The Significance of Pumpkin Spice

Do you know why pumpkin spice is everywhere during this time of year?

Get this, the spices such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves are warming to the body.

This is why pumpkin spice is everywhere.

As the season changes and we experience fluctuation in the weather, it makes the body more susceptible to getting sick! The defensive qi moves deeper in the body during warmer months and comes closer to the surface during colder months. We are in a transitional season!

Similarly, a lovely Asian formula - Gui Zhi Tang - can help!

Gui Zhi Tang is a cinnamon decoction that helps warm the body and supports the immune system to adapt to the changing seasons.

Cinnamon Twig Formula (Gui Zhi Tang), is one of the most enduring and versatile formulas in the history of Chinese herbal medicine. The first appearance of the Cinnamon Twig Formula in-text dates from the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 A.D.). The source text is the Shang Han Lun, written by Zhang Zhong Jing.

AND guess what...

ACUPUNCTURE works wonders for the immune system, just like herbal remedies!

Check out this link to read more from our October newsletter: https://conta.cc/3lIhW3u

Women’s Cycle Within Yin and Yang (Pt. 1)

The Yin Yang symbol is very simple yet profound, as most powerful and timeless symbols are. It is often attributed to being the birth center of Chinese Medicine and therefore the essence that permeates all aspects of the practice. It is an all inclusive lens that has the appropriate amount of flexibility to be applied to any situation. This is how it can work so beautifully with the uniqueness of each and every individual life.

In Chinese Medicine, the Yin Yang symbol, much like the moon’s phases, correlates with the phases of the menstrual cycle. This correlation can be used as a tool to understand and treat various issues within women’s health. The menstrual cycle is deeply connected to other cycles and rhythms of the body. Understanding the nuances and seeing the connections of all of these cycles can help guide you in making the best life choices for your overall health. In that inspiration, here at Asheville Acupuncture, we are starting a series of articles, each one devoted to one of the 4 phases of your cycle. We will be breaking down what’s going on during each of these phases, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, along with common women’s health issues and various solutions to them. Before we dive into that, it is important to have a clear understanding of Yin and Yang, so let's begin with the symbol itself as an explanation for the essence of everything. 

---

Understanding Yin and Yang

The beginning of Yin and Yang - the outside line - is drawn first as a complete circle and represents the boundary of the universe. This is crucial to know, as yin and yang are part of ONE whole. They are not separate symbols, but can only exist in relation to one another. There is a common saying “no such thing as pure yin or yang.” Simply stated, but easily forgotten! This means that even though Yin and Yang are opposite, they cannot exist without the other. The concept of something being pure yin or pure yang is simply impossible. This interdependence is represented additionally through the symbolism of the smaller circles within each side - the circles show the other side's color, indicating their dynamic to one another: two parts of one whole. The smaller circles are recognized to be the eye of the two fish. The concept of Yin and Yang in Traditional Chinese Medicine began with the idea of a sunny side and shady side of a hill. One hill with two parts, two perspectives. The shady side of the hill is cool, moist, and less active. The sunny side of the hill is warm, dry, and more active. As the sun moves across the sky, the sun and shade also move across the hill. One simply cannot exist without the other. Although Yin and Yang are one whole, the two sides represent the polarity of the masculine and feminine energies within the universe. Opposition combined perfectly with interdependence to create a balanced, homeostasis like state.

Their respective traits can be viewed as follows:

• 
  Yin is often referred to as: the feminine energy that resides inside of everyone. This is not based on gender. It’s the mother, It’s the dark new moon, It’s the cool dark winter night, or soft earth beneath your feet. Yin is stillness, rest, always changing transformation. 

• 
  Yang is often associated with the masculine energy. Warm sunlight touching your face. It’s upward movement, action, bright pure refined light. It’s the father, clear direct space holder, consistent steadfast energy, motivated by action and continuous change. 

By understanding the concept of Yin and Yang it becomes easier to understand the cycles of our bodies. Yin and Yang is all about balance. There is always movement between the two, nothing is ever static. If the dynamic is equal they will cancel each other out. Learning to be in harmony with Yin and Yang requires dancing with these energies within yourself. Knowing when to take action and when to be still. When to stay cool and grounded or when to be fiery and steadfast. Chinese medicine is a holistic practice in which no one part of the body is seen as separate from the person as a whole. When learning to care for yourself as a whole, you begin to see the interconnectedness of your entire being - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

---

The Four Menstrual Phases and their Relation to Yin & Yang

In Chinese medicine the menstrual cycle is broken into two halves and four phases. The two halves being the Yin phase and the Yang phase. The four phases being menstrual, post-menstrual (follicular), ovulation, and pre-menstrual or implantation (luteal). At the point in the cycle when post-menstruation switches to the ovulation phase, Yin switches to Yang. Already we can begin to see the relationship of Yin and Yang to the female menstrual cycle based strictly off of the TCM classifications of the cycle. One of the foundational principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine is to understand these natural cycles and adapt your behavior to take advantage of them. This enables you to avoid future imbalances and treat any that may occur, thereby assisting you to avoid diseases and increase your overall vitality and longevity. 

Just as Yin and Yang flow in seasons and traits, the menstrual cycle does too. By categorizing the four phases of the cycle into Yin and Yang states, you can begin to understand what your body needs the most during each phase. If you are in a Yin phase of the menstrual cycle, your body will feel the most balanced if you are being more restful. In this state of rest, you allow the body “down time” to regenerate and nourish itself. If you are in a Yang phase of the menstrual cycle, your body will feel the most balanced if you are being more active and filled with movement. By creating an environment of movement and activity you are encouraging the body to motivate your natural flow. Think of it this way: in the Yin phase you are resting the body as it menstruates and replenishes, in the Yang state you are energizing the body to prepare for the next cycle ahead.

In the next part of this series, we will further examine the first phase of the menstrual cycle. We will discuss the characteristics of this phase and how it applies to Yin and Yang. This will be a multi-part series that honors the beautiful connections of our physical bodies with this ancient, balanced symbol.

Acupuncture for Boosting the Immune System

Hello my loves, I wanted to share with you my fall newsletter for 2021. As we enter into the season of cooler weather and changing leaves we are also entering into flu season. Additionally, Covid-19 is still around — it is important that now we focus on strengthening and protecting our immune systems. This newsletter will touch on the preventative measures I have been taking and speak on the importance acupuncture plays in boosting our immune function. I am sharing exciting news regarding the new team at Asheville Integrative Acupuncture and sharing several great resources as well for the upcoming months.

Read Here: Fall Newsletter

If you know someone who is pregnant and does not currently follow this newsletter or blog, I would LOVE for them to see these offerings as well. If so, please share this link or forward this newsletter to your friends!

Thank you for your continuous outpour of love and support.

Love,
Krystal

Empowered Pregnancy + Spiritual Mentoring

Here’s my current love letter ( newsletter) for you.

I’m still available for Virtual Health Visits over zoom or the phone.If you need any support, I’m here for you. I’m also available for spiritual mentoring which  just lights me up like the dormant seed cracking and pushing up through the soil. It feels like new life, new beginning and stepping into my higher calling. To schedule email me krystal@krystalkinnunen.com

Also are you pregnant or know anyone who is? I have given birth to a new project that feels so juicy and is also in alignment with my training, my current work and my higher destiny. I’m very passionate about supporting pregnant mothers and the cultivation of strong babies, strong parents and strong families. It’s my honor and mission to do so as I truly believe this is how we shift and heal humanity; it all begins in utero. I bet you know someone who knows someone who’s pregnant and would LOVE to see this offering. If so, please share this link or forward this newsletter to your peeps.!

Thank you! Here’s to your health…

Love,

Krystal

(Shelter in Place) Stress management tools

Gratitude Despacho

We are living in uncertain times, as we all “Shelter in Place” safe in our homes during the COVID-19 my dear teacher and friend Omileye Achikeobi-Lewis quickly put together this brilliant collaborations of counselors, yoga instructors and holistic practitioners to provide multiple fifteen minutes free stress management tools for kids and parents on her  Peace Am I Mindful Tools YouTube Channel. It was a great honor to be invited to share how to make Gratitude Despachos with our children. 

A Despacho is an Andean Peruvian ceremonial offering filled with intentional prayers for Pachamama (Mother Earth), and the Apus (Mountain Spirits). It’s a beautiful piece of art loaded with flowers, sugar, candies, corn meal, tobacco and many other things.

My andean teacher Dona Silvia Calisaya Chuquimia teaches the importance of being in Anyi (Sacred reciprocity) with our living world. Despachos are one way to give great thanks and give back to our pachamama (mother earth). 

Staying Well: Steps to Prevent the Coronavirus

Do you find that every time you turn on the radio, television or social media, the first thing you hear about is the spread of the Coronavirus?  There is some good fact-based information out there but there is also a lot of fear. Remember fear doesn’t solve any problems so stay in the present moment while also being proactive.

Acupuncture can help boost your immune system without using expensive drugs with all their side effects.  How does acupuncture work for immunity? We all know that acupuncture is an ancient method of medicine and it works by balancing the energies of the body, or the Chi. 

Studies have shown that the body's immune system is more able to destroy bacteria and viruses with the help of acupuncture.  With acupuncture, the brain is able to increase the T-cell levels of the body. These T-cells are what destroys the invading viruses.  Researchers think that the acupuncture needles provoke the body’s immune response; the body sees the needles as invaders and gathers the white cell and T-cell count like an army to fight them off.   The great after-effect of acupuncture is that the benefits of this lasts days after your acupuncture session.

Acupuncturists can also prescribe potent herbal formulas in order to prevent flu-like viruses as well as formulas to help if you do get sick.  

Wellness Tips

Here are some tips to help you stay well:

• Take Vitamin C, 3000mg/day divided into 3 daily doses of 1000 mg each

• Zinc, 20 mg/day

• Magnesium, 400 mg threonate

• Vitamin D, 2000 - 5000 i.u. (check with your doctor as to the best amount for you)

• Daily tea made of lemon balm, a known anti-viral

• Mullein, strengthens the lungs

• Echinacea

• Elderberry

• Avoid handshakes and hugs… perhaps the Oriental greeting of bowing has more practical implications aside from showing respect. Warm smile and nod is great. 

I also recommend making your own blend of Thieves oil:

40 drops of clove bud

35 drops lemon

20 drops cinnamon bark

15 drops eucalyptus radiata

10 drops rosemary

Diffuse this in your home.  Make a disinfecting spray with it by adding 3 drops to 3 ounces of water in a spray bottle.  You can use the diluted Thieves Oil as a hand sanitizer, rub on the bottom of your feet to keep away cold and flu, or rub it on areas where you may have aches and pains.

Hand Washing

Washing our hands is the best prevention, it’s easy and effective, but there is a right way. Here are five steps to hand washing from the CDC website: (a link has also been provided)

Follow these five steps every time.

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.

2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.

4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.

5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

You may also use Hand Sanitizer when soap and water are not readily available. Be sure it is at least 60% alcohol.  (For the proper way to use hand sanitizer, go to the link provided below.)

www.cdc.gov/handwashing

Be Prepared, Don’t Panic!  

WASH YOUR HANDS, try to prevent touching your face often, clean surfaces that you touch often (or that your kids touch), and as preparing for a storm, it may be a good idea to stock up on non-perishable foods and water.  The CDC says that face masks do not prevent getting the virus, but if you or a loved one should get sick, they should wear one to prevent spreading it to others. The N95 face mask can help prevent sickness if it fits properly on the face.  We have all seen the effects of people panicking before a storm and we know that only causes more issues. Be prepared and know that we can prepare for the worst and still expect the best outcome. And if you would like to boost your immune system, Book your appointment!

The Importance Of Acupuncture During IVF

In Vitro Fertilization

Everyone has their own reasons for trying In Vitro Fertilization or IVF. When you first decided to have a baby, the chances are you did not think about the need for ultrasounds, blood tests and administering shots every day just to conceive. You have most likely spent the last few years trying all of the other options prior to considering In Vitro Fertilization in Asheville. It is important to understand this process is expensive and will require a great deal of your time. What you may not realize is acupuncture improves fertility. This means you can improve the success of the IVF process with Chinese medicine and acupuncture. 

The Research

There have been a lot of research studies determining acupuncture improves fertility and pregnancy rates. One of the most important studies was conducted in 2002. There were 160 participants using In Vitro Fertilization. The participants receiving acupuncture on the same day the embryo was transferred had an increased pregnancy rate of 42.5 percent as opposed to the 26.3 pregnancy rate for those not receiving this additional procedure. The research has led to numerous In Vitro Fertilization physicians encouraging  acupuncture. Some of these clinics even provide this procedure on-site for the day the embryo is being transferred.

How Acupuncture in Asheville Increases the Chance of Pregnancy

If you are having trouble getting pregnant, acupuncture can assist with:

• Decreasing inflammation

• Regulating your hormone balance

• Soothing anxiety and stress

• Increasing your uterine and ovarian blood flow

• Calming your central nervous system

• Alleviating the side effects of In Vitro Fertilization medications

• Decreasing your cortisol levels

• Supporting robust endometrial lining development

• Fostering mental, physical and emotional well-being

• Benefiting the quality of the egg

• Aiding in the implantation of the embryo

Acupuncture offers support for your reproduction by making certain adequate nourishment is received by your reproductive organs. Both aging and stress can result in a decrease of the blood flowing to your ovaries and uterus. Acupuncture regulates your nervous system to increase your flow of blood. This enables your blood vessels to dilate. This will release blood rich with nutrients to your uterus and ovaries. This may improve your response to fertility medications. When your uterine blood flow is increased, the result is a thick uterine lining. This is ideal for implantation, better eggs, improved response and a good lining.

If you are having trouble getting pregnant using IVF, it could be that your treatments have placed you under a lot of stress. This is one of the reasons so many individuals have stopped their treatments. Acupuncture will help lower your stress. According to research, placing needles in the skin causes the body to release endorphins. These are the natural pain killers in your body. This is the reason you feel so relaxed after having a session. Endorphins calm your mind, slow down your breathing and relax your muscles. Numerous individuals in Asheville going through IVF have stated this helped them relax while being treated.

Improving Your Chances of Conceiving

The main goal of pregnancy acupuncture is to help you have a healthy baby while ensuring your own health. When acupuncture is performed on the same day the embryo is placed in your uterus, your chances of becoming pregnant improve. Receiving an ample amount of sessions is an important factor for your success. Five years of research were compared. This involved women who only had In Vitro Fertilization and women who also chose to have acupuncture. The women who had thirteen to fifteen sessions of the additional procedure as well as In Vitro Fertilization doubled their chances of becoming pregnant and having a child as opposed to the women who had In Vitro alone.

Your Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, you will be discussing your medical history. This includes your tests and bloodwork, your gynecological history, and the analysis of your partner's sperm. You need to provide a list of all your current medications including In Vitro Fertilization medications, prescription medications and all the supplements you are taking.  You will also be given a “physical examination” that is feeling the pulses in your wrist and observing your tongue to assist in the Chinese medicine diagnosis. 

The practitioners of Chinese medicine base your initial evaluation using the Chinese medicine system. This is how your personal treatment plan is created. Although you are able to begin your treatment anytime you choose, you will receive the best possible outcome by starting right away. The treatment schedule is different for each individual. General guidelines are in place to ensure your treatment is appropriate for your situation.

The Preparation for Egg Retrieval

You should start your weekly treatment at least eight weeks before your egg retrieval. Your sessions should increase to twice a week during your ovarian stimulation, roughly two weeks before your egg retrieval. You should continue your treatments for three to five days during your recovery after your egg retrieval. If you are having a (FET) frozen egg retrieval, you should start your weekly treatments eight weeks before your egg retrieval. You can also have sessions twice per week - four weeks before your frozen egg retrieval. You will still need a minimum of eight sessions. On the day of your egg transfer, you should have your sessions on-site if possible. 

The Recommended schedule for Treatment

If your pregnancy test is positive, the recommendation is continuing your treatments throughout your first trimester. This will provide you with the support you need for your first few vulnerable months. You should have weekly sessions during your first trimester. This will help ensure the blood flow to your uterus is optimal. This is important for fetal and placental development. During this time, numerous women experience fatigue, nausea, anxiety and vomiting. Your sessions can help with all of these symptoms.

During your second trimester, you should have your sessions as you need them. Once you start your second trimester, you have established your pregnancy. You can decrease your sessions provided you are not having any complications with your pregnancy. The recommendation is having one session each month for maintenance provided you are still not experiencing any symptoms and have plenty of energy.

During your third trimester, your treatments should be scheduled once or twice a week once you reach your 32nd week. Acupuncture pregnancy treatments are effective for helping babies in the breech position move into the correct position. Your sessions will also help relieve pain in your pelvis and lower back, decrease carpal tunnel pain, reduce swelling and prepare you for labor.

The importance of Remaining calm with IVF

A lot of individuals become a little overwhelmed by In Vitro Fertilization. It is important to try to remain calm and continue the process. Instead of spending all your time concentrating on your potential pregnancy, take the time to pamper yourself and relax. You can practice yoga, take a warm bath, go for a walk in the park, meditate or watch some of your favorite television series. If you have any questions or concerns, you can ask about them during your sessions. Your fertility treatments can be successful. If the end result is holding a baby in your arms, your journey will have been worth every single step.

Sacred Activism

The world is in a time of great transformation and many people are experiencing upheaval. And many are feeling overwhelmed and not sure what they can do. 

In my latest blog talk radio, I discuss what Sacred Activism means to me and also share from Andrew Harvey's book The Hope A Guide to Sacred Activism. Harvey shares 11 things we can do now to begin making a difference. 

To listen click here. Enjoy!

Warmly,

Krystal