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Archive for the ‘acupuncture’ Category

Are You Always Feeling Cold?

Posted on: February 9th, 2023 by Anna Totzke

by Anna Totzke, Registered Acupuncturist

Do you often feel cold, and not only in the winter months? Do you like bundling up with a blanket, a hot drink, and slippers?

Coldness can show in the body in many different ways such as actually feeling cold, especially the low back, feet, and hands; lack of motivation or tiredness especially when feeling chilled; copious urination; or feeling of tight contracted muscles (to name a few). From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, coldness can occur in our bodies due to:

Lack of physical activity, eating too many cooling foods, overexposure to cold environments, lack of warming foods in the diet, or a constitutional weakness.

To help warm the body, here are some lifestyle and diet changes that can be very helpful including:

EAT WARMING FOODS – Some foods have warming properties and by adding these foods into your diet, can help warm your body:

Aduki Beans, Lentils

Ginger, Cloves, Cinnamon, Basil, Rosemary, Fennel, Dill, Anise, Cumin,

Oats, Spelt, Quinoa, Sunflower Seeds, Sesame Seeds, Walnuts, Sweet Brown Rice

Parsnips, Parsley, Mustard Greens, Winter Squash, Cabbage, Kale, Onions, Leeks, Chives, Garlic

Cherries, Citrus Peel, Dates

USE MODERATELY—-> animal products: mussels, trout, beef, and lamb, butter

AVOID/LIMIT—> sweeteners, eating cold to the touch food (directly out of the fridge or freezer) raw foods, cow dairy

USE WARMING FOOD PREPARATION METHODS:

Baking, stir fry, saute, soups, stews, cook longer with lower heat

BECOME MORE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE:

Getting some physical activity each day will help warm the body.

SOAK YOUR FEET IN HOT WATER (instead of Long Hot Baths)

BUNDLE UP TO ESPECIALLY KEEP YOUR FEET, LOWER BACK, and LOWER ABDOMEN WARM

Check in with your body once in a while and see how it is feeling. Often people that have been cold their whole lives are used to being cold. Make adjustments to your wardrobe like wearing wooly high socks, cover your neck, tuck in your shirt.

From an Acupuncture perspective, moxibustion (heat therapy using a herb called mugwort) treatments are a wonderful way to deeply warm the body.

This article is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or practitioner for any medical advice.

Acupuncture and Fertility: How Do Needles Help With Conception?

Posted on: July 28th, 2022 by TouchStone Health

Acupuncture is a critical component of traditional Chinese medicine. The procedure generally cures pain and promotes overall wellness, including stress management, by inserting thin needles on the skin at strategic points in the body. However, how do needles induce chances of conception in women? Here are some ideas.

Acupuncture and Fertility

Acupuncture is an effective solution for curing infertility in men and women. It is a successful treatment in restoring fertility among patients, improving sperm cell quality and ovary function through balancing the endocrine system and its hormones. But what does acupuncture do?

1. Regulates Female Reproductive Hormones

Acupuncture regulates the release of hormones in women to keep them in balance. If a woman’s hormones aren’t in harmony, chances of conception are low. When the reproductive system is not functioning correctly, the hypothalamus will send a message to the pituitary gland about the poor hormone levels. The pituitary gland will then release a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to boost the production of follicle-stimulating hormones.

The FSH will then stimulate the egg follicle growth and ovulation. But finding the right level of FSH is a challenge. If the FSH is too high, the ovarian follicles will accelerate rapidly, and ovulation may not happen. If the FSH is too low, the egg will not be released. Acupuncture works by balancing the female hormones and nutrients.

Acupuncture improves ovulation, increases the number, and regulates female reproductive hormones. It helps balance the hormones that affect ovulation, increase the number of eggs in the reproductive system, balance the stress, and treat the underlying cause of infertility.

2. Improves Blood Flow and Egg Quality

Acupuncture helps increase the blood flow to the ovaries and improves egg quality. More blood flow to the ovaries means more nutrients, hormones and oxygen to the tissues. It offers sufficient oxygenation to the ovaries to sustain their normal development. Not only does acupuncture improve ovulation, but it also improves egg quality. The excellent quality of the eggs will increase the chances of conception.

3. Boosts Sperm Quality and Count

The beneficial effects of acupuncture on the reproductive system may offer a solution to the problem of infertility in men. Improving the quality of the sperm and sperm counts can affect the chances of conception. By scanning the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, the testes and the thyroid gland, acupuncture stimulates the body to improve the function of these glands, promoting the production of hormones and sperm cells.

4. Helps in Embryo Implantation

Embryo implantation is an essential step before fertilization occurs. Fertilization occurs when the sperm cell reaches the uterus and joins an egg. Acupuncture helps improve the potential of embryo implantation by increasing the chances of conception.

Acupuncture helps reduce stress and fatigue, supports the body’s functions, improves blood circulation and metabolism, boosts libido, and helps regulate the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. All these benefits help increase the chances of conception.

5. Reduces Anxiety

Acupuncture can help cure anxiety and improve mood. It is a common problem among many women undergoing infertility treatments, reducing their chances of conception. An improved mood can increase the chances of conception as stress may affect endocrine hormones and the chances of embryo implantation.

Conclusion

Women who have infertility can benefit immensely from acupuncture. It can help balance the endocrine system, regulate the hormones and boost the chances of conception. While acupuncture doesn’t guarantee that you will conceive, it improves the odds of pregnancy. Acupuncture has the potential to regulate and improve the chances of conception in women. It may be effective for women who have tried other conventional fertilization techniques and have failed.

TouchStone Health aims to help cure infertility through acupuncture services in Waterloo. Our Fertility acupuncture targets early signs of infertility like PCOS, ovulatory disorders, and prolonged menstrual cycles. Speak to a registered acupuncturist today and schedule an appointment with us now.

Keeping Your Youthful Glow: Why Try Facial Acupuncture

Posted on: June 22nd, 2022 by TouchStone Health

Acupuncture, the age-old Chinese practice of stimulating specific sites on the body and face, is still a prevalent treatment in Asia and also has become more mainstream throughout the world.

Today, it is gaining popularity in Western countries to treat not just aches and pains but also prevent illnesses. Many studies have shown how acupuncture can treat asthma, allergies, chronic pain, and even fertility issues.         

One of the most recent studies indicates that acupuncture can be an anti-aging therapy. Acupuncture increases blood flow and stimulates the production of collagen. Collagen is the key structural element in keeping your skin smooth and refined. It is a protein that makes up most of your skin. Without it, your skin will be saggy and wrinkled. 

Improving your collagen levels will make your skin tighter. It makes you look and feel younger because of the overall well-being it gives.  

Acupuncture will improve blood flow to your skin. It stimulates collagen production, making your skin healthy and firm. As a result, you will have healthier and younger-looking skin.      

Facial Acupuncture

If you can reap all of those benefits from acupuncture, why not use it for facials? Regular acupuncture is proven to help you reverse certain conditions such as fine lines, wrinkles, skin discoloration, lack-lustre skin, puffiness, and toneless facial muscles. Facial acupuncture helps get softer and even skin, a glowing face, and relaxes the facial muscles. It gained popularity due to  its effectiveness and convenience.  

Who Can Benefit from It? 

All ages from 18 to 80 can benefit from facial acupuncture. It can also  be very helpful for rosacea, acne, facial pain, sinus issues, jaw pain and conditions such as Bell’s Palsy.

If you want to try the benefits of facial acupuncture for yourself, you should get in touch with Touch Stone Health. We can bring out your inner glow, so schedule an appointment now!

Everything You Need to Know About Fertility Acupuncture

Posted on: June 9th, 2022 by TouchStone Health

The Link between Acupuncture and Fertility

As acupuncture regulates reproductive hormones and increases blood flow to the uterus and ovaries, it positively affects fertility. Increased blood flow can improve the body’s response to therapy and embryo implantation. 

Fertility acupuncture’s advantages also go beyond the physical. Acupuncture is an effective therapy for anxiety and depression. Infertility treatments may be emotionally draining for anybody who has gone through it. 

To assist patients in coping with the ups and downs of therapy, acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system and produces neurochemicals that enhance emotions of well-being.

When Should You Consider Acupuncture?

Acupuncture can help with fertility health at any stage. We encounter patients attempting to have a family naturally and individuals who are employing cutting-edge technology to aid in their fertility (IVF, IUI, etc.). 

It’s never too early to begin improving your health and happiness. Acupuncture can help boost fertility, relax the nervous system, and reduce stress and worry at any stage, including when undergoing diagnostic testing and weighing your treatment options.

What Should You Expect in an Acupuncture Session?

After completing a health history form, your Registered Acupuncturist will spend time getting to know you. You’ll go through the form together and ask you questions about your reproductive journey and your general health and well-being. Your pulse and examine your tongue, both of which are traditional diagnostic tools in Chinese medicine. With this information, a treatment plan is created unique to you.

You may lie quietly for 20-25 minutes after the needle is inserted in a warm, dimly lit environment with pleasant music playing. Sometimes acupressure or moxibustion (herbal heat therapy) is applied while the needles are in. 

How Often Should You Get a Session?

According to new research, women who receive acupuncture regularly have better outcomes, which means more pregnancies and live deliveries. We recommend scheduling an acupuncture appointment to discover whether it is right for you. 

Your practitioner can devise a treatment plan that is both practical and appropriate for your unique health needs and your time and budgetary limits.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is one of the best ways to increase your chances of a successful pregnancy and delivery. It is a safe, effective, and natural treatment that can be used to improve your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy, happy baby.

Are you looking for acupuncture in Waterloo? TouchStone Health offers acupuncture, naturopathic, chiropractic, and massage therapy. Schedule an appointment today.

How to Prepare for Your Very First Acupuncture Appointment

Posted on: May 13th, 2022 by TouchStone Health

Although acupuncture has existed since ancient times, it wasn’t until the 1970s that it has been accepted in mainstream society. But as more and more people experience its benefits, the number of patients seeking acupuncture is also increasing. 

If you have set an appointment for acupuncture for the very first time, you are likely a bit nervous. After all, you wouldn’t know what to expect from a treatment that is so different from what you are used to. To help you prepare for your first appointment, here are some of the things you need to do before your session:

Eat Light Food About Two Hours Prior to Your Appointment

It is important to have a light meal about an hour or two hours before your appointment. Consume a well-balanced meal without overeating. You may also ask the practitioner to recommend a diet that is suitable for your condition.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated leading into your appointment is also important. It is recommended that you drink approximately 8 glasses of water a day. 

Choose Clothing That Wil Make You Comfortable During the Session

Make sure your clothes are loose and not restrictive. Wear clothes that are easy to roll up to the knees and elbows. Not to worry if you don’t arrive wearing loose clothing. Blankets and sheets are used to drape to keep the body warm and covered.

Prepare to Share Your Full Medical History 

It is important that you inform the practitioner about your complete medical history. Before your appointment, you will fill out an Initial Intake Form which includes a medical history and a place to explain your symptoms you are experiencing. 

Stay Away From Alcohol and Minimize Caffeine

Avoid consuming alcohol and minimize caffeine intake before your appointment. Caffeine is present in coffee, tea, and various carbonated drinks, while alcohol is present in beer, wine, and liquor. You can ask the practitioner if there are other things you should avoid before your appointment.

Conclusion

You may not know what to expect when you get your first treatment from a Registered Acupuncturist or Naturopathic Doctor. However, most people are wonderfully surprised on how relaxed and comfortable acupuncture treatments are! Don’t be surprised if you have a nice little nap during treatment.

When you’re ready to benefit from acupuncture in Waterloo, TouchStone Health is here for you. Our Registered Acupuncturist and Naturopathic Doctors can provide you with a healing experience unlike any other. Schedule an appointment today!

The Numerous Ways Acupuncture Can Benefit Your Body

Posted on: April 29th, 2022 by TouchStone Health

The human body is capable enough to heal on its own most of the time. However, our lifestyles are often preventing that and natural healing is discouraged. While it is true that modern-day medicine is important and we should never neglect it if needed, we should also help encourage our body to enter a state where natural healing is encouraged.

Many Chinese medicine practices embody this practice of natural healing. One Chinese medicine practice that has gained traction is acupuncture.

What Is Acupuncture?

If you don’t know what it is, then you are missing out. Acupuncture is the practice of sticking needles into the body as a means of moving the energy and getting it flowing throughout the human body.

The needles are not stuck in random places. Rather, there are what is referred to as “meridians.” The concept of meridians is not new in Chinese medicine, and it refers to a network of systems wherein the energy, referred to as “qi” flows.

Over the body, there are 12 meridian points. The needles used in acupuncture are stuck into these points to enhance the movement of the qi.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

One common concern among many is whether acupuncture hurts or not. The truth is, acupuncture does not hurt! A lot of times, you won’t even feel the needle going inside. The needles are very thin, often not larger than a strand of hair, and you should not feel them at all. Additionally, the points targeted are often not too susceptible or sensitive to pain.

What Are the Benefits of Acupuncture?

There are numerous benefits to getting acupuncture done. These benefits include the following:

1. Reduces Joint Pain

Acupuncture is known to release stress and tension at certain points of the body. It alleviates pain and reduces stiffness all throughout our joints. It is a great way to relieve your body without having to use any sort of drugs.

2. Helps with Migraines

If you are one to be a victim of migraines, you know how annoying they can be. They can get in the way of your work and responsibilities. Studies have shown that acupuncture can significantly reduce migraines. This works by acupuncture targets areas with nerves that trigger a response by releasing endorphins and other hormones in the body, reducing the impact of migraines and headaches.

3. Improves Mental Focus and Performance

There may be times when our brain gets a little foggy. These moments are often a result of stress and could affect you greatly. Acupuncture helps with getting your energy flowing throughout the body, revitalizing you and your brain. It helps you with getting your focus back and your ability to concentrate.

4. Better Sleep

Because acupuncture helps you relax and balances out the energy in your body, you are able to get into a pattern where your sleep is much better. Feelings of anxiety and overthinking are greatly reduced with an acupuncture treatment, which allows you to go to sleep peacefully during the nighttime. Proper sleep will improve your life in more ways than you know.

Conclusion

If you are still a non-believer, you should give acupuncture a try. It has multiple benefits and is known to be an effective way of making you feel better. Chronic headaches and body pain can easily be reduced by acupuncture. However, we do not encourage neglect of modern-day medicine, especially for major illnesses. It is still important to speak with a medical professional for illnesses that require intensive treatment.

If you want to get acupuncture in Waterloo, Canada, then you can visit TouchStone Health. At TouchStone Health, we believe in a holistic healing process as we offer not only acupuncture, but also chiropractic services, massage therapy, and even counselling. Get in touch with us to book an appointment.

Preparing for Labour with Acupuncture

Posted on: September 3rd, 2021 by Anna Totzke

Anna Totzke, Registered Acupuncturist

Research shows that Pre-Birth Acupuncture Treatments have many positive effects including:

-A shorter duration of labour

-35% reduction in medical inductions

-32% lower cesarean rates

-31% reduction in requests for epidural

-An overall increase in natural vaginal deliveries

For Research: https://touchstonehealth.ca/…/acupuncture-in-pregnancy/

TUINA – ACUPRESSURE BODY WORK

Posted on: May 3rd, 2021 by Anna Totzke

By Anna Totzke, Registered Acupuncturist

Tuina is a type of bodywork based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. Tuina focuses on the pathways in the body called meridians to help encourage circulation in the body. Acupressure is also applied to acupuncture points to promote healing. Depending on the client’s constitution and concern, various Tuina techniques are used to help the body to heal by either: unblocking, nourishing, warming/cooling, dispersing/gathering, stimulating/calming, and helping with circulation throughout the body.

I enjoy applying Tuina along with cupping, acupuncture, or moxibustion but is a wonderful and effective treatment on its own. Tuina is also a great option for people that would prefer a needle-less treatment or a more hands-on approach.

Tuina Can Help With:

Muscle and Joint Pain and Weakness: Back pain, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, cervical spondylosis, wry neck, chronic neck and shoulder tension, back pain, sciatica, leg pain, hip pain

Menstrual / Fertility: PMS and menstrual problems, painful periods, irregular menstruation, amenorrhea, fibroids, infertility

Digestive: Digestive & inflammatory bowel conditions (IBS, colitis, constipation, diarrhoea, Indigestion, poor appetite, epigastric pain, abdominal pain)

Head / Sinus Issues: Headaches and migraines, Sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, facial paralysis, toothache, teeth grinding, TMJ issues

Respiratory / Chest: Palpitations, angina, cough and asthma, plumstone throat, rib tightness

Emotional / Mental: Stress, depression, anxiety, insomnia 

Helpful Resource

Posted on: April 21st, 2020 by TouchStone Health

From: Anna Totzke, R. Ac.

Yoga for Upper Back, Neck, and Shoulders

During the last month or so I’ve been missing my regular massage, chiropractic, and acupuncture/cupping treatments. I found this yoga video that really helps with upper back, shoulder and neck tension. It is also super relaxing! Enjoy!

Helpful Resource

Posted on: April 7th, 2020 by TouchStone Health

by: Anna Totzke, R. Ac.

Acupressure is a wonderful tool that can be can be used to help ease tension in the body. It is easy to use and you can apply on yourself anytime. Here are a few videos that demonstrate how acupressure can be used to relieve headaches:

Please be sure to wash your hands and face before and after you do apply the acupressure points. If you are currently pregnant, please only use the facial points.

For tension headaches:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2J8Ue5i5wDI

For different types of headaches:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NX1N6r17IY

 

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