Travel Rx: Healthy Summer Holidays
Summer holidays are approaching and many will make the most of it and travel home or to some fun locations. Travel can be demanding on the body, especially when crossing several time zones. Nothing derails fun holiday plans more quickly than illness or a serious case of jet lag. Here are a few of the most common problems brought on by the rigors of travel and some tips and solutions. Jet...
Suffering from Swelling? Find Relief with Specialized Massage
Lymphatic Drainage FAQs As the weather heats up, those who suffer from swelling often find their problems worsening. Fortunately, lymphatic drainage can provide relief and encourage healthy circulation. Sarah Trost, physiotherapist at Body & Soul, assists Shanghai residents with wellness, rehabilitation and pain management. She specializes in manual lymphatic drainage for patients suffering from lymphedema. She shares how lymphatic drainage works and answers some common questions. What is lymphatic drainage? Manual lymphatic drainage is...
What is Depression?
We all have unhappy times. Some days you feel disappointed, sad or just in a foul mood. Depression, when compared to such moody days, is much more comprehensive and profound. Changing seasons can worsen such feelings , as the body is trying to adapt to a changing environment. It’s wise to talk to someone you trust or seek professional help if you experience a period of persistent sadness, loss of interest...
The Weather’s Great, Why Aren’t You?
Notice that as the weather gets warmer your body and brain react in strange ways? Just as we’re experiencing beautiful weather, many people find themselves stuck inside with an illness. TCM has long understood this period of transition (and offers help). Spring is the season of rebirth, growth, blooming flowers and sunshine. Just as the environment is coming out of its state of winter passivity, so is the human body. TCM...
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical system which is proven effective in treating a vast array of diseases naturally. Thanks to a combination of herbal medicine and acupuncture among other therapies, TCM treats the person as a whole by restoring balance physically and emotionally. TCM can naturally provide relief for the following conditions: Internal medicine diseases Digestive disorders Respiratory disorders Menstrual disorders and infertility Skin diseases Western therapies’ side...
What can Chinese herbs do for you?
Chinese herbs are well known for their effectiveness in prevention and curing. Herbal decoctions are frequently used to strengthen the immune system naturally and cure with minor side effects. There are more than 1000 herbs commonly used in TCM and each individual combination has its own characteristics and effects. As everyone’s constitution and symptoms are unique, herbal decoctions are always custom made in order to fully treat the patient’s condition and...
All Your Acupuncture Questions Answered
In our TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) series, we share insight into the major TCM treatments and answer frequently asked questions. Acupuncture is a popular TCM method to cure disease and restore balance. People often wonder “Will getting stuck with needles really make me healthier?” Here is everything you want to know about acupuncture. TCM Philosophy TCM believes a healthy body and mind is achieved through a free flow of vital energy (Qi)...
Spring Renewal: Nine Habits for a Happy, Healthy Life
We’re all made of energy. We now know it only takes 12 seconds to invite something into our energy at the vibrational level. What does this mean? It means you have the power to change your life. Here are some tips for creating positive energy: 1. Be aware of the quality of your thoughts and ideas. Reality is neutral; the way you interpret it is not. 2. Be grateful. Smile, say thank...
Breathe Freely: Natural Allergy Solutions
Are red, watery eyes and a swollen nose your trademark spring look? Many allergy sufferers dread the coming spring. Life becomes round after round of antihistamines and nasal sprays. Shanghai’s damp, dusty (and polluted) environment is a nightmare for many allergy and asthma sufferers. Ancient Chinese Wisdom: The Root Causes of Allergies TCM interprets allergies as a disharmony in the body. It is often diagnosed as a “wind” influence accompanied by another...
Triple Hormone Hell: Fatigue, Insomnia, and Depression
Too many women suffer like I did from what we can call “triple hormone hell”. It’s a nightmare combination of symptoms that includes chronic fatigue, insomnia and moodiness (particularly depression). I was trying to get through my day with 1-2 hours of sleep at a time and overwhelming fatigue and feelings of despair. I had gained a significant amount of weight and my limbs felt heavy and my breathing constricted. I...