In the last twelve years or so, I’ve been fascinated with the health and emotional benefits I’ve received from practicing Yoga and learning about Chinese medicine. If this is all new to you, I suggest you read, ask, and try it out for yourself to see what works for you. Find out why these two together make a perfect combination for achieving balance and optimum health!

I admit I fell off the wagon in the last month, so I’m back to my fitness routine. This morning, I’m going for a quick walk and then I’m going to do my  favorite yoga DVD, Essence of Flow. My friend Dana Smith-Rogers is the the instructor and she is no joke! Well, off to get my butt kicked, I mean ~er-um~, find balance. LOL  Enjoy the article and make it a great day….

Own Your Power,

Simone

Yoga and Chinese Medicine by Heather Lounsbury, L.Ac.

There is a saying in Chinese Medicine: “When the mind is calm the Qi flows smoothly, and conversely when the Qi is made to flow smoothly the mind is calm.” If you practice Yoga, you probably know that for the past 5,000 years, Eastern philosophy has stated that the smooth flow of Qi (chê) is essential to your wellbeing. A healthy flow of Qi leads to the Holy Grail of a healthy lifestyle: Balance. As time marches on it seems balance is more and more illusive in our daily lives. Thankfully, many of us have made the practice of yoga part of our routine, but is it enough to achieve the balance that we all desire?

“Yoga is all I need to be healthy and balanced.” As an Herbalist and Acupuncturist, I hear that a lot. You know what I also hear a lot? “I hurt my back doing Ustrasana 3 weeks ago and it’s not getting better.”

I’d tried yoga a few times before I started graduate school for Traditional Chinese Medicine. But it wasn’t until I started learning this ancient medicine, that I really got it. Once I understood the theory behind the medicine, it all fell in to place for me. Yoga and Chinese Medicine have been practiced for over 5,000 years to increase longevity and prevent disease, and when used in combination, the results are incredible.

Yoga does reduce pain. Many Asanas along with deep breathing help the brain’s pain center regulate the secretion of natural painkillers in the body. Because muscles relax when you exhale, lengthening the time of exhalation can help produce relaxation and reduce tension. But many times this is not enough. Our stressful lifestyles, combined with poor eating habits and a polluted environment can create systemic deficiencies and toxin buildup. Receiving added support from Chinese herbs and acupuncture can help to correct most health concerns. The Chinese pharmacy is the largest and most advanced categorization of plants, animals, and minerals. This means that there is an herb, or several herbs, which can treat any imbalance or illness you may be experiencing.

Read the FULL STORY HERE….