Elmes Acupuncture Christmas Hours

Hi All,

Elmes Acupuncture will be closed for Christmas Holidays from Friday 21st December.  We will re-open on Thursday 3rd January in Clondalkin and Monday 6th January in the IFSC.

I hope you have a great Christmas and look forward to seeing you in the new year,

Ursula

Research finds Chinese Herbal Medicine more effective than modern medicine for female infertility

In an Australian Government-funded study, Ried and Stuart of Adelaide University reviewed 8 RCT’s and 22 smaller studies involving a total of 1851 women with poor fertility. Meta-analysis of studies involving over 1000 women found roughly double the likelihood of achieving pregnancy with Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) than with western drug therapy. Over a 4 month period pregnancy rates were 60% for CHM verses 32% for drug treatment 9n=1005, odds ratio = 3.5, 95% confidence interval 2.3-5-2, p < 0.0001).

Other studies, involving over 600 women, compared CHM with IVF and revealed a mean pregnancy rate for CHM of 50% compared with 30% for IVF. The Adelaide study also provided evidence indicating that herbal treatment tailored to the specific traditional diagnosis of what was wrong with each individual’s reproductive health was a key factor in successful treatment.

The authors write: “Our meta-analyses suggest Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine to be more effective in the treatment of female infertility achieving on average a 60% pregnancy rate over 4 months compared with 30% achieved with standard western drug treatment, or IVF over 12 months.”

It will be interesting to see if these findings provoke the usual backlash from the powerful medi-business lobby who, according to past form, will wheel out an “expert” to rubbish the findings and suggest that CHM treatment is unproven and dangerous.

Source - jcm.co.uk

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The Christmas Boutique Ranelagh

Support local Irish designers this year at The Christmas Boutique Ranelagh 12th - 23rd December 11am - 6pm Daily (8pm Thursday)

How To Make Your Own Sandwich Chalk Board (With Dad's Help!)

I wanted to put a chalk sandwich board outside my practice but was shocked to find that the smallest sandwich board cost €100 + VAT! So I decided make my own board which was easy peasy (with Dad's help!) If you would like to make your own, here is a step by step guide below;

1. You will need;

• A door hinge
• Two even pieces of  wood
• Chalk board paint (I bought this in B & Q for €10)
• Screwdriver
• Paintbrush
• Chalk

2. Using a Screwdriver, attach the door hinge to the top of one piece of wood, facing the hinge downwards, then attach the other piece of wood to the same hinge. You can also attach a chain to the boards, so it doesn't open too wide, but this is optional.

3. When the hinge is securely attached, stand the board upright, paint the board with the chalk board paint on both sides. It takes about 4 hours for the paint to dry.

4. Voila! Your chalk board is ready, you can use any colour chalk to write or draw on your board.

Electrolysis Hair Removal Dublin 1

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the only medically and scientifically proven means of permanent hair removal. It was first developed in 1875 by an ophthalmologist, who used it to remove ingrowing eyelashes. It has since been used successfully for permanent hair removal on different areas.

The three methods used are:

a) Thermolysis

b) Galvanic (multi-Probe)

c) Blend

a) Thermolysis – most commonly used method, a single probe is inserted into the follicle, heat is applied to destroy the dermal papilla from which the hair grows. Works best on very fine hair that has never been waxed or tweezed, and for precision work such as permanently shaping eyebrows. When used on body or strong hair results should not be expected for 2 to 3 years. Galvanic multi-probe is recommended.

b) Galvanic – 16 to 32 probes are inserted into the hair follicles since they are natural openings in the skin you will not beware of these insertions. An alkaline solution is then produced dissolving the hair follicle. Extremely effective on strong stubborn hair. Permanent results are expected in 6-12 months.

c) Blend – mixture of the above methods, the alkaline and heat being produce through a single needle, suitable for sensitive area. Local anesthetics are available for the upper lip area.

Electrolysis FAQ

Which areas can be treated?

Full face including eyebrows. 
Most body areas, with common areas being: bikini, underarm, chest, Breast (around the nipples), abdomen, legs, back, shoulders, fingers and toes. 

All hair types and colours are successfully treated, including hormonal hair.

Is It Safe? YES, electrolysis has been around for over 100 years without any adverse effects. There is no risk of scarring.

How long before I see a result?

It does require a certain level of commitment from the client as it can take from 6 months to 2 years to complete a treatment, depending on the area and the lifestyle requirements, with time and cost also sometimes being the restrictions.

Effects on the Skin

On the face the skin can vary from pink to red depending on the skins sensitivity in most cases the skin returns to normal within 15-30 minutes. If the face has been tweezed or waxed excessively your skin may react more. However remember to a good electrologist your skin is as important as removing the hair. On body areas and when using multi-probe galvanic the skin will develop pin-prick scabbing, which can last from a few days to 3 weeks a natural part of the healing process.

Understanding Hair Growth Cycle

Are you tweezing everyday or waxing every week? You probably think your hair grows very fast however ALL hair takes 6-12 weeks to regrow. So the hair you removed today is not what you removed yesterday or last week or even 2 weeks ago, it is from at least 6 weeks ago. If you wax every 4-6 weeks you are only seeing about half of your full hair growth. You would need to leave the hair for 3 months to see the full hair growth cycle. We needed to treat 2-4 cycles of hair grow for permanent removal. (6-12 months).

Treatment Plans

Generally, if we are able to clear an area of hair in the a few sessions then the first 3 months that will be most intense with weekly or fortnightly treatments there after treatment reduces to every 3 then 4 weeks etc until removed permanently. If it is a very large area such as full face or back regular treatment will be needed for at least 12 months, not always easy but always permanent. We will schedule the treatment to suit lifestyle.

During Treatment

It is very important not to wax or tweeze the hair as this encourages the hair to become stronger.  However you can cut, bleach or shave.

Electrolysis Permanent Hair Removal is now available at Elmes Electrolysis. Check out our website here for more information http://www.elmeselectrolysis.com

Electrolyis hair removal in 3D - Électroépilation en 3D

For more information about Electrolysis visit our website here; http://www.elmeselectrolysis.com

“For rubbing can bind a joint that is too loose, and loosen a joint that is too rigid.”

— Hippocrates, The “Father of Modern Medicine”

Dr. Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage or simply MLD is a gentle massage aimed at improving the inner working of the Lymphatic system. Gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the Lymph nodes, stimulating the Lymphatic system causing drainage. The MLD method was developed in the 1930's by Dr. Vodder. 

The Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage include;

• Clearing areas of congestion such as swollen ankles, puffy eyes and swollen legs

• Reduces Odema

• Improving chronic conditions such as sinusitis, arthritis, acne and other skin conditions

• Boosts immune system

• Deep relaxation

Lymphatic Drainage Massage treatment plan is a two month treatment, the first month is two 45 minute treatments per week, the second month is a 45 minute treatment once a week and following that you must get a massage treatment each month.

"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly."

— Buddha

Naturopathy

Naturopathy is a system of health care which encourages and promotes the body’s natural self-healing mechanisms using an eclectic approach.

The traditional methods used by naturopaths are; Fasting, Diet, Hydrotherapy, Hygiene, Psychotherapy, Massage, Sunshine and Exercise.

However Most modern day Naturopaths are specialists in other disciplines such as Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Nutritional Therapy and Herbal Medicine. To become a Naturopath requires at least five years of study, with many Naturopaths continuing on to study different aspects of Natural Medicine.

Your Naturopath is like of “GP” of natural medicine. In a Naturopathic consultation, an Iridology, nails, tongue and blood pressure examination is carried out along with a detailed intake to ascertain the root cause of the ailment.  If necessary a urine sample may be taken or hair samples may be referred to external labs to test for allergies, mineral levels etc in the body.  With their broad knowledge of natural medicine, the Naturopath will recommend the most suitable treatment, such as Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Reflexology, Homeopathy. If they are specialized in any of the disciplines themselves they will carry out the treatment or refer to a more suitable therapy. It is essentially a preventative medicine and abides by the following principles

The Seven Principles of Naturopathic Medicine

1. The Healing Power of Nature (Vis Medicatrix Naturae)The healing power of nature is the inherent self-organizing and healing process of living systems. Naturopathic medicine recognizes this healing process to be ordered and intelligent. It is the naturopathic practitioner’s role to support, facilitate and augment this process by identifying and removing obstacles to health and recovery, and by supporting the creation of a healthy internal and external environment. 

2. First Do No Harm (Primum Non Nocere) Naturopathic practitioners utilize methods and medicinal substances which minimize the risk of harmful effects, and apply the least possible force or intervention necessary to diagnose illness and restore health. Whenever possible the suppression of symptoms is avoided as suppression generally interferes with the healing process.

3. Treat The Cause (Tolle Causam) Every illness has an underlying cause, often in aspects of the lifestyle, diet or habits of the individual. A naturopathic practitioner is trained to find and remove the underlying cause of a disease.

4. Doctor as Teacher (Docere) The original meaning of the word “doctor” is teacher. A principal objective of naturopathic medicine is to educate the patient and emphasize self-responsibility for health. Naturopathic practitioners also recognize and employ the therapeutic potential of the doctor-patient relationship.

5. Treat The Whole Person Health or disease comes from a complex interaction of mental, emotional, spiritual, physical,dietary, genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and other factors. Naturopathic practitioners treat the whole person, taking these factors into account.

6. Preventive Medicine The naturopathic approach to health care can prevent minor illnesses from developing into more serious diseases. Patients are taught the principles with which to live a healthy life and by following these principles, they can prevent major illnesses.

7. Wellness Establishing and maintaining optimum health and balance. Wellness is a state of being healthy,characterized by positive emotion, thought, and action. Wellness is inherent in everyone no matter what dis-ease(s) are being experienced. If wellness is really recognized and experienced by an individual, it will more quickly heal a given dis-ease than direct treatment of the dis-ease alone.

"In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you."

- Deepak Chopra

Champissage - Indian Head Massage

Champissage Is a traditional massage focusing on the head, face, shoulders and upper back area. There is no need to undress for this treatment and the use of oils are optional. It is the perfect treatment for on-site massage in your office or event. The benefits of Indian Head Massage include:

• General Relaxation

• Stress relief

• Improves blood circulation

• Improves lymphatic flow

• Reduced Muscle Tension

• Regenerates Skin

• Encourages hair growth of the scalp

• Reduced stiffness in the neck and shoulder region

• Stimulates nerve endings

"A very great vision is needed and the man who has it must follow it as the eagle seeks the deepest blue of the sky."

- Crazy Horse, Tashunkewitko, Oglala

Hopi Ear Candling

Ear candling is a traditional folk remedy dating back 3000 years for the relieve for sinus problems and headaches. The BioSun Ear Candles are carefully crafted in Germany from a traditional Hopi Indian recipe. The pure linen roll is impregnated with 100% beeswax and powdered medicinal herbs including Sage, St.Johns Wort and Chamomile.

The candle, which is hollow, works like a chimney. The mild suction draws out impurities from the ear and the rising air in the ear sets up a vibration which will gently massage the ear drum.

This is a safe and pain-free treatment, while the candle is burning a pleasant warmth sensation can be felt. After the treatment you will feel a soothing, liberating, light sensation in the ear/head area.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a massage of pressure points on the feet for activating the healing powers of the body. From ancient text, illustrations and artifacts, we know that the early Chinese, Japanese,Indians, Russians, and Egyptians worked on the feet to promote good health. Today many of these same techniques have been developed into a modern scientific method called reflexology. Some benefits of Reflexology include:

• Improves circulation

• Cleanses the body of toxins and impurities

• Balances the whole system

• Revitalizes energy

• Preventive health care

• Stimulates creativity and productivity.

A course of 6 treatments is recommended for maximum results.

98% of all illnesses are stress related, so it is important to include some stress management and “me time” into your life to keep yourself healthy.

Reflexology is available at Elmes Acupuncture, for more information visit our website here; http://www.elmesacupuncture.ie/acu.html

"I have spread my dreams under your feet; tread softly because you tread on my dreams"

- William Butler Yeats

Clinical Study: Acupuncture Reduces Joint Pain in 80% of Women with Breast Cancer

Clinical Study:  Acupuncture Reduces Joint Pain in 80% of Women with Breast Cancer 

What is Acupuncture?

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a safe and pain-free treatment of Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM as it is commonly known.The aim of the acupuncture treatment is to restore and promote the proper flow of Qi throughout the channels, helping the systems of the body to achieve a natural and healthy balance.    Tiny disposable needles are inserted into the meridians of the body to treat a variety of conditions.

What to expect in the treatment  In your first treatment, there will be  a detailed consultation where your tongue will be looked at and your pulse take to form the diagnosis.

What can acupuncture treat? The WHO (World Health Organization) states that the following conditions can be treated with acupuncture;

Acne

Addictions

Anxiety

Allergies

Arthritis

Asthma

Back Pain

Blood pressure

Circulatory problems

Cramps/Aches

Constipation

Diarrhoea

Depression

Eating Disorders

Eczema

Facial paralysis

Fatigue/Tiredness

Fertility problems

Fibromyalgia

Fluid Retention

Frozen shoulder 

Grief

Hayfever

Headaches

Heart problems

Hyperactivity

I.B.S.

Incontinence

Indigestion

Inflammation

Insomnia

Join problems/pain

Loss of libido

M.E.

Menopause

Menstrual Problems

Migraine

M.S.

Nausea/Vomiting

Neck pain 

Nervous disorders  

Pain

Panic attacks

Palpitations

Phobias

Prolapse

Psoriasis

Skin conditions

Rheumatism

sciatica pain

Sport/work injuries

Sprains

Stiffness

Stress

Tennis elbow

Thyroid problems

Tinnitus

Ulcers

Vertigo

"There is evidence that acupuncture influences the production of and distribution of a great many neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, and that this in turn alters the perception of pain."

- David Eisenberg, M.D., Clinical Research Fellow at Harvard Medical School

Jennifer Lopez uses Acupuncture for Weight Loss to shed 15 pounds

Acupuncture for weight loss is successful because the practice “balances the electrical forces and allows the body and all its organs to function properly”. In a recent article from OK! magazine, Lopez reportedly dropped 15 pounds utilizing acupuncture along with Chinese herbs and weight-loss treatments.

“She’s been gushing about how obsessed she is with acupuncture and herbs,” a source revealed to the magazine. “Dong Gua Pi [winter melon seed, like cucumber] is Jennifer’s favorite, but she’s been using [many different herbs].” 

-examiner.com

Natalie Portman uses Acupuncture to ease stress

In a recent interview in Marie Claire Magazine, Natalie Portman said she uses acupuncture to help ease the stress of her hectic life. Natalie who currently has a busy film work-load and gave birth to her first child last year explained;

"To me, exercise is the best way to combat stress, whether swimming or hiking, I do yoga sometimes, but not regularly any more, and I also get acupuncture and a massage when I'm feeling stressed."

-marieclaire.com

Mariah Carey: Acupuncture helped me get pregnant again

Though she dismisses reports that she did IVF, Carey tells Us Weekly she began taking progesterone, a hormone that is often prescribed to boost fertility and support or help maintain pregnancy in women susceptible to miscarriage.

Cannon also tells Us Weekly his wife relied on “once-a-day” acupuncture, ”all over her body. I think it helped her quite a bit, because it was a good destressor.”

- usmagazine.com

Gwyneth Paltrow with Chinese Cupping Therapy marks on her back

Victoria Beckham with Chinese Cupping Therapy marks on her back

Moxibustion 灸

Moxibustion 灸 is a method used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to enhance the Acupuncture treatment.  It has a warming action by increasing circulation and stimulating Blood and Qi.  It consists of rolled Mugwort herb and is effective for conditions like pain, Arthritis and to warm the Yang.  Mugwort has emmenagogue qualities meaning that it stimulates blood-flow in the pelvic area and uterus and is often used in the treatment of amenorrhea.

Khloe Kardashian gets Acupuncture!

Electro-Acupuncture is a safe and painless form of Acupuncture in which pairs of Acupuncture needles  are attached to an electro machine that produces a continuous electric pulses between them.  It is mainly used in the treatment of pain relief, frozen shoulder, stroke, facial neuralgia, facial paralysis and bell's palsy.

Electro-Acupuncture is available at Elmes Acupuncture.  For more information on Acupuncture, check out our website here http://www.elmesacupuncture.ie/acu.html

My Clinical Experience at The World Health Organization's International Acupuncture Training Centre, Beijing, China 2010

Quit Smoking with Acupuncture - Special Offer Package

Quitting Smoking - it's one of the most difficult things a person can do! Nicotine activates the areas of the brain that are involoved in producing feelings of pleasure and reward, so it really is so difficult, but not impossible!

Acupuncture will help break the physical addition to nicotine, but the psychological addition is much harder to break. This is because smoking is likely to have become deeply ingrained over many years and has therefore become an integral part of many emotional occasions.  Sad or unhappy, bored or having to concentrate hard, happy and relaxed with friends – cigarettes are likely to have played a part in almost all of these situations, however all is this is covered in the quit smoking sessions, it's not just about the needles its also about support, affirmations and helping with cravings etc

The quit smoking package is one treatment per week for 3 weeks and it costs €130 euro

The first session takes 1 hour and then the follow-ups are 30 mins.

Cosmetic Acupuncture on TV3 Expose

Chinese Cupping Massage

Cupping is a safe and non-invasive treatment used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat muscular pain and internal illness.  Gently heated glass cups are placed on specific acupuncture points on the back to stimulate the flow of blood and energy to the body.  Cupping produces a similar effect to deep tissue massage, relieving muscle tension and softening adhesions.

Chinese Cupping therapy is available at Elmes Acupuncture, see link below for more details
http://www.elmesacupuncture.ie/acu.html

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic Acupuncture – Facial Rejuvenation – The Acupuncture Facelift

Cosmetic Acupuncture has become a favorite among celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Madonna, Angelina Jolie and Pierce Brosnan.  

Scientific studies show that  Cosmetic Acupuncture improves muscle tone, boosts collagen production, stimulates the circulation of oxygen and blood, and re-balances lymphatic for a dynamic return to youth, vitality and radiance.

 After a detailed consultation, tiny disposable needles are inserted into specially selected acupuncture points on the face, neck, arms and legs.

Cosmetic Acupuncture is the ultimate holistic beauty to reverse and prevent to signs of aging.

Studies show that among 300 cases treated with facial acupuncture, 90 % had marked beneficial results with only one course of treatment (International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture, 1996).

The benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture include:

• Elimination of fine lines and dramatic reduction of wrinkles
• Facial contouring to reduce or eliminate jowls and double chins.
• Eye contour redefinition to banish puffiness and dark circles, lift eyelids and enhance eyes, for a brighter, younger, refreshed look.
• Reduced dryness and elimination of excess sebum production resulting in visible pore tightening and added skin lustre 
•  Increased skin oxygenation and elimination of toxins for a glowing complexion

Recommended course of 12 treatments once or twice per week

Cosmetic Acupuncture is available at Elmes Acupuncture & Skin Therapy Clinic, for more information, visit our website here; http://www.elmesacupuncture.ie/skin.html

Healthy Food Fusion

Studies are beginning to prove that the interactions of the foods we eat can be much more healthy for us than eating one beneficial food at a time. Here are the most powerful food synergies currently known to science:

1. Tomatoes + Avocados

2. Oatmeal + Orange Juice

3. Broccoli + Tomatoes

4. Blueberries + Grapes

5. Apples + Chocolate

6. Lemon + Kale

7. Soy + Salmon

8. Peanuts + Whole Wheat

9. Red Meat + Rosemary

10. Turmeric + Black Pepper

11. Garlic + Fish

12. Eggs + Cantaloupe

13. Almonds + Yogurt

Epidemiologist David R. Jacobs, PhD, of the University of Minnesota calls it food synergy, and he, along with many other nutritionists, believes it might explain why Italians drizzle cold-pressed olive oil over tomatoes and why the Japanese pair raw fish with soybeans. "The complexity of food combinations is fascinating because it's tested in a way we can't test drugs: by evolution," says Jacobs. And, he adds, "it's tested in the most complex of systems: life."

Migraine? Get to the point!

Naturopath Fiona Jennings looks at how acupuncture can help beat that killer headache

 Excellent article written by my colleague Fiona

Thud! Thud! Thud! A headache! We all know how bad that can feel. But what if it’s so intense you can barely move, maybe it’s one-sided, with nausea, visual disturbances or sensitivity to light or noise? Then chances are it could be a migraine. Migraine is the most common long-term neurological condition, and the most frequent type of headache that sends patients to their doctors.

Naturopath Fiona Jennings

No-one knows the exact cause and there are no tests. Diagnosis is made by history and the pattern of symptoms over time. Most researchers think migraine is due to abnormal changes in levels of substances naturally produced in the brain which cause blood vessels in the brain to swell and press on nearby nerves, causing pain. There may also be a genetic element involved – it does seem to run in families.

 So if you are a sufferer – and there about eight million people in the UK and half a million in Ireland who are, with three out of four being women – what can you do about it?

 We do know that people with migraines often react to a variety of factors and events, or triggers. Annoyingly, these triggers can vary from person to person and don’t always lead to migraine every time. A combination of triggers—not a single thing or event—is more likely to set off an attack, and a person’s response can vary from migraine to migraine. Keeping a migraine diary may help to identify your own triggers.

 The usual treatment is an impressive range of over the counter (OTC) or specific migraine drugs – with an even more impressive array of side effects.

 If you want to take a different approach to treat your symptoms, then consider this: many clinical studies support acupuncture to be effective for migraines, but without the side effects of drugs.

 Acupuncture came from China and the first textbook describing the use of acupuncture is thought to date back to about 200BC.

 Acupuncture aims to re-establish the correct flow of Qi (the life force) in the meridians which run throughout the body and so bring it back to the proper balance. Your practitioner will assess which of a large number of patterns of imbalance you have by detailed questioning and examination of your pulse and tongue.

 Needles will be inserted at specific points to influence your particular patterns, so each patient with migraine might receive a different number and distribution of needles. Intriguingly, while some of these may be where you might expect them – ie the head – in Traditional Chinese Medicine further away points can have the strongest impact. So, for example, commonly used points in many patterns of migraine would be a point called Tai Yang on the temples, but also Liver 3 (Taichong) which is on the foot, between the first and second toes and LI4 (Hegu) on the hand between the thumb and index finger (not to be used in pregnancy).

If you are being treated by a naturopath, you may also be advised to try herbs or supplements which have been shown to be effective for migraines. These include Butterbur (Petasites hybridus), Riboflavin, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), Feverfew, and Magnesium.

• Fiona Jennings is a Naturopath & Acupuncturist with a practice in Belfast.

Elmes Acupuncture is now on Foursquare

Elmes Acupuncture is now on Foursquare, Check-in on every visit and receive special offers and discounts!

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Insomnia - Tips to help you get a good night sleep

Dietary - Cut out fried, fatty foods and limit caffeine, alcohol, fizzy drinks etc.  Maybe a chamomile or yogi bedtime tea 45 minutes before bed so as to allow time to go to the loo well before bedtime.  Eating a little protein like milk and wholegrain cereal will sit well in the digestive system and may induce a better quality sleep.  Include cherries in the diet as it boosts melatonin and so induces better quality sleep.

About an hour before bedtime, prepare for the next day - have clothes, bag, wallet, phone etc. all laid out and ready for the next day.  Leave a pen and paper beside the bed to write down things to do or forgotten for the next day. 

Electrical curfew - Ideally the best way to go is not to have T.V.'s , computers and other electrical devices in the bedroom as they emit electromagnetic waves which is bad for us and cause us stress.  Use electrical black tape to cover all standby lights and l.e.d. lights.  Set your alarm clock for the morning and turn it around/away to face the wall so you won't be watching the clock.  If you are having trouble sleeping, it will make it worse.  All the above disturb your sleep and cause stress. 

Check room temperature - Outside the covers and under the covers too.  Use socks if feet are cold.  A hot bath two hours before bedtime is helpful, the internal body core temperature begins to drop and allows for a better nights sleep.( Steeping the feet in hot water draws energy down from the head).  Have ear plugs, eye masks etc on the locker for bed time, use if there is noise, animals, traffic etc or if the room has too much light coming in, avoid frustration which will keep you from falling off. Some people like soothing music like ocean sounds some don't. 

Position - If you lie on your side it puts uneven pressure on your right side resulting in problems with hips and knee, better to use a pillow between the knees.  If you lie on the stomach, leads to problems with the lower back as the head goes up and puts strain below i.e. pain, best position is on the back as weight is more evenly distributed .  In pregnancy, left side is best. Use pillows for support.

My Acupuncture Clinic

Dairy-Free Alternatives for Calcium

Many people worry that when they go dairy-free they will run the risk of decreasing their calcium levels and have to rely on taking supplements to get necessary minerals.  However, taking supplements are not the only solution, below is a list of foods with plenty of calcium and easy foods to include in any diet.

• Almonds
• Black Strap Molasses
• Broccoli
• Enriched rice milk, soy milk
• Figs
• Leafy green Vegetables
• Salmon with bones
• Sesame Seeds
• Soybeans
• Tofu
• Mozzarella, sheep and goats cheese