Acupuncture is a powerful way to re-calibrate the body’s energetic life force (qi).  Qi can become blocked through everyday life and ongoing stress. When stress is stored in the body over time, it can disrupt the natural flow of energy.  It can contribute to depression, anxiety, and even physical pain.

Gently move energy

By gently moving this stuck or stored energy acupuncture can create a sense of release that is often experienced as greater calm, clarity, and emotional balance. From a physiological perspective, we also understand that certain acupuncture points stimulate the central nervous system, prompting the release of endorphins into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. Endorphins are known to reduce pain, lower stress, improve mood, and promote an overall sense of well-being.

Release Chemicals and Neurotransmitters

The release of these chemicals and neurotransmitters may signal the body to activate its own natural healing processes—both physically and emotionally. When life feels overwhelming, acupuncture can  be a supportive way to help calm the nervous system and restore balance.

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Chinese Medicine was discovered in a time when we were living more in alignment with nature.

Our bodies are a reflection of nature and we use elements to describe the qualities of how our bodies function.  The five elements of chinese medicine are wood, fire, earth, metal and water.  Each of those organ systems correlates with many aspects of life such as time of day, time of year, emotion, tastes and sense organ.  The six healing sounds are a set of “qi-gong” exercises aimed at detoxifying and strengthening each internal organ.  You can choose to use them all at once or focus on one individually when treating a specific organ.  The sounds are specifically designed to release excess emotions from the tissues and organs of the body.  As a mind body practitioner, I know that even if the rational mind has moved on, the body can hold memory of trauma and stress for years.

These sounds help to release trapped emotions so that they don’t carry negative weight and impact health.

Also, a note on the Triple Warmer.

This is an organ that Chinese Medicine healers saw as a full body organ – most closely related to the lymphatic system and the immune system.

Qi Gong exercises incorporate posture, breath and visualization.  When you inhale visualize a color into a specific organ.  When you  exhale, release a sound and purge and release the emotion from that specific organ.

Start by breathing naturally into the lower abdomen.  On each inhale the abdomen will rise and on each exhale the abdomen will fall.  Breathe deeply and gently.  Don’t force the breathe. 

LIVER– Inhale and imagine GREEN light entering the liver

As you exhale the SHOE sound, imagine releasing ANGER from the liver

HEART – Inhale and imagine RED light filling the heart

As you exhale the HAW sound, release ANXIETY from the heart

SPLEEN – Inhale golden YELLOW light into the spleen/stomach/pancreas

As you exhale the WHO sound, release WORRY from the digestive system

LUNG – Inhale and imagine WHITE light filling up the lungs

As you exhale the SSSSSS sound, release GRIEF & SADNESS from the Lungs

KIDNEY – Inhale and imagine DARK BLUE light into each kidney

As you exhale the YOU sound, release FEAR from the kidneys

TRIPLE WARMER – Inhale and imagine CLEAR QI into the whole body

As you exhale the SHE sound, allow the vibration of love to fill your entire body

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What is Light Therapy?

Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) is the application of light energy to tissue to obtain therapeutic benefits. The energy is used to improve cellular performance. LLLT is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties and has a variety of applications across many medical fields. Research has shown that LLLT can: increase circulation, accelerate tissue repair, decrease inflammation, ease muscle and joint pain, stiffness, spasm and arthritis and much more.

How Does Light Energy work for Pain and Inflammation? 

Specific wavelengths of light energy, when properly absorbed, up-regulates compromised cells and:

• Reduces Inflammation – By promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, inflammation is reduced.
• Aids in Blood Flow – This process promotes the release of nitric oxide, which helps to increase blood flow, nutrient delivery and cellular health to the muscles and joints.
• Increases Collagen Production – Collagen is an essential nutrient that contributes to the strength and integrity of the ligaments.  Scar tissue and adhesions are reduced. 
• Stimulates Cellular Activity – The light (photon) energy is absorbed by photo acceptors in the mitochondria and used to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The ATP produced then stimulates various metabolic processes which can result in the repair and regeneration of cell and tissue.

What is Celluma? 

Celluma is a low-level light therapy (LLLT) device that is FDA cleared and based on NASA research, Celluma delivers blue, red and near-infrared light energy simultaneously to safely treat a wide variety of conditions. Each wavelength is absorbed by different molecules that act as a signaling mechanism for different cellular processes. For example, some reduce inflammation, some kill bacteria, and others enhance localized circulation. 

When to Add Light Therapy for Pain and Inflammation:

• Arthritis,Tendonitis, Bursitis
• Post Surgery
• Muscle and Joint Pain/Stiffness/Tension/Injury
• Torn Tendon, Ligaments and Cartilage
• Inflammation
• Fractures
• TMJ
• Carpal Tunnel
• Improved Circulation
• Diabetic, Venous and Mouth Ulcer
• Wound Healing
• Nerve Injury

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I get asked all the time how acupuncture fits with conventional medical care. Should you do one or the other? Honestly, this question gets me excited because I’ve seen how much better my patients do when they get the best of both worlds.

Western medicine is incredible at what it does—diagnostic tools, life-saving interventions, emergency surgery, pharmaceuticals. I have enormous respect for it. If you’re in a crisis, you want modern medicine. What I bring through acupuncture is different but equally valuable. I look at the whole picture—your physical symptoms, stress levels, sleep, and energetic imbalances. I help your body heal itself and find balance. When these two approaches work together, that’s when the real magic happens.

Here’s an example from when my kids were little. They’d wake up with a fever and sore throat, and I’d take them straight to the doctor every time. Why? To rule out strep or anything serious. If it was strep throat, that antibiotic worked faster than any herbal formula and protected them from serious complications. Western medicine was exactly what they needed. But if the doctor said it was just a virus, I’d use my herbal formulas at home. They got better without unnecessary antibiotics, and their bodies stayed responsive to antibiotics for when they really needed them. That’s getting the best of both—it’s not either/or, it’s knowing when to use what.

In my practice, I see a lot of people with chronic issues—neck, back, shoulder pain, migraines, osteoarthritis. Many have been on pain medications for months or years. With regular acupuncture, many can significantly reduce their medication or even stop it altogether. Given the risks of long-term pain medication use, that’s life-changing. I’m not replacing their medical care—I’m complementing it with more relief and fewer side effects.

What makes this work is communication. I want to know your medications, what your doctor said, how your treatments are going. When someone comes before surgery, I help calm their anxiety and prepare their body. After surgery, I support healing while their surgical team handles post-op care. 

When women with infertility come in, we help support their reproductive goals either for those wishing to conceive naturally or for those going through infertility treatments. We’re all working toward the same goal. 

Our clinic has  built relationships with many doctors and healthcare providers, and they see their patients healing faster, managing pain better, getting pregnant and feeling more in control. This is integrative care—not rejecting modern medicine, but enhancing it with healing modalities that address what conventional medicine sometimes misses.

I have so much respect for Western medicine and am grateful to work alongside physicians who respect what acupuncture brings. When we combine these approaches thoughtfully, patients get the most comprehensive, safe, and effective care possible. You shouldn’t have to choose between modern medicine and ancient healing wisdom. You deserve both.

Curious about how acupuncture might complement your current medical care? Let’s talk about your situation and how we can work with your healthcare team to support your healing.

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Love, Monica

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Have you ever noticed that some health issues seem to come out of nowhere when the seasons change? One day you’re fine, and the next you wake up with the room spinning, or half your face isn’t moving the way it should. It’s scary, and honestly, it often happens right when fall arrives.

If you’ve experienced vertigo or Bell’s palsy during autumn, you’re not imagining things—and from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, there’s a really clear reason why these conditions pop up more during this season. Let me explain what’s happening and, more importantly, how you can protect yourself.

The Fall Season’s Troublemaker: Wind

In TCM, we talk a lot about Wind—and I don’t just mean the breeze outside (though that’s part of it). Wind is actually considered one of the most important pathogenic factors in Chinese medicine. Think of it as an invisible force that can invade your body and wreak havoc, especially when your defenses are down.

Here’s what makes fall the perfect storm for Wind-related conditions:

The weather is unpredictable. One day it’s 75 degrees, the next it’s 50. You’re wearing a t-shirt in the afternoon and freezing by evening. These rapid temperature swings make your body work overtime to adapt, and that leaves you vulnerable.

Wind is literally everywhere. Those gusty autumn days? That’s not just atmospheric—in TCM, external Wind can actually penetrate your body through specific vulnerable points, especially on the back of your neck and face.

Your body is transitioning. Remember how we talked about autumn being a time when your Lung energy is already more vulnerable? Well, your Lungs control your body’s protective qi (your immune defense), and when that’s weakened, Wind can sneak right in.

What Exactly is Vertigo in TCM Terms?

Vertigo—that awful spinning, dizzy, off-balance feeling—is something I see a lot in my practice during the fall. In TCM, we call it “xuanyun,” and it’s usually caused by one of a few things:

Wind Attacking from the Outside

When external Wind (combined with Cold) invades your body through the back of your neck, it can rise up to your head and disrupt the normal flow of qi and blood. This creates that spinning, disoriented sensation. It often comes on suddenly—you felt fine yesterday, and today you can barely stand up without holding onto something.

Internal Wind Rising Up

Sometimes the Wind isn’t coming from outside—it’s generated internally. This happens when there’s an imbalance in your Liver energy (yes, your Liver affects way more than just digestion in TCM). When Liver yang rises unchecked, it can create what we call “internal Wind” that shoots up to your head, causing dizziness, vertigo, ringing in the ears, and headaches.

Phlegm and Dampness Blocking the Clear Yang

Stay with me on this one—sometimes vertigo happens because there’s too much “gunk” in your system. We call it Phlegm-Dampness, and when it accumulates, it blocks the clear yang energy from rising to nourish your head and sensory organs. You feel foggy, dizzy, heavy, and nothing feels clear.

Fall’s damp, cool weather can aggravate this, especially if you’re eating too many cold, heavy, or dairy-rich foods.

Bell’s Palsy: When Wind Attacks Your Face

Bell’s palsy is one of those conditions that’s absolutely terrifying when it happens. You wake up and suddenly one side of your face won’t move properly—you can’t close your eye, your smile is crooked, maybe you’re drooling a bit. It’s scary.

In TCM, we call this “Wind Strike” or “facial paralysis due to Wind,” and here’s what we believe is happening:

External Wind-Cold invades the channels of your face. Your face has these energy channels running through it (meridians), and when Wind and Cold penetrate—usually through the back of your neck first—they can block the flow of qi and blood through the facial channels. When that flow gets interrupted, the muscles can’t function properly, and you get that paralysis.

Why Does This Happen More in Fall?

Think about it: the weather gets cooler, the wind picks up, and people often don’t adjust their clothing fast enough. Maybe you went out with wet hair. Maybe you sat by an open window or drove with the car window down on a chilly evening. Maybe you didn’t cover your neck when that first cold front came through.

These might seem like small things, but in TCM, these are exactly the moments when Wind-Cold can sneak into your body through those vulnerable acupuncture points on the back of your neck and behind your ears.

Here’s the thing that makes fall especially risky: your body’s protective qi is transitioning. Your Lung energy—which controls that protective barrier—is naturally weaker during this season. It’s like leaving your front door unlocked right when there are more burglars in the neighborhood.

The Warning Signs Your Body Gives You

Most people don’t just wake up with Bell’s palsy or severe vertigo out of nowhere. Your body usually sends signals first, but we often ignore them. Watch for:

• Stiffness or achiness in your neck and shoulders
• That feeling of “catching a chill” that doesn’t quite turn into a cold
• Slight dizziness or feeling off-balance (before it becomes full vertigo)
• Tingling or slight numbness anywhere on your face
• One-sided headaches
• Feeling more sensitive to wind or drafts than usual

If you’re noticing these signs, that’s your body waving a red flag. Don’t ignore it.

How to Protect Yourself This Fall

Okay, now for the good news—you’re not helpless here. There are really practical things you can do to protect yourself from Wind invasion:

1. Cover Your Neck (I’m Serious About This)

I know I sound like a broken record, but this is SO important. The back of your neck has specific acupuncture points that are literally called “Wind Gates” because they’re entry points for external Wind. When it’s breezy or cool outside:

• Wear a scarf
• Pull up your collar
• Don’t leave the house with wet hair
• Be mindful of sitting in drafts or near air conditioning vents

This one simple habit can prevent so many problems.

2. Keep Your Head and Ears Warm

Just like your neck, your ears are vulnerable to Wind invasion. If it’s chilly and windy, wear a hat or earmuffs. I know it might not be the most fashionable advice, but Bell’s palsy is definitely less fashionable.

3. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Try not to go from really hot environments to really cold ones quickly. When you’re all warmed up and sweaty, your pores are open—that’s when Wind can penetrate most easily. If you’re hot from exercising or being in a warm building, let yourself cool down gradually before going out into the cold.

4. Strengthen Your Protective Qi with Food

Remember, your Lung energy controls your protective barrier. Foods that support your Lungs include:

• Pears (cooked)
• White mushrooms
• Ginger tea (warming and protective)
• Bone broth soups
• Root vegetables
• Warming spices like cinnamon

And please, go easy on the cold, raw foods and icy drinks. They weaken your digestive fire and create more internal dampness.

5. Rest More

When you’re run down, stressed, or not sleeping enough, your protective qi weakens. Fall is asking you to slow down anyway—listen to that. Get to bed earlier, say no to some commitments, give your body the rest it needs to stay strong.

6. Move Your Qi

Gentle exercise that keeps your energy flowing is protective. Try:

• Walking in nature (but bundle up!)
• Gentle yoga or stretching
• Tai Chi or Qigong
• Anything that keeps your neck and shoulders loose and mobile

Stagnation in your neck and shoulders creates vulnerability for Wind to settle in.

What to Do If It’s Already Happening

If you’re experiencing vertigo or you suspect Bell’s palsy is starting, please:

1. See a healthcare provider right away, especially with Bell’s palsy. Early intervention makes a huge difference in recovery.
2. Keep yourself warm and out of wind. No drafts, no air conditioning blowing on you, keep your neck covered even indoors if needed.
3. Get acupuncture as soon as possible. I’m not just saying this because it’s what I do—acupuncture can be incredibly effective for both vertigo and Bell’s palsy, especially when we catch it early. We can help move the Wind out, restore proper qi and blood flow, and support your body’s healing.

For Bell’s palsy specifically, there’s actually good research showing that acupuncture combined with conventional treatment leads to better recovery outcomes than conventional treatment alone. The sooner you start, the better.

How Acupuncture Helps

When you come in for treatment, here’s what we’re doing:

For Vertigo:

• Expelling Wind and clearing the head
• Calming the Liver if there’s internal Wind rising
• Resolving Phlegm-Dampness if that’s the root cause
• Strengthening your Spleen and Kidney energy for long-term balance
• Using specific points that stop the spinning sensation and restore equilibrium

For Bell’s Palsy:

• Expelling Wind-Cold from the facial channels
• Restoring the flow of qi and blood to your facial muscles
• Reducing inflammation
• Stimulating nerve regeneration
• Preventing long-term complications

The earlier we start treatment, the faster and more complete your recovery tends to be.

The Bottom Line

Vertigo and Bell’s palsy aren’t just random bad luck—they’re your body telling you that Wind has gotten past your defenses. And fall, with all its unpredictable weather, gusty days, and temperature swings, creates the perfect conditions for this to happen.

The good news? You have so much control here. Bundle up. Cover your neck and ears. Rest more. Eat warming foods. Pay attention to your body’s whisper before it has to shout.

And if you’re already dealing with vertigo or Bell’s palsy, know that you don’t have to just wait it out. There’s a lot we can do to help your body heal faster and more completely.

Let’s Keep You Balanced This Fall

If you’re experiencing any dizziness, vertigo, facial symptoms, or you just want to be proactive about protecting yourself this season, I’d love to help. We can create a treatment plan that addresses your specific vulnerability and keeps you healthy as the weather changes.

Don’t wait until Wind catches you off guard—let’s strengthen your defenses now.

The post Why Vertigo and Bell’s Palsy Show Up More in Fall (And What You Can Do About I appeared first on Michigan Associates of Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine.

In Chinese medicine, period cramps are a sign of imbalance.  So many women have come to accept menstrual cramping as “normal” without major disruption to their lives.  Others rely on OTC medications that can have side effects upon the digestion, especially when relied upon in heavy doses every month. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), menstrual cramps are the result of energy (qi) and blood not flowing freely.  (Known as qi and blood stagnation).  There are many ways to help promote the movement of qi and blood during the period and here are a few easy ways to ease the pain from home!

1. Rosehip Tea: Available at many Middle Eastern or Asian grocery stores, rosehip is an herb that promotes movement of qi and blood in the low abdomen.   (And they are pretty, too!)  Just steep a generous tablespoon of rosehips in about 30 ounces of boiling water.  Let the tea steep for about 20 minutes before drinking.  The flavor may be new to the taste buds but try not to add any sweeteners, if possible.  Chinese herbs are categorized based upon their taste so try to enjoy the sweetness of the rosehips alone.

2. Vinegar: In Chinese medicine, vinegar works to move blood. In fact, when herbal formulas are created from raw herbs, they can be cooked in vinegar to make their actions more moving of energy and blood.  Be sure to always dilute the vinegar and never drink it straight.  (Vinegar is an acid and can burn the esophagus!)  Enjoy it on foods or even as a drink!

3. Fish Oil Supplements: Fish oils are an excellent source of essential fatty acids.  Generally, these help reduce overall inflammation in the body and we often recommend a fish oil supplement for most of our patients.  In terms of blood flow, fish oils reduce blood clotting and vasoconstriction (when blood vessels become more narrow, which makes blood flow more difficult).  As a supplement, fish oils should be taken daily and can be taken in doses up to 4,000 mg/day.  However 1,200- 2,000 mg/day is sufficient.

4. Ginger. Traditionally, ginger is a warming herb used to transform mucus within Chinese medicine.  However, ginger also has incredible anti-inflammatory properties and can help with pain.  Feel free to use ginger generously!  If you choose ginger pills, you can take 500mg up to 4x/day.  Or grate ginger root into a tea basket and pour boiling water over top and let it sit for at least 5 minutes.  Feel free to add some honey for taste and enjoy!

5. Chinese Herbs: Chinese herbs are an excellent choice for reducing menstrual cramps.  Herbs are administered as formulas, which is a specific combination of herbs designed to achieve a specific treatment goal.  Formulas are custom tailored for each patient and can address a variety of premenstrual and menstrual irregularities.  It is important to discuss your symptoms with an herbalist before taking any Chinese herbal formula.

It is also important to focus on a balanced diet during the menstrual phase!  Avoid cold, raw foods and drinks as these can exacerbate the stagnation of qi and blood.  Dairy should also be avoided during the period as it causes “dampness” that can further obstruct the flow and blood and qi.  It may seem counterintuitive for some women who suffer from fatigue during their period, but gentle movement should continue during this phase of the cycle.  Moving the body helps to move qi, which can be very beneficial for menstrual cramps.

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Many people who want to improve their health struggle to know where to begin: diet, exercise, meditation, or supplements? It can quickly become overwhelming. One simple and effective way to gauge our overall health, though, is by observing our digestion and bowel movements.

Digestion and Qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) standpoint, digestion is central to the creation of qi (energy) and blood, which sustain us daily. The quality of our qi depends directly on the quality of the food we eat.

According to TCM, the spleen plays the primary role in transforming food and drink into qi and blood. The spleen prefers to be warm and dry but when it becomes deficient, it creates cold and damp. To support proper spleen function, warm foods should be eaten more frequently than cold or raw foods.

It’s also important to avoid foods that are “dampening” in nature, such as:

• Dairy products
• Cold foods (like frozen smoothies)
• Sugar and processed foods
• Certain citrus fruits (especially oranges)

Common symptoms of spleen qi deficiency include bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Protecting and maintaining spleen health over time ensures that digestion—and therefore overall wellness—remains strong.

Understanding Constipation in TCM

Constipation is another major detriment to digestive health. Bowel movements are how the body eliminates waste; when this process is delayed, toxins can begin to affect healthy tissues.

In TCM, there are a few common patterns that lead to constipation:

1. Lack of Moisture in the Bowels
   • A concept known as “float the boat”, this pattern highlights the need for adequate hydration. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day helps keep the bowels lubricated and moving.
2. Qi Stagnation
   • Emotional stress—especially nervousness or anger—can stagnate qi and lead to constipation. Movement is key to resolving this type: gentle exercise, twisting yoga postures, and regular physical activity help stimulate digestion.
3. Lack of Fiber or Digestive Support
   • Even with a balanced diet, some people may need extra help. Eating plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides natural fiber. If that’s not enough, adding ground flaxseed or a probiotic supplement can support regular bowel movements.

An important starting point for most people is to pay attention to their own digestive habits and monitor how they change over time.  It’s often a bodily function that is overlooked but is of high importance to maintain good qi and balance!

The post The Underestimated Importance of Healthy Digestion appeared first on Michigan Associates of Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine.

And if you’re curious where you’re money will be spent, as the Vice President of the Michigan Society of Acupuncturists, I know exactly where it’s going!  We’re a volunteer organization with very minimal expenses except that we have to keep a lobbyist in Lansing who’s watching out for us!  This way, the integrity of acupuncture as a profession is kept intact.

I am so personally grateful for every small donation.  It truly makes a difference.

Scan the QR code below or click this link to donate.

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