PLEASE WALK ON MY BACK!

One technique that comes from traditional Shiatsu Therapy is the practice of walking on the patient's backside.   Walking on the backside creates a natural stretching exercise for both spine and connective tissue which is often compressed, tight, and misaligned.  The technique is a balancing act that demands finesse.   In Japan, some therapists use a parasol for balancing in the same way a tight rope walker does.

While the patient lies prone upon a mat on the floor, the therapist skillfully steps on the buttocks and back. One must take care never to crush the recipient!  Therefore guidelines are mandatory. 

The first is sizing.  The patient whether a male or female, must not be slighter,  thinner, or smaller than the practitioner for full weight-bearing.  It is preferable that they are of equal weight and build, or the patient should be larger and heavier than the therapist.   If the patient is a slight build then the therapist may apply only one foot to the back rather than both feet.  One foot is also used for massaging the shoulders, arms, and hands.

Secondly, one never steps on the area where the kidneys are located, or on the neck, or upon a very frail person, or on a pregnant woman even in her early trimester.  This rule applies to whether or not a patient is recovering from an operation or accident, and too if this technique would trigger PTSD.  Don't walk on their back!  Common sense must be applied.

The third rule is never to jump on the recipient.  Only carefully placed footing on safe backside areas are to be used in a rhythmic and gentle manner.

Lastly, one follows the patient's comfort zone.  It is important that the patient is able to breathe easily and not be encumbered.   Do not overuse this technique or apply it longer than the patient is able to receive this technique.   It is not suitable for everyone, nor is every therapist skilled in the technique. 

Little children make enthusiastic and natural walking on the back therapists when shown how to do it correctly.   Their light weight is sufficient to give some relief to a backside that is weary and tense.  Children find it great fun and it is a wholesome family activity to share together. 

HEALTH IN SPRINGTIME

We're ever so excited to move from winter chilliness with its snowstorms, colds, and flu, into deliciously warm days of spring.  As we do so it is important to keep in mind that the seasons affect our physiology,  consequently, it's important to address these effects as we throw off our winter coats.

'Spring ' in Asian Medicine relates to the predominant energetic and organic activities of Liver Energy and its organ companion, Gall Bladder Energy.  Liver Energy rules the smooth regulation of bodily activities to maintain evenness and harmony,  including emotional harmony.  It addresses the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood activity, as well as Meridian activity and the activities of all organ systems. 

As pollen becomes profuse at this junction,  it's helpful to improve Qi and Blood circulation and fortify our immune system with appropriate nutrition,  lifestyle protocols, and  Traditional Acupuncture.  Taking proactive measures will not only harmonize mind and body but eases the ill effects of seasonal allergies, mold, asthma,  flu, Rhinovirus,  and Lyme disease. 

Allergies with sneezing and wheezing strike as flower pollens and new leaf growth develop, springtime showers promote mold growth indoors and out; asthmatic reactions are triggered by pollen,  temperature fluctuations,  fertilizers, insect repellents outdoors,  and dust and cleaning products indoors: Rhinovirus peaks in the spring; flu continues year-round; and Lyme disease predominates as temperatures rise above 35 degrees F.

What can we do? Act proactively!

A round of Acupuncture treatments fortifies the entire bodily systems,  jump-starts positive health change, and target particular weaknesses, such as a sluggish gut and bowel tract. Drinking ample amounts of water,  and refraining from inflammatory foods such as coffee, caffeine, alcohol, fried foods,  dairy,  red meat, additives, refined sugar,  and junk foods is imperative for cleaning our system.  Receiving a spinal adjustment opens connecting nerves and organs.

Emotionally springtime connotates opportunity.  Spring heralds an opportunity to improve our health and renew our life

THE WELLNESS VISIT

Traditional Acupuncture is used for a myriad of health concerns ranging from upset stomach,  back pain,  anxiety,  headaches,  female concerns to remedial help with pre and post-operative procedures,  pre and post-natal care, and end-stage diseases.

But what Acupuncture highlights is enhancing immunity. It brings all the bodily systems into a synchronized, well-functioning activity. If you are off-balance, you move towards a balanced state. If you already have achieved your optimal health,  you maintain it. 

A WELLNESS VISIT preserves, improves, and heightens good health levels.  It's like brushing your teeth.  Traditional Acupuncture aids our immunity.  It is important to maintain qualities of good health.  It's a pro-active call that is true and tested by ancient wisdom and scientific documentation. 

Acupuncture administered by a highly qualified practitioner who truly understands the inter-dynamics of the body-mind-emotion component is receiving 'strong medicine '. It is a strong medicine that is pro-active and immunity enhancing.