BlueCrane Introduction

Great testimony for Vets looking for relief.

Shouldn't you send your vet friend to BlueCrane ~ we have a program to help.
www.blueridgeveterans.org

Great Nutritional Site

Here is some really good info on the food you eat ~ especially if you're trying to eat an anti-inflammatory diet!

Great Internet Site for Alternative Health

GreenMedInfo.com

October Newsletter

BlueCrane Acupuncture Newsletter Qi Mail™ October 2010

Kenneth & Diana Harbour L.Ac. Dipl. Ac. C.M.T. BlueCrane Acupuncture 18478 Forest Road, Suite 3 Forest (Lynchburg), VA 24502 434-316-9101

Five Top Men's Health Concerns and How Acupuncture Can Help Acupuncture has been used to treat men's health concerns for thousands of years and is growing in popularity. The reason for this growth in popularity is that many health issues that men face, such as high blood pressure, prostate problems and depression, respond extremely well to acupuncture treatments. Here is a list of five health issues that affect men and how acupuncture can help: Cardiovascular Disease Cardiovascular disease is the leading men’s health threat with heart disease and stroke topping the list of the first and second leading causes of death worldwide. By integrating acupuncture and Oriental medicine into your heart healthy lifestyle, you can dramatically reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Taking small steps to improve your health can reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease by as much as eighty percent. Steps to prevention include managing high blood pressure, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress and improved sleep - all of which can be helped with acupuncture. Acupuncture has been found to be particularly helpful in lowering blood pressure. By applying acupuncture needles at specific sites along the wrist, inside the forearm or in the leg, researchers have been able to stimulate the release of opioids, which decreases the heart’s activity and its need for oxygen. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure. Lung Cancer Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in men. Tobacco smoke causes ninety percent of all lung cancers. If you are ready to quit smoking, acupuncture can help. Acupuncture has shown to be an effective treatment for smoking. Acupuncture treatments for addiction and smoking cessation focus on jitters, cravings, irritability, and restlessness; symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification. In one study on substance addiction, a team from Yale University successfully used auricular (ear) acupuncture to treat cocaine addiction. Results showed that fifty-five percent of participants tested free of cocaine during the last week of treatment, compared to twenty-four percent and nine percent in the two control groups. Those who completed acupuncture treatment also had longer periods of sustained abstinence compared to participants in the control groups. Prostate Health The prostate is prone to enlargement and inflammation as men age, affecting about half of men in their sixties and up to ninety percent of men as they approach their seventies and eighties. If left untreated, benign prostate gland enlargement, which presents with symptoms such as frequent nighttime urination, painful urination, and difficult urination, can lead to more serious conditions such as prostate cancer, urinary tract infections, bladder or kidney damage, bladder stones, and incontinence. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can be used to treat prostate problems to relieve the urinary symptoms and prevent the more serious conditions from occurring. The few studies completed on acupuncture and prostatitis show positive results with participants noticing an marked improvement in their quality of life, decrease in urinary difficulties, and an increase in urinary function. Depression and Mental Health Suicide is the eighth leading cause of death among all men; for young men it's higher. While experts previously thought depression affected far more women than men, it is now believed that that men’s tendency to hide depressed feelings and not seek professional help has skewed the numbers. When suffering from depression, brain chemicals and stress hormones are out of balance. Sleep, appetite, and energy level are all disturbed. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can alleviate symptoms associated with depression and mental health issues by helping to rebalance the body’s internal environment. The growing body of research supporting the positive effects of acupuncture on depression, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain syndrome is so strong that the military now uses acupuncture to treat troops with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and combat stress syndrome. Sexual Health While sexual health concerns may not be life threatening, they can still signal significant health problems. Two-thirds of men older than seventy and up to thirty-nine percent of forty year old men report having problems with their sexual health. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine are well known for improving men’s sexual performance; in fact, there have been medical textbooks devoted to the subject. Chinese Emperors took their sexual health quite seriously and would consult with a team of physicians if they experienced any difficulties in the bedroom. Acupuncture can be used to treat premature ejaculation, low sperm count, diminished sperm motility, erectile dysfunction, male climacteric (menopause) and increase libido. Call now to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can improve your health and well being! www.bluecraneacupuncture.com 434-316-9101 In This Issue Five Top Men's Health Concerns and How Acupuncture Can Help Foods Men Should Eat Every Day Foods Men Should Eat Every Day Adding nutrient-rich super foods to the diet can give men a healthy boost. Here are some foods that can help maintain muscle mass, prevent prostate cancer, and more. Spinach: Popeye had this one right. Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense foods in existence. Spinach can help protect against prostate cancer, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, lower blood pressure and strengthen muscles. Yogurt: Eating yogurt that contains live bacterial cultures everyday improves digestive health, boosts the immune system, provides protection against cancer and may help you live longer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” Avocados: Avocados are a good source of vitamin K, dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, folate and copper. Rich in potassium, avocados contain more of this nutrient than bananas. Potassium is needed to regulate nerves, heartbeat and, especially, blood pressure. An added bonus for men: Avocados inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells. Walnuts: When it comes to their health benefits, walnuts are the king of nuts. Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-oxidants than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, walnuts are one of the all time super foods. Blackberries: Blackberries are packed with Vitamin C, calcium and magnesium with more than double the amounts than their popular cousin, the blueberry. Vitamin C is a powerful stress reducer that can lower blood pressure and return cortisol levels to normal faster when taken during periods of stress. Magnesium and calcium act together to help regulate the nerves and muscle tone. Too little magnesium in your diet can cause nerve cells to become over activated and can trigger muscular tension, soreness, spasms, cramps, and fatigue. Blackberries also score high on the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) scale assesses the antioxidant content of food: the higher the score, the better the food’s ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals that lead to cancer.

Collagenex ~ Full Spectrum Grape Extract

Collagenex nutritionally supports the joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments and promotes the healing process so that wounds heal, broken bones regenerate, and blood vessels grow. Pain is prevented by anti-inflammatory activity.

September Newsletter

BlueCrane Acupuncture NewsletterQi Mail™ September 2010

Kenneth & Diana Harbour L.Ac. Dipl. Ac. C.M.T. BlueCrane Acupuncture 18478 Forest Road, Suite 3 Forest (Lynchburg), VA 24502 434-316-9101

Acupuncture and ADHD Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common behavioral conditions among children. In the United States alone, approximately 4.5 million children between the ages of 5-17 years old are diagnosed with ADHD each year. Research indicates that when treating ADHD, a multidisciplinary approach is most effective; combining behavioral therapy, exercise, dietary changes and medication. Now acupuncture can be added as one of the treatment methods that can successfully manage ADHD. What is ADHD? Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is a condition of the brain that makes it difficult to concentrate or control impulsive behavior. Children with ADHD generally struggle with paying attention or concentrating. They can't seem to follow directions and are easily bored or frustrated with tasks. They also tend to move constantly and are impulsive, not stopping to think before they act. These behaviors are generally common in children. But they occur more often than usual and are more severe in a child with ADHD. The behaviors that are common with ADHD interfere with a child's ability to function at school and at home. Adults with ADHD may have difficulty with time management, organizational skills, goal setting, and employment. They may also have problems with relationships, self-esteem, and addictions. Treatment for ADHD Treatment for ADHD is multifaceted. It consists of ADHD medications, behavioral therapy and lifestyle and dietary modifications. ADHD is best managed when families, educational and health professionals work together to meet the unique needs of the child or adult who has ADHD to help them learn to focus their attention, develop their personal strengths, minimize disruptive behavior, and become productive and successful. Acupuncture is an excellent addition to any treatment plan as it is used to help the body restore balance, treating the root of the disorder, while also diminishing the symptoms of ADHD. What acupuncture can help with: • Improve focus and attention • Manage moods • Reduce fidgeting • Lower hyperactivity • Augment mood management techniques • Enhance concentration If you would like to learn more about acupuncture in the treatment for ADHD or one of the childhood ailments listed below, please call for a consultation. Treating Children with Acupuncture Children respond extremely well to acupuncture treatments for many conditions. When treating children, their comfort is of the utmost importance. Treatments tend to be shorter and acupuncture points are usually stimulated gently with very thin needles or with other techniques that do not involve needles. Needle-free acupuncture treatments may include stroking, rubbing, tapping, and pressing the acupuncture points with tools such as brushes, rollers and blunt probes. Common childhood conditions treated with Oriental Medicine: • Failure to thrive syndrome • Weak constitution • Colic, excessive night crying, temper tantrums • Indigestion, GERD, constipation, and diarrhea • Night terrors • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) • Allergies, asthma • Cough and colds • Eczema and hives • Ear infections • Bedwetting Ginger: Tool in Global Fight Against Childhood Killer? Could one of the most widely used herbs in cooking around the world be just the right medicine for one of the deadliest conditions children face around the world? That’s the promise pointed at by a study published in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. In this study, researchers in Taiwan looked at the role of a ginger extract in blocking the toxin that causes 210 million cases of diarrhea worldwide. The toxin is produced by enterotoxigenic E. coli, which accounts for 380,000 worldwide deaths annually. The study found that zingerone, a compound in ginger, was the likely compound responsible for blocking the toxin. Further study is needed to confirm these findings and determine appropriate dosage, especially for infants. But this natural wonder offers a very inexpensive alternative to drug therapy and great hope to thousands of children in poor countries around the world. Source: American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2007 www.bluecraneacupuncture.com In This Issue Acupuncture and ADHD Treating Children with Acupuncture Ginger: Tool in Global Fight Against Childhood Killer? Enhance your Focus with Acupuncture Point, Yintang Enhance your Focus with Acupuncture Point, Yintang Acupuncture has been found to be helpful with all types of emotional and mental health conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Often used for such treatments is Yintang, a point located between the eyebrows - sometimes referred to as “the third eye.” The Chinese translation for the acupuncture point, Yintang, is “hall of impression”. “Hall” is defined as a corridor or passageway, or the large entrance room of a house. An “impression” is defined as a strong effect produced on the intellect, emotions, or conscience. Thus, Yintang is the entrance or passageway to the mind. Yintang is used to improve mental clarity, concentration and cognitive function as well as soothe emotions and relieve stress, anxiety and agitation. Location: Midway between the eyebrows Indications: Calms the mind, enhances one’s ability to focus, soothes emotions, promotes sleep and relieves depression. Self Acupressure of Yintang can provide immediate relief of symptoms. For effective self acupressure: • Breathe Deeply • Focus on the point as pressure is applied • Pressure should be strong but not uncomfortable • Begin when you first feel symptoms and continue until they subside Meditation and Tai Chi can also help calm and focus the mind.

July Newsletter

The BlueCrane Acupuncture Newsletter Qi Mail™ July 2010

Kenneth & Diana Harbour L.Ac. Dipl. Ac. C.M.T. BlueCrane Acupuncture 18478 Forest Road, Suite 3 Forest (Lynchburg), VA 24502 434-316-9101

Treating Thyroid Problems with Acupuncture When functioning properly, the thyroid gland secretes just the right amount of thyroid hormone to regulate almost all the metabolic processes in your body. Too much or too little of these vital body chemicals and it can drastically influence energy levels, body weight and your mental health. With over 20 million Americans living with some form of thyroid disease, much attention has been given to the many ways that acupuncture and Oriental medicine can treat thyroid problems. What is the thyroid? The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland that sits in the front of the neck. It is responsible for energy, metabolism, hormone regulation, body weight and blood calcium levels. Thyroid disorders stem from either an overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones. When your thyroid is not functioning properly, your body can experience a variety of symptoms: Hyperthyroidism: Weight loss despite increased appetite Increased heart rate, heart palpitations, higher blood pressure, nervousness, and excessive perspiration More frequent bowel movements, sometimes with diarrhea Muscle weakness, trembling hands Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck) Lighter or shorter menstrual periods Hypothyroidism: Lethargy, slower mental processes or depression Reduced heart rate Increased sensitivity to cold Tingling or numbness in the hands Development of a goiter (an enlargement in your neck) Constipation, heavy menstrual periods or dry skin and hair Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can be diagnosed by testing the levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. Hormones secreted by the thyroid are measured, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), a chemical released by the pituitary gland that triggers hormone production in the thyroid. Some milder forms of hypothyroidism can also be detected by a consistently low basal body temperature. How can acupuncture help? Both Western and Eastern medicine offer various methods to restore thyroid hormone levels. Western treatments rely mainly on drugs and surgery while Eastern treatments aim to restore immune function as well as balance the production and release of thyroid hormones through a variety of approaches ranging from acupuncture and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises. In the treatment to thyroid problems, acupuncture can be used to restore hormonal balance, regulate energy levels, smooth emotions and help manage sleep, emotions and menstrual problems. There are several powerful acupuncture points on the ear and the body that can be used to regulate the production of thyroid hormones. Treatments take all of your symptoms into account and are aimed at balancing the energy within the body to optimize health. When it comes to lifestyle changes, a diet rich in protein, calcium, magnesium, and iodine helps support thyroid function while certain foods known as goitrogens may interfere with thyroid hormone production and should be limited. These include cruciferous vegetables (such as cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts), peanuts, and soy. Stress reducing exercises such as yoga or tai chi can also be beneficial. If you have a thyroid problem, call for a consultation. A custom-tailored treatment plan will be created to suit your individual needs so that you can feel better quickly and safely! www.bluecraneacupuncture.com ____________________________________________________________________________ In This Issue Treating Thyroid Problems with Acupuncture How to Monitor Your Basal Temperature Three Foods to Support Thyroid Function How to Monitor Your Basal Temperature Blood tests may not be sensitive enough to detect milder forms of hypothyroidism. Monitoring your body's basal (resting) temperature is often used to identify a thyroid hormone deficiency. To track your basal temperature accurately, follow these guidelines: • Shake the thermometer below 95°F at night and place it where you can reach it without getting out of bed. • The following morning, before you get out of bed, take your temperature via your armpit for 10 minutes while staying as still as possible. • Keep records of your temperature for at least three days. (Women should do this during the first two weeks of the menstrual cycle, as their basal temperature may rise during the latter half.) •Normal basal body temperatures fall between 97.4° F and 97.8° F. If your basal temperature is consistently low, you could be mildly hypothyroid. Three Foods to Support Thyroid Function Seaweed - Iodine is an essential element that assists the thyroid in producing thyroid hormone. By increasing iodine intake, patients have seen an increase in the production of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). The best natural source of iodine is kelp, bladderwrack and other seaweeds. Coconut Oil - Virgin coconut oil is praised by health experts for its ability to lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar. It is made up largely of medium chain fatty acids, or triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are known to speed metabolism, promote weight loss, and raise basal body temperatures. Brazil nuts and walnuts – These nuts contain high amounts of selenium. Many hypothyroid patients have been found to have deficiencies in this trace mineral.

June Newsletter

Qi Mail™ The Acupuncture Newsletter June 2010

Kenneth & Diana Harbour L.Ac. Dipl. Ac. C.M.T. BlueCrane Acupuncture 18478 Forest Road, Suite 3 Forest (Lynchburg), VA 24502 434-316-9101

Your Health this Summer In Oriental medicine, summer is symbolic of maximum activity or greatest yang, which means that it is a time of heat, outgoingness, and moving outward in nature and in our lives. This is the season to nourish and pacify our spirits while maximizing our potential as we find joy in the hot summer days and warm summer nights. Summer is ruled by the fire element. The fire element corresponds to the heart and small intestine, the southerly direction, the climatic condition of heat, the color red, the emotion of happiness or joy, the sound of laughter, the taste of bitterness and the odor of burning. Fire controls the blood vessels and is reflected in the face and complexion. Signs that the fire element is in balance include a strong and healthy heart, a calm mind and the ability to sleep soundly. When the fire element is imbalanced, we may either lack joy (depression) or have an excess of joy (mania). Indicators of an imbalance in the fire element also include agitation, nervousness, heartburn, and insomnia. This is a great time to schedule your acupuncture summer tune up! Call for more information. Mango and Peach Salsa An easy and healthy peach and mango salsa recipe. The delicate flavors of mangos and peaches combine with onions and garlic in this sweet-and-savory salsa recipe. Try it with chips for a light snack on a hot summer night, or add to a vegetable burrito for an unusual twist. INGREDIENTS: 2 mangos, peeled and chopped 2 fresh peaches, peeled and chopped 1 sweet onion, diced 1 medium tomato, diced (optional) 2 cloves garlic 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice dash salt and pepper to taste DIRECTIONS: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. If you have a food processor, you can process all the ingredients in chunks, rather than dicing and chopping. Chill for at least one hour, to allow flavors to combine, and stir well before serving. Serve chilled and enjoy! Benefits of Acupuncture in Cancer Care On Sunday June 6th, cancer survivors celebrated the 23rd annual National Cancer Survivors Day, sponsored by the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation. The event, which includes hundreds of gatherings across the US, is a time to celebrate life. Here are some ways that acupuncture can help while being treated for and recovering from cancer. Cancer treatments are aggressive and cause numerous unwanted side effects as well as a lowered immune system. Acupuncture is an excellent adjunctive therapy in cancer treatments because of its ability to relieve pain, reduce side effects, accelerate recovery and improve quality of life. What Acupuncture is used for during Cancer Treatment Acupuncture provides a total approach to health care for people with cancer. It can be used to address many of the concerns that come up during and after chemotherapy, radiation, biological therapy and surgery. According to the National Cancer Institute, acupuncture may cause physical responses in nerve cells, the pituitary gland, and parts of the brain. These responses can cause the body to release proteins, hormones, and brain chemicals that control a number of body functions. It is proposed that, by these actions, acupuncture affects blood pressure and body temperature, boosts immune system activity, and causes the body's natural painkillers, such as endorphins, to be released. Areas that acupuncture has shown the most promise include: Nausea and Vomiting Dry Mouth, Night Sweats and Hot Flashes Stress, Anxiety and Fatigue Pain Management Increasing White Blood Cell Count To learn more about how acupuncture can safely and effectively be incorporated into care for people with cancer, please call for a consultation today. Source: National Cancer Institute. www.cancer.org Chemo-Induced Nausea Study Effect of Acupuncture on Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting According to the National Cancer Institute, of all the investigated effects of acupuncture on cancer-related or chemotherapy-related symptoms and disorders, the positive effect of acupuncture on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting is the most convincing. Numerous studies have consistently shown acupuncture to be effective in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting as well as as postoperative and morning sickness nausea and vomiting. A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial investigated the effect of electro-acupuncture on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in 104 patients with breast cancer who were undergoing a highly emetogenic (causes vomiting) chemotherapy regimen. The patients were randomly assigned to receive low-frequency electro-acupuncture at classic acupuncture points for nausea and vomiting once daily for 5 days, minimal needling at control points with mock electro-acupuncture on the same schedule, or no adjunct needling. All patients received concurrent antiemetic drugs (prochlorperazine, lorazepam, and diphenhydramine) and high-dose chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, and carmustine). The main outcome measures were the total number of emesis (vomiting) episodes and the proportion of emesis-free days occurring during the 5-day study period. The data revealed significantly fewer emesis episodes in the electro-acupuncture treatment group compared with those in the minimal needling and drug-only control groups. Source: Shen J, Wenger N, Glaspy J, et al.: Electroacupuncture for control of myeloablative chemotherapy-induced emesis: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA 284 (21): 2755-61, 2000. In This Issue Your Health this Summer Mango and Peach Salsa Benefits of Acupuncture in Cancer Care Chemo-Induced Nausea Study Cancer Prevention in Every Aisle Cancer Prevention in Every Aisle Nearly everything in the produce aisle can help you prevent cancer, but there are items throughout the supermarket that can protect your health and the health of your family. Produce Aisle Picks Cantaloupe - a great source of carotenoids, plant chemicals that act as antioxidants shown to reduce the risk of lung cancer. Kale and cabbage - cruciferous vegetables are widely considered to be one of the healthiest food choices you can make. Included in this family of vegetables are broccoli, cauliflower, radishes, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage and bok choy. Cruciferous vegetables are high in vitamins, fiber, and potent anti-cancer phytochemicals. According to the American Institute for Cancer, there is solid evidence that links cruciferous vegetables and protection against cancer. Studies have shown that this vegetable group has the ability to stop the growth of cancer cells for tumors in the breast, uterine lining, lung, colon, liver, and cervix. And studies that track the diets of people over time have found that diets high in cruciferous vegetables are linked to lower rates of prostate cancer. It is recommended that we eat 3-5 servings of cruciferous vegetables per week. It's best to eat these veggies raw or only lightly steamed so they retain their cancer fighting phytochemicals. Freezer Aisle Pick Edamame (soybeans) - These cancer-fighting beans contain phytoestrogens, that may help prevent estrogen-driven cancers by binding to estrogen receptors. They are also good for the men of the household since evidence suggests the isoflavones found in soy products may help fight prostate cancer. Cereal Aisle Pick Whole Grain Oats - Oats have the highest proportion of soluble fiber of any grain. Fiber is rich in antioxidants, helps fight colon cancer and phenolic compounds in whole grains my help reduce the risk of certain GI cancers. Pick cereals high in folate, fiber and/or flaxseed. Beverage Aisle Picks Orange juice - this favorite breakfast beverage is a powerful source of folate which has been linked to lowered risk for GI and pancreatic cancer. Green tea - green tea is lower in caffeine than coffee and can help prevent prostate cancer and possibly bladder cancer. Pomegranate juice - this juice is extremely antioxidant-rich and helps prevent colon and prostate cancer. Soy milk - also made from soy beans, soy milk works the same way as edamame to fight cancer. Household Aisle Picks Sunscreen – summer is starting, so lather on the SPF each and every time you go out in the sun to block exposure to ultraviolet rays. Mop or damp cloth - it's important to get rid of dust without spreading it around your home. Recent evidence has shown that dust can contain carcinogens that are known to cause cancer.

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Calm Spirit ~ Help alleviate stress!

Calm Spirit from Health Concerns
Modified Ding Xin Wan

Calm Spirit is a Chinese herbal formula that is used to alleviate stress associated emotions such as anxiety, depression, anger, and restlessness due to heart yin deficiency.
Calm Spirit is also used for insomnia, restlessness, dizziness, spontaneous sweating, constipation due to stress, dryness of the mouth, and poor memory.

Calm Spirit is based on the traditional formula, Heart Stabilizing Pills (Ding Xin Wan). It is intended to treat patients who present with deficiency of heart Yin. Individuals who experience prolonged mental stress often suffer insomnia, restlessness, loss of memory, dizziness, and sometimes constipation. The ingredients in this formula are aimed at: tonifying heart Qi and Yin: Biota (Bai Zi Ren), Polygala (Yuan Zhi); tonifying and nourishing the blood: Tang Kuei (Dang Gui); calming the heart and spirit: Biota, Fu-shen, Zizyphus (Suan Zao Ren), Amber (Hu Po); moistening the intestine: Biota, Tang Kuei, Ophiopogon (Mai Men Dong); removing heat from the heart: Ophiopogon. Codonopsis (Dang Shen) is added to tonify Qi in general and help generate fluids. Because stress may also induce anger, Amber and White Peony (Bai Shao) help remove liver stagnation.

The enzymes Catalase intercepts free radicals produced during stress. Free radicals damage body tissues, especially those of the heart and brain, and interfere with normal energy production and with memory. Other enzymes derived from Aspergillus assist in the digestion of food, which is often a problem when stress levels are high. Magnesium is a natural tranquilizer and vasodilator, and calms nervous activity; it also acts as a catalyst in the energy production that occurs in cell mitochondria. Taurine has been used to control heart arrhythmia and hypertension, particularly under conditions of stress.

Ingredients
Magnesium Aspartate (75mg), Taurine (100mg), (300mg), Akmylase, CereCalase, Protease, Catalase, alpha-Galactosidase, Lipase, Glucoamylase, Cellulase, Malt Diatase, Biota seed (Bai Zi Ren), White Peony root (Bai Shao), Tang Kuei root (Dang Gui), Fu shen sclerotium (Fu Shen), Polygala root (Yuan Zhi), Zizyphus seed (Suan Zao Ren), Ophiopogon tuber (Mai Men Dong), Codonopsis root (Dang Shen), Amber resin (Hu Po)
calm spirit chinese herbal formula for anxiety & insomnia

Can We Eat To Starve Cancer

This is a great video worth watching!

A Great article on Batttlefield Acupuncture

Read it here....

Battlefield Acupuncture from Youtube

How this simple and effective treatment is helping people.

Check it out!

Allergy Suffers ~ Listen up

Allergy Suffers ~ listen up!

Patients and allergy suffers have found relief by using this wonderful Homeopathic product by Borion. It's inexpensive and safe! Homeopathics are unique to each persons system so results will vary ~ however, Google it if your one of those folk who have allergy problems and check it out for yourself. At BlueCrane, we support quality Homeopathics and encourage you to educate yourself on their effectiveness. Call if you need more information or shop the local health food stores ~ they do stock. Check it out

Iraqi doctors use acupuncture during drug shortage

Check it out!

An Evening With BlueCrane

Subject: Classical Chinese Medicine for Chronic Disease- Why it works!

Date: April 15th Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Where: Bentley Commons 1604 Graves Mill Road, Lynchburg -

Refreshments: RSVP - Call Bentley Commons by 4-13-2010

Call Bentley Commons - 434-316-0207 or
434-509-0036

After this seminar you will have an understanding of why Classical Chinese Medicine
is utilized by so many people worldwide and why it treats so many chronic disease
conditions. Refreshments provided by Bentely Commons from 6:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Herbal Formula for Allergies

Nasal Tabs 2 from Health Concerns
Chinese Therapeutic Effects:
Releases the Surface, Circulates Blood, Dispels Wind
Ingredients: Xanthium fruit (Cang Er Zi), Cinnamon twig (Gui Zhi), Red Peony root (Chi Shao), Ligusticum root (Chuan Xiong), Angelica dahuricae root (Bai Zhi), Cimicifuga rhizome (Sheng Ma), Licorice root (Gan Cao), Thyme leaf (Thymus vulgaris), Eucalyptus leaf (Eucalyptus globulus)

Nasal Tabs 2 is based on several traditional formulas.

Xanthium (Can Er Zi) is used to open nasal passages. It also has anti-bacterial properties.
Cinnamon twig (Gui Zhi) is a warming botanical that reduces edema and stagnant phlegm and has antibacterial and fever reducing effects.

Angelica (Vai Zhi) reduces nasal congestion and pain. Ligusticum (Chuan Xiong) and Red Peony (Chi Shao) activate blood circulation.

Cimicifuga (Sheng Ma) is used to guide the herbs upward, it also reduces pathogenic fungus. Eucalyptus leaf is processed to be rich in essential oil content. It reduces phlegm and nasal congestion.

Thyme reduces bronchial spasms and possesses antifungal and antibacterial activity.
Licorice is a harmonizing ingredient.

Nasal Tabs 2 is a Chinese herbal formula used for acute and chronic sinus congestion.
Phlegm and mucus may be thick and yellow.

There may be snoring due to facial congestion and earaches from sinus blockage. Sinus headache, sinusitis, rhinitis, hay fever, colds and flu.

Bear Play Qigong - Five Animals

A Great Qigong / Movement form in Beijing

This is very similar to a free form I practice. It' just so fun to do!

Great Book On Breathing

Just a great read.....

Where Is The Souce of Breath

And the Lord God formed man out of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

The Breath Of Life!

"He lives most life whoever breathes most air."

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Breathing The Pattern Of Your Life

"The Lessons we learn in the interior world,
become the basis of our conduct in the outer world."
Joel Goldstein

Lifetime In A Breath

"A lifetime is not what is between
the moments of birth and death.

A lifetime is one moment
Between my two little breaths.
The present, the here, the now,
That's all the life I get.
I live each moment in full,
In kindness, in peace, without regret."

Chade Meng, Taoist poet

Don't Chase The Breath!

"The breath must be enticed or cajoled, like catching a horse in a field, not by chasing after it, but by standing still with an apple in one’s hand."

B.K.S. Iyengar

The Breath Of Love

"There is one way of breathing that is shameful and constricted. Then, there’s another way: a breath of love that takes you all the way to infinity."

Rumi

Quote On The Breath

"Breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness, which unites your body to your thoughts."

Thich Nhat Hanh

Kabir ~ on God and the Breath

Are you looking for me? I am in the next seat.
My shoulder is against yours.
You will not find me in Indian shrine rooms,
Not in synagogues, not cathedrals,
Not in masses, nor sacred songs.
Not in legs winding around your own neck,
nor in eating nothing but vegetables.
When you really look for me, you will see me instantly.
You will find me in the tiniest house of time.
Kabir says: “Student, tell me, what is God?”
He is the Breath inside the breath.
-----
For a more up to date view......follow the rabbit....

contemporary view

Qigong Class in Forest, VA

Health and Longevity Exercise Class in Forest VA.

Qigong (pronounced chi goong)

When: Late March and April 2010

Where: Bentley Commons 1604 Graves Mill Road Lynchburg, VA 24502
Cost: $5 per class
Class Size: Limited, call 434-509-0036 for class times and day.

Class Makeup: Age 40 and above - great for seniors.
Instructor: Ken Harbour L.Ac.

Learn the health enhancing exercise routine that's thousands of years old and practiced

by millions of Chinese daily to prevent and help heal chronic illness.

Acupuncturists Without Borders in New Orleans

Just a brief encouragement about the power of a simple acupuncture involving the ear. 3500 years of empirical evidence doesn't lie. Blessings

Acupuncture Without Borders In Haiti

It's just a few needles in the right place ~ but so much healing

Mindful Eating ~ Food is medicine and food is disease!

I was going to write a small article about “How to Kill the Speed-Eater in YOU,” but I found some really good advice for that habit at a link I’ve included. I don’t think people realize how important it is to allow rhythm in your eating habits – not woofing it down – not eating on the run – not eating when angry – but instead, intentionally enjoying the experience. The body craves rhythm. It has monthly cycles, sleep cycles, breathing cycles, rhythms upon rhythms happening all the time. Too much of any one thing causes chaos—too much sleep, too much couch-potato-ing, too much food, too little food, too many thoughts, too many projects, too much anger and too much excitement.

So why not honor the cycle and rhythm of food intake your body needs, and increase maximum health for yourself. There are whole hosts of practices you can follow to increase your health besides just going for veggies as the main dish or sticking to whole grains. Consider the following:
How does the food make you feel? Which foods make you feel heavy and which ones empower?

How does the taste make you feel? How much of the food actually satisfies that craving (sour, sweet, spicy, salty)?
Can you eat and breathe slowly at the same time?
How many times do you chew before swallowing? You know there is a reason to chew, right?

Satisfy a sweet tooth with fruit!
Shun saturated fats and opt for more healthy cooking methods (steaming or stir-fry).
Sit at the table and give your food full attention. Giving thanks for a plate of life nourishing food can be a way of celebrating creation’s blessings – you don’t have to eat junk!

Rate your hunger before you eat. Don’t feed the beast, control it!
Check out this link. The vast majority of chronic digestive problems and many health issues can be traced to eating habits and food choices. At BlueCrane, we don’t try to act like food police. However, we will help you consider some new ways to explore health and enjoy food at the same time. Visit the link.

Getting Pregnant ~ The Tao of Fertility

If you know a lady concerned or struggling with this issue ~ would you please forward this link and a contact for BlueCrane Acupuncture? 434-316-9101
Ken and Diana Harbour L.Ac.

BlueCrane January Educational Newsletter

Qi Mail™ The Acupuncture Newsletter BlueCrane Acupuncture January 2010

Kenneth & Diana Harbour L.Ac. Dipl. Ac. C.M.T. BlueCrane Acupuncture 18478 Forest Road, Suite 3 Forest (Lynchburg), VA 24502 434-316-9101

5 Ways Acupuncture Creates Lasting New Year's Resolutions It is the beginning of a new year and, once again, a time to reflect on what changes we can make to improve our lives. If you are intent on improving your health this year, acupuncture and Oriental medicine may be the very thing you need to "stick" to those resolutions. Here's how acupuncture can help you achieve your goals: Resolution 1: Reach Target Weight and Stay There Losing weight is the #1 most common New Year's Resolution. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can help you reach your goal weight and maintain it by promoting better digestion, smoothing emotions, reducing appetite, improving metabolism, and eliminating food cravings. >From an Oriental medicine perspective, the acupuncture points, foods and herbs that are chosen to assist with weight loss directly influence the Qi of the Spleen and Liver systems to treat the root imbalances that are causing the weight gain. >From a Western perspective, acupuncture and Oriental medicine have been shown to have an effect on the function of the nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, food cravings, and metabolism. All of which can help to energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite, and reduce anxiety. Resolution 2: Stay Sharp Your New Year’s resolution may be to learn a new language or take a class at your local college. However you choose to exercise your brain, acupuncture can help. Numerous studies suggest that acupuncture can help improve memory, mental clarity, concentration and cognitive function. One recently published study (see below) shows how acupuncture can be used to treat memory impairment induced by diabetes and cerebral ischemia. Other studies have looked at how acupuncture affects the performance of students during an exam, post-menopausal "brain fog", Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. All results, thus far, have been positive. Resolution 3: Relieve Pain Naturally If pain is keeping you from living your life to the fullest, acupuncture can help. Increasingly, people are looking for more natural approaches to help relieve painful conditions instead of relying on medications. Acupuncture has no side effects and can be helpful for all types of pain, regardless of what is causing the pain or where the pain is located. Some studies have shown the pain relief it provides can last for months. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain before and after acupuncture treatment for pain shows dramatic decreases in activity in the pain centers of the brain - up to 70%. In addition to reducing pain, acupuncture also hastens the healing process by increasing circulation and attracting white blood cells to an injured area. Resolution 4: Quit Smoking Acupuncture has turned a growing number of cigarette cravers into permanent ex-smokers. In fact, researchers say that acupuncture is a promising treatment for all types of addiction from cigarettes to heroin. In one study, a team from Yale University successfully used auricular (ear) acupuncture to treat cocaine addiction. Results showed that 54.8% of participants tested free of cocaine during the last week of treatment, compared to 23.5% and 9.1% in the two control groups. Those who completed acupuncture treatment also had longer periods of sustained abstinence compared to participants in the control groups. The acupuncture treatments for smoking cessation focus on jitters, cravings, irritability, and restlessness; symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification. Resolution 5: Eliminate Stress Stress reduction is always on the top ten list for New Year’s resolutions and for a good reason. Stress is often the cause of illness and the deterioration of health. Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress, anxiety and lowering blood pressure In addition to acupuncture, Oriental medicine offers a whole gamut of tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check. These tools include Tui Na, Qi Gong exercises, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, meditations and acupressure that you can administer at home. Needless to say, if the stress in your life is throwing you off balance, consider coming in for a treatment to regain peace of mind and stay healthy. Call now to see how Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help you with your New Year’s Resolutions! Acupuncture Improves Memory and Learning Capacity Acupuncture can significantly improve learning and memory capacity that has been impaired by hyperglycemia and cerebral ischemia, according to a new study. A study published in the journal, Neuroscience Letters, reported on whether electroacupuncture (acupuncture needles stimulated with a mild electrical current) could improve learning and memory in rats whose memory and cognitive functions were impaired by the decreased circulatory effects of diabetes resulting in cerebral ischemia. In the study, the effects of the acupuncture treatments were measured with a passive avoidance test, an active avoidance test, the Morris water maze and electrophysiology. With all tests, significant improvements were seen in restoring memory and learning capacity. The researchers remarked that previous investigations have demonstrated that electroacupuncture can improve primary and secondary symptoms such as peripheral neuropathy and diabetic encephalopathy in diabetic rats. They believe that the positive results of this study warrant further investigation. Source: Neuroscience Letters Volume 443, Issue 3, 10 October 2008, Pages 193-198 doi:10.1016/j.physletb.2003. 10.071 434-316-9101 www.bluecraneacupuncture.com In This Issue 5 Ways Acupuncture Creates Lasting New Year's Resolutions Acupuncture Improves Memory and Learning Capacity Acupuncture Point for Mental Clarity: Du 20 Healthy Brain Habits Acupuncture Point for Mental Clarity: Du 20 Feeling a little foggy? Having trouble concentrating? Massage the acupuncture point, Du 20 for some mental clarity. Du 20 is located on the top of the head, midway between the ears. It is used to clear the mind and improve focus. Stimulate the point with your index finger for 30-45 seconds for a quick "brain boost". Healthy Brain Habits Here are some steps you can take to help optimize brain health and sharpen your memory: Eat More Produce - Studies that focus on food and memory show that the more produce you eat, the better. One 25-year Harvard Medical School study of more than 13,000 women showed that the participants who ate relatively high amounts of vegetables over the years had less age-related decline in memory. Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage) and leafy green vegetables had the biggest effect on helping women retain their memory during the course of the study. In another study, the phytochemicals, anthocyanin (found in berries of all colors and cherries) and quercetin (found in onions, kale and apples), actually reversed some of the age-related memory deficits in laboratory animals. Heart Health – A healthy heart makes for a healthy brain. Because oxygen and nutrients are carried in the blood stream, anything that impedes blood flow will starve those all-important brain cells. Review your blood pressure and cholesterol level. Know your numbers and if they are elevated, take immediate measures to bring them down. Sleep – When we sleep, the brain has time to recharge. Studies show that 7-8 hours of sleep a night helps to strengthen memory. Acupuncture is effective at treating sleep problems, so please let us know if you are having trouble sleeping. Exercise - Regular physical activity has been shown to decrease the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease by about half. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps regulate blood sugar levels; both of which improve brain function and memory. Aim for 30 minutes a day. Challenge Your Brain - Keep your mind active and challenged. Brain function decreases with age. Studies show that cognitive exercise can improve blood flow to the brain. Spend at least 15 minutes each day on a mental exercise such as a crossword puzzle, journaling or learning a new language to slow memory loss.

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