Alchemy Wellness Centre

Unlock Hip Mobility to Alleviate Back Pain and Enhance Overall Wellbeing as You Age

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 08:18:00 GMT

As we age, mobility tends to decrease. Hip mobility in particular, is extremely important as it allows us to do so many tasks and movements that we take for granted. It effects balance, one’s ability to walk, run, lift, and twist. Acting as shock absorbers, hip mobility prevents strain on the back, hamstrings, knees, ankles and feet. Improving hip mobility can remedy many types of pain, especially lower back pain. It can improve one’s overall biodynamics, effecting posture and even improving athletic performance. Golfers know that tight hips can effect their golf swing. Boxers and martial artists know that power to generate forceful punches and kicks, comes from the hips. Improving hip mobility offers so many immediate benefits. But, perhaps the most important reason of all to improve hip mobility is that it can help you live longer, and maintain a higher quality of life as you age.

A recent study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports found that better joint mobility and flexibility is associated with a longer lifespan. The study spanned over 28 years, with approximately 3,000 participants. The study also claims higher mobility and flexibility were associated with lower likelihood of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer in both men and women.

Sitting for hours, tends to be one of the main reasons for tight hips. School, and many jobs require us to sit for extended periods of time. There are over 15 muscles around the hip area working together to allow for full range of motion in the hips. Any tightness or restriction in one or several of the muscles will impact range of motion. Reduced range of motion increases stress on back muscles, hamstrings, the groin, and other joints.

In previous video blogs, I have shown you some simple exercises to improve hip mobility, such as wall squats, and seated waist rotations. Today, I want to share another exercise that I believe to be the best for hip mobility. It also has so many other positive effects on many other muscle, tendon, and ligament groups that you would not typically think would be associated with the hips. Such as, pain or tension in the muscles between your shoulder blades. It even helps with calf cramping, and sciatica.

The exercise in this video is a variation of a stance used in Shaolin Martial arts and Tai Chi. It is called Pu Bu (仆步), which translates as flat stance. It is also sometimes referred to as drop or crouching stance. Please keep in mind that your hips may be too tight to be able to do this stance fully. Just slowly work at it. Do not push yourself to the point of pain, as this will only cause injury. If you are extremely inflexible, I would encourage you to start with modified wall squats, before trying this variation of Pu Bu.

Also, you do not have to do every part of this stretch shown in the tutorial video. Just do what feels good, and gradually add more over time, as it becomes easier.

I hope this exercise is included as a part of your daily routine. Do it now to remedy or prevent pain and injuries. Do it continuously to maintain independence and a high quality of life as you age. Good hip mobility is crucial for maintaining the ability to perform daily tasks, that involve bending, reaching, and squatting. It significantly reduces the risk of falling, and prevents joint degeneration, arthritis, and impingement.

References:

Araújo, C.G.S. et al. (2024) ‘Reduced body flexibility is associated with poor survival in middle‐aged men and women: A prospective cohort study’, Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 34(8). doi:10.1111/sms.14708.

Smith, J. et al. (2022). The Impact of Hip Mobility on Function and Quality of Life in Sedentary Older Adults. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 30(3), 123-135.

Johnson, R. et al. (2021). Hip Mobility and Fall Risk: A Systematic Review. Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy, 44(2), 98-105.

Wilson, K. et al. (2020). The Influence of Hip Mobility on Posture and Low Back Pain in Older Adults. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 32(12), 903-908.

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located in Bangalow in the Byron Bay hinterland of New South Wales Australia.

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. He is also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant. RJ’s area of special interest is in the treatment of stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

Katrina Hillis specialises in Neuro-Energetic Kinesiology. She assists her clients in personal transformation by balancing the stress held in the physical, emotional, biochemical and energetic structures and functions of the body.

Best exercise for Hip Mobility

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located in Bangalow in the Byron Bay hinterland of New South Wales Australia.

Harnessing Breath: A Simple Technique to Boost Immunity Against Allergies and Autoimmune Conditions

Sun, 25 May 2025 06:44:00 GMT

This simple exercise using the breath has amazing effects on relieving allergy symptoms, improving the immune response to both colds/flus, and for many auto-immune conditions.

In Chinese Medicine, these conditions are referred to as “wind”. There are two kinds of wind conditions. External and Internal. Wind is characterized by symptoms associated with pathogenic factors such as germs, microbes, pollen, etc, that cause symptoms that come and go. You can think of it like things that are transported in the air, and like the wind, they come and go.

External wind refers to conditions such as colds/flus, allergies, and some kinds of muscle aches or spasms, that occur suddenly. You may have experienced such muscle aches accompanied with the early signs of a cold or flu.

Internal wind refers to more chronic conditions that come and go, such as some types of auto-immune conditions, where inflammatory immune responses result in “flare ups”. These flare-ups can be seasonal, or seem entirely random.

This particular breathing exercise increases levels of Nitric Oxide. Nitric Oxide is a type of gasotransmitter that is generated by phagocytes (monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils). These are the cells associated with the immune system that protect the body by ingesting harmful foreign particles, bacteria, and dead or dying cells. Nitric Oxide is toxic to bacteria, and intracellular parasites.

Gasotransmitters consist of 3 types of gaseous signaling molecules, Nitric Oxide, Carbon Monoxide, and Hydrogen Sulfide, that all rely on oxygen to perform their functions. These molecules bind with gasoreceptors and trigger signaling in cells.

In simplified terms, gasotransmitters are how cells communicate; regulating protein synthesis, and all the various systems in the body, such as the Immune, Cardiovascular, Nervous, and Gastrointestinal systems. It is also what some researchers believe can be directly translated as “Qi” 氣 in Chinese Medicine, and what is regulated by acupuncture and herbal medicine. The literal translation from Chinese to English of Qi/ 氣 is gas, air vapor.

Recent research has shown elevated levels of Nitric Oxide in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of acupoints, and acupuncture channels in rats. This elevation is associated with an enhanced expression of Nitric Oxide synthase. Additionally, studies have demonstrated significantly higher concentrations in some specific acupoints, compared to non-acupuncture channel control areas in humans. These findings suggest that Nitric Oxide signaling molecules contribute to the specificity of acupoints, and may play a role in the mechanisms of acupuncture, including pain relief via Nitric Oxide causing vasodilation, increasing blood flow, and carrying natural analgesic substances in the blood.

Additionally, gasotransmitters are produced by gut microbiota. The gasotransmitters produced by the gut microbiota can influence immune system regulation, respiratory conditions, the nervous system, and various neurological conditions. Chinese herbal medicine modulates the gut environment, which like acupuncture may have an effect on gasotransmitters, and may be an important aspect of the medicine.

Certain breathing techniques can influence the regulation of gasotransmitters in the body, effecting different systems. The particular one I am showing you now, regulates the immune system. Other techniques can be used to help to regulate the nervous system, and hormones. Breathing techniques that regulate gasotransmitters are powerful tools that anyone can use to help manage stress and anxiety, and hormonal imbalances. I will share other techniques for different purposes in future articles.

Out of the three known gasotransmitters, two are emphasized in breathing techniques to elicit a response in the body, Nitric Oxide, and Hydrogen Sulfide. The amounts of these gaseous molecules vary in the body. Low amounts are considered beneficial, while absence of, or excessive amounts are toxic. Balance is the key, and is important to consider when choosing particular breathing techniques to manipulate dosage of these molecules. Both Nitric Oxide and Hydrogen Sulfide cause smooth muscle to relax, resulting in vasodilation and increased blood flow.

However, Nitric Oxide causes a heating response in the body, whereas Hydrogen Sulfide causes a cooling response. Nitric Oxide effects large blood vessels more, while Hydrogen Sulfide effects smaller blood vessels. Higher doses of Nitric Oxide stimulate the Sympathetic Nervous System, which is responsible for the body’s fight or flight response. This response prepares the body for immediate action, and triggers the release of stress hormones, increased blood glucose levels, and heightened alertness. Whereas higher doses of Hydrogen Sulfide stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes rest and digestion.

The breathing technique featured here, increases Nitric Oxide; regulates the immune system, warms the body, and opens the pores to stimulate sweating. Use it when you have early symptoms of a cold or flu, sinus allergies, post-nasal drip, or are suffering from an auto-immune condition.

For acute conditions, you can do this technique as many times as you would like.

For Chronic conditions, do it two times per day.

The breathing technique consists of the following:

1). Sit upright, inhale as deeply as possible and hold for a minimum of 30 seconds (go longer, if this is too easy).

2). Exhale through the nose, and make a humming sound, trying to make a vibrational sensation in your nose. When you completely exhale, go directly into inhaling as deeply as you can again.

3). Repeat this at least 8 times.

By the 8th time you should be feeling hot, especially in the face and neck; ideally with some perspiration. Please note, that some people (especially those with autoimmune conditions), do not sweat easily, and it may take several sessions before sweating eventually occurs.

Please try this powerful gasotransmitter therapy for the immune system. I hope your find it extremely useful!

References:

Ma SX. Neurobiology of acupuncture: Toward CAM. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2004;1:41–47. doi: 10.1093/ecam/neh017. [ DOI ] [ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

MA SX. Nitric Oxide Signaling Molecules in Acupuncture Points: Toward Mechanisms of Acupuncture * Chin J Integr Med. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2018 Jan 10. Published in final edited form as: Chin J Integr Med. 2017 Oct 28;23(11):812–815. doi: 10.1007/s11655-017-2789-x

Hoffmann A, Gloe T, Pohl U, Zahler S. Nitric oxide enhances de novo formation of endothelial gap junctions. Cardiovasc Res. 2003;60:421–430. doi: 10.1016/j.cardiores.2003.04.001. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

Cayabyab FS, Daniel EE. K+ channel opening mediates hyperpolarizations by nitric oxide donors and IJPs in opossum esophagus. Am J Physiol. 1995;268(5 Pt 1):G831–G842. doi: 10.1152/ajpgi.1995.268.5.G831. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

Javid PJ, Watts SW, Webb RC. Inhibition of nitric oxide-induced vasodilation by gap junction inhibitors: a potential role for a cGMP-independent nitric oxide pathway. J Vasc Res. 1996;33:395–404. doi: 10.1159/000159168. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

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Ma SX, Li XY, Sakurai T, Pandjaitan M. Evidence of enhanced non-enzymatic nitric oxide generation on the skin surface of acupuncture points: An innovative approach in humans. Nitric Oxide: Biol Chem. 2007;17:60–68. doi: 10.1016/j.niox.2007.05.004. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

Ma SX, Li XY, Smith BT, Lim N. Changes in nitric oxide, cGMP, and nitrotyrosine concentrations over skin along the meridians in obese subjects. Obesity. 2011;19:1560–1567. doi: 10.1038/oby.2010.294. [ DOI ] [ PMC free article ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

Easy Remedies for the Cold and Flu

Sun, 17 May 2020 02:57:00 GMT

Dr. R.J. Singer (Chinese Medicine) shows a few different methods to help you quickly recover from the common cold and flu.

These methods are to be used at the earliest signs and symptoms. The sooner they are used, the better the results.

Do not do the sweating method, if you have had symptoms for more than 48 hours, or when the cold or flu symptoms have gotten deeper into the body and started to effect the respiratory system. By that time, it is too late. Sweating will weaken your body too much, possibly making your symptoms worse.

You can do the QiGong method at any stage. While it is best to still try and do the exercise at the earliest stage of illness, it can still strengthen the immune system and help stimulate the respiratory system during any stage.

Click here for more free videos, and to download guided Mp3 practices.

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located in Byron Bay, NSW Australia

Improve Digestion, Gas/Bloating, Menstrual Cramping with Rou Fu Abdominal Massage.

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 04:39:00 GMT

揉腹 Rou Fu translates as "Kneading the Belly", and this is a special massage technique that originates from Shaolin Temple. It is used to cultivate inner strength. It is especially good for digestive problems, and abdominal issues, such as gas, bloating, IBS, menstrual cramps, etc. It also calms down the nervous system.

When done in a deep QiGong state it cultivates Zhong Qi (Central Qi), and allows it to permeate the fascia and mesentery . Zhong Qi is defined as the post-heaven Qi derived from food being transformed into energy by the Pi and Wei (Pancreas and Stomach). Zhong Qi is located in the Middle Jiao, which is the centre of the body, and responsible for digestion. It is a very easy, and comfortable method which can be done seated, or lying down.

Try to do this every day for a minimum of 30 minutes and for 3 months. If you do it lying down, you may fall asleep, and is actually another good method to remedy insomnia.

Click here for more free videos, and to download guided Mp3 practices.

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located in Byron Bay, NSW Australia

How did China Defeat Covid-19 with Chinese Herbal Medicine

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 09:39:00 GMT

As a Chinese Medicine Practitioner, I have been paying a great deal of attention to the Covid-19 outbreak in China over the past several months. There has been a lot of communication and collaboration with Chinese Doctors from all over China, and through out the world. It started spreading like wildfire around the Chinese New Year. Now 2 months later, there are virtually no new infections, and life is starting to return to normal. According to Doctors on the frontline in hospitals in Wuhan, they expect it to be gone by April.

China has a great deal of experience with epidemic diseases. Over the past 2000 years, there have been over 320 large-scale epidemics in China, and all of them were treated with Chinese Medicine. Whole schools of thought, protocols, and formulas to address these epidemics were formulated and added to during this vast length of time. Chinese Herbal Medicine played a huge role in prevention and recovery during the SARS outbreak, and continues to play an important role in the treatment of the current Covid-19 outbreak.

According to Yu Yanhong, from the Chinese government’s National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, “Recovery rates for Chinese patients who were treated at Chinese Medicine only hospitals were one-third higher than those treated in hospitals that used Western medicine.”

Before I give details about what has been used in the hospitals with successful outcomes, I think everyone would benefit in knowing the facts about this disease, and its prognosis.

It is highly contagious, but the majority of infected people have mild illness. It is estimated that this represents 80% of infected patients, and they do not get significantly ill and do not require medical attention or hospitalisation.

Individuals under 18, make up only 2.4% of all reported cases.

Individuals over 60, with pre-existing health conditions, have the highest risk.

Among Hospitalised patients: about 10-20% of them are admitted to ICU.

About 3-10% of patients require intubation

About 2-5% die.

Of those that are hospitalised and require ventilation, and survive the initial phases of the illness, some of them may still require prolonged ventilator support, due to pulmonary fibrosis. As the epidemic progresses, an issue which may arise is a large number of patients unable to wean from mechanical ventilation, and there not being enough machines to provide prolonged care.

The disease progression can be described in 4 stages.

1). No signs and symptoms, and treatment is prevention

2). Early phase and is treated similarly to colds and early stages of flu, with signs and symptoms such as: fever (87.9%), dry cough (67.7%), fatigue (38.1%), runny nose and sputum production (33%), shortness of breath (18.6%), sore throat (13.9%), headache (13.6%), muscle and joint pain (14.8%), chills (11.4%), nausea or vomiting (5.0%), nasal congestion (4.8%), diarrhea (3.7%), coughing of blood (0.9%), and conjunctival congestion (0.8%). These figures come from the WHO China Joint Commission on Covid-19 final report).

3). Pneumonia phase: Difficulty breathing. This is when most patients are hospitalized. This is when the disease could be dangerous. Covid-19 can cause a cytokine storm, which is an uncontrolled and dysfunctional immune response, leading to an overproduction of immune cells and their signaling molecules that then flood the lungs. This causes severe inflammatory disease of the airway and lungs.

4). Recovery: in 80% of cases this is fatigue, dryness of the lungs, and/or a lingering cough.

The Western medical treatment in China consisted of:

Acetaminophen, Aspirin, Ibuprofen

Antivirals: remdesivir, lopinavir, ritonavir

Antimalarial: Chloroquine

Steroids

Immunosuppressant

Ventilator

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)

Western Medicine does not have many effective drugs for fighting viruses and viral infections. Chinese Medicine on the other hand has many herbs that have shown to be antiviral. More than 85% of all patients hospitalized in China with Covid-19 (approximately 60,000 people as of late February 2020), received Chinese herbal medicine with or without western medicine treatments.

The treatment of Covid-19 with Chinese Herbal Medicine is determined by the stage of illness, the pattern of physiological dysfunction/imbalance, and to some degree the patient’s physical constitution. (From here on, it's going to get a bit technical with Chinese Medicine jargon. Don't worry about understanding it, just know I have you covered and am well prepared.)

The disease progression seems to go from no signs and symptoms to that of the typical early signs of a cold of flu, characterised as wind heat, or wind cold invading the exterior.

As the symptoms get stronger, there is also damp excess in the majority of patients that tends to become the dominant type of pathogen.

The pneumonia phase is dominated by patterns of Damp Heat or Damp Cold obstructing the lung. This dampness when causing obstruction can create a heat or toxic fire similar to that of a compost pile. As this fire intensifies, inflammation and fever increase. As the fire enters the YangMing (stomach and large intestine) it can dry and obstruct the bowels further and damage the lung. If the disease continues to progress multiple organ dysfunction follows.

The stages of progression, and treatment strategy throughout the hospitals in China are all similar. The specific formulas may be slightly different or with modifications to address particular symptoms, or regional mutations of the virus.

For the most part, the progression and treatment strategy consists of:

1). Prevention: Herbs that correct a patient’s unique organ imbalance, or a general formula to strengthen Wei Qi (Immunity).

The general formula used in Wuhan is Yu Ping Feng San modified by adding some aromatic herbs to expel damp (such as Hou Xiang, or Pei Lan) (Chen Pi to dry damp), and bitter herbs that are antiviral (such as Guan Zhong, Lian Qiao, and Jin Yin Hua).

2). Early phase: Consists predominately of 3 main patterns:

- Wind-Cold invading the exterior (onset of low grade fever, aversion to cold, chills, headache, tickly throat, sore muscles, no sweat or night sweats).

Use: Modified Ge Gen Tang, or Ge Jie Ji Tang.

- Toxic Heat Attacking the Lung (Fever, aversion to cold, sore and dry throat, dry cough, scanty sputum, sore muscles, weakness, and headaches).

Use: A modified Yin Qiao San with Qing Wen Bai Du San.

- Damp Cold in the Lung (Aversion to cold, no fever or very mild, dry cough, dry throat, fatigue, weakness, chest stuffiness, epigastric distention, nausea, diarrhea).

Use: a Modified Huo Xiang Zhen Qi San with some added damp cold dispersing herbs.

3). Pneumonia Phase: Made up or primarily 4 main patterns:

- ShaoYang Syndrome with Damp (Oscillating fever and chills, cough, absence of wheezing, bitter taste in the mouth, dry mouth, chest stuffiness, stifling sensation, chest and hypochondriac fullness, irritability, nausea or vomiting, no appetite, weakness)

Use: Xiao Chai Hu Tang with San Ren Tang, or Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan

- Damp Heat Afflicting the Lung (No fever or low grade fever, dry cough, scanty sputum, dry and sore throat, fatigue, weakness, poor appetite, chest stuffiness, epigastric distention, nausea or vomiting, loose stool).

Use: Modified Ma Xing Yi Gan Tang, Xiao Xian Xiong Tang, and Cao Guo Zhi Mu Tang.

-Toxic Stagnation Blocking the Lung (Cough, stifling sensation, stuffiness and distention in the chest, asthma and wheezing that worsens with exertion, accelerated respiration, thirst, irritability, reddish yellow urine).

Use: Bai Hu Jia Ren Shen Tang with Si Tu Tang.

-Closed Interior and Abandoned Exterior Syndrome (Mental incoherence, irritability, burning or heat sensation in the chest and abdomen, cold extremities, accelerated respiration and need for assisted breathing, scarlet purple tongue, dry yellow or yellowish brown coating)

Use: Si Ni Jia Ren Shen Tang, with An Gong Niu Huang Wan and Zi Xue San.

4). Recovery Phase: Absence of fever, dry cough, chest stuffiness, shortness of breath upon exertion, dry mouth, weakness.

Use: Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang.

These stages of progression and treatment with formulas come directly from Hubei Provincial Hospital of TCM and Wuhan Union Hospital, both in Wuhan, China, with translation by John Chen et al, and special thanks to Wang Shi Qi, Cai Xiang, Tang Ying and other doctors that wish to remain anonymous.

At this time we at Alchemy Wellness are remaining open. In the event of possible isolation laws intensifying, we want you to know that we will stay open, and be able to diagnose and treat remotely using skype, and email, and post herbs to you.

If you have any questions or would like to book an exam please contact us at www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au (02) 6685 7577

References:

https://www.elotus.org/promo-files/COVID-19_resources/Can%20Chinese%20Medicine%20Be%20Used%20for%20Prevention%20of%20Corona%20Virus%20Disease%202019%20(COVID-19).pdf

https://www.elotus.org/promo-files/COVID-19_resources/Prevention_and_treatment_of_viral_respiratory.27%20(Epoch%20Times).pdf

https://www.elotus.org/promo-files/COVID-19_resources/Ruan2020_Article_ClinicalPredictorsOfMortalityD.pdf

https://www.elotus.org/promo-files/COVID-19_resources/Toona%20sinensis%20Roem%20tender%20leaf%20extract%20inhibits%20SARS%20coronavirus%20replication%20-%20ScienceDirect.pdf

https://www.elotus.org/promo-files/COVID-19_resources/WHO-China-Joint-Mission-on-Covid-19-final-report.pdf

https://www.theage.com.au/national/chinese-solution-melbourne-s-chinese-medicine-stores-sell-out-after-beijing-spruiks-covid-19-benefits-20200317-p54b09.html?fbclid=IwAR3NmznhApmsRj1jl88xqXdBu-mM58MYf8QlFWFvC5OGlFPxe23oktlIuaA

https://www.elotus.org/promo-files/COVID-19_resources/Handbook_of_COVID_19_Prevention_en_Mobile.pdf

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located in Byron Bay, NSW Australia

What diet is the best? Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Ketogenic? The Secret to Using Food as Medicine!

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 07:08:35 GMT

There seems to be 3 main categories when it comes to researching diets, and strong emotional reactions to the question of which diet is the healthiest.

They are the following:

1). The Mediterranean diet

2). The Vegetarian diet

3). The Ketogenic diet

Most other popular diets could be described as subtypes of the 3 listed above. The subtypes vary by degrees in philosophy, but overall they can all still be classified under the general heading of one of the 3 diets listed above.

There are a few characteristics that all of these diets have in common. They all emphasize pure ingredients consisting of whole foods in as fresh and natural a state as possible. They also all share one other important characteristic. They all include a large portion of vegetables in the diet. The difference therefore lies in the inclusion or exclusion of meat, or grains.

Are all of these diets healthy then? One of them surely has to be the best? Before answering that question, we must first ask another very important one.

What is out of balance in my body?

When you know the answer to that question, it is very clear which diet is the best for you at this time in your life.

1). Mediterranean diet:

Let’s first examine the Mediterranean diet. It is representative of most farming cultures around the world. The Mediterranean diet is high in complex carbohydrates consisting of grains, and or root vegetables, which typically take up half the portion of a typical meal. The remaining half, then consists primarily of mixed vegetables, and a smaller portion of animal protein, fat, and spices. In Chinese Medicine terms this diet is considered as being fairly balanced. It is high in foods that contain a lot of energy, and nourishment, and contains a large portion of vegetables that contain fiber and help encourage transportation and circulation in the body. However, the large amount of high caloric nutritionally dense foods are suitable for people that are physically active either through work (as in traditional agrarian societies), athletic exercise, or for growth and regeneration. This sort of diet is best suited to growing children, athletes, and people that are moving all day long. Individuals who do a lot of aerobic exercise will feel exhausted if they do not include grains, and or root vegetables.

Conversely, individuals that do not get a lot of exercise will be consuming too many carbohydrates that metabolize in the body as sugar, and when not burned are stored as fat. In Chinese Medicine this excess of nutritionally dense, moistening foods will accumulate as damp, and phlegm in the body. When damp and phlegm accumulate it obstructs yang, and makes people tired. The damp and phlegm encourages the growth of bad gut bacteria. This is probably the most common health problem associated with the western diet in industrialized countries, caused mostly by refined sugar, white flour and grains. For many people that sit at desks all day long, and get very little exercise, the Mediterranean diet, high in complex carbohydrates, is unhealthy.

The body type of a person that typically thrives on a Mediterranean diet will most likely be in Chinese Medicine terms a Wood type: thin, sinewy, muscular, energetic, and slightly nervous in temperament. Physically, they will look something akin to a long distance runner.

Traditionally, this is what most agrarian societies look like, from working in the fields, walking up and down mountainsides, and doing hard physical labor.

The Mediterranean type diet then is one that builds and accumulates yin, and is most suitable for people that have a Chinese Medicine diagnosis of Liver Yang hyperactivity, Yin Deficiency, or Blood Deficiency, and sometimes Qi Deficiency.

2). Vegetarian diet:

The vegetarian diet eliminates the animal protein portion of the Mediterranean diet. It consists then of 50% grains and root crops, and 50% other vegetables. Animal protein is very warming, and nutrient dense. Therefore the absence of animal protein makes this diet the most Yin; cooling, dispersing, and cleansing of the three types. However, there is a high risk of imbalanced eating while on this diet, especially with tendencies to eat too much refined flour, sugar, bread, and pasta. A raw vegan diet that eliminates sugar and carbohydrates also makes this diet even more cooling and dispersing. Therefore it is easy to damage one’s digestive fire with too many cooling and dampening foods. It is important then that warming spices such as ginger, garlic, cardamom, and chilies be added to meals, and that meals are cooked and served warm.

Following a Macrobiotic version of a vegetarian diet can help ensure a person is a balanced vegetarian. If a vegetarian or vegan shows further signs of weakness and fatigue they will need to add more warming foods that are rich in protein, such as nuts, and fermented organic soy products. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to maintain a long-term healthy pure vegetarian diet, as it is very difficult to get B12, and conjugated linoleic acid. Both of which are essential to a healthy nervous system, cardiovascular system, and as a cancer preventative. For this reason vegetarians are encouraged to eat eggs, and/or raw dairy products, and/or fish. Some evidence suggests Sha Ji (Sea Buckthorn Berry) contains as much Vitamin B12 as animal liver, however it is not clear whether it can actually be assimilated in the body. Mushrooms are the only vegetarian source of conjugated linoleic acid, and it is recommended they be consumed regularly.

Since a vegetarian/or vegan diet is the most cooling, and dispersing of the diets, it is not surprising that diets such as Gerson therapy (juicing) have been used to combat certain types of tumours, and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.

The body type for a person that would do well on a vegetarian diet are those of the Chinese Medicine Fire type: Those with strong builds, red faces, restlessness, thirst, hypertension, and inflammatory conditions such as gout. The vegetarian diet is well suited to those with too much pathogenic heat, as it is very cooling, and dispersing.

3). Ketogenic Diet:

The Ketogenic diet eliminates grains, and other complex carbohydrates such as root crops. A meal on this diet consists of 50-60% of the plate being animal protein, and the other remainder being mixed vegetables. Although there are variations, often beans, legumes, and dairy products are also eliminated from this diet. The popular Paleolithic diet is included under this category even though it may not produce ketosis, as it is not as rigid in regards to carbohydrate restriction.

The ketogenic diet eliminates large amounts of carbohydrates in order to create a state of ketosis in the body. The goal of this type of diet is to strictly eliminate sugar from being metabolized in the body. When carbohydrates are broken down they metabolize as sugar. While there are different types of sugars, and glycemic indexes, all sugar triggers a pancreatic secretion of insulin. The goal of a ketogenic diet is to have the pancreas favor glucagon secretion over insulin. When this occurs the body stops storing sugar as fat, and instead uses fat as a fuel source.

Therefore in Chinese Medicine terms it is considered a Yang strengthening diet. Grains are considered to be more moistening and dampening with less nutrition than vegetables. The ketogenic diet effectively reduces damp, phlegm, and damp-heat (as long as alcohol, spicy and fried foods are also eliminated). Since animal protein is warming and obstructive, cooling and dispersing vegetables are the preferred pairing to balance this type of diet. Cooling and dispersing vegetables consist primarily of green vegetables, cruciferous veggies including cauliflower, and other green vegetables like celery, zucchini, and cucumbers, etc. As long as the choice of warming and cooling foods remain balanced this diet is beneficial for many health problems.

Many of the chronic illnesses associated with the western diet are caused by pathogenic phlegm, damp and damp-heat. It is not surprising then, that the ketogenic diet has shown to be very effective in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic syndrome type diseases, such as PCOS. This diet has also been used effectively to prevent childhood epileptic seizures, a disease in Chinese Medicine associated with pathogenic phlegm.

The Okinawan diet has gained a lot of attention due to the large population of centenarians. Many articles and publications have described it as a diet that is high in carbohydrates like that of a Mediterranean diet. However on closer inspection, it is actually closer to a Paleolithic diet. They don't eat rice as a staple, preferring to eat primarily a type of sweet potato. The average calorie intake in Okinawa is very low, less than 2100 per day per resident. This is because they eat primarily green vegetables, and animal protein. The Japanese diet is regarded globally as being a high protein diet, due mostly to their large consumption of seafood. The Okinawans’ eat 203% more protein than the national average in Japan, and 309% more green vegetables. Sugars only comprise 26.5% of the Japanese national average.

The typical body type for a person that would do well on a ketogenic diet would be those of a Chinese Medicine Earth or Water type: Large swollen abdomen, a rubbery or puffy appearance, pale, tired much of the time, and may possibly have water retention such as ascites, or edema.

The ketogenic diet and it’s various subtypes such as the Paleolithic diet are best suited to those with a Chinese Medicine diagnosis of damp, and/or phlegm, that may be obstructing the kidneys, or for Spleen and Kidney Yang deficiency with damp excess.

While it is less cooling and dispersing than the other two diets, it can also be suitable for those where damp, and/or phlegm block Qi and produce signs of yin deficiency with Yang excess (such as internal wind and heat), when balanced correctly with the appropriate cooling vegetables as in the case of a strict ketogenic diet. Metabolic syndrome disorders tend to fit this sort of pattern and symptoms tend to improve with a ketogenic diet.

The best diet is the one that addresses your own unique health imbalance’s.

Now it should be clear that every diet could be a medicine or a poison depending upon your own unique characteristics and imbalances. The correct diet is the one that addresses your current state of imbalance. While it is good to maintain a strong sense of will power and adhere strictly to a diet for the purpose of rebalancing the body to regain wellness. It is also detrimental to become so fixated that you lose sight of the purpose of a particular diet. For long-term health and longevity, it is important a person remains flexible and adaptable.

Once you have addressed your health imbalance and gained significant improvement, it will most likely be necessary to appropriately adjust your diet. If you blindly adhere to a strict diet and it starts to resemble more of a religion than a tool, you will most likely cause other health imbalances.

If a ketogenic diet is the best choice for your current health condition, at some point you may want to start adding more complex carbohydrates. If a Mediterranean, high carbohydrate diet is appropriate for you, there may be a time as you age, or are more sedentary that it is best to reduce your complex carbohydrate intake. If you are suffering from a severe inflammatory condition, you may want to consider a vegetarian diet for 6 months to 2 years, and then you may want to start eating some animal protein again.

Therefore the best diet, is the one that addresses your current health imbalance.

If you start researching which diet is proven to be the healthiest, you will find evidence that supports or denies virtually every diet imaginable.

Why is it so confusing?

In this 5th part of our series on the Secret to Using Food as Medicine, the question of what diet is the best for health and longevity will be clearly answered.

To read past articles in this series, click on the links below:

Part 1, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine

Part 2, Climate and Genetics

Part 3, Remedy Ailments with the 4 Movements of Qi

Part 4, Protecting Your Stomach

Part 5, What Diet is the Best

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

Katrina Hillis is a Kinesiologist, and a registered Remedial & Relaxation Massage Therapist with AMT, who specialises in helping people overcome emotional issues and life transitions working holistically to balance the body, mind and spirit.

#Whatdietisbest

The Secret to Using Food as Medicine! Part 4 - Protecting Your Stomach.

Tue, 16 Oct 2018 04:18:00 GMT

Now, let's take all the information presented in this series, and put it all together to formulate the best diet for you. There are some general guidelines that everyone must obey to get the best outcome. Primarily, it comes down to one guiding principle: No Matter What, Protect the Stomach and Digestive Function!

No matter what the disease or illness, the process of digestion remains the same. It is our source of transforming food into energy, and is required for all cellular metabolism, and repair. The stomach is thought of in Chinese Medicine as a pot on a stove. It receives food and liquids, that decompose and cook. In order to cook something and transform something, heat is required.

The Pancreas and Spleen are then thought of as the fire under the pot, and a distillation device. They create the fire, and distill the food in the pot, which is metaphorically separated into steam, liquid, and waste products.

In this way food and liquid in the pot (stomach) decompose and are cooked, transforming it into the pure and clear energy required to run the body. The impure remains are sent from the Stomach down to the intestines, where food particles are further transformed, and separated. Some pure is reabsorbed, from the impure, while the remaining impurities are sent downward as waste. So in order for there to be optimal movement, and transformation we must always protect the stomach and digestive fire.

The pot (stomach) loathes dryness, as a dry pot is not very good at cooking. You can easily picture this, when you cook on a stovetop and add cooking oil, or water to facilitate cooking, and put a lid on it. The Stomach function is dependent upon the creation of a mash or soup in its pot.

The Pancreas/Spleen loathes dampness. If the mash overflows, or has too much water it can dampen the fire underneath, and too thick and damp a steam can clog the distillery, and evacuation tubes.

So, the first rule of cooking is always create and help maintain this digestive fire, by creating a 38 Celsius (100 F.) soup in the stomach. This is warmer than body temperature, which is 36.5 Celsius (98.6 F.).

1). Therefore, most people, most of the time should be eating mostly cooked food.

Now, you may be saying cooking destroys nutrients, and raw food is more nutritious, isn’t it better to eat raw food? Well, no one absorbs 100% of any available nutrient in a given food.

While it is true that uncooked food is more nutrient dense, the process of digestion required to unlock the nutrients is difficult. There is no point in eating something that has more nutrition, if you cannot unlock the nutrients and absorb them.

Cooking is a pre-digestion process. The more locked up nutrients are inside the food, the harder it is to digest, and absorb the nutrients. Therefore it is crucial to first unlock it with cooking.

Chilled and raw foods require more energy to transform them into a warm soup, within the pot of the stomach. Not only is the nutrition inside uncooked foods locked away, but cold foods and cold drinks are similar to placing ice cubes in your stomach.

Your body uses energy to create warmth for digestion. It is then easy to see, if you need to expend more energy in heating the stomach, then the net gain in transforming food into energy will be less. If you eat cooked food, or food that is at least room temperature, less energy is required to digest it.

This is why soups, and stews are so nourishing. The closer a food is to a 38 C. soup, the easier it is to digest and absorb the nutrients. This is also why it is important to chew food thoroughly before swallowing. The more it is chewed, the more it is macerated, mixed with liquids, and pre-digested, and looks like a soup or stew.

Different foods require different cooking requirements. Grains, beans, and meat take longer cooking times to break them down, make them edible, and unlock their nutrients. Vegetables should only be cooked long enough to soften them. Lighter vegetables take less time, than thick ones. Thick skinned ones may take longer than thin skinned ones. Many fruits may be eaten uncooked.

According to Chinese Medicine Theory, when foods and liquids are not adequately transformed, it will affect transportation of nutrition, energy, and waste products, creating dampness. Remember the Pancreas/Spleen function is likened to a distillery. If there is too much sludge, there will be stagnant food, dampness, and turbidity clogging the pipes and further damaging the function of transformation and transportation (digestion). The longer this goes on, the worse the function of the distillery.

I want to say one last thing about cooked foods vs. raw foods. Chinese Medicine does not say, people should never eat or drink cold, or raw foods. It just emphasizes protecting the stomach and digestion. Some people have stronger digestive systems than others, and can handle cold and raw food better. Everyone’s metabolism runs at different temperatures throughout the year, following the seasons of nature. During the summer when it is hot outside, it’s ok to eat cooler foods, and drink more chilled liquids. But, it should still be balanced with mostly warm, cooked foods.

2). Don’t over eat.

Over eating puts further strain on the digestion, which often leads to food stagnation, and gumming up and slowing down transformation and transportation. Additionally, since everything we eat contains impurities along with nutrition, the digestive process spends energy to try and separate the useable from the un-useable. Overloading the stomach at each meal, means the body is working harder and expending more energy, than it is getting from the meal. It is best to eat to only 80% full. A good way of measuring portion size is to look at your two hands cupped together like a bowl. Don’t eat more than what can fit inside and level with this.

3). Eat a whole food plant based diet. Protecting the stomach also means eating foods that are easy to digest, and don’t cause a slow-down to transformation and transportation. This means eating meals that are primarily comprised of vegetables, beans, and grains, and some fruit. One should only eat small quantities of meat, oil, and fat. After eating a meal, you should feel satiated, and peaceful, not overly full, bloated, or sluggish.

4). Eat regularly. Our bodies are ruled by circadian rhythms. Most people only pay attention to this when they are jet-lagged, or when they have to reset their clocks for daylight savings. Having regular meals at fixed times each day is best for protecting the digestive function and regulating the metabolism. Big fluctuations, and irregularity can cause all sorts of digestive, and metabolic issues. Chinese Medicine believes eating at regular times keeps the body free from suffering. Eating irregularly also causes people to make poor decisions by choosing convenient unhealthy foods, and overeating because they feel like they are starving.

Additionally, it is best to eat your largest meal at breakfast, a smaller meal at lunch, and the smallest meal at dinner. It is important not to eat a large meal to close to bed time. Sleep is a time for cell repair, and deep rest. If your energy at night is focused on digestion, your body will not be able to deeply rest, and focus on repair, and restoration.

There are a couple of exceptions to eating regularly. The first is to never eat when you are emotionally upset. Emotions can play havoc on digestive processes.

The other exception is occasional fasting, known as BiGu in Chinese. Fasting is a significant topic in classical Chinese medicine and Taoist practices that date back for thousands of years.

5). Use the 5 flavours wisely. After reading the previous articles in this series, you should be very familiar with the actions that the 5 flavours have on the body. When you are in balance, try to stay balanced by eating a diversity of the 5 flavours. Don’t eat too much or too little of one flavour. As you know eating too much of one flavour will favor an environment for gut microbes, and effect one of the 4 movements of Qi.

6). Select foods, and flavours that treat your constitution: We touched on this in part 2 of this series, when discussing the flavours and associated climates.

For example, if you tend to be a person that is thin, wiry or tendentious, short tempered, nervous/anxious, with a red face, feel hot more than cold, and tend to have constipation, dry skin, mouth, and eyes. You most likely are a hot and dry type of person, so avoid foods that are hot, drying, and moving upward. Eat more foods that are cooling, moistening, and move downward.

If you tend to be overweight, or put on weight easily, tend to have poor muscle tone, feel fatigued easily, have mucus, or phlegm, and are prone to skin outbreaks like acne, you are most likely a damp type (can be cold or hot). This means your digestive function is weak and sluggish. It is best to eat foods that are light, warm, and easy to digest, with flavours that have actions of drying and draining, mostly bland, and some bitter.

If you tend to be very thin, anemic, feel cold all the time, fatigued, easily catch colds and flus, you are most likely a cold dry type. Eat more foods and flavours that are warming, and moistening, sweet, pungent, and salty.

7.) Eat according to the season: Refrigeration is one of the biggest world changing events to have ever occurred on our planet, and it only occurred less than 100 years ago. Before refrigeration, not only did people rarely eat cold foods, they ate mostly what was in season, or what could be stored in root cellars, and through pickling, salting, and drying. Fruit and vegetable juices were rare indulgences before refrigeration. Most juices turn to vinegar within days. Now smoothies and juices are ubiquitous and advertised as health drinks. Before refrigeration, people would rarely eat 4–6 oranges in a single sitting, and most certainly not every day. When drinking juices, people are drinking too much nutrition due to the quantity of fruits and vegetables for the digestion to process. This over nutrition, typically results in the formation of phlegm and dampness.

A major emphasis in Chinese medical theory is that the internal microcosm must be in harmony with the external macrocosm. Things change, and we must be adaptable, and follow the rhythms and seasons of nature in order to stay in balance. We should eat a little differently with each season. Before refrigeration it was very easy, because you didn’t have any options other than what was grown and produced locally.

Spring is the season of growth and expansion. It is also typically cool and damp. It is natural to eat more leafy greens, and more bland, pungent, and bitter flavours, and less sour.

Summer is hot and damp. So, we should eat lighter, more cooling foods that are in season, like cucumbers, and watermelon. The best flavours are sour, bitter, and bland.

Autumn is typically warm and dry. Autumn is the time of storage in preparation for winter. Things are condensing, just as metal condenses when it is cold. This is when grains and seeds are ready for harvest and storage. It is a good time to eat more grains, beans, and seeds, as well as flavours that are sour, sweet, and salty.

Winter is the Coldest Season, and the time to eat stored food, like tubers, and root crops; things that are calorically dense and warming. Flavours such as sweet, salty, and pungent.

8). Select foods, and flavours that treat your ailments: Use what you have learned to correct the imbalance.

If it is an acute condition like a cold or flu, then eat flavours that are pungent and move outward to open the pores and sweat the pathogen out.

If you are suffering from a chronic condition, then try to use the 4 movements of Qi, and your signs and symptoms to distinguish what flavours, energies (temperatures), and movements have the opposite function to put you back in balance.

9). Cook in accordance with age and development. Young children are beginners at eating. Their digestive systems are still developing and are easily overloaded. Bad eating habits can develop into imbalances that could affect them for the rest of their lives. They must have food that is warm, cooked, and macerated, with flavours, that are not too extreme. Bland is best.

Rice and grains for babies, the elderly, or the chronically ill, should be cooked longer, and with more water than healthy adults to facilitate easier digesting, and absorption of nutrients. It should also be emphasized that babies, the elderly, and chronically ill should also only eat when hungry.

It is especially easy to overfeed babies, which puts more pressure on their developing digestive systems leading to food stagnation, and colic. Babies should eat, and then fully evacuate before eating again. Signs of overeating are bright red lips, bright red cheeks, and foul smelling stools.

10). Avoid foods that are contraindicated/prohibited for your condition. There are some foods that will make certain conditions, illnesses, or ailments worse, primarily inflammatory conditions. If they are not avoided, things will not improve. Here is a short list of some conditions and the foods that must be avoided:

Red Skin Rashes, such as hives, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and shingles – Do Not Eat - prawns, shellfish, fish, hot chilies, alcohol, coffee, smelly foods, fermented foods, milk, eggs, red meat especially lamb, peanuts, ice water, sugar, salmon, duck, goose, or eggplant.

Gall Stones & Kidney Stones – Do Not Eat – english spinach, tofu, kale chocolate, or soft drinks.

Gout – Do Not Eat – English spinach, beer and alcohol, rich and oily or creamy foods.

Ulcers – Do Not Eat – raw, cold, greasy, fried foods.

Constipation – Do Not Eat – spicy, greasy, fried foods, Do Eat More Vegetables

Diverticulitis, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis – Do Not Eat – raw, cold, spicy, greasy foods, eggplant, or alcohol.

Hypothyroidism – Do Not Eat – raw cabbage, broccoli, kale, radishes, cauliflower, bok choy, (anything in the brassica family must be cooked).

Type 2 Diabetes – Do Not Eat – sugar, fruit, and complex carbohydrates like bread, pasta, and grains.

11). Avoid poisons, processed food, preservatives, food coloring, and additives. Before World War 2, there was very little refrigeration, most people ate a whole food, seasonal diet, everything was organically grown, and most of that was raised on small farms, with grass and pasture for animals to graze. There was virtually no processed food.

After World War 2, many of the chemicals manufactured for war, were put to new uses as artificial fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. With refrigeration, and refrigerated transportation, many seasonal foods became available year round. Convenience food became popular and fashionable, and seen as a sign of progress.

All evidence suggests food that is contaminated by pesticides, preservatives, chemical dyes, and additives, is also not good for long term health and well being. There are more than 1000 active ingredients registered as pesticides, and we are unknowingly ingesting on a daily basis. Research has proven that these chemicals disrupt the endocrine system (hormones) and cause cancer. Certain combinations or pesticides have also been shown to cause Parkinson’s disease. Food preservatives, chemical dyes, and additives also have many adverse affects on the body.

Here is a short list of some commonly used food preservatives and their associated health risks:

Aspartame: artificial sweetener, poisonous even in small amounts, causes brain damage, blindness, inflammation of pancreas and heart muscles.

Calcium Propionate: there is link between this food preservative and behavioral problems in children.

Carbamate: There are measurable detrimental effects elicited on the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems.

FD&C green no. 3: known to cause bladder tumors.

Food Coloring: can cause anaphylactic shock in sensitive individuals.

Gentian Violet CI basic violet no. 3: can cause contact dermatitis.

Hydrolyzed p: A fatty acid, known to cause celiac disease, causing lesions of the small intestine mucosa.

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): reports of dizziness, nausea, a feeling of tightness or pressure in the upper body and chest after consuming food containing it.

Pectin: Large quantities cause temporary flatulence or intestinal discomfort.

Potassium bromate: Large quantities can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and pain.

Sodium aluminum silicate: known to cause placental problems in pregnancy and is also linked to Alzheimer’s.

Sorbitol : can cause gastric upset.

Sulfites: can cause difficulty breathing, as well as stomachache, hives, and anaphylactic shock.

Thiamine: Adverse effects in high doses causing headaches, irritability, rapid pulse, trembling and weakness.

The best way to avoid these poisons, is to buy local organically grown produce, and grass fed, pasture raised meat, eggs, and milk, and return to more traditional food preparation at home. There is no substitute for freshly harvested and wholesome unadulterated foods. One cannot eat anything else and remain healthy and well over the long term!

My hope is that this series of articles about the secret to using food as medicine will help everyone that reads it, and that you put it into practice. The more you start using it, the easier it is to understand. These theories make sense, and more importantly they work. Sometimes things are extremely out of balance, and some diseases may need medical intervention, acupuncture treatments, and herbal medicine. But, if you protect the stomach, and follow these principles, I have no doubt you will see some positive improvements.

If you have any questions, or would like to book an appointment, you can book online , or contact us at www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

In Part 3 of this series, I introduced and explained how to diagnose and formulate a strategy to rectify particular health ailments, and imbalances using the concept of the 4 movements of Qi.

To read past articles in this series, click on the links below:

Part 1, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine

Part 2, Climate and Genetics

Part 3, Remedy Ailments with the 4 Movements of Qi

Part 4, Protecting the Stomach

Part 5, What Diet is the Best

#ProtectYourStomach

The Secret to Using Food as Medicine! Part 3 - Remedy Ailments Using the 4 Movements of Qi

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 04:27:00 GMT

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

In Part 2 of this series, I described how flavours of foods effect our internal climate and how that has a direct effect on the gut micro-biome. There is another aspect of using food as medicine, which is very important to understand and utilise in order to improve health conditions. It is known in Chinese Medicine as the 4 movements of Qi.

Click to read other articles in this series, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine!

Part 1, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine

Part 2, Climate and Genetics

Part 3, Remedy Ailments with the 4 Movements of Qi

Part 4, Protecting the Stomach

Part 5, What Diet is the Best

It is important to understand that the Chinese character 氣 Qi, is contextual and relative. It is used to describe complex physiological processes and relationships. When illustrating the 4 movements of Qi, we are actually talking about how internal physiological processes and relationships interact in the body. This allows us to easily see and comprehend what physiologically is out of balance, and also how to correct it.

The 4 movements of Qi refer to 4 regions of the body:

1). Upper (above the waist)

2). Lower (below the waist)

3). Outside (Skin and Body Surface)

4). Inside (Internal)

If you remember reading part 1 of this series, I mentioned particular flavours of foods have a physiological effect on different parts of the body.

Pungent (Spicy, Aromatic ) flavours have an outward movement, they can induce perspiration and fever.

Sour flavours have in inward movement, they can ease gas and distention, and arrest perspiration.

Bitter flavours have upward movement, they can lift prolapse, and stop diarrhea. ( Bland Flavours slightly lift and dry)

Salty flavours have downward movement, they can relieve acid reflux, vomiting, hiccupping, and headaches. ( Sweet Flavours , slightly descend and moisten).

The image below is helpful in illustrating these movements:

Let’s now look at some common ailments and use the 4 movements of Qi to diagnose an imbalance:

1). Migraines, Chronic Headaches, with High Blood Pressure - They occur above the waist, in the head. The movement of Qi therefore is Rising (upward), and Entering (Inward) pressure. Therefore flavours of Bitter and Sour, will aggravate this condition. Hot/Spicy foods should also be avoided as they have a lifting and rising nature, and can increase the upward movement, even though they have an outward movement being pungent.

The opposite flavours – Salty, Sweet, and Pungent will have a descending and outward movement, and can ease the condition.

2). Acid Reflux and/or Vomiting – They too occur above the waist, but are also exiting. So the movement of Qi in this circumstance is upward and outward. Flavours that would aggravate this condition are pungent, and bitter.

Use the opposite flavours to correct the movement of Qi: Sour, Salty, and Sweet.

3). Diarrhea – This occurs below the waist, therefore the movement is downward. It is also exiting the body through the bowel, therefore it is also an outward movement.

Therefore use foods that will lift and astringe, which have the flavours of Bitter, Sour and Bland.

4). Gas and Bloating – This occurs at midlevel. So we have to investigate a little bit more:

Is it better with inward pressure on the abdomen? If so, we know there is deficiency and exiting (outward movement).

Therefore use sour flavours with an inward movement.

Is it worse with inward pressure on the abdomen? Then we know there is excess, and entering (inward movement).

Therefore, use pungent flavours with an outward movement.

But, if this discomfort is accompanied by constipation, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation, we know there is also an upward movement. So, we need to also use flavours that are descending, such as salty (softens hardness) and sweet (moistening).

If the discomfort is accompanied by hiccupping, and heart burn, this too is a rising movement, and sweet and salty should be used.

However, if there is diarrhea, or prolapse associated with this gas and bloating, we know there is also a descending movement. To counter this we need to lift with bitter, and bland flavours.

5). Common Cold – Occurs from a pathogenic invasion from outside the body to inside. A pathogenic invasion is an inward movement. Therefore the remedy during the initial stages is to expel outwards, and open the pores of the skin, using pungent foods that will facilitate sweating.

It should be mentioned that too much of a particular flavour can have the opposite effect. There is a saying in Chinese, "In order to drop something, you must first raise it up." Coffee is a great example. One cup can make you alert, and give you a lift in energy and spirit. 3 or 4 cups, and it turns into a diuretic, laxative, and can cause perspiration, and anxiety.

To use food as medicine correctly, one needs to have the correct diagnosis. Using the information from this series of articles should help you design the best dietary choices to accomplish your health goals.

As you can see there are many complimentary and corresponding relationships between Flavour, Nature (Energy), and the 4 movements of Qi. For best results, try to design a food remedy and diet based on as much of this information as possible. Use the image above to help you see what properties overlap, and ignore the one’s that don’t match up. In doing so, you will most likely get it right!

Sometimes, things are so out of balance, medicine or medical intervention is required. But, knowing how to use food as medicine can help you recover faster, correct imbalances, maintain well-being, and overcome many chronic ailments.

If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, you can book online or contact us at www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

#Howtousethe4movementsofQi

10 essential items to make a Chinese Medicine First Aid Kit for home and travel

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 06:12:00 GMT

Whether at home, or traveling the world, it's always a good idea to be a little prepared for dealing with acute injuries, allergies, digestive issues and the like. Many people ask me if I have a Chinese Medicine First Aid Kit for dealing with all sorts of possible issues. I have one at home, and offer a Chinese Medicine First Aid Kit to my patients to take with them that is easy to carry wherever they may go. I have put together a list of what I put in them, and what I use them for below, so you can put one together yourself.

1). Yunnan Bai Yao Powder - This little vial of white medicinal powder is amazing for stopping bleeding. It can be applied topically to wounds, or taken internally for ulcers, and intestinal bleeding. It traditionally is carried by soldiers in the Chinese and Vietnamese armies, for battle wounds and internal bleeding.

2). Ching Wan Hung Ointment - This little tube of ointment is remarkable for all kinds of burns (heat, sunburn, radiation, etc). It is amazing at reducing pain and quickening the healing process. I have also found it effective for external hemorrhoids, and dry skin patches such as eczema, and psoriasis.

3). Bee Propolis, and Huang Lian Shang Qing Wan - I use this for acute allergy and asthma attacks for 2-year-olds and up. Bee Propolis works better than Benedryl or other antihistamines to reduce inflammation, and swelling. I prefer the liquid type with a dropper. I tend to drop 10–15 drops in a glass of water and drink it down. It can also be applied directly to nose and ears for acute inflammation. Huang Lian Shang Qing Wan is a Chinese Medicine Formula that reduces inflammation and swelling in the head and sensory organs. I tend to take this after taking the Bee Propolis, as they work very well together. When used in this way, patients are almost always back to normal within 3 to 6 hours.

4). Hou Xiang Zheng Qi San – This Chinese Herbal Medicine is great for acute food poisoning, nausea, and vomiting. It works fast, often stopping nausea and abdominal pain within 30 to 45 minutes.

5). Ge Gen Huang Qin Lian Tang - This is for diarrhea, and food poisoning. It to acts quickly, and you will be very happy to have this in your kit, when necessary.

6). Yin Qiao San, Ge Gen Tang, Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin - These are three formulas that are great for beating the common cold, and flu. They should be taken at the earliest signs and symptoms to knock it out and prevent it from turning into a full-fledged illness. Yin Qiao San is traditionally used for bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract. Use this when you start to get the first tickle in your throat, a temperature, and head congestion. Ge Gen Tang is traditionally used for bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract as well, but the kind where your neck and shoulders tense up, and may start to ache. It is also good for occipital headaches associated with colds and flus. Wu Wei Xiao Du Yin is traditionally used for viral infections, if you have a really sore throat, and swollen glands, and high temperature, this is the formula to take.

7). Pi Pa Gao cough syrup – This is a liquid formula that is great for when a cold has gotten into the lower respiratory tract. When you have symptoms of coughing with lots of phlegm, and yellow mucus, this syrup will ease the cough and clear your lungs.

8). Herbal Medicine Plasters/Heat Patches – These adhesive patches have Chinese Herbal Medicine that can ease muscle, ligament, tendon, and joint pain. They are easily applied and give a warmth to the area, relaxing and reducing inflammation where they are applied.

9). Zheng Gu Shui Liniment – This is a traditional formula used by martial artists for bruising, and bone, tendon, ligament injuries. It helps to circulate blood, reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and strengthen bones, tendons, and ligaments.

10). Jin Huang San (Gao) - This comes in a powder or an ointment. It is used for itchy, red skin rashes, that may also be painful or burning. Perfect for insect bites, rose thorn and gardening scratches, boils, abscesses, furuncles, rashes from plants like poison ivy, and jelly fish stings.

These are my top ten first aid kit remedies. I also include the normal things like gauze, bandages, tweezers, and scissors in my own kits. This Chinese Medicine kit is intended as an emergency kit for first aid. Treatment may still be necessary, but these cover a lot of the things that we normally see and experience every day.

If you would like to purchase a kit from us, or book an appointment with Dr. R.J. Singer (Chinese Medicine), you can book online or contact us at www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

Don't let the sniffles, get you down. Chinese Herbal Medicine can knock out cold's, and flu&

Thu, 03 May 2018 00:39:00 GMT

At some point, we all succumb to the common cold or flu. It often starts with a change in weather, a tickle in the throat, a slight sniffle, may be head and sinus congestion. If not taken care of it can quickly progress to fever, body aches, fatigue, nausea, coughing, phlegm, pain, and difficulty breathing.

But, did you know Chinese Herbal Medicine is amazing at quickly expelling the pathogen and alleviating the symptoms? In most cases, if Chinese Herbal Medicine is taken as soon as the first little signs start, it is quickly resolved, with little to no manifestation of symptom progression. This often works quickly, within 24 to 72 hours, after first experiencing those early signs and symptoms.

Most people ignore the early signs, and the illness progresses rapidly, and often lasts 5 days to 2 weeks, and sometimes much longer. If ignored, this can cause long term problems such as a lingering cough, wheezing, joint pain, a weakened immune system, chronic fatigue, or even life threatening conditions such as pneumonia.

Chinese Herbal Medicine has been used for thousands of years, and refined through evidence based trial and error, and scholarly discourse. It is a living medicine used in hospitals throughout China and often integrated with Western Medicine. The properties of Chinese Herbal Medicine have not gone unnoticed by pharmaceutical companies. Many of which employ the brightest graduates in Chinese Herbal Pharmacology to try to find and isolate chemicals from Chinese Herbal Medicine with historical usages to develop and manufacture new pharmaceutical drugs. One recent example is the Chinese Herb Qing Hao (Herba Artemisiae Annuae) commonly known as sweet wormwood. Qing Hao has traditionally been used to treat malaria, and other signs and symptoms such as fevers, rashes, headaches and dizziness within the diagnostic tradition of Chinese Medicine. Pharmacologists isolated compounds from Qing Hao known as Artemisinins, which have been used since 1973 to develop many anti-malarial drugs.

When I interned in the Traditional Chinese Medicine department at the National Tibetan Hospital in Beijing, many of the Doctors shared their experience in treating the SARS epidemic years earlier with Chinese Herbal Medicine. It was so successful that the Chinese government endorsed and encouraged the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention to administer Chinese Herbal Medicine as stand alone, and adjunct therapy.

It is also widely known that antibiotic drug resistance is growing throughout the world with very few alternatives being developed. Some Chinese Herbal Medicine has been shown in studies to be an effective substitute for Western antibiotics for some viral diseases. Chinese Herbal Medicine is also very effective in treating bacterial conditions, where Western antibiotics are ineffective.

A comprehensive diagnosis by a qualified Chinese Herbal Medicine Doctor is necessary to ensure you are prescribed the most effective medicine to treat your illness. Colds, and Flu’s develop quickly, with differing signs and symptoms. A prescription in the early stages may be very different to one prescribed after the illness has progressed deeper into the body. For example, a fever, and itchy throat will need a different herbal prescription than that of a lingering cough with hot sticky phlegm, and so forth.

For best results, it’s always best to prescribe Chinese Herbal Medicine at the earliest stage possible. While it is a great medicine for nearly any condition, it is always much easier to rectify small problems before they become big problems.

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

Dr R.J. Singer uses primarily Chinese herbal extracts, which are much more convenient than having to cook raw herbs everyday. No burning, no mess, no smells filling up the house, no waiting around, easy to carry with you, if need be. Just add hot water to a couple of spoonfuls, and it's ready to use.

Rest assured that he prescribes the highest quality possible. Do to pollution, and corruption in China, Dr. Singer sources his Chinese Herbal Medicine only from Taiwan, from suppliers that are leaders in quality and safety testing. All Herbal Medicines must pass strict standards and are tested for Species Authentication, Pesticide Residue, Heavy Metals, Sulfur Dioxide, Aflatoxin/Ochratoxin, and Aristolochic Acid. Furthermore, he does not support or condone the usage and trafficking of threatened and endangered species. He can offer documentation of quality control measures and testing to all patients upon request.

Dr. R.J. Singer is a registered Chinese Herbal Medicine Doctor, and Chinese Herbal Pharmacy Dispenser with AHPRA; Registration Number: CMR0001895483

Click here to make an appointment with Dr. R.J. Singer (Chinese Medicine)

Tel: (02) 6687 1276 | www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1885105/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4021599/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17708624

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/201802/23/WS5a8f5390a3106e7dcc13d78e.html

#CurefortheCommonColdandFlu

Is Dry Needling, Acupuncture?

Tue, 24 Apr 2018 01:49:00 GMT

The short answer is YES , anytime someone inserts acupuncture needles in the body they are performing acupuncture. However, Dry Needling is a subtype, and is just one technique used in Acupuncture.

What is the difference between a Registered Acupuncturist, and a Dry Needler?

Acupuncturists are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA). It is actually illegal to claim to be an Acupuncturist or imply that you are an Acupuncturist without being registered. The purpose is to protect the public from negligence, safe needle handling, sanitation, liability insurance, and to ensure continuing education of practitioners. In order to be registered, acupuncturists must undergo 4 years minimum (roughly 3,000 formal education hours) of training and 900 or more hours of supervised clinical practice.

As part of the 4-year degree, acupuncturists must study Western Medical Science, such as Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Biochemistry, and Western Medical Diagnosis, in addition to Chinese Medical Theory, Channel Location, Point Location, Needling Techniques & Contraindications, and specializations such as Traumatology, Internal Medicine, Gynecology, Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, Ear, Nose and Throat, etc.

Dry Needling by contrast is unregistered, therefore anyone can technically perform this without having to undergo any training at all. Dry Needling courses that are offered to Massage Therapists, Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, Chiropractors, and Medical Doctors, consist on average of only 16 hours of training.

Professions (other than Acupuncture) that are registered by AHPRA, are only registered under their particular profession and scope of practice, such as Physiotherapy. They are not registered by AHPRA to perform acupuncture. Acupuncture is outside their scope of practice, and the term Dry Needling is an unregulated loophole, that allows people to skirt around regulation without going to University and doing proper training.

How do I know if I am seeing a qualified and registered acupuncturist for Treatment?

All Acupuncturists must be registered with the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia (CMBA), and will have a unique registration number that starts with CMR followed by a series of numbers.

This number ensures you are in safe hands, and receiving services from someone who is highly trained, skilled, and knowledgeable in Acupuncture.

Acupuncture consists primarily of two categories:

1). Local needling (meaning at or near the site of pain, inflammation, or imbalance)

2). Distal needling (meaning away from the area of pain, inflammation, or imbalance).

All acupuncturists learn both categories while earning their degrees, and most continue to learn more techniques after graduation and most often further specialise in a certain style or lineage.

Dry Needling falls under the category of local needling. This is often the first thing an acupuncturist learns while in school; to look, and feel for trigger points often called AhShi Points which translates as “AHH YES!” tender areas. Dr. Janet Travell, the developer of ‘Dry Needling’ admitted publicly that dry needling is in fact acupuncture, and registered professional acupuncturists practice dry needling as acupuncture therapy, using many methods and criteria to locate trigger points as acupuncture points.

Dry Needling is commonly used for musculo-skeletal issues, such as:

Knee pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel, Tennis Elbow, Headaches, Migraines, Neck/Shoulder Pain, Back Pain, etc.

When dry needling is done, the trigger point must be manipulated to release a twitching response, which can often be quite painful for the patient. This twitching gets the muscles to relax and can give short-term pain relief, but does not address the source of the problem, therefore the pain nearly always returns.

Local needling by an acupuncturist is much more comprehensive than just dry needling trigger points. There are specific acu-points beyond the technique of ‘Dry Needling’ that are used by a registered Acupuncturist to elicit a healing response. These may or may not be considered trigger points, and are learned as part of the comprehensive training an Acupuncturist must learn as part of their rigorous degree. Acupuncturists almost always choose distal points along with local points to address the cause of the pain, or imbalance.

Distal needling is performed, by choosing specific points away from or distal to the pain or imbalance. Distal acu-points exist on standard acupuncture channels, in between channels, and in many microsystems such as Ear acupuncture, Scalp acupuncture, Hand Acupuncture, and Abdominal Acupuncture. Distal Acupuncture works by sending a message to the central nervous system. It tells the brain to increase blood circulation, increase vasodilation, relax tendons, muscles, and ligaments, regulate hormones, and release natural pain-killers such as endorphins, norepinephrine, and enkephalin. Some of these substances are 10–200 times more potent than morphine.

The primary advantage of distal needling is that the patient can have nearly instantaneous pain relief, without having to further aggravate an area that is inflamed. It also allows the patient to move the painful or injured area and test if the acupuncture has successfully reduced the pain. For the most part, distal needling is painless, when compared to dry needling, and since distal needling is training the brain, it is addressing the source of idiopathic pain.

Where did the name Dry Needling come from?

Dry Needling was first developed in the 1940s by Medical Doctors’ Janet Travell and David Simons, when they experimented with a technique using hypodermic needles to stimulate or inject trigger points with drugs and substances such as corticosteroids, analgesics, and saline solution. Janet Travell started using the term Dry Needling for a technique where no substance was injected, in contrast to Wet Needling (an injection of a substance). However Janet Travell noted that hypodermic needles used for acupuncture techniques (Dry Needling) have been used in China since the 1800s, and standard filiform acupuncture needles have been used in China for over 2000 years.

Western based practitioners such as Janet Travell, C. Chan Gunn, Peter Baldry and others recognizing the effectiveness of needling trigger points for myofascial pain relief, began using the term “Dry-Needling” rather than acupuncture to rebrand it using English biomedical terms, as they deemed Chinese Medicine terminology to be ‘mysterious’ and ‘unscientific’. In 1976, Gunn proposed that “as a first step toward acceptance of acupuncture by the medical profession, it is suggested that a new system of acupuncture locus nomenclature be introduced.” He then started replacing acupuncture with the term dry needling in his publications in 1980, and is probably the formal beginning of dry needling popularity in the West.

While the language used in Chinese Medicine may sound strange to people not familiar with the terminology, it is highly sophisticated, and clinically important. Chinese Medicine is Functionally Medicine based, and the terminology is used to find complex physiological relationships and functional imbalances. Conversely, Western Medicine is Anatomically Medicine based, and tends to focus on parts rather than function.

Are you suffering with pain? Click here to book online with Dr. R.J. Singer (Chinese Medicine).

#ProtectYourStomach

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

What is The Best Method To Overcome Stress, Anxiety, PTSD and Depression?... Kinesiology

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 01:56:00 GMT

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

#OvercomingStress #OvercomingStressAnxiety #OvercomingStressAnxietyandDepression

HOW DOES KINESIOLOGY WORK?

Muscle Testing is used to detect stress in the body and mind, by working with the central nervous system it is able to bypass the conscious mind and tap into the subconscious mind, allowing us to examine where, when, how and why stress has occurred and been stored or suppressed throughout our life, so we can explore the hidden parts of ourselves. Once discovered a variety of balancing methods are applied to resolve the stress by acting on the nervous system, for e.g. Acu-points are stimulated.

In Kinesiology we say "the body doesn't lie". We all have memories, beliefs and stories that effect how we perceive ourselves and the world around us. One of the most powerful aspects of Kinesiology is its ability to bypass these subjective ideas and find the root cause, this is where true illumination and transformation occurs.

FOR EXAMPLE

Let's take my client for example, let's call her Lauren - she was feeling stuck and unfulfilled in her job. She knew she needed to make a change but was fearful, & wasn't sure what kind of job to do next, she was feeling financially burdened, stressed out and confused.

Through muscle testing it was revealed that the fear based thinking Lauren was experiencing stemmed from her very early childhood where she was always trying to impress her father, looking to earn his love and approval. In not receiving the love and attention she desired, she developed a belief system that she wasn't good enough. From this root belief system many other 'beliefs' and 'fixations' developed, manifesting in different ways and areas of Lauren's life.

By using muscle testing we were able to discover that in relation to this issue it was the core survival emotions of the Brainstem that had become triggered for Lauren, we located which core survival emotion - in this case it was Fear, and found the precise Neuro-Emotional pathways that the stress was travelling through within the entire brain. The negative belief systems, and the activation of the core survival emotion of FEAR is why Lauren had become 'frozen', unable to make the changes necessary to move forward, too scared of leaving the safety of her job, because of her belief systems that she's not good enough, she was expecting change to bring suffering instead of joy. Lauren had so many layers of stress...that she had lost connection to herself and her purpose.

By stimulating a select series of acupuncture points to get a nervous system response, we were able to diffuse the stress that has been locked away in Lauren's body for her whole life. This process of 'making the unknown known' is a crucial part of the healing in Kinesiology. Not only do we release and balance the stress, but Lauren was able to understand WHY she felt how she felt! How powerful! She was able to see her life and her current situation from a new perspective. At the end of the session, we retest the muscles to ensure that the stress has been dissolved and that the body is now in balance, the body now holds the new belief system.

Through regular Kinesiology sessions Lauren was able to remove the stress she was experiencing around her work situation, and many areas of her life. She overcame her fears, she was able to reconnect with her goals and move into a new and inspiring career.

WHAT IS KINESIOLOGY?

Kinesiology (KIN-ESI-OLOGY) is a modality which can help you to make lasting changes in all areas of your health and well-being. Incredibly safe, gentle and non-invasive, Kinesiology works to navigate to the root cause of your illness by removing the blockages locked deep inside your mind. One of the great things about Kinesiology is the ability to tap into the physical, biochemical and mental aspects of the body, which are all interconnected. Something that affects the mind will cause biochemical and physical signs and symptoms. Kinesiology accomplishes this by combining muscle testing with Traditional Chinese Medicine theory to resolve many health conditions.

HOW CAN I GET THE BEST RESULTS?

Commitment to a series of sessions is recommended, more frequently at first, to retrain the systems of your body back to 100%. Once major goals are accomplished, regular tune up sessions, are a great way of keeping the entire body system healthy, balanced and full of vitality.

Ownership of the healing journey is crucial for transformation. The greatest change comes from within and this is a great time to reflect upon different patterns of behaviour experienced throughout all stages of life. At Alchemy Wellness we support our clients outside of the treatment room with lifestyle advice, Alchemy Elixir Essences and ongoing contact to help facilitate change and transformation at the deepest level. Stress, Anxiety, PTSD and Depression are conditions that have great impact on all areas of life and it's hard to thrive when these dark guests are lurking!

If you or someone you love is suffering with conditions such as Stress, Anxiety, PTSD or Depression and you feel it's time to make lasting positive change, Kinesiology can help you to re-align your health and wellness into everything you wish for. Come back to feeling like yourself, feel calm, balanced and in control. I would love to work with you to help you achieve your goals.

Katrina Hillis offers Kinesiology sessions at Alchemy Wellness Centre in Byron Bay.

Click here to Book online for a treatment session.

The Secret to Using Food as Medicine, Part 2 - Climate and Genetics

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 09:18:00 GMT

In Part 1 of this series, readers were introduced to the basic concepts of using food as medicine. They consisted of 3 things:

5 Flavors - Bitter, Sweet, Pungent, Salty, and Sour (& an extra flavor called light, or bland)

5 Energies - Hot, Warm, Neutral, Cool, and Cold

5 Movements - Upward, Downward, Inward, Outward, and Obstructive

Click to read other articles in this series, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine!

Part 1, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine

Part 2, Climate and Genetics

Part 3, Remedy Ailments with the 4 Movements of Qi

Part 4, Protecting the Stomach

Part 5, What Diet is the Best

To recap, and simplify things, we can use the diagram below:

#FoodFlavoursandGutMicrobiome

Every Ecosystem is dictated by its climate.

Far Northern and Southern Latitudes are Cold and Dry, as are high Altitudes.

Deserts tend to be Warmer and Dryer

Temperate Forests are Cool and Moist

Tropical Rain Forests are Warm and Moist.

Therefore the organisms that live there have evolved to thrive in that environment. Human beings with differing races, cultures and genetics have thrived in the environments they evolved in. Although human beings are extremely adaptable, we genetically carry predispositions to particular climates. We also culturally carry eating habits and recipes that were passed down from our parents and grand parents.

These are traditionally appropriate with the seasons and climate of different areas of the world. In modern times, foods that were seasonal are now available at any time, often flown or shipped from great distances. Additionally, many people have migrated, or can easily travel to distant lands. Often our eating habits remain the same as what is culturally familiar, with little regard to the environment around us. We also tend to be unaware of our genetic predispostions based on evolution in a particular climate. This can adversely affect our health.

As an example, northern europeans traditionally come from a cold environment. A cold environment will require foods that warm the body. Most of these warming foods are calorically dense, fatty and rich. It makes sense to crave foods that store energy in a climate that is wintery, and a time for storage. Central Americans by contrast traditionally come from warm environments, and they eat a diet that is higher in fiber, and starch, such as Maize, and Beans, therefore they crave foods that are lighter, and more in tune with the season of summer, that are cooling.

One person may generally be able to better handle a warming or cooling diet based on their genetics, in that they may not gain or lose weight as easily, or be as effected as strongly when eating what is culturally familiar, but climatically inappropriate. However, ignoring what is climatically appropriate will eventually cause an imbalance in virtually everyone.

Our bodies also contain their own unique ecosystems internally. We have trillions of bacteria, and mico-organisms living inside us. The gut microbiome is a relatively new realm of medical science. Reseachers studying gut bacteria have found that different cultures have different species. Changing a person's diet also changes their species and diversity of gut bacteria.

Different species eat different foods and release gases. These gases change the internal environment in favor of the dominant gut bacteria, so that they can proliferate. Humans do the same thing, we change our environment to make things easier and better suited for us. These gases also effect the nervous system and the internal physiology of a person including metabolism, and hormone regulation. They effect how we eat, drink, exercise, think and react. Making us crave certain foods that they like or need. We literally are what we eat!

This idea of an internal ecosystem has been the primary philosophy of many indigenous natural medicines, especially that of Chinese Medicine for over 2000 years. When a dog is panting or a horse is sweating, we know they are trying to cool down. When a plant is wilting, leaves curled and dried, we know it needs water. We don't need a machine to look inside to tell us what is wrong. Our bodies give us signs and symptoms to encourage us to rectify the imbalance. Most of this knowledge is innate, but if these signs and symptoms are continually neglected, serious health problems ensue.

When our internal ecosystems are healthy, our immune systems are also better able to cope with the outside environment. The effects of climate are not able to penetrate the inside of our bodies, and cause internal changes, from things like an invasion of hot or cold pathogens in the form of germs, viruses and bacterias, or molds and funguses that travel via wind and damp in the form of rain droplets.

How does one use climate principles to heal themselves with food therapy, or retain optimal health?

In order to use food as medicine effectively, one must first know what sort of internal climate is thriving in their gut microbiome

Then:

Choose foods (plants and animals) that thrive in that climate in their natural habitat. For example, plants that grow in a hot and damp environment will be better able to cope with an internal ecosystem that is hot and damp.

Use parts of plants or animals that correspond with that climate. For example, root crops store energy, and hibernate during the winter, and can sprout in the spring. So they are best able to cope with a cold internal environment.

Choose flavours that are opposite to the imbalanced internal environment. Use the diagram above and the principles from Part 1 of the Secret of Using Food As Medicine.

Hot and Dry Internal Environment:

When the internal microbiome is too Hot and Dry there will be signs of an imbalance. They may consist of red and dry skin, a red face, red eyes, dry lips, dry red rashes. People tend to be thirsty and crave cold drinks, their urine tends to be yellow, and stools dry and hard or they suffer from constipation. When the internal ecosystem is too Dry and Hot, people tend to speak in short, loud bursts, they are easy to anger, feel restless, agitated, and their sleep is effected, often waking in the middle of the night, or tossing and turning.

Remedy: Choose foods that are cooling and moistening

Choose foods that grow and thrive in hot dry environments: such as cactus, cucumbers, dates, pumpkin, etc.

Choose the parts of plants that corresponds with the season: Hot and Dry is late summer, which is when fruit is abundant. Melons, nectarines, grapes, etc.

Choose flavours that are opposite to dry and hot: Sour (cold and holds onto moisture), Salty (softens, and moistens), Sweet (slightly moistening and harmonizes the other flavours).

* You can also use Bitter Flavours if there is more heat than dryness. This may sound like you would make the condition drier. But, there is an old saying in the Chinese Medicine Classics, 'To make something drop, you must first raise it up". As an example, coffee is bitter, and a little bit makes us alert, and get the blood moving. Too much, and you start to sweat, urinate, and may have a bowel movement. This downward and outward movement clears heat from the body. But, if you are too dry, this can dry you out more.

Cold and Dry Internal Environment:

When things are cold, movement is still. Signs and Symptoms may include a desire for hot drinks, White or pale, patchy and dry complexion, and pale chapped lips because the warmth of the blood is being stored for the internal organs and not circulating well to the extremities. Cold hands and Feet. Dislike of wind and cold weather. Frequent urination that is clear in color. A feeling of exhaustion and tiredness. Bowel movements tend to be loose, or infrequent, or have undigested food.

Remedy: Choose foods that are Warming and Moistening

Choose foods that grow and thrive in cold dry environments: More meat (especially from cold and high latitudes and elevations), and nutrient dense foods.

Choose parts of pants that correspond with the season: Cold and Dry is Winter, which is tubers and root crops, that hibernate in the ground and take slow cooking to build and store a lot of heat inside them. Avoid Fruit which is too cooling.

Choose flavours that are opposite to Cold and Dry: Pungent (spicy and warming), Salty (Moistening), and Sweet (nutritionally dense, and harmonize the other flavours). Such as Ginger, Garlic, Salt, Sweet Potatoes, Butter etc.

Damp and Hot Internal Environment:

When things are Damp and Hot mold and fungus grow rapidly. To prevent your body from getting fungal overgrowth, you need to improve water metabolism, by draining the swamp. A person with Damp Heat may show signs such as a dry mouth, but rarely drinks water, always forgets to drink. Increased ear wax that is sticky and yellow. Susceptibility to fungal infections, usually yellow in color, especially nail fungus, sinus infections with chronic mucus, yeast infections, jock itch, frequent UTI's, Edema, Acne and rashes that are red and weeping. Emotionally one might feel anxious, depressed, tired and lethargic. Sleep is often disturbed with restlessness, possible snoring, or sleep apnea.

Remedy: Choose foods that are Drying, Purging, and Cooling

Choose foods that grow and thrive in Damp and Hot Environments: Such as freshwater fish (live in dirty water), lotus, water chestnuts, taro, and water spinach.

Choose parts of pants that correspond with the season: Hot and Wet is Late Spring/Early Summer, which corresponds with leaves. Eat more leafy greens.

Choose flavours that are opposite to Hot and Damp: Bitter (Drying) like Mushrooms, Sour (Cooling and Astringing) like sauerkraut and Bland (mildly diuretic) like Pearl Barley.

* Also choose some pungent flavours that induce sweating to help purge and expel dampness. Some great choices are ginger, garlic, and Kimchi.

Cold and Damp Internal Environment:

When things are cold and damp they are soggy and there is water retention. Metabolism slows down due to cold. The body starts to slowly rot like an old tree. People that have a Cold Damp internal environment tend to lose their sense of thirst, and have to remind themselves to drink. Their urine tends to be infrequent, frothy, and sometimes cloudy. Tendency to get fungal infections, but the color is usually white, including nail infections, jock itch, yeast infections, chronic mucus, sinusitis. They can have weeping rashes and edema. Emotions are typically fatigue, and lethargy. Often falling asleep as soon as they sit or lie down. They too can have disrupted sleep, waking through out the night, snoring, or sleep apnea. The tongue may be pale and show teeth marks from being swollen and pushing against the teeth. This doesn't go away due to water retention.

Remedy: Choose foods that are Warming, Drying, and Purging;

Choose foods that grow and thrive in Damp and Cold Environments: River Fish, Beef, Chicken, Deer, freshwater aquatic plants like watercress, Rice, Green Vegetables (especially bitter ones).

Choose parts of pants that correspond with the season: Cold and Damp is late autumn/early winter, which corresponds with grains and seeds. Rice, Pearl Barley, Rye.

Choose flavours that are opposite to Cold and Damp: Bitter (Drying, and Purging), Pungent (Spicy to warm and sweat), Bland (slight diuretic to drain water). Sichuan Peppercorn is one of the best spices for warming and drying dampness. as are garlic, cumin, and Kimchi. Pu-Erh tea is bitter and slightly spicy and very good at draining dampness.

Some Foods according to Flavour:

Sour Bitter Sweet Pungent/Spicy Salty

Cool & Moisten Dry, drain, cool Nourish & Moisten Warm Soften & Moisten

Astringe/Hold Reduce body size Increase body size Anti-pathogenic

Citrus Bitter Melon Asparagus Rocket Black Beans

Green Apples Cranberries Carrot Chili Seafood

Crab Apple Celery Beet Roots Black Pepper Pork

Kumquat Coffee Banana Chives Salt

Apricot Hops Egg Cinnamon Shell Fish

Nectarine Kohlrabi Coconut Cloves Chive Seeds

Peaches Lettuce Corn Dill Seeds Cuttlebone

Plums Lotus Roots Cucumber Fennel Kelp

Grapes Kale Dates Garlic Sea Grass

Olives Cranberries Honey Ginger

Raspberries Buckwheat Potato Mustard Leaf

Adzuki Beans Dandelion Greens Pumpkin Leeks

Strawberries Radicchio Snow Peas Marjoram

Tomato Asian Greens Sweet Potato Rosemary

Vinegar Endive Squash Sichuan Pepper

Bland -lightly drain & cool

Oats

Barley

Rice

Pearl Barley

Eggplant

Green Beans

River Fish

Spinach

These rules should be used as guides, and not as something to obsess over. It is important that you enjoy your food, and enjoy your life. Weighing yourself down with rules and obligations can cause more stress, guilt, and shame when you are unable to meet those standards. It is better to make it an enjoyable and creative pursuit, where you learn, and develop good habits for the rest of your life.

If you need some structure, try the 80/20 rule when severely out of balance:

- Cook with 80% to improve your condition and 20% to make it enjoyable.

If you are relatively healthy then use the 60/40 rule:

- 60% of the meal for improving your internal environment and 40% of whatever. If you treat food as medicine in this way, you will naturally make the right choices, and gradually improve and maintain good health.

Make a booking with R.J. or Katrina and get your health back on track

Tel: (02) 6687 1276 or book online at www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

The Secret to using Food as Medicine! Part 1

Thu, 06 Jul 2017 08:04:00 GMT

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

1). Flavor:

Effects particular internal organs:

Bitter flavor acts on the Heart and Small Intestine (i.e. Hops, lettuce, radish, rocket)

Sweet flavor acts on the Pancreas and Stomach (i.e. sugar, cherry, pumpkin, carrot)

Pungent flavor acts on the Lungs and Large Intestine (i.e. chive, coriander, cloves)

Salty flavor acts on the Kidneys and Bladder (i.e. salt, kelp, brined foods)

Sour flavor acts on the Liver and Gall Bladder (i.e. lemon, pear, plum, vinegar)

How do these flavors effect the organs?

It is common knowledge in both western and eastern dietary nutrition that sweet foods tend to make people put on weight. Sweet foods tend to contain a large amount of calories. In Chinese Medicine the sweet flavor acts on the digestive organs of the pancreas and stomach, and can therefore improve digestive function for people with weak digestive systems. But too much can lead to obesity, and type 2 diabetes (effecting pancreatic enzymes).

Sometimes it seems hard to distinguish the flavor of particular foods, but the Chinese have been able to categorise them through many centuries of experience, based upon deductive reasoning and how they elicit similar effects upon internal organs and specific actions on the body, such as: sweating, astringing, purging, and softening.

To understand this in more detail, here is a general list of common actions of foods in regards to flavor:

Bitter foods such as hops and rocket, can act on the Heart and Small Intestine by reducing body heat, drying body fluids, and inducing diarrhea.

Sweet foods such as honey, and watermelon acting on the pancreas and stomach can slow down acute symptoms and neutralize the toxic effects of other foods. They tend to be moistening and nutrient dense.

Pungent foods such as ginger, green onion, and peppermint acting on the lungs (skin) and large intestine can induce perspiration and promote energy circulation.

Salty foods such as seaweed act on the kidney and bladder and can soften hardness of glands, muscles, lymph nodes etc. (think of how a salty brine is used to soften foods like corned beef, eggplant, cucumbers, etc).

Sour foods such as lemon and plum acting on the liver and Gall Bladder can obstruct and astringe the movements, and are useful therefore in countering diarrhea and excessive perspiration.

There is an additional subcategory to the 5 flavors called light flavor, or little taste. For example, something could be categorised as lightly sweet, or lightly bitter. Foods with a light flavor promote urination, like a diuretic. Some examples are:

Lightly Bitter: Pearl Barley, Kidney Beans, White Fungus

Lightly Sweet: Cucumbers, Mung beans

Lightly Pungent: Asparagus, Caraway

In the western diet, we tend to eat too much sweet and salty foods, and not enough sour and bitter. As a result we also tend to have a larger proportion of obesity, diabetes, digestive, and cardiac problems.

2). Energy:

Generate sensations, hot or cold in the body.

Eating hot natured foods will make us experience hot sensations in the body, and foods with cold energy, give us cold sensations. Just like consuming a hot soup, or drinking an icy cold drink. But, there is an important distinction. The energy of food is categorised by how it effects the body, and not on how it appears temporarily. For example a frozen hot chilli, is hot natured even if it is frozen, because it will make the body hot.

It is important to know the energy of a food in order to know if it is helpful or damaging for a particular person at a particular time. For example, a person who has a red complexion, and skin rashes that worsen when exposed to heat would benefit by eating cool or cold natured foods to relieve their symptoms. Conversely someone with joint pain that is worse on a cold winter’s day, would benefit by eating foods that are warm or hot to ease the pain.

The correct balance of energies to be eaten by one person may differ with another person. Therefore coffee which is hot natured may be good for someone that has a constitution that is cold, and tea which is cold natured may cause the same person to have diarrhea or other problems because it is too cold energetically for their body type.

The 5 energies are categorised like a scale:

Hot - Warm – Neutral - Cool - Cold

So you may be wondering how to apply this knowledge? As a generality, lets assume you start feeling a cold coming on, after being caught in the rain on a winter’s day. You prepare some hot ginger and green onion soup, and drink it hot. You start to feel warmer immediately, because ginger and scallions have a warming energy, they also happen to have a pungent flavor that makes you sweat. This will help to not only warm up the body, but also to sweat out the pathogen. But, if you made mung bean soup instead of ginger and green onion, your symptoms may worsen because mung beans have a cold energy.

Conversely, say you have a bad eruption of hives, acne or eczema that is really red and itchy. You prepare some Mung Bean soup, which has a cold energy. After a few days of eating it, your symptoms improve. But, if you instead ate hot spicy curries, your itching and redness would probably get much worse.

Some common foods and their energies:

Cold Foods: Bamboo shoots, Bananas, clams, grapefruit, kelp, lettuce, persimmon, salt, water chestnuts, watermelon.

Slightly Cold Foods: hops, tomato

Cool Foods: apples, pears, oranges, strawberries, radish, barley, chicken egg whites, button mushrooms, cucumbers, eggplant, pearl barley, lettuce, marjoram, mung bean, peppermint, sesame oil, spinach

Neutral foods: apricot, beetroot, black sesame seed, carrot, celery, chicken egg yolk, corn, duck, figs, grapes, honey, kidney beans, olives, pineapple, plum, potato, pumpkin, adzuki beans, shiitake mushrooms, string beans, sunflower seeds, sweet rice, sweet potato.

Warm foods: asparagus, cherries, chestnut, chicken, chives, cinnamon twig, cloves, coconut, coffee, coriander, dates, fennel, garlic, green onions, guava, ham, kumquat, mustard, leek, lamb, nutmeg, peaches, raspberries, rosemary, prawns, spearmint, squash, star anise, sweet basil, vinegar, walnuts, wine.

Hot foods: black (green, red, and white) pepper, cinnamon bark, ginger, chilli peppers, capsicum

3). Movement: Also known as the 4 movements of Qi

Picture the body divided into 4 regions:

Inside (internal)

Outside (skin and body surface)

Upper (above the waist)

Lower (below the waist)

To move outward means to move from inside towards the outside; foods with outward movements can induce perspiration and reduce fever.

To move inward means to move from outside towards the inside; foods with inward movement can ease bowel movements and abdominal swelling.

To move upwards means to move from the lower region towards the upper region; foods with upward movement can relieve diarrhea, prolapse (anus, uterus), and falling of the stomach.

To move downwards means to move from the upper region towards the lower region; foods with downward movement can relieve vomiting, hiccupping, and asthma.

Additionally, different parts of plants have different tendencies for movement:

Leaves and Flowers tend to move upwards, the lighter they are the more they lift.

Roots go downward, and can open tight spaces

Seeds and Fruits being heavy and falling, also tend to go downward.

However this is a general principle, there are many exceptions.

Some foods can move outward, such as peppermint, and some foods can move inward like banana.

Some foods move more due to their energy, such as wine which is very warm and moves upward. Salt is heavy and cold; it moves downward.

Some foods have more than one direction of movement. For instance upward and outward, or inward and downward.

There is a fifth movement not mentioned so far, which is really thought of as two sides of the same coin; glossy, and obstructive . Honey and spinach are glossy, facilitating movement , and good for constipation and internal dryness. Obstructive foods such as guava and olives, astringe and slow down movement, so are good for diarrhea and leakage.

Also preparing foods in certain ways may change their movement.

For instance, foods prepared with wine have a tendency to move upward.

Foods dry fried with ginger juice have a tendency to move outward.

Foods prepared with Vinegar become astringent and obstructive.

Foods fried in salt have a tendency to move downwards.

The movements of foods are often also closely related to their flavors and energies.

Warm & Hot Foods that have pungent and sweet flavor tend to move upwards and outwards.

Cold & Cool Foods that have a sour or salty or bitter taste tend to move downwards or inwards.

Movement of food also relates to seasons:

Foods that move upwards are good to consume in Spring, the natural time of growth.

Foods that move outward are good in summer, when its hot and things have blossomed (think perspiration and expansion).

Foods that move downward are good in Autumn, when things begin to fall, such as leaves.

Foods that move inward are good in Winter, when things move inward (indoors).

As you can see, there is a very logical reasoning in how to use food as medicine, but putting it all together can become rather complex. Its always best to start with the simplest ways, then add on and build in complexity. Start by thinking about what kind of symptoms do I have, are they more hot or cold? Do I need to clear heat, or warm things up? What organ system is involved? Do I need movement upward, downward, outward, or inward? Do I need to facilitate movement, or obstruct it? If I am trying to maintain optimal health, am I eating in accordance with the seasons? Am I eating too much or too little of a particular flavor?

In future articles, I will write about how to determine your body type, and how to eat according to your particular constitution, and how to eat according to seasonal changes. I will also include some food therapy recipes for treating specific diseases.

In the mean time, it is a good idea to start putting these principles into practice. Start observing what you are eating, and how it is effecting your body.

I wish you all abundant Qi, Health, and Prosperity!

#TheSecretofusingFoodasMedicine

The Chinese love food. As we all should, after all it is our main source of nourishment, and we partake in it on average three times per day. It is such an important part of life, that in Beijing the customary greeting “Have you eaten?” is said everywhere in place of the standard “How are you going?” in English speaking countries.

Click to read other articles in this series, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine!

Part 1, The Secret to Using Food as Medicine

Part 2, Climate and Genetics

Part 3, Remedy Ailments with the 4 Movements of Qi

Part 4, Protecting the Stomach

Part 5, What Diet is the Best

It is no surprise then that Food as Medicine is considered to be one of the 5 main pillars of Chinese Medicine. The other 4 pillars, being Massage, Acupuncture/Moxibustion, Herbal Medicine, and QiGong (YangShen). Food as therapy is much more than just a diet plan. It is a topic that can be as complex to master as any of the other pillars of Chinese Medicine. In this series of articles, I will attempt to describe the principles of food as medicine, along with some practical advice, and specific recipes for improving particular disorders.

Chinese Food Therapy is designed not only to maintain health, but also to treat many ailments, such as the common cold, and more complex diseases like psoriasis, diabetes, hypertension, digestive problems, autoimmune disorders, and so forth, as a medicine. This is quite different to western dietary advice, which primarily focuses on weight loss.

When using food as medicine, it is just as important to know what foods to avoid in order to heal a problem, as it is to know which foods can treat it. In this way, we can become empowered to better manage our own health, and healing.

The guidelines and principles involved in using food as medicine are the same as that used in Chinese Herbal Medicine. Chinese Medicine is the original functional medicine!

Chinese Medicine views each person as being unique, requiring a personalised health care strategy for maintenance, healing, and longevity. It is based on the wisdom that varied interconnected relationships of systems within our body interact, and that this interaction or web of relationships is responsible for healing or the development of disease when out of balance. These interactions include biological and physiological processes, as well as the mind, and emotions. Chinese Medicine also views the human body as a perfect self-regulating organism with the inherent ability to heal and prevent disease when in balance. Health in Chinese Medicine is considered to be an abundance of vitality and happiness, and not simply the absence of disease.

In order to use food as medicine, we must first understand some of the principles involved to recognise what foods are right for a person, at a particular time, and for a particular condition. In Chinese Food Therapy, every food is classified according to how it acts upon and effects different systems of the body. Through detailed observation of biology, nature, seasons, and internal processes, a brilliant system was developed over thousands of years to describe, map, and understand the complex inter-relationships of many different interacting systems. The power and application of food as medicine in Chinese Medicine revolves around the 5 flavors, the 5 energies, and the 5 movements of particular foods, and combinations of foods.

Foods are categorised in western dietary therapy according to phytonutrients, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Chinese food therapy does something similar but discerns different qualities and actions of foods by their flavor, energy, and movement. Most foods have a mixture of flavors, energies, and movements, just as they have different phytonutrients, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

When using food as Chinese Medicine, we use the 5 flavors, 5 energies, and 5 movements to discern how they effect the different systems of the body, and how we can use them to maintain or find balance.

The 5 flavors consist of: Bitter, Sweet, Pungent, Salty, and Sour.

The 5 energies consist of: Hot, Warm, Neutral, Cool, and Cold.

The 5 movements consist of: Upward, Downward, Inward, Outward, and Obstructive.

These characteristics are used to understand how different foods have an effect upon the human body. They refer to how food effects particular internal organs, how food has a capacity to generate sensations either hot or cold in the body, and how food effects the movement of metabolic, and physiological processes.

To understand this better, I will describe how each characteristic effects the body.

Make a booking with R.J. or Katrina and get your health back on track

Tel: (02) 6687 1276 or book online at www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

Heal Psoriasis, Eczema, Acne, and Rosacea with Chinese Medicine!

Tue, 06 Jun 2017 04:31:00 GMT

For the majority of my patients, Chinese Herbal Medicine results in dramatic improvement! It is quite common for the skin to completely clear, and in many cases there is no further relapse. Unlike conventional western medicine, Chinese Herbal Medicine is safe, with no unwanted or harmful side effects. Conventional Western Medicine tends to over use corticosteroid creams, anti-histamines, and other drugs that only mask the symptoms and often cause more damage to the skin and internal organs.

Chinese Herbal Medicine is individually formulated to each patient’s specificities. Skin conditions vary, and so have different underlying causes. Chinese Herbal Medicine diagnosis is quite different to Western Medicine. For example, a formula for a diagnosis of psoriasis may vary greatly among different people. From a Chinese Medicine perspective there are many different causes and patterns of psoriasis, and for a medicine to work it must be formulated to address the subtle differences. Formulas are also adjusted and modified to address specific symptoms such as pain, itchiness, pussiness, and location.

As the condition improves and changes, the formulas change to ensure a continual improvement towards a goal of remission. It is also quite common for many skin diseases to have a correlation with other diseases, such as asthma, digestive problems, anxiety, fatigue, and depression. Chinese Herbal Formulas are created to treat these in conjunction, as they often have the same root cause.

Most skin problems have an internal cause characterised by one, some, or all of the following: autoimmune disorders, chronic inflammation, poor blood circulation, accumulation of toxins/waste, oxidative stress, and emotional stress. Chinese herbal formulas are ingested orally to address these causes of internal imbalance. Sometimes, external herbal creams, lotions, or oils are used in combination to alleviate some of the associated symptoms.

For the majority of chronic skin problems, other important factors contribute and need to be addressed such as stress and anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol intake, and diet.

It is advised that most people with these conditions avoid spicy food, caffeine and stimulants, processed foods, citrus fruits, fried foods, sugar, seafood/shellfish and anything that may cause allergies. A whole food diet containing a majority and variety of vegetables is important and should be implemented.

Here are some specific food therapy protocols for alleviating symptoms of Psoriasis and Eczema:

Eat: Chinese prunes, guava skins, pearl barley, apple cider vinegar or aged rice vinegar, garlic, walnuts, cucumbers, chard/beet tops, dandelion greens, squash, and mung beans.

You can make a topical solution: Simmer 15 peeled and sliced water chestnuts in 500ml of vinegar (preferably aged rice vinegar) in a ceramic pot for 20 minutes until water chestnuts absorb most of the vinegar. Then mash it into a paste and seal it in a jar. Spread this mixture evenly on a gauze pad, and apply to the affected area, changing daily if the condition is not too serious, three times daily if the condition is serious. Mild cases should show improvement within 5 days, but serious cases may take up to 2 weeks.

Here are some specific food therapy guidelines for acne and rosacea:

Apply: plain, low fat, no chemical (organic) yogurt to the affected area. Leave on for 20 minutes then wash off.

You can also, take roasted buckwheat (or roast it yourself), grind it into a powder and mix it with aged rice vinegar until it is a paste, then apply to the area.

The majority of dermatology specialists in Western, and Chinese Medicine determine the majority of their diagnosis and treatment strategies by looking at the skin, specifically the color, dryness, flakiness etc. Most Chinese Medicine dermatology specialists use this and other factors to determine what is going on internally, and the best specialists are able to do this by reading the radial pulse. Chinese Pulse reading is the single most accurate diagnostic tool in Chinese Medicine, and it is also the hardest to learn, taking a lot of time, study, and experience. Those that are skilled are able to pinpoint exactly what is causing the imbalance, and therefore can make up the best formula to resolve it.

R.J. Singer is an expert in Chinese Pulse Diagnosis, and has a great amount of experience in the treatment of psoriasis, eczema, acne, and rosacea. If you or someone you know has been suffering from any of these conditions, contact him and find out what he can do to help improve, alleviate, and/or resolve them.

Don't suffer any longer, for more information or to make a booking, contact us at:

(02) 6687 1276 or www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

References to Peer-Reviewed studies on the efficacy of Chinese Medicine for varying skin conditions:

Chen Y.J., Chen Y.Y., Wu C.Y., Chi C.C. Oral Chinese herbal medicine in combination with phototherapy for vitiligo: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.Complementary Therapies in Medicine, Volume 26, June 2016, Pages 21-27.

Gu S.X., Zhang A.L., Coyle M.E., Chen D., Xue C.C.,Chinese herbal medicine for atopic eczema: an overview of clinical evidence.JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY. 2016, August.

Lin Y.K., Chang C.J., Chang Y.C., Wong W.R., Chang S.C., Pang J.H.,Psoriasis Successfully Treated with Traditional Chinese Herb.Arch Dermatol. 2008 Nov;144(11):1457-64.

Shu S., Mansu Y., Coyle M., Wang K., May B., Zhang A.L., Xue C.C.Herbal medicine Eriobotrya japonica formula for acne vulgaris: A systematic review.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hermed.2017.09.001

Tan H.W., Zhang A.L., Chen D.C., Xue C.C., Lenon G.B., Chinese herbal medicine for atopic dermatitis: A systematic review.JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY. 2013, June;

Xiang Y., Wu X., Lu C., Wang K., An overview of acupuncture for psoriasis vulgaris, 2009–2014.Published online: 15 Sep 2016, https://doi.org/10.1080/09546634.2016.1224801

Zhang C.S., Yang L, Zhang A.L., May B.H., Yu J.J., Guo X., Lu C., Xue C.C.,Is Oral Chinese Herbal Medicine Beneficial for Psoriasis Vulgaris? A Meta-Analysis of Comparisons with Acitretin.J Altern Complement Med. 2016 Mar;22(3):174-88.

Chronic skin problems such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, and rosacea can cause extreme discomfort, unease, and often embarrassment. These conditions are often quite challenging and difficult to manage through conventional medicine. However, Chinese Herbal Medicine has been used to address these conditions for more than 2,000 years, and is a recognised specialty department of practice and study in hospitals in China.

#HealPsoriasisEczemaAcneRosacea

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

What is the most effective treatment for back pain, foot pain, neck pain, and any acute or chronic p

Mon, 01 May 2017 07:57:00 GMT

#AcupuncturethebesttreatmentforPain

Most people have or will experience pain at some point in their lives. Pain in any form can be debilitating, affecting all aspect of one’s life. Pain is most often categorised as being either acute or chronic.

Acute pain typically comes on suddenly from a specific cause. When the cause of the pain has been removed, the pain typically dissipates, and life goes back to normal. However, chronic pain is ongoing lasting more than 6 months. It typically continues even after the cause, such as an injury or illness has healed or gone away. Some people suffer with chronic pain even though there is no known cause, or injury, as is the case for many suffering from Fibromyalgia, or Migraines.

The most common Western Medical treatment prescriptions for both kinds of pain are painkillers, such as NSAID’s and Opiates. Both of which have terrible side effects with long-term use.

NSAID’s are a type of anti-inflammatory drug that are easily accessible over the counter, under names such as Ibuprofen, Panadol, Aspirin, etc. NSAID’s are well known to cause stomach bleeding and digestive tract ulceration, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, and are associated with higher risks of Renal Failure by increasing fluid retention and over working the kidneys. Some people are highly allergic to NSAID’s, especially Asthma sufferers. Additionally, the use of aspirin by children and teenagers with the flu or chickenpox has been linked to the development of Reye’s syndrome, which can cause liver and brain damage.

The risks associated with opioids such as Morphine, Codeine, and Oxyconton are more widely known. Opioids are used widely for both severe acute pain, and chronic pain. Risks associated with opioids include accidental overdose and death, as well as drowsiness, breathing and heart problems, physical dependence, sleep disorders, constipation and bowel dysfunction, low libido, increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures, dry mouth and tooth decay. In some instances opioids can actually induce hyperalgesia, which is a condition where the medication creates more pain than relief.

Acupuncture is an extremely safe and effective alternative. There have been several studies showing the remarkable effectiveness of Acupuncture in treating both acute and chronic pain. One such recent study conducted in Emergency Rooms by Grissa M.H, et al. showed Acupuncture to be significantly more effective than Morphine in both immediacy and degree of relief. Acupuncture was shown to be 92% effective vs. 78% for intravenously injected morphine!

Acupuncture works directly on the nervous system, it causes vasodilation, oxygenating body tissue, and improving blood circulation. Blood flow is extremely important for health and healing illness and pain. Blood carries analgesics, naturally producing painkillers, hormones, nutrients, oxygen, immune cells and carries away waste.

Pain in particular is reported to the brain through sensory nerves. One group of nerves registers the pain (Nociceptors), the other type tells the brain where the pain is located (Proprioceptors), so it can create a guarding reflex in the muscles around that area to prevent further injury and protect itself. The brain then restricts blood flow to the area, in case the pain is a poison, or infection, because the brain wants to protect the vital organs for survival over the injured area. Once, inflammation has reduced, and immune cells have started the initial healing process, the brain releases chemicals to kill the pain in the effected area, and relaxes the guarding reflex, dilates the blood vessels - increasing blood flow to the healing area.

Chronic pain typically occurs when there is a problem with the Proprioceptors, the brain does not reduce inflammation or is unable to, because it cannot pinpoint the exact location of the pain. If it cannot pinpoint the exact location of the pain, it cannot send the signal that it is ok, to release pain killing chemicals, and increased blood flow.

Acupuncture stimulates nerve nodes, which “reboot” the proprioceptor nerve pathways. This stimulates the brain to release endorphins, and encephalin painkillers, improve blood circulation and range of motion to the painful areas. This results in immediate pain relief, relaxes the tendons, and muscles, and improves all the factors required for cellular and tissue repair.

After a period of time, which can last a few hours up to a few days after an acupuncture treatment, the proprioceptors weaken, and the central nervous system needs to be rebooted once again, to re-activate hormone secretion and blood circulation. Just like fitness exercise, or physical therapy, a patient will typically need to have an acupuncture treatment 2 to 3 times per week, and gradually reduce treatment frequency until the improvements stabilise. Regular acupuncture trains and exercises the nervous system, to increase blood flow, and eventually the body remembers, and re-establishes normal function, and the pain disappears for good.

There are many styles of acupuncture, but I prefer to use distal needling techniques, where needles are not inserted in to the painful area itself, but into particular places further away so as not to aggravate an already inflamed, and irritated area. I find that this style of Acupuncture also has the strongest affect on the central nervous system resulting in the most effective and immediate pain relief, with long term results.

Why suffer with pain? Why not call us at (02) 6687 1276 , or book an appointment at www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au and find out what we can do to help you!

Reference Links:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27475042

https://healthcare.utah.edu/paincenter/risks-long-term-opioid-use.php

https://draxe.com/dangers-of-nsaids/

https://www.dc-acupuncture.com/muscle-joint-pain/how-does-acupuncture-work-for-pain

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

Sept 26 - Oct 1, 2017: ZhiNeng QiGong Healing Retreat in Byron Bay

Tue, 11 Apr 2017 02:23:00 GMT

#2017QiGongRetreatSept26Oct1

According to ZhiNeng QiGong Science, all aspects in existence can be categorized as being either: Matter (form), Energy (formless), or Information. All three aspects are in a constant state of merging and transforming together. When Qi gathers it consolidates and Matter appears. When Qi disperses, Matter disappears. It is the Information that guides and dictates how this gathering and dispersing, merging and transforming takes place.

QiGong uses movement, breath, sound, and consciousness to mobilize Qi. Some styles of QiGong emphasize movement more, breath more, sound more, or consciousness more. In ZhiNeng QiGong all are used, but Consciousness is always emphasized because as stated earlier, information is what guides Qi and Matter. If one understands and develops their ability to mobilize Qi, they can easily heal themselves.

To enroll , telephone (02) 6687 1276 or visit www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

Enroll now, so you don't miss out!

The Retreat will be hosted at the Byron Holiday Park, and will include meals.

Cost: $2,100

Early Bird: $2,000 (if paid in full before July 1)

Payment Plan Available: Three installments of $700 (due July 1, August 1, & Sept 1.)

Payable by Bank Transfer, Visa, or MasterCard.

Accommodation is available at the Byron Holiday Park for an extra charge. There are many options available to suit your specific needs, requirements, and budget. Please book directly through the Byron Holiday Park at www.byronholidaypark.com.au

The Byron Holiday Park is located on 28 acres of beautiful parklands, with cabins, camping sites, a pool, bike hire, and access to Tallows Beach.

The daily timetable will consist of:

Morning Practice 7:00am-8:00am

Breakfast 8:00am-9:30am

Theory and Methods 9:30am-12:00pm

Lunch and Rest 12:00pm-3:00pm

Afternoon Practice 3:00pm-6:00pm

Dinner 6:00pm-7:30pm

Evening lecture and practice 7:30pm-9:00pm

The retreat will be facilitated and taught by RJ Singer with assistance from Katrina Hillis. RJ and Katrina are officially recognized and certified teachers and healers of ZhiNeng QiGong. They were trained in China by teachers from the Hua Xia Centre taught directly by Dr. Pang Ming.

Contact: Alchemy Wellness Centre

(02) 6687 1276 www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

This intensive healing retreat will consist of a deep immersion into the healing methods of ZhiNeng QiGong Science. It will be taught and conducted in a similar fashion to what was done at the Hua Xia Centre (Medicine-Less Hospital), consisting of methods, theory and specific exercises. The emphasis will be focused on:

How to organize a Qi Field
Gather external Hun Yuan Qi, and strengthen Internal Hun Yuan Qi.
Use Qi Medicine for healing yourself, and others
Practice Lift Qi Up, Pour Qi Down correctly, in a deep state using consciousness
Hun Yuan Entirety Theory
Companion exercises, such as La Qi, 3 Centres Standing Meditation, and Static Methods.
Develop a pure mind state, and maintain it in daily life

What can be done to restore function of a frozen shoulder?

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 01:59:00 GMT

#FrozenShoulderisaneasyfixwithacupuncture

Frozen shoulder also called adhesive capsulitis, is characterized as stiffness, pain, and limited mobility of the shoulder joint. It commonly occurs after an injury, or repetitive strain. It can also be caused by other diseases/conditions, such as diabetes or stroke.

In the majority of circumstances, the tissues surrounding the joint stiffen, and shoulder movement is diminished, difficult and painful. Frozen shoulder can occur suddenly, and seemingly out of nowhere. It is most common in people over 40, and about two thirds of patients are women. Most patients first notice that they are having trouble reaching behind to touch bra clasps, wallets, and back itches.

The typical western medicine treatment for frozen shoulder consists of pain-killers and anti-inflammatory drugs like NSAID’s and Corticosteroid injections. They may also suggest stretching and physical therapy. Most of the time this results in poor outcomes, with no improvement or limited improvement that may take up to a year or longer.

Acupuncture, however is one of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder, when administered by a qualified acupuncturist that is trained and registered with AHPRA. From my experience, the majority of cases typically respond with some form of immediate benefit. Most often manifesting as reduction in pain, and increased mobility. With continued treatment, full recovery is very common.

Acupuncture has the ability to trigger the central nervous system to make the shoulder joint relax, and ligaments lengthen. This creates more space to free the joint. Acupuncture also increases blood flow to the effected area which oxygenates the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, further relaxing them, and giving the body what it needs to rapidly heal itself – Nerve Impulses, Blood, Oxygen, and Nutrition.

In the majority of cases, the shoulder joint is compacted and inflamed. While local needling may be a good way to break up scar tissue, and give some mild relief, it is usually short lived, and may actually slow down the desired healing response.

The reason being, the needling of the injured shoulder causes further aggravation to a place that is already inflamed. For this reason, I rarely ever do any local needling, but instead choose points that are far from the area of injury that illicit a strong signal to the brain and central nervous system to heal the frozen shoulder.

This usually results in fast and effective outcomes of pain reduction, and increased mobility within the first treatment session. Since acupuncture works directly with the nervous system, it also effects hormone secretion and has the ability to improve other underlying conditions that may be attributing to the frozen shoulder, whether they are stress and emotional aspects, or internal medicine problems.

Acupuncture is a very safe, fast, and effective treatment option for frozen shoulder, because one does not have to ingest any drugs, or inject any harmful chemicals. Why suffer any longer, and what do you have to lose? Why not, give acupuncture a try!

Call to make an appointment or book online! Find out what we can do to get you back enjoying your life again.

Tel: (02) 6687 1276 Email: info@alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

References:

Mo, X. F., L. H. Xuan, Y. B. Jin, X. H. Cheng, and B. Y. Yu. "[Efficacy observation on abdominal acupuncture for adhesion-stage shoulder periarthritis]." Zhongguo zhen jiu= Chinese acupuncture & moxibustion 33, no. 9 (2013): 847-849. Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Zhejiang Hospital of TCM, Hangzhou, China.

Liu CR, Chi PP, Zhang XF, Mo HF, Zeng XL, Huang GS. Effect of Extracorporeal Shock Wave plus Electroacupuncture on Pain and Shoulder Range of Motion in Periarthritis of Shoulder [J]. Shanghai Journal of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, 2017, 36(5).

Mariotto S, de Prati AC, Cavalieri E, Amelio E, Marlinghaus E, Suzuki H. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy in inflammatory diseases: Molecular mechanism that triggers anti-inflammatory action. Curr Med Chem. 2009;16:2366–72.

Asheghan M, Khatibi A, Hashemi E, Hollisaz M, Mater Sociomed. 2016 Jul 24; 28(4): 253–257.Published online 2016 Aug. doi: 10.5455/msm.2016.28.253-257

Pain. 2010 Oct;151(1):146-54. Epub 2010 Jul 23. German Randomized Acupuncture Trial for chronic shoulder pain (GRASP) - a pragmatic, controlled, patient-blinded, multi-centre trial in an outpatient care environment. Molsberger AF, Schneider T, Gotthardt H, Drabik A.

Vickers AJ, Cronin AM, Maschino AC, et al. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Individual Patient Data Meta-analysis. Arch Intern Med. Published online September 10, 2012. doi:10.1001/archinternmed.2012.3654.

Schröder S, Gesa Meyer-Hamme, Friedemann T., Kirch S., Hauck M., Plaetke R, Friedrichs S, Amit G, Daniel B, Pain Medicine, Volume 18, Issue 11, November 2017, Pages 2235–2247, https://doi.org/10.1093/pm/pnx052

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

2017 Year of the Yin Fire Rooster - Change is gonna come . . .

Tue, 10 Jan 2017 02:32:00 GMT

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

#FrozenShoulderisaneasyfixwithacupuncture

The year of the Yang Fire Monkey is in its final month, and what an amazing year of change and transformation it has been. For many people it has been a challenging year of conflict, and upheaval. But, change is rarely easy and comfortable.

We have a few more weeks left of the Fire Monkey during the month of the Yin Metal Ox, which means there are still a few tricks up the old monkey's sleeve before the Chinese Lunar New Year occurs on January 28. The month of January being the Yin Metal Ox at the end of the Yang Fire Monkey year, adds up to a lot of Metal, in conflict with Yang Fire! That means the month of January will be ripe with the extremes of this relationship. The positive side is enlightenment of inner truths, but the negative aspect is that it may bring light upon the ugly, cold, and darker aspects of humanity, especially in terms of politics. Scandal will be rife, secrets will be revealed, and that may cause a lot of backlash. Which is all a great set up for the energy of the Yin Fire Rooster that comes into full effect on February 3, 2017 at 7:33pm to be exact.

The new year is a continuation of 2016’s Fire - Metal relationship, but it is a yin aspect rather than a yang one. The Yang Fire Monkey was full of surprises and tricks. The Monkey is similar to the Native American Coyote - the ultimate mischievous trickster. The Yin Fire Rooster should be much more straight forward, with fewer tricks and surprises. Generally speaking it is symbolic of optimism, innovation and progress. That is not to say it will be a peaceful year by any means, rather it means there will be many ideas, innovations, and progressive movements to face the continued challenges that have come to the surface in 2016.

Yin Fire is a very sensitive element, it can be symbolized as a candle, that flickers unstably with the slightest breeze. It illuminates the darkness, but can also ignite an explosion. Yin fire represents the heart, and inner vision. It is expressed emotionally as joy, open-heartedness, kindness, and innovation, but because it is extremely sensitive it also manifests as moodiness, anxiety, nervousness, suspicion, or even paranoia, when extremely out of balance. Yin fire is not as hot tempered as yang fire, however it builds up energy over time and its anger is more explosive and destructive than that of yang fire. Yin fire also has the ability to transform other elements, like a welding torch, cooking flame, or Bunsen burner. This will be another remarkably transformational year. There will be increased conflict between the old/current systems, and that of movements/visions for something new, and different.

The Rooster is a yin metal element, it represents an outer beauty like that of precious jewellery. The rooster also likes to strut and can be very charming and attractive. Internally it symbolises precision, perfection, righteousness, and justice. Because of this it can appear as something very beautiful and alluring on the outside and simultaneously be perceived as cold in its matter of fact, black and white (no shades of grey) outlook. Justice can be right, but it isn’t always kind.

Fire acting upon the Rooster metal element also represents inner refinement, alchemy, scholarly pursuits, and creative expressions of beauty. We can expect some amazing breakthroughs in science, and brilliant expressions through works of art, and music. Fire melts and transforms Metal. While this can result in something innovative, and beautiful with increased strength, it can also be very conflictive and volatile. We can expect this to be the global theme of 2017. There is still a lot yet to be uncovered and revealed in 2017. The old guard is being challenged, and will be forced to change! Righteousness and Justice will be intense themes at times, both the positive and negative sides. Activism, Fundamentalism, Nationalism, and all manners of righteous expressionism will appear in explosive and violent intervals through out the year.

In terms of health, yin fire represents the heart, cardiovascular system, central nervous system, and the eyes. The rooster being yin metal, represents the lungs, and the skin. Therefore diseases of the heart, blood, nervous system, lungs and skin will be intensified.

Since, this is a year of fire burning metal, we can expect an increase in skin rashes, eczema, psoriasis, flu epidemics, etc. Preventative measures should be taken, especially for those that have a history of these related health conditions.

I know I always recommend QiGong, and Meditation, but I must stress it even more so than in previous years. Emotions will be high, and explosive, those that practice a method to still the mind will have better ability in coping and preventing pain, illness, and dis-ease. The vast majority of the fire-metal diseases arise and intensify with stress, and emotions. Let things go, so they don't build up and erupt into something explosive and volatile.

Slow gentle movements that promote blood circulation without stressing the heart too much will prevent many problems. And if one spends time daily doing this type of exercise with internal observation, they will strengthen their nervous system.

There are many methods, techniques, and styles to choose from. I encourage everyone to do something that they enjoy, whether it is swimming, gymnastics, calisthenics, pilates, yoga, acrobatics, qigong, tai chi, or a host of many other things. But, whatever it is try to do it in a relaxed and internally observant manner, and when you finish enjoy the stillness and try to retain that state throughout the day.

For those that are interested in learning QiGong and meditation, RJ & Katrina will be starting our weekly ZhiNeng QiGong class on Wednesday February 8 at 6:30pm. The focus will be on learning the healing method that was used at the Hua Xia Centre in China, also known as the Medicine-less Hospital.

For more information, or to express your interest, please contact us by telephone or via the website: www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

Gift Vouchers Available Now - Give the gift of health and well-being!

Thu, 15 Dec 2016 00:12:41 GMT

We all have friends or family that seem to have everything they need and are impossible to buy gifts for!

An Alchemy Wellness Gift Voucher is the perfect gift idea!

We offer many different Gift Voucher options, to suit anyone’s unique preferences and concerns, including:

Relaxation and Remedial Massage

60 minute, 90 minute, and 2 hour options available.

Acupuncture Treatment

Kinesiology Session

QiGong Healing

Or simply choose a dollar value

Contact Alchemy Wellness Centre Byron Bay to purchase gift vouchers

Tel (02) 6687 1276 www.Alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

If you were to take western medication only one day per week, would you expect it to do anything?

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 00:16:38 GMT

#Doyoureallywanttoregainyourhealth

Are you serious about regaining your health?

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

Chinese Medicine has the ability to resolve stubborn and difficult chronic diseases!

The effectiveness of this medicine is dependent upon regular treatment, and cannot be over emphasised.

In China, patients are given a comprehensive diagnosis, and treatment plan, that consists of regular acupuncture treatments several times per week or more. Herbal Formulas are prescribed with a weekly check up to monitor a patient's progress, and modify the prescription as needed to ensure an effective outcome.

Specific QiGong exercises are taught to address the patient's particular health problems, along with food therapy recommendations and protocols.

This is the proper way to practice Chinese Medicine, and when followed the outcomes are profound!

However, in Australia and most western countries, treatment consists primarily of 'band-aid' solutions. People tend to seek treatment only after they have exhausted all forms of conventional medicine, and when they are in pain, or extremely ill, expecting their health problems to be completely resolved in as few treatments as possible. Most often that being only one treatment per week for a very brief period of time.

If you were to take western medication only one day per week, would you expect it to do anything?

So, why expect Chinese Medicine to work only once per week?

For most people, it is the cost of regular treatments that prohibits them from being able to benefit from the full power of this incredible medicine.

Therefore, we offer Total Health Recovery Programs, hugely discounted from our regular treatment prices.

So, you can focus purely on healing, and benefit from the full effective power of Chinese Medicine. We find that most people will reach a successful outcome within three to six months.

The Total Health Recovery Program, consists of a thorough diagnosis, followed by a customised treatment plan focused on the best way to accomplish your health goals, using Acupuncture Treatments, Herbal Formulas, QiGong Healing/Exercises, and Food Therapy guidelines when appropriate.

If you are truly ready to get your health back? We are confident, experienced and ready to help you.

Call to make an appointment, and find out what we can do to get you back enjoying your life again.

Tel: (02) 6687 1276 E-mail: info@alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

Acupuncture is stem cell therapy!

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 00:19:48 GMT

#HowdoesAcupuncturework

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located i n Byron Bay, NSW Australia

How does Acupuncture work?

As an acupuncturist, this is the question I am asked most frequently. The mechanisms of how acupuncture works can be explained in great length and detail from many different perspectives. I particularly love the poetic beauty as described in classical Chinese culture. However, I find that this explanation rarely satisfies the anatomically and physiologically oriented western mind of most of my patients. The classical Chinese description comes from a different language, culture, and period of time. I have researched different perspectives to come up with an explanation that is clear for my patients, and that is the main purpose of this article.

I believe acupuncture to be a method of stem cell therapy. I credit Dr. Dan Keown and his fantastic book “The Spark in the Machine” for clearly explaining this in an easy to understand and scientific manner. A stem cell is a primitive cell, that has not yet been organized and differentiated into a particular type of cell. It therefore has the potential of organizing and developing itself into any particular type of cell and has the ability to reproduce. In order to understand how Acupuncture is a form of stem cell therapy, we need to first define what is the difference between a live human being and one that is not. Anatomically, they are the same. However, the live version is functioning. What makes it function? What defines something as being alive?

I believe that answer to be what the Chinese have referred to as Qi 氣. Most people define Qi as energy. While that is a pretty good definition it is not complete. To understand Qi, one must first understand the character 氣. The top part of the character represents air, wind, and breath. The bottom portion represents fire cooking rice. So together they represent a combining of oxygen and food, and a transformation of both into something formless like a vapor but functional and vital.

This substance Qi 氣 is the function of life, and it is energetic. It can be measured as light, heat, electricity, and magnetism. This is the defining characteristic of a live human being. It is bio-electro-magnetic and this is at the core of regulating and organizing the functions of the body. This is not foreign to western science and medicine.

The human body is electric and generates electricity. We would cease to function with out it. When we breathe in oxygen, and eat food, a transformation takes place. Larger molecules are broken down in to smaller ones that have a specific electrical charge based on their specific number of electrons and protons. These charged particles bond with one another and react to other molecules and in doing so create energy. This energy is used by our cells and is called cellular respiration. All molecules and elements have the potential to create electrical impulses. One example of the electrical body in action is in how the heart keeps its rhythm or pace through the electrical impulse of the Sino Atrial (SA) Node.

Now, it is hopefully clear that Qi is not mysterious or superstitious. The Chinese definition is clearly describing the same thing as western medical science. Cells need energy and communicate with one another to do work and send signals.

To continue the answer to how acupuncture works, we next need to examine what system acupuncture uses that effects cellular respiration. The answer lies within the embryological system.

Human reproduction begins with the formation of a zygote, an entirety formed by the meeting of a sperm and an egg. What follows is a series of cell division, that on day 3 forms an 8-celled embryo. At this stage, the cells compact against one another. They do this to communicate through the spaces between the cells. Scientists have filmed flashes of electricity occurring in the developing embryo, during these stages of development.

In Chinese medicine, the acupuncture channel systems begin from these spaces between cells and are used as information thoroughfares where Qi/electricity and energy flow through to organize, differentiate, and compartmentalize the different tissues, structures, systems and associated functions into a growing fetus. As the fetus continues to develop, these information and energy highways develop into more complex channel networks supplying all the energy and information required for development and functionality of all the other systems of the body.

Now, you may be wondering where are these channels of energy and information in the developed human being? Can they be seen, and examined? To answer that let’s first examine the Chinese characters for these channel networks. The 12 major acupuncture channels are defined as Jing 經 Luo 絡. Notice that both characters share the same sub-character on the left. This sub-character translates as silk or threads. The right side of the character Jing 經 , translates to a pass or a river, stream. Now look at the right side of the character Luo 絡 , this translates as web, mesh, or network. Therefore, Jing Luo 經絡 means silky thread like channel network. The Huang Di Nei Jing is the seminal Chinese medical text (the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine). It says the anatomy of the Jing Luo 經絡 was elucidated by dissection, meaning it has a physical structure that can be seen with the naked eye. It is not formless or immaterial.

When looking at connective tissue and fascia, it has a silky thread like look and texture. It can be dissected and seen with the naked eye. It weaves and threads through out, organizing, and compartmentalizing the different systems of the body. It also follows the acupuncture channel pathways as detailed in the classic Chinese Medical texts.

Surgeons use these fascial pathways to conduct keyhole surgery. They are areas of space without blood, where surgeons can go through to access different parts of the body. Western medical science has been researching fascia and connective tissue with great interest in recent years. It suggests that fascia makes up the matrix of the body. It is the maturation of the embryological system; pathways of energy and information. In so doing, it is responsible for the structure, and organization of all the other tissues and systems. It is highly conductive and exists as a gel like fluid pathway. In a past article I wrote specifically about the importance of fascia and connective tissue and how it is the mother of the immune system. You can read that article here .

Fascia, connective tissue, and bone are mostly made up of collagen. Actually collagen is the largest tissue type making up 30% of the body. Collagen is stronger than steal and extremely flexible. It is crystalline and piezoelectric. Piezoelectricity refers to an electric charge that accumulates in certain solid materials, such as crystals, bones, DNA, and various proteins in response to mechanical stress. That means stress to bone, the fascia and connective tissue releases electricity (Qi). Piezoelectricity from crystals are found in many useful applications, from generating sound and voltage to everyday uses, like barbecue lighters and quartz watches.

Fascia is the negative space of the body, and space is the critical aspect of its location and function. It envelops the space between cells, providing an avenue for energy, and communication. Every acupuncture point lies within a space. And these spaces are typically in places where there is a change in organization and compartmentalization. For instance, powerful points lie next to the nail bed, a place where there is considerable change in cellular function and type. Points at the wrist, where the arm and hand meet, another change in form and function. This continues everywhere.

So, how does acupuncture work?

When inserting and stimulating a needle in a particular location, fascial tissue cells called fibroblasts are stressed, releasing ATP, electricity (Qi). This travels through the fascial network, allowing communication and signaling to other cells, which in turn affect all the other systems of the body. Most importantly affecting the nervous system, cardiovascular, and endocrine. The location of needle insertion and the stimulation determine how and where the therapeutic effect will take place.

Acupuncture works via the embryological system, effecting cellular communication and organization. It really is stem cell therapy, because it is working with the mechanisms that directly effect cellular respiration, repair and organization. It is information at this cellular level that stimulates a therapeutic effect. This can manifest as analgesic pain relief, increased blood flow, nervous system response, and hormonal release. What an amazing and sophisticated science and medicine!

-RJ Singer

Find out how acupuncture can improve or resolve your own health condition. Book an appointment with RJ Singer at www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

Strengthen the Heart, Lungs, & Immune System with this QiGong exercise!

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 00:29:20 GMT

Chen Qi (Stretching Qi) is a very powerful QiGong exercise for strengthening the Heart, Lungs, and Immune System. At the Hua Xia Centre, many people resolved difficult and chronic health problems associated with these important organs by practicing Chen Qi regularly and diligently.

The space between the scapulas (shoulder blades) generally is a place that is blocked and weak, and is an area of poor blood circulation. When circulation is especially bad, some people feel very cold and tend to shiver in this part of the body.

The nerve roots in the upper back from C7 to T7 connect with the heart, lungs, and thymus gland. Practicing Chen Qi stimulates the nerve roots at these vertebrae, and improves their function by improving circulation to these vital organs.

Much is known about the importance of a healthy heart and lungs, but many people are not familiar with the Thymus gland, a crucial component of the immune system. It plays an extremely important role in the training and development of white blood cells, in particular T – lymphocytes or T cells. The thymus gland shrinks and turns into fat as we age, diminishing in function, where it is nearly nonexistent in most people over 75. Chen Qi can stimulate this important gland and prolong its lifespan.

In addition to the important nerve roots there are some important acupoints associated with this area. In particular Da Zhui, Shen Zhu, and Gao Huang Shu.

Da Zhui and Shen Zhu are located on the spine and have a direct relationship with their associated nerve roots. Da Zhui is located in the space below C7 and benefits the immune system. It is also a major intersection that connects with all of the Yang channels of the body, therefore improving circulation of Qi and Blood everywhere.

Shen Zhu, lies in the space below T3. The nerve roots here, connect directly with the heart, lungs, and thymus gland. It is also a gate to the middle dan tian. Stimulating this area improves their function, and can result in improved vigor, vitality and a strong voice. It is also why this exercise is particularly good for longevity.

Gao Huang Shu, refers to two acupoints that lay at the medial edges of each shoulder blade, and are level with the space below the 4th thoracic vertebra. Gao Huang Shu translates to the Vital Organ region in English. It is said, that if illness is in the Gao Huang Shu, it is very deep and serious; the immune system has nearly collapsed. Since, Chen Qi stimulates this region, it has the ability to reverse deep, stubborn, and difficult conditions.

Since many people also have blockages in the spine and muscle tension in the upper back, neck and shoulders, Chen Qi also can nourish one’s brain and sensory organs by relaxing the tension, and improving blood flow.

Chen Qi is especially good for headaches, sore trapezius muscles, and compacted shoulder joints. It lengthens, and strengthens all of the tendons and ligaments from the neck down to the fingers. It can quickly mobilize internal Qi, and one can soon feel Qi travel down to the finger tips, making them tingle, and feel distended.

Keep your hands level with your waist. It is important that this exercise be initiated from the area between the scapulas. You need to squeeze them together as if you were holding a sheet of paper between your shoulder blades, then quickly pop them and your shoulder joints outward and downward. The elbows need to remain locked, the wrists raised, and fingers straight and backwards. When you push out, also push from the base of your fingers, while stretching the center of your palms. You can do this exercise standing or seated in a chair or bed. If you sit to practice, the lower back should be forward. While Chen Qi is technically very simple, you will notice after doing it for a while the arm and neck muscles and tendons will become sore. When this happens, keep your mind stable, and persevere! You can slow the exercise down, but don’t stop; otherwise you won’t get the same benefits. Once you do it for at least 5 minutes, it will feel easier.

Ideally, build up to doing this exercise without stopping for a minimum of 14 minutes each time.

Your consciousness should be focused inwards, observing the subtle changes and mobilization of Qi at the shoulder blades, and through out the arms and fingers. With practice, you will be able to observe Qi movement through out the body.

To download a guided audio healing of this practice, Click here.

Chen Qi is challenging, but the benefits are profound, stick with it!

Hun Yuan Ling Tong!

-RJ Singer

www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

ZhiNeng QiGong Australia is located at the Alchemy Wellness Centre in Nashua, NSW near the village of Bangalow in the beautiful Byron Bay Hinterland.

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. He is also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant.

RJ’s area of special skill is in the successful treatment of stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

Katrina Hillis is a registered Remedial & Relaxation Massage Therapist with AMT. Katrina is also an experienced Intuitive Reader and accredited ZhiNeng QiGong Practitioner. Katrina specialises in helping people overcome emotional issues, and life transitions working holistically to balance body, mind and spirit.

#QiGongtostrengthenHeartLungsImmuneSys

TWO SEATED EXERCISES TO HEAL NEARLY ALL CONDITIONS OF THE HEAD, NECK, BACK, ABDOMEN, AND INTERNAL OR

Tue, 19 Jul 2016 00:33:07 GMT

In two previous articles, I demonstrated a QiGong exercise that could resolve nearly any health condition, the ZhiNeng QiGong Wall Squat. While being an incredibly effective and powerful exercise, it is challenging and impossible for people that are unable to stand.

Here are some additional techniques that have similar benefits. They are far easier to do, and may be the most suitable QiGong exercise for some people. However, for those of you that are already doing wall squats, these are a welcomed addition that will increase your progress, and results in self-healing. They offer some other additional specialized benefits:

In QiGong, we spend a great deal of time improving our flexibility of the spine. This is an extremely important pre-requisite for health, and abundant circulation of Qi and Blood in the body. It is also imperative for opening the Du channel, known as the sea of Yang Qi before moving on to other practices. The Du Channel is said to have three places called the Three Narrows, where Qi is constricted. They also happen to be the three places where the majority of people have acute and chronic neck and back pain. These narrows are located at Ming Men (located below the second lumbar vertebra), at Shen Zhu (below the third thoracic vertebra) and at Ya Men (located below the first cervical vertebra).

With regular practice these three areas can be opened allowing Qi to gather and flow unimpeded. This results in improved flexibility, better function of the internal organs, increased vitality, and mental clarity.

The Crane Head exercises work primarily on the head (including the brain and sensory organs), neck, and the upper back. But, since the spine and the fascia around and attached to it are connected as an entirety, this also subtly effects the whole of the spine as well. Crane Head stimulates the nerve roots at each vertebra, and helps to open those difficult areas - Ya Men, and Shen Zhu.

This results in increased Qi and Blood flow through out the central nervous system, especially the brain. Ya Men lies at the base of the brain and the nerve roots there effect brain function; specifically the function of the sensory organs, especially the eyes, tongue (taste), and speech. Shen Zhu also happens to sit behind the middle Dan Tian and its nerve roots connect to both the heart and the lungs. Any stimulation and improved flexibility will have a direct effect on these two important organs.

Spinal Rotations focus on the difficult area of Ming Men, where many people have lower back pain. It has a direct connection and association to the Kidney Organs, Inherited Qi, and the lower DanTian. Internal martial artists train to initiate all movement from this point. Tai Chi in particular focuses nearly every movement around Ming Men. This is where they develop and how they are able to distribute explosive power.

Our focus is on health recovery, preservation, and longevity, which requires opening and improving the flexibility of Ming Men. Ming Men is directly associated with the adrenal glands and the secretion of hormones. When we use Ming Men as the pivot point in rotating the spine it stimulates the nerve roots that connect to these important glands and improve Qi and Blood flow to the reproductive and digestive organs of the lower abdomen. The rotating movement also oscillates the vertebrae of the entire spine in a side-to-side motion, which improves flexibility of the ligaments from a different angle than those of Wall Squats and Crane Head.

The physical movement of rotation also has another effect on the middle abdomen by pressing and pulling the internal organs and generating an internal organ massage. This improves their function and their ability to repair and regenerate. It also gently stretches and opens the sacroiliac joints and the hip joints, a place where virtually everyone has stiffness and poor circulation.

When we combine the physical movements with a particular focused conscious awareness in a deep state, we can exponentially increase their effectiveness. We become QiGong Scientists, observing, learning, and penetrating the areas that have been dark and unknowable. This results in improved function of the body, even and stable emotions, and the raising of our consciousness. The layers of observation within the body are infinite. The more one observes, the more one can experience.

An internal universe awaits your discovery!

Along with this free instructional video, I have a 1½ hour guided practice available for instant download. You can click here to access it:

Click here to download the guided audio practice

For more information about ZhiNeng QiGong Classes and Retreats, please visit:

www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

Hun Yuan Ling Tong!

-RJ Singer

ZhiNeng QiGong Australia is located at the Alchemy Wellness Centre in Nashua, NSW near the village of Bangalow in the beautiful Byron Bay Hinterland.

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. He is also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant.

RJ’s area of special skill is in the successful treatment of stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

#2SIMPLEseatedmethodstohealnearlyanything

Learn to feel Qi instantly! Then use it for self healing with this simple exercise . . .

Mon, 04 Jul 2016 00:36:18 GMT

It is very difficult to work with Qi, when you have no awareness for sensing Qi. In the video above, teacher RJ Singer demonstrates an exercise to immediately experience a Qi sensation, and then gives you another exercise to develop this skill further.

In reality, you have always been aware of Qi, but it has only been perceivable by the subconscious mind, and not been apparent consciously. Similar to sitting in a chair, you are conscious of the feeling of the chair against your skin, the pressure and weight of your body upon the chair, and all associated sensations of being in a chair, only when you turn your awareness inward to observe it.

Once it is observed, it is apparent and easy to experience over and over again. Once observed, one can also observe different layers and details of sensation. Using the chair example again, you may perceive the sensation of the whole bum and legs, and then can refine it to something more detailed such as just your tailbone, or the clothing touching your skin, the sensation of different tissues in the body – skin, muscle, bone, etc. The different levels of observation are infinite!

As your observation skills are refined with more detail through practice, your consciousness also develops. They are inseparable. A tactile sensation, can be developed into seeing without seeing, hearing without hearing, smelling without smelling, developing an ability for example to sense the pulsation of blood flow through a vessel, nerve impulses, and any process of internal human life activity.

In ZhiNeng QiGong, the exercise La Qi, which translates to Pulling Qi is the most crucial exercise for developing an effective and successful result of your QiGong practice. It is a subjective experience of the guiding principles of ZhiNeng QiGong, and turns something theoretical into something practical, applicable, and effective.

According to Hun Yuan Entirety theory (the guiding principle of ZhiNeng QiGong), everything that makes up reality consists of a unifying substance, called Hun Yuan Qi. Hun Yuan Qi is the finest and purest substance in existence and is the building block of all things making up reality.

I personally think it is very similar to the Higgs-Boson Particle also known as the Quantum Field. This particle is not actually a particle, but a field of potential that can appear, disappear, change, and transform in relation to the information that is given to it through direct observation.

Hun Yuan Entirety theory also states that all things in existence from the smallest unit to the largest, are in a constant state of Hun Hua - merging and transforming. Everything is opening and closing (like the breath), dispersing and gathering; and transforming. One can observe these patterns in nature.

Through the practice of La Qi, one can directly experience this phenomenon of merging and transforming, and directly merge and transform their own Human Hun Yuan Qi with that of Universal & Original Hun Yuan Qi. This exercise gives your mind something to focus on, and through focusing, refines your observation skills and slowly strengthens your consciousness.

The hands are extremely helpful for developing this skill, because as children we use them as our earliest tools for learning about the world around us. Through regular practice one can develop their observation skills to the point where the hands are no longer required. La Qi becomes purely a consciousness practice, a very powerful, and effective tool for healing, for researching internal human life activity, and developing higher levels of conscious awareness. This consciousness practice of La Qi, can then be paired with many other ZhiNeng QiGong exercises to facilitate extremely effective results for healing all types of conditions.

The physical exercises of ZhiNeng QiGong are beneficial, but without pairing them with La Qi practice in a deep state, your efforts will most likely result in a poor outcome. This very simple practice of La Qi should be practiced repeatedly to develop your focused awareness and skill at observing the infinite layers of Qi. I believe this is the difference between doing exercise and doing QiGong. It is also what makes ZhiNeng QiGong effective, and powerful!

To practice La Qi in a deep state, and use it for healing, you can download an audio lesson here.

Listen and practice along and you will enter a very deep state. You will develop your skills of experiencing and working with Qi and simultaneously strengthen your consciousness. This audio lesson is also organized as a Qi Field healing, and will guide you in how to use Qi Medicine for self-healing.

Hun Yuan Ling Tong!

-RJ Singer

For more information about ZhiNeng QiGong, classes, and retreats please visit:

www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

ZhiNeng QiGong Australia is located at the Alchemy Wellness Centre in Nashua, NSW near the village of Bangalow in the beautiful Byron Bay Hinterland.

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. He is also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant.

RJ’s area of special skill is in the successful treatment of stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

#LearntofeelQiinstatntly

Part 2 - ZhiNeng QiGong Wall Squats: How to modify them and gradually progress

Tue, 28 Jun 2016 00:38:22 GMT

In a previously posted video and article, I demonstrated the ZhiNeng QiGong Wall Squat and described the benefits. This is a follow up video and article to demonstrate and assist you in how to modify this exercise and slowly progress to performing the wall squat correctly as shown in the original video.

Most people are not flexible enough to begin practicing with their feet together and their toes close to a wall. Typically the tendons and ligaments at the heels, ankles, knees, and lower back are too tight to lower your self into a squat, without raising your heels. For this reason, the exercise must be modified initially. Here are the steps:

1). First simply see what sort of squat you can initially do. Stand in an open space, not facing a wall. Try to squat as low as you can with your feet together and heels flat on the ground. If you have trouble, try it again with a wider stance. If you can squat with your spine relatively straight up and down and without falling backwards, then you can start doing the exercise facing a wall.

Your issue will be the distance from the wall. Stand far enough away that you can squat, but no so far away that it is not challenging. Over time, try to place your feet and knees closer together, and slowly move closer towards the wall.

Do not attempt the snake (caterpillar) like entirety movement of the spine, until you can perform the exercise with your toes nearly touching the wall, and are not bending your head and spine forward.

2). The majority of people may be able to almost squat, but have trouble balancing or fall backwards when they lower themselves to a certain position. In this case you will need to hold onto something until you open up the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. You can use a railing, a pillar, or a doorway.

However, I must stress that it is easy to keep doing this and not push your self to advance with the exercise. Something to hold onto is there as an assist, do not rely on it! Always make this exercise challenging. Your initial goal is to try and do a squat without holding onto anything, but something is there to hold onto if you need it, for balance. With time, you will be able to lower yourself all the way down, heels flat on the ground without holding on to anything.

3). For others, they can do a squat, but have to lean forward otherwise they lose their balance and fall backwards. This is a modification of holding onto something and is performed best with a column, or pillar, in front of you. It can also be done in a doorway, where you can stretch your arms forward in front of you and close them to grab onto something only when you need it, so you don’t fall backwards.

Your goal is to work towards, not needing to keep your arms forward for balance. You are very close to being able to face a wall. Keep at it. You are nearly there!

4). Once, you are facing the wall with toes nearly touching, and can perform the exercise without hitting your nose, or forehead. You can start trying to perform this movement as an entirety, by including a wave from your hips to the top of your head through your spine. Over time this will stimulate the nerve roots, and improve flexibility at every vertebra.

For most people it takes 6 months to 2 years of modifying this exercise and gradually progressing, before they are able to do a wall squat correctly as an entirety. This is the essence of Gong Fu and Qi Gong - mastery develops with practice, time, diligence, and dedication. At some point, it will be as simple as breathing, and walking. At that time, you will have reached a level of Gong Fu.

The physical movements of this exercise have a lot of benefits. But, I must emphasize that the real benefits and effectiveness of this exercise comes from doing it in a deep QiGong state.

I have audio downloads available, where you can listen along while performing the physical exercises. This simulates being in a classroom environment, following my instructions. Listening along you will perform the repetitions correctly with pauses and rests.

But, most importantly it will guide you into a deep healing state, with the correct focus of awareness and consciousness. Then this exercise transcends from just a physical exercise, into a healing of body, emotions, and consciousness.

The audio download is available here.

Hun Yuan Ling Tong!

-RJ Singer

For more information about ZhiNeng QiGong, classes, and retreats please visit:

www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

ZhiNeng QiGong Australia is located at the Alchemy Wellness Centre in Nashua, NSW near the village of Bangalow in the beautiful Byron Bay Hinterland.

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. He is also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant.

RJ’s area of special skill is in the successful treatment of stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

#Part2WallSquatsHowtoModifyProgress

One simple exercise can resolve nearly any health condition!

Tue, 21 Jun 2016 00:39:52 GMT

The spine can be likened to the trunk of a great tree, where the essential requirements for life and health flow. The internal organs can be likened to the fruit of a tree. The fruit of the tree is dependent upon the health of the trunk. The internal organs are controlled by the central nervous system, and any disruption or stimulation to the spine and nerve roots will have a direct effect upon the internal organs, limbs, and all other parts of the body. When a person’s spinal cord is injured, or severed there is often paralysis below the affected vertebrae. Science has even mapped the areas of the body connected to each nerve root, and named them dermatomes. When there is a sensation, pain, or muscular atrophy to a location on the body, it can often be traced back to a particular nerve root based on these dermatomes.

What you may not know is that poor posture and lack of flexibility of the spine have a direct effect upon the function and health of your ENTIRE body. The vast majority of people do not have proper spinal flexibility. This is true even in those that are considered to be relatively flexible. A truly flexible spine can bend and move smoothly at each individual vertebrae. When this movement takes place it stimulates the nerve roots and associated parts of the body. With nerve stimulation comes increased blood flow, and hormonal regulation. This is the reason why one simple exercise has such a strong influence on the health of the entire body.

This one exercise is the ZhiNeng QiGong Wall Squat. In the video above, you can see how every vertebra must flex and bend, which stimulates the nerve roots and balances every part of the body. With consistent practice this exercise can resolve back pain, neck pain, and realign the spine and correct posture. It opens the hip, knee, and ankle joints, strengthens the legs and core, and also massages the internal organs. With as little as 100 repetitions per day, one can also resolve nearly any physical problem in the body, including many chronic diseases.

Of course, this exercise is not just simply a physical exercise. Being a QiGong exercise one must combine movement with breath and consciousness. It should be done in a QiGong entirety state, where the body, the breath and the mind are all interacting together smoothly and in a unified manner. It is important you do not rush through the exercise! Stay present and relaxed, until it becomes effortless. Keep your mind focused inward and remain centered. At first, most people are not flexible enough to do this exercise properly, and may need to begin by modifying it.

You may need to begin with your feet apart in a wider stance, or have to stand further from the wall. You may even need to have something to hold on to at first. Whatever you do - stick with it, and keep challenging yourself to do it more correctly. Gradually over time, you will be able to do the complete exercise. Don’t be in a rush keep in mind, it may take a few months upwards to a couple of years. “A thousand mile journey, starts with one step”.

Wall squats are also a great exercise for weight loss, balance, strengthening the legs, and for building will power. It is very common for people with chronic health problems to feel lethargic, overwhelmed and emotionally defeated. Because this exercise is challenging it also helps people overcome this outlook. When facing a challenge, one must persevere through it, then at some point it is no longer challenging, one will then have a new sense of accomplishment and empowerment.

I know from my own experience, that it is extremely difficult to face an illness, let alone heal one when you feel beaten down and disempowered. This exercise will help you build confidence, so you have self-determination and a true belief that you can overcome anything!

In Chinese Medicine, we believe that will power is a manifestation of kidney energy, the root of life. Strengthening your will power will also strengthen your root of life. Since this exercise also focuses on the spine and opening the lower back where your kidneys and adrenal glands are located, it also physically stimulates them. Combining the mind, your will, and the physical movement all sends a very strong unifying signal. Every cell has the inherent information to become any other type of cell. All it needs is the correct trigger and stimuli.

Now, you realize how powerful this exercise is for self-healing and maintenance! You are physically, energetically, and consciously strengthening the metaphorical trunk of your tree. Your limbs, leaves, and fruit will all be nourished and thrive.

When you finish this exercise daily, you will feel revitalized, your tendons, ligaments, and fascia stretched, lubricated, nourished and awakened. With improved nervous system, and blood circulation, you will feel invigorated. With a focused mind you will feel calm, alert and aware. With a sense of accomplishment for doing 100 squats you will feel empowered. Over time this sense of accomplishment will grow into confidence and optimism. All you have to do is make the decision to do it and stick to it.

For those that cannot stand on their feet, do not fret. I have other exercises for you and will share more in future articles.

Most ZhiNeng QiGong methods are done with the eyes closed. This is to facilitate a deep state of practice, where all senses are turned inward. Because of this, we offer audio recordings of practices and healings, so you can be guided along as if you were in a classroom.

We also offer free videos of the exercises, like the one you are watching. Watch them first and try to learn the physical postures. Then you can download the audio recordings from our website and proceed to practice in a deep healing state with a guided Qi field and focused consciousness.

Click here to download the guided audio recordings

For more information about ZhiNeng QiGong, classes, and retreats please visit:

www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

Click here to see Part 2: [Video] Modifying Wall Squats for Gradual Progression

ZhiNeng QiGong Australia is located at the Alchemy Wellness Centre in Nashua, NSW near the village of Bangalow in the beautiful Byron Bay Hinterland.

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. He is also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant.

RJ’s area of special skill is in the successful treatment of stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

#1simpleexercisetoresolveanyhealthproblem

These 3 things are the real cause of Chronic Disease . . .

Tue, 14 Jun 2016 00:48:12 GMT

#TherealcauseofChronicIllness

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located in Nashua, NSW near the village of Bangalow in the beautiful Byron Bay Hinterland.

Chronic Diseases have steadily been increasing worldwide, and are the leading cause of illness, and disability in developed countries. They are the new plague of the modern world!. As of 2011, chronic diseases accounted for 90% of all deaths in Australia and the USA, also making it the leading cause of death!

The term chronic disease applies to a group of diseases that tend to be long lasting and have persistent effects. These include such conditions as heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, IBS, and autoimmune disorders.

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

As of 2012, about half of all adults—117 million people—had one or more chronic health conditions. One of four adults had two or more chronic health conditions.
Seven of the top 10 causes of death in 2010 were chronic diseases. Two of these chronic diseases—heart disease and cancer—together accounted for nearly 48% of all deaths.
Arthritis is the most common cause of disability. Of the 53 million adults with a doctor diagnosis of arthritis, more than 22 million say they have trouble with their usual activities because of arthritis.
Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, lower-limb amputations other than those caused by injury, and new cases of blindness among adults.

What causes chronic disease? Most people would say Genetics, Pollution, Poor Diet and Hydration, Stress, and Lack of Exercise. Chronic Disease is rampant and rising. Once considered diseases associated with the aged, it is now occurring in younger people and children. I would agree, these five factors are very important and may be critical and significant factors in developing chronic disease. However, they are not actually the cause! They contribute to a suitable environment for the primary causes of chronic illness, they are not the cause itself.

Many people try to live a very healthy lifestyle, as we all should! Yet, still end up developing a chronic disease. On the other side of the coin, we all know of someone who is over 90, who smoke and drank their entire life, doesn't eat vegetables, never went to the gym, and had a stressful job, yet they have longevity and a relatively high quality of life. How can this be, is it purely genetics?

It certainly helps, but the real causes of Chronic Disease are 3 things:

Poor Circulation, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation. If one can prevent these from occurring, they will not develop a chronic disease. And if a person can resolve these three things, they can recover from a chronic illness.

Lets, examine these causes in more detail.

1). Poor Circulation - The rivers of the body are blocked and stagnant.

Blood travels to nearly every part of the body, carrying energy, oxygen, nutrition, and immune cells. When circulating well, every cell is nourished with what is required for optimal cellular metabolism. Blood also carries away waste products and pathogens. When blood is not circulating well, waste lingers and pathogens proliferate, cells are unable to metabolize efficiently, repair, and reproduce.

2). Oxidative Stress – Damaging Toxins and Pollution.

This refers to premature aging, due to damage by free radicals. Too many free radicals can disrupt a living cell and cause damage. Some free radicals arise normally during metabolism. Sometimes the body even creates them on purpose to neutralize viruses and bacteria. However, they are most often spawned by pollution, heavy metals, and radiation. Recent research also suggests negative emotions contribute to oxidative stress. Normally, the body balances free radicals with antioxidants. This is why certain vegetables, herbs and teas are thought to be anti-aging. They contain a large amount of anti-oxidants.

3). Inflammation – The body is in attack mode, struggling to contain and eliminate the garbage.

Inflammation is an important way for the body to fight invasion and infection by removing the harmful agents – pathogens, irritants, and damaged cells. Inflammation causes an increase in immune cells to an area. Arteries dilate; blood flow increases, and capillaries become more permeable, allowing white blood cells, nutrients and hormones to move into the space in between cells. Where the white blood cells ingest the foreign agent, pathogen and damaged cells. Blood clots form by the release of a hormone and tissue is heated to aid in killing any pathogen.

However when out of balance, inflammation becomes chronic. When this happens the immune system is working overtime. White blood cells swarm to ingest a continual pathogen, or irritant, and in doing so inflammation can become systemic causing a vast array of chronic illness. In some conditions, the body sends an inflammatory response to a perceived internal threat that does not need an inflammatory response. The white blood cells swarm, but have nothing to do, and nowhere to go, and start attacking healthy tissue.

We already stated the obvious things that contribute to Poor Circulation, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation, namely the big five: Genetics, Pollution, Poor Diet and Hydration, Stress, and Lack of Exercise. We could all benefit by improving the things above that we have control over.

But, there is more that can be done to prevent and even resolve chronic disease.

They are:

Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and QiGong!

Specifically, because they address the root cause of Chronic Disease, they improve circulation, reduce oxidative stress, reset and reduce the inflammatory response. These modalities have an extraordinary ability to resolve difficult conditions. I have personally healed myself of a chronic illness and have helped many people recover from debilitating and stubborn conditions. In a past article, I explained the important and overlooked fascia network, and how Acupuncture, Massage, and QiGong interact with this system to facilitate healing. In future articles, I will explain in more detail how these modalities work with such amazing results, and will provide certain methods and exercises that you can do yourself!

To learn more, please visit:

www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

How I recovered from Ulcerative Colitis and you can too!

Wed, 08 Jun 2016 00:55:31 GMT

#HowIcuredmyselfofUlcerativeColitis

I had my first symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis in my early twenties. I suffered with it for more than a decade. Health is something we take for granted, until we don’t have it. Ulcerative Colitis is an extremely debilitating disease! I would wake up in the morning in terrible pain. It felt as if I had been shot in the gut by a shotgun. Soon followed by an urgency to go the toilet, most often being diarrhea accompanied with blood. This would then continue all day long, having to go to the toilet 10–20 times per day. I would be afraid to leave the house, go to work, or go out with friends, knowing a nearby bathroom would be necessary. I saw several Western Medical Doctors, each confirming a diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis.

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a form of Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD), similar to Crohn’s Disease (CD), consisting of inflammation and micro-ulcers of the superficial layers of the lower colon and rectum. Crohn’s differs in that it causes inflammation of the entire thickness of the intestinal wall, deeper ulceration and fistulae (abnormal openings in the stomach or intestine that allow contents to leak).

While UC primarily affects the Large Intestine, CD occurs mostly in the small intestine, but can exist anywhere throughout the Digestive Tract from mouth to anus. Both Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease can occur simultaneously in the same person.

According to Western Medical Science the causes are unknown. They think it may possibly be genetic, but is triggered by the body’s immune system reacting to an environmental, dietary, or infectious agent. The only solution offered to me was a regular and expensive pharmaceutical prescription. My Doctor said I would have to take it my entire life. This medication was not a cure, but more like aspirin for the intestines to alleviate the discomfort, and in the long run would damage my liver and kidneys. He also suggested, I experiment with food to see if anything aggravated the condition. He then continued with more bad news, saying that people with Ulcerative Colitis are more prone to colon cancer, and sometimes the disease gets so bad, that the colon needs to be surgically removed. The idea of having a colostomy bag in the future was especially unappealing and I was determined to find a way to cure myself.

Like many people diagnosed with an ‘incurable’ disease, I first chose to ignore it. But, the symptoms continued to worsen. I would have periods where I lost a tremendous amount of weight. I would feel nauseated, with very little appetite and was undernourished from being unable to ingest nutrition due to so much intestinal inflammation. Additionally, I was extremely lethargic, anemic, and irritable, due to the constant blood loss. In an attempt to change my fated life sentence of misery, I started researching alternative therapies and natural remedies. I went to my local vitamin, and supplement shop looking for the items I found in my research. Things such as Probiotics, Slippery Elm, Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and Enemas. I tried all sorts of western herbs, but nothing seemed to help.

So what did I do? How did I heal myself of this terrible chronic illness? It took many years for me to accomplish my goal and learn the most effective methods. Through that lengthy process I became a Doctor of Chinese Medicine, apprenticed under the best people I could find around the world and developed mastery in treating chronic illness. The approach I used to heal myself of Ulcerative Colitis consists of 4 key approaches to therapy. They are Food Therapy, Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, and ZhiNeng QiGong.

1). Food Therapy – don’t let the name scare you. I have tried every kind of diet you can think of: Elimination Diets; I have been gluten/dairy/ sugar/alcohol/nightshade free, Vegetarian, Paleo and Ketogenic. Currently, I do not follow any specific diet. I have no restrictions, just some guidelines that I follow that make sense and are evidence based.

The key element defining Ulcerative Colitis is inflammation. Inflammation is really a reaction to an infection and the body’s way of trying to eliminate it. Most people with Ulcerative Colitis have something in their digestive system causing an infection. It is an overabundance of unhealthy gut bacteria. Recent research has shown that balanced gut bacteria is paramount to health and an imbalance may attribute to most diseases.

The first step to rebalancing gut bacteria is to stop ingesting things that kill beneficial bacteria. The most effective way to do that is to avoid processed foods, preservatives, additives, colouring agents and only eat organic food. All pesticides and herbicides kill beneficial gut bacteria. The herbicide Glyphosate (Round Up) in particular has been shown to devastate beneficial gut bacteria and increase intestinal inflammation. This is probably the real reason for increasing gluten intolerance in developed countries. As, wheat is sprayed heavily with Glyphosate to quicken seed ripening and early harvest. Another culprit of inflammation is Genetically Modified Crops (GMO’s). Many of them have been altered to be “round up ready”. Meaning they are sprayed heavily with Glyphosate.

Vegetables are also known to be anti-inflammatory, so a whole-food plant based diet is the best diet for UC. It is extremely important, that your food be cooked and not raw, especially when you have flare-ups. In Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine, digestion is the crux of health and healing. Anything that aids digestion will improve all functions of the body from cell metabolism, to repair and restoration. Raw vegetables are difficult to digest and can further aggravate the already inflamed and ulcerated intestinal lining. Slow cooked food, like stews and congee are easily digested, and therefore can be easily transformed into energy and used for cellular repair. This should be the primary focus of every meal, especially for the first few months of treatment. Protein is very important and necessary for cell repair. Meat is the best source of protein. But, it too needs to be organic, and eaten in small quantities. Preferably slow cooked with vegetables to aid digestion. People with severe flare-ups may need to be meat free for a limited time to reduce inflammation.

Another big factor causing inflammation is vegetable oil made from canola/rape seed. All canola oil is genetically modified and causes inflammation. It is made from the same substance used to make mustard gas during World War I, which causes inflammation of the skin and lungs. It is far better to use Raw Organic Coconut oil, or Organic Ghee for cooking, and organic locally produced olive oil for salad dressings and low temperature cooking. Unfortunately, due to corruption most olive oils have been tampered with and cut with vegetable oil. To ensure you are really buying pure extra virgin olive oil, buy only local and organic!

The last thing I want to say about food therapy is in regards to the importance of promoting beneficial gut bacteria. Buying probiotics is for the most part a waste of money. It’s not that they are non-beneficial. It’s that there is very little quality control and assurance that what you are buying is really what is being advertised. Additionally, taking probiotics is a high dosage of only one or a few particular strands of beneficial bacteria that most likely have little benefit for Ulcerative Colitis. Beneficial bacteria also need the correct food source to promote growth in your gut. Most probiotics do not have a food source for them to reproduce when and if they make it to your intestines. The best medicine is homemade fermented vegetables. Make your own organic sauerkraut and other fermented veggies. Eat only a little bit, especially at first with every meal. This will give you a complex and abundant diversity of micro-bacteria with a food source for them to proliferate in your gut. It is far more effective and you won’t be throwing money away.

2). Acupuncture – is especially good for relief during periods of flare-ups. Its effects typically, are immediate and can help to alleviate acute pain, discomfort, and suffering, and reduce the need to go to the toilet urgently and frequently. Regular treatments can assist the body in healing inflammation and resolving the condition for the long term. Acupuncture works by stimulating the Central Nervous System to send a nerve impulse to the effected area. This nerve impulse increases blood flow and nutrition to the area, which reduces inflammation, enhances cellular metabolism, repair and restoration. There are many different styles of acupuncture, and some are more effective for digestive disorders than others. I practice a style that is particularly beneficial for chronic internal disease.

3). Chinese Herbs – Chinese herbal formulas have been used and developed for more than 2 millenniums. The right formula is extremely important and can reduce inflammation, break up biofilms (the protective layer around moulds and detrimental gut bacteria) kill pathogens, promote proliferation of healthy gut bacteria, and promote regeneration of tissue. There are particular formulas that I use to promote long-term recovery, and healing from Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, and all sorts of auto-immune/inflammatory diseases.

4). ZhiNeng QiGong – All forms of QiGong are beneficial, but some are more focused on healing than others. I have trained in many styles of QiGong and Internal Martial Arts. QiGong was the first therapy I found beneficial in healing myself. QiGong is a method that a person can use to directly participate and influence their own healing journey.

My daily practice of QiGong took long term commitment. Over time I found my reactivity to stress, relax and diminish. I felt calmer, and more relaxed. Most people suffering with IBS, also have over-active nervous systems. I believe the diligent practice of calming the nervous system, and using particular QiGong exercises and techniques to improve blood circulation had a major effect on long term resolution of my Ulcerative Colitis symptoms.

ZhiNeng QiGong was created in China, by Dr. Pang Ming. He also created and developed the Hua Xia Centre, known as the Medicine-less Hospital to westerners. It became famous due to teaching more than 300,000 people self-healing exercises, techniques, and methods. The Chinese Government has researched it more than any other form of QiGong for it’s healing effects and it is promoted at Beijing University to students studying Chinese Medicine. I trained intensively in China directly under Doctors/Teachers of the Hua Xia Centre.

References:

Chen G., Yang Y, Liu M, Teng Z, Ye J, Xu Y, Cai X, Cheng X, Yang J, Hu C, Wan HM, Cao P. "Banxia xiexin decoction protects against dextran sulfate sodium-induced chronic ulcerative colitis in mice." Journ of EthnoPharm Vol 166, 149-156, May 2015.

Chen P, Zhou X, Zhang L, Shan M, Bao B, Cao Y, Kang A, Ding A,"Anti-inflammatory effects of Huangqin tang extract in mice on ulcerative colitis." Journ of EthnoPharm, Vol 162, 207-214,March 2015.

Clinical observation on treating chronic ulcerative colitis with retention enema by Baitouweng Kushen decoction and acupuncture, Clinical Journal of Chinese Medicine, 1674-7860, 2013.

Mu, Jing-ping & Wu, Huan-gan & Zhang, Zhi-quan & Liu, Hui-rong & Zhu, Yi & Shi, Zheng & Wang, Xiao-Mei. (2007). [Meta-analysis on acupuncture and moxibustion for treatment of ulcerative colitis]. Zhongguo zhen jiu = Chinese acupuncture & moxibustion. 27. 687-90.

Suzuki, Hideo, Tsuyoshi Kaneko, Yuji Mizokami, Toshiaki Narasaka, Shinji Endo, Hirofumi Matsui, Akinori Yanaka, Aki Hirayama, and Ichinosuke Hyodo. "Therapeutic efficacy of the Qing Dai in patients with intractable ulcerative colitis." World journal of gastroenterology: WJG 19, no. 17 (2013): 2718.

NOW is the time to regain your health and I can help you!

Click here to book an appointment www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. His also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant at the Alchemy Wellness Centre in Byron Bay, NSW Australia.

RJ’s area of special interest is helping people heal and recover from stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

Fascia, the best-kept secret for healing chronic diseases!

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 00:59:03 GMT

(Bruce Lee one inch punch video)

Internal Martial Artists and Yogis have recognized the importance of fascia for developing flexibility, power, and health for thousands of years. The majority of these types of exercises focus on developing the complex network of connective tissue called fascia that is interweaved throughout the entire body.

People who have developed a high level of mastery in these arts, have amazing control over their internal movement. In the martial arts, it can manifest as explosive power called Fa Jing. Bruce Lee demonstrated this with his amazing one-inch punch. Some people have analyzed this internal movement and describe it as rebound power, like that of a rubber band being stretched and released with greater intensity than the initial pull. Others have described it as an electrical or liquid like flow through the internal structure of the body. Martial artists in Asia, primarily China and Russia devote the majority of their training to developing the fascia, while western martial artists tend to focus more on muscle building.

Fascia is probably the least understood, but may be the most crucial and important structure in the body for health, longevity, and athletic performance. It has been largely overlooked by western science, thought mostly to function only as support and division of parts. Fascia consists of connective tissue, and is believed to consist primarily of collagen forming bands or sheets throughout the internal body, that attach, stabilize, enclose, and separate muscles and internal organs.

There is a reason why it has been overlooked. It is extremely difficult to study. Western science has primarily focused on an anatomical and Cartesian approach, where the parts make up the means. For the most part anatomists examine cadavers. Fascia in dead bodies look and behave very differently to that of a live human being. In a cadaver, the fascia looks like a thin membrane that connects and wraps through all the tissue in the body, connecting bone and muscle.

In a live human being, fascia is more than a membrane. It is filled with extracellular fluid and consists more like a thick gel. It is nearly impossible to dissect and examine in its live functional form. Recent scientific research has shown that fascia connects to all systems of the body. It connects bone to muscle and also connects with the central nervous system.

Being full of interstitial fluid, it is bio-electromagnetic. Connective tissue is functionally complex, it is not merely a wrapping. Fascia contains a particular type of cell, called a fibroblast. When fascia is stretched it changes the shape of a fibroblast, making it release ATP, an energy molecule. Secreted outside of its cell, ATP acts as a signaling agent to the nervous system, which controls and affects every part of the human body. This release of ATP also has an analgesic effect on nerve cells according to research being done at the University of Rochester by Dr. Nedergaard and Dr. Takano.

Research suggests this may be the western scientific explanation of how acupuncture works. When a needle is inserted, then manipulated it forces fibroblasts to expand, change shape, and secrete ATP, which then signals the nervous system and provides pain relief. Current research also shows that stretching and manual based therapies such as massage also effect fibroblasts in the same way and maintain flexibility and fluidness of the fascia. This flexibility is extremely important! Since fascia acts as the mechanical and biochemical link of the body with the nervous system. For Chinese Medical Doctors, this also may not be surprising. Since we view the physical body as Jing, the nervous system as Shen, and the mechanism that links the two is Qi. Perhaps, fascia is the physical manifestation of acupuncture meridians?

What is also fascinating to note is the crucial connection of fascia with the immune system. The fascia being filled with interstitial fluid also contains a large number of immune cells. Traveling via the blood stream and through the permeable layers of blood vessels into the fascia, immune cells can move throughout the interstitial fluid to any tissue in the body. Some leading researchers such as Dr. Langevin, Director of the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at the Harvard Medical School have gone so far as to call it the “home of the immune system”.

Dr. Langevin also believes chronic illness and chronic pain are largely attributed to inflammation of fascia. It is generally believed that most chronic back pain is attributed to a spinal problem. However, new research is proving that in most cases, it is inflammation of the fascia and not a spinal problem that causes chronic pain. She found that even when a spinal problem exists, it might not be the cause of the pain. Many people have surgery and still have pain. If the spinal problem was the cause, then the pain should have disappeared.

Fascia also has a crucial role in the development and spread of cancer. According to Dr. Langevin, cancer is not just the proliferation of tumor cells growing out of control. How do cancer cells get a foothold? They must have something to grow on, a base, and that is the fascia. The cancer cells take the connective tissue hostage! Dr. Patricia Keely at the University of Wisconsin, has shown that cancer is most likely to travel along the connective tissue matrix, making it a pathway where cancer can spread.

In a previous article, I categorized the three causes of chronic diseases as being Poor Circulation, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation. It would seem that a flexible and fluid fascia is essential in preventing these three from occurring. It is the linking mechanism between structure and function, and maybe the initial starting place for these three causes to take root. If the fascia loses its flexibility, its ability to secrete ATP and signal the nervous system is greatly hindered, and that effects balance of the entire body. If not resolved acute Inflammation of the fascia can be the beginning of a chronic illness and chronic pain.

It seems that eastern medicine has known about the very important function of connective tissue for a very long time! Exercises like Qigong, Yoga, and Tai Chi have long claimed and proven to be very effective in the prevention of illness and in healing the body and mind of all types of chronic pain and diseases. All of these exercises share something in common. They all focus on the stretching and movement of connective tissue, with a focused awareness of consciousness. Perhaps the future of medicine is a return to the wisdom of the past, by understanding this wisdom through the lens of our contemporary time?

- RJ Singer

If you suffer from pain or chronic illness, we can help you. We have successfully helped many people preserve and recover their health.

To learn more, please visit

www.AlchemyWellnessCentre.com.au

Alchemy Wellness Centre is located in Nashua, NSW near the village of Bangalow in the Byron Bay Hinterland.

RJ Singer is a registered Acupuncturist, and Chinese Medicine Doctor with AHPRA and AACMA. His also a highly regarded QiGong Healer and Teacher, and Feng Shui Consultant. RJ’s area of special skill is in the successful treatment of stubborn and difficult chronic disease, and all types of painful conditions.

Katrina Hillis is a registered Remedial & Relaxation Massage Therapist with AMT. Katrina is also an experienced Intuitive Reader and an accredited Zhineng Qigong Practitioner. Katrina specialises in helping people overcome emotional issues and life transitions working holistically to balance the body, mind and spirit.

#Fasciathesecrettohealing

Surgery, the Ultimate Placebo! Many surgeries are unnecessary, offering only a placebo remedy - acc

Thu, 19 May 2016 01:02:31 GMT

Too many patients have come to me because they were rushed to have a surgical operation before seeking a second opinion from a Chinese Medical Doctor, and find they could have had a better outcome seeing me for treatments pre-surgery and post-surgery. And a large proportion of these people that have undergone surgery, find the problem remains, or is even exacerbated!

In my experience, the majority of patients that come to see me for the advised treatment protocol have such effective outcomes that surgery is rarely necessary. In fact, in the majority of cases I see, the surgery could have been avoided altogether.

I recently read an article about a new book entitled 'Surgery, the Ultimate Placebo' where orthopaedic surgeon, Ian Harris believes millions of healthcare dollars are wasted on operations that may not work, are unnecessary, and should be prevented. I found it to be extremely informative and an excellent read for anyone thinking they may need surgery. He believes the most common surgeries that are most often unnecessary to be SPINAL FUSIONS, KNEE ARTHROSCOPY, CORONARY STENTS, and APPENDIX REMOVAL .

Additionally, many people that have sought my advice before having surgery, have been persuaded so strongly to undergo it, they don't follow my advised treatment protocol, and undergo surgery too soon. There is no doubt that some surgeries are necessary. What most people don't realize, is that you have plenty of time to try something else. I can usually tell from the first visit whether a patient needs surgery, or not. Most patients have an immediate and effective response during the first treatment. If they do not, that often means there is structural degeneration, and surgery may be a viable option. In this circumstance, acupuncture, Chinese medicine, and certain exercises can strengthen the body, improve oxygen, nutrition, and blood flow to the affected area, so that when a surgery is conducted, the patient has an optimal outcome. Follow up treatments after surgery, ensure a faster and more effective recovery with less scar tissue, increased mobility, lessened pain, reduced bruising, and a reduction in other associated complications with the trauma of surgery, such as nerve damage and trapped dead blood. Because surgery is an extreme form of trauma in itself, it often causes other problems down the line, which can easily be avoided with proper treatment by a qualified and registered acupuncturist, and Chinese medicine practitioner.

If you are considering surgery, why not book a consultation with me, and see what other options are available. To book an appointment contact RJ Singer - Bangalow Taoist Acupuncture at Alchemy Wellness Centre .

To read the full article referenced above, click here.

#SurgeryAlternatives

300,000 + people learned to heal themselves at the Medicine-less hospital in China. Learn how to do

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 01:05:35 GMT

We are planning a healing retreat for June 2016, during the Queen's Birthday long weekend from Friday June 10 - Wednesday June 15. The Retreat will be held in the Byron Bay area. It will include accommodation and food.

Cost: $2,500

Early Bird Discount: $2,150 (if paid in full before May 1)

Payment Plan Available: Three installments of $833 (Payable on April 8, May 8, and June 8)

Payable by Bank Transfer, Visa, or MasterCard.

The retreat will consist of a deep immersion into the healing methods of ZhiNeng QiGong Science. It will be taught and conducted in a similar fashion to what was done at the Hua Xia Centre (Medicine-Less Hospital), consisting of methods, theory and specific exercises. The emphasis will be focused on:

How to organize a Qi Field
Gather external Hun Yuan Qi, and strengthen Internal Hun Yuan Qi.
Use Qi Medicine for healing yourself, and others
Deeply practice Lift Qi Up, Pour Qi Down correctly, using consciousness
Hun Yuan Entirety Theory
Companion exercises, such as La Qi, 3 Centres Standing Meditation, and Static Methods.
Develop a pure mind state, and maintain it in daily life

It will be facilitated and taught by RJ Singer with assistance from Katrina Hillis. RJ and Katrina are officially recognized and certified teachers and healers of ZhiNeng QiGong. They were trained in China by teachers from the Hua Xia Centre taught directly by Dr. Pang Ming.

The daily timetable will consist of:

Morning Practice 7am-8am

Breakfast 8am-9:30am

Theory and Methods 9:30am-12pm

Lunch and Rest 12pm-3pm

Afternoon Practice 3pm-6pm

Dinner 6pm-7:30pm

Evening lecture and practice 7:30pm-9pm

For more information about ZhiNeng QiGong click here.

ZhiNeng QiGong Retreat Byron Bay Bangalow

#ZhiNengQiGongRetreatByronBay

Why Practice QiGong?

Fri, 01 Jan 2016 01:10:27 GMT

(Translation of Calligraphy):

"Practice Qigong diligently and with effort, improve your body mind and heart, Bring benefit to all human beings".

Can you really heal yourself, does it really work?

How do I know its not just the placebo effect? After all modern science can’t prove Qi exists.

These are questions and remarks I hear all the time from people who are curious about Qigong.

It is good to be skeptical, unfortunately there are many charlatans out there. I typically tell my personal story about my journey with Qigong. After all it is a very personal practice.

The benefits and things you discover will happen only from your experience and unique perspective, and at your own pace. Everyone’s body is different, and only you can feel what is truly going on inside you during your practice.

In 2005, my 29 year old brother was dying from cancer. I watched him fight it for 5 years, and endure immense pain and suffering. The last 9 months of his life he was bed ridden. His bones were crumbling, and falling apart, he could not walk, and was on a ridiculously high dosage and frequency of morphine injections.

A friend of my mother’s suggested having an amazing Qigong master she knew, give my brother a treatment. Why not she thought, as he was out of options. This Qigong master asked my brother where the pain was located. My brother said his ankles felt like they were going to explode. Initially, my brother said he felt no change. Then after a little while of silence, the master would repeat the question, then more silence, then repeat the question again and again. Astonishingly, my brother said it was getting better, and it kept getting better and better. Eventually, my brother was stomping his foot on the ground saying the pain is gone! Then he did the same thing with the other foot, until he was finally standing. The pain in his legs and ankles NEVER returned!

The Qigong master suggested my brother have another treatment the next week, and my mother was ecstatic and of course agreed. However afterwards, to our astonishment my brother said he never wanted to see that man again in his life. My mother looked at him bewildered, because this was, in her eyes nothing less than a miracle. She said "look at you, you are walking around and not in pain for the first time in 6 months."My brother said "yes", but he didn’t want another treatment.

I could not understand why he refused. I realized he didn’t want to get better. My brother died a few months later. After his death, I found myself enraged with anger, depression, and self-destruction. Any faith in god I may have had, had died with my brother. My entire life seemed to be imploding. My girlfriend left me, my business was falling apart, and I was drinking a bottle of whiskey nearly every day. I was a difficult person to be around, and was feeling so depressed, I didn’t even want to get out of bed in the morning.

After awhile, I realized I had hit my rock bottom, my mother had lost one son, and I was doing a darn good job of ensuring she lost another. I came to the realization there was a huge, gaping spiritual void in my life. And I began a little journey of discovery, by reading eastern philosophy. I soon stumbled upon the Tao Te Ching, and in this book, I saw everything I believed in, but had been unable to put into words. It ignited a spark within me, and I had to read every bit of Taoist philosophy I could find.

It didn’t take long for me to start wondering about this elusive thing called Qi. Was it just poetry? I knew it was more than that, after all I had already witnessed a Qigong healing miracle with my brother. In my search to find a teacher I have been very fortunate. I have had many amazing teachers of world renown, whose abilities are nothing short of miraculous, bordering on the supernatural.

Qigong changed my life in every way possible. Not only did it help me out of my grief, despair, and rage, but I had also been suffering from a debilitating over active immune related digestive disorder since 1998. Western Doctors gave it the name ulcerative colitis, and a large quantity of pills that I had to take 3 times a day for many years.

When I started practicing Qigong, I quickly began to feel this “Qi”. Within a few months, my attitude and emotional state improved dramatically, and I noticed I wasn’t having as many flare ups of ulcerative colitis. A year later, I threw out the medication, and have never taken another pill. My career as a thoroughbred race horse trainer, breeder, and agent which was how I defined my life, began to lose it’s luster. My true self seemed to be appearing with more regularity.

My desire to help others especially so they would never have to endure what my brother went through began to take hold of my life. It has been a long journey since then, what started out as a method of self-healing continues to be a profound journey of self-discovery and growth.

So, does Qigong really work? It has for me, I have healed myself completely of a debilitating disease, things that once seemed miraculous and supernatural now seem ordinary. I found happiness and contentment, my true self. What Buddhists like to refer to as the Buddha nature that exists in all of us. We are all perfect, whole, and complete, it is just hidden from our view, in the same way the universe hides from itself.

Click here for free QiGong videos

#WhyPracticeQiGong

Weekly ZhiNeng QiGong Class - begins Wednesday December 9, 2015 at 6:30pm

Thu, 05 Nov 2015 01:20:23 GMT

These classes will be taught by R.J. Singer, and assisted by Katrina Hillis. R.J. is a highly regarded QiGong healer and teacher. He will guide participants into a strong Qi Field and teach them step by step in how to use the ZhiNeng QiGong healing method that were used at the famed Hua Xia Centre (medicine-less hospital) in China.

R.J. Singer and Katrina Hillis are internationally recognised and certified ZhiNeng QiGong Teachers and Healers

Click here to learn more about Teacher R.J. Singer

Students will learn:

How to organize a Qi Field

Gather external Hun Yuan Qi, and strengthen Internal Hun Yuan Qi.

Use Qi Medicine for healing yourself and others

Deeply practice Lift Qi Up, Pour Qi Down correctly, using consciousness

Hun Yuan Entirety Theory

Complimentary exercises, such as La Qi, 3 Centres Standing Meditation, and Static Methods.

Develop a pure mind state, and maintain it in daily life

ZhiNeng (Wisdom Healing) QiGong is well known in China and around the word as one of the most effective systems for healing, and developing human potential. It was developed by Dr Pang, He-Ming, and was used in the famed HuaXia "Medicine-less" hospital where their were no such thing as patients - only students. At the HuaXia Centre, hundreds of thousands of people were healed of every illness imaginable.

The expansion of consciousness is the vehicle used for healing and specific exercises are taught to loosen and relax the spine, open the joints and ligaments, stabilize the emotions, and expand consciousness. A step by step approach is used in a scientific manner to teach you how to effectively heal yourself of pain, illness, disease, and emotional disorders. This healing method is extremely powerful and effective, taking the QiGong state to a deeper and more profound level.

Call now to confirm your space in the class.

Tel: (02) 6687 1276 or visit our website www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au

Practice together, experience a strong Qi Field, and learn the ZhiNeng QiGong healing method to heal yourself of pain, illness, and disease.

Meet at the Alchemy Wellness Centre, and practice outdoors in a beautiful parkland at the Byron Holiday Park.

Only $25/person , open to everyone and all levels of experience.

Please contact Alchemy Wellness Centre Byron Bay to confirm you will attend.

Tel: (02) 6687 1276 or visit our website www.alchemywellnesscentre.com.au