CHINESE FESTIVALS

The Chinese New Year is now popularly known as the Spring Festival because it starts from the Beginning of Spring (the first of the twenty-four terms in coordination with the changes of Nature). Its origin is too old to be traced. Several explanations are hanging around. All agree, however, that the word Nian, which in modern Chinese solely means "year", was originally the name of a monster beast that started to prey on people the night before the beginning of a new year (Do not lose track here: we are talking about the new year in terms of the Chinese calendar).

One legend goes that the beast Nian had a very big mouth that would swallow a great many people with one bite. People were very scared. One day, an old man came to their rescue, offering to subdue Nian. To Nian he said, "I hear say that you are very capable, but can you swallow the other beasts of prey on earth instead of people who are by no means of your worthy opponents?" So, swallow it did many of the beasts of prey on earth that also harassed people and their domestic animals from time to time.

After that, the old man disappeared riding the beast Nian. He turned out to be an immortal god. Now that Nian is gone and other beasts of prey are also scared into forests, people begin to enjoy their peaceful life. Before the old man left, he had told people to put up red paper decorations on their windows and doors at each year's end to scare away Nian in case it sneaked back again, because red is the color the beast feared the most.

From then on, the tradition of observing the conquest of Nian is carried on from generation to generation. The term "Guo Nian", which may mean "Survive the Nian" becomes today "Celebrate the (New) Year" as the word "guo" in Chinese having both the meaning of "pass-over" and "observe". The custom of putting up red paper and firing firecrackers to scare away Nian should it have a chance to run loose is still around. However, people today have long forgotten why they are doing all this, except that they feel the color and the sound add to the excitement of the celebration.

The Spring Festival is a symbol of new beginnings, of which the New Year, also, represents. It represents a time of looking, optimistically, forward and putting the past behind us. It's a time to, confidently, make great plans for the future year. So, make 2011, your Year of the Rabbit, a great year!

 

10 Things Your Doctor Doesn't Know About Your Lungs

As it is with many of the body's organs, the Lungs have unique characteristics that mainstream or traditional medicine does not recognize. However, a brief introduction is necessary.

The organs of Chinese Medicine go hand-in-hand with most of the organs of western medicine. There are some physical differences. There are, also, functional differences.

A major concept of Chinese medicine is the idea of Yin and Yang. One way to classify the organs is by its Yin or Yang nature. Generally speaking, Yin and Yang represent various bi-polar relationships macro-cosmically and micro-cosmically. These relationships represent various physical, emotional and spiritual states and involve the fields of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, statics and dynamics, to name a few.

Another key theory governing the organs of Chinese medicine and the human life form involves their energy state. Just like the elements of the periodic table, which each have their own unique energy state and physical characteristics, all substances, both organic and inorganic, have their own unique energy state. The human body must conform to this law, as well. Since the human body is an organic (living) body, it is characterized by an energy system that drives it. The ancient Chinese called this energy system Qi (chee). Inorganic substances also have an energy system. However, the Qi of living organisms vibrates at much higher frequencies than those of inorganic substances.

When the unique organ functions of Chinese medicine are inhibited in some way, their ability to support the body is affected and the disease process is initiated. In some people the disease may be as simple as neck tension or a headache. In others, it may be something more severe, such as cirrhosis, migraines or cancer.

In this article, lets consider the Lungs. There are 10 things your doctor doesn't know about your lungs, as they relate to the characteristics or attributes of Chinese medicine.

1. Regulates the Energy state or Qi of the body. Regulating Qi is considered to be more of a functional aspect of the body, The Lungs are classified as a Yin organ and are one of just two organs that produce energy or Qi in the body. All the other organs consume energy. Yin organs are normally considered to be more nutritive, than functional. So this is a unique aspect of the Lungs. The Lungs produce energy by absorption of oxygen directly into the blood stream via the gas exchange through cells in the lungs called pulmonary alveolus.

2. Governs Respiration. Yep, I know, those ancient Chinese were, absolutely, brilliant! Your Doc probably does know this one!

3. Regulates the body's Water Passages. Water metabolism is, typically, thought to involve, only, the kidneys and urinary bladder. However, within the Chinese medical model, the Lungs are known as the Upper Source of Water (in the form of water vapor from the environmental air we breathe). Because of the Lungs relationship with Qi, and its function of reaching downward to activate the organs in the lower abdominal and pelvic cavities, the Lungs are considered a major aspect of fluid metabolism.

4. Controls the Skin and Body Hair. Each of the primary tissues of the body are related to specific organs. The Lungs have a direct connection to the external environmental air. The skin and the body hair also has an external relationship with the environment. They play a role in warding off or protecting the body from external environmental factors: cold, wind, heat, dampness, etc. Therefore, in an external holographic manner, the Lungs control the Skin and Body Hair. Some skin problems are due to a pathological condition of the Lungs, but other skin problems are due to other organ disease patterns.

5. Rules the Exterior of the Body. The Lungs are the most exterior of all the organs and in like manner play a major role in controlling the exterior of the body. In other words, the exterior of the body is considered the first line of defense when environmental or climatic pathogenic factors attempt to invade the body. Robust, healthy lungs strengthen the exterior and the immune system.

6. Regulates Perspiration. Located in the skin are the pores. Sweating or perspiration is the result of the pores opening. Since the Lungs control the skin, they also control the pores. In the case of excessive sweating or no sweating, the Lungs are considered a key player in the pathological disease pattern. There are other organs and disease patterns that can affect perspiration, but the Lungs are considered the regulator.

7. Grief and Sadness damage the Lungs. Each of the organs of Chinese medicine is injured by an emotional state. For the Lungs this emotion is sadness or grief. As with many aspects of Chinese medicine, this is a two-way street. Chronic Lung disease patterns can manifest sadness or grief and chronic sadness and grief can manifest a Lung disorder. The same can be said for all the organs in relation to their particular emotion.

8. Controls the Descending and Dissemination of Qi. The Lungs bring in "Air Qi" to be descended and disseminated throughout the other organs. This is an important aspect of many of the metabolic processes of the body. Without sufficient Air Qi many of these processes are inhibited, thus degrading the body's ability to ward off pathogenic disease patterns and maintain optimal health.

9. Controls the Voice. The Lungs drive air through the larynx or voice box and therefore is responsible for healthy vibrant speech.

10. Opens to the Nose. Technically, the Lungs are directly connected to the environmental air through the nose. The human body was designed to breathe through the nose, so the Lungs are said to open to the nose. As a result of this function, the Lungs influences the nose to allow discernment of odors and fragrances.

11. Aids the Heart in Blood circulation. When the Lungs are healthy they supply Air Qi to the other organs. Due to the Lungs proximity with the Heart, they play a vital role in promoting blood circulation by infusing the Heart with vital energy. Otherwise, blood circulation is diminished and is unable to nourish the other organs, tissues and cells.

Okay, I listed eleven things, but #2 was assumed to be a given.

Now that you know some of the major characteristics of the Lungs, within the scope of Chinese medicine, it isn't difficult to see why:

- Smoking and other air pollutants cause damage to the skin and can lead to skin disorders (psoriasis, eczema, etc.).

- Strong, vibrant lungs leads to a strong vibrant immune system. Weak, feeble lungs leads to a compromised immune system characterized by constant respiratory disorders (common cold, influenza, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc.).

- Healthy lungs help to activate and regulate fluid metabolism preventing such disorders as swellings, edema, weight gain, obesity, muscle pain (fibromyalgia).

-  Many vascular and circulatory disorders are not just a heart problem but can be due to the lungs inability to provide the vital energy needed to supplement the hearts own energy.

- Voice and speech problems (weak voice, loss of voice, etc.) can be due to a lung disorder. However, lung problems aren't the only disease patterns that can contribute to voice problems.

The ancient Chinese physicians considered the Lungs so important that in most Chinese medical texts the discussion of the organs and their corresponding meridians begin with the Lungs. In many respects, the Lungs are the catalyst for most of the body's metabolic processes. Activities, such as tai chi, Qi Gong, yoga, along with most aerobic exercises benefit the body by super-charging the body with oxygen. Since oxygen is a key component in the meridian system, it is imperative to keep the meridians strong by maintaining high oxygen levels through physical activities that promote thorough respiration.

Meridian Harmonics