CHI Medicine

Winter Reflections: Dr. Annalisa Pastore, M.D.

2012-02-01T12:00:00.000-08:00

WinterReflections: Dr. Annalisa Pastore, M.D.

During this winter season I encourage you to retreat intoyour inner selves to gain clarity on what it is you would like to manifest inthe next season of your life. Winter is for retreat and reflection to prepare for the next season...spring, which isfor manifesting. I know formyself and my family, I decided to follow the lead of my children this winterwho wanted to under-schedule themselves, leaving more time for quiet. Ofcourse they were right about the needs of the spirit.

There are acts of kindness towards the self that we ofteninstinctively choose during this time of year...warming comfort foods anddrink, celebration with family and friends. Allow yourselves suchself-nourishment. Choose to warm yourself in front of a fire or in a hotbath. To keep ourselves from succumbing to the cold related illnesses ofthe season, it is important to fortify our kidney/adrenal energy. Thewinter season is the season of the element of water and its associatedmeridians...kidney and urinary bladder. These are two of the moreimportant meridians...the kidney's jing or essence is the foundation of the yinand yang of all the body's organs, and the urinary bladder's course alongsidethe spinal cord allows it to reflect autonomic nervous system's control of allthe organs of the body. Water is an amazingly versatile element in itsvarious forms, in its ability to reflect in its stillness, transmit subtle yetdispersing ripples in its stirring, and create powerful waves in its agitation.

We maintain balance in the kidney and bladder meridianswhen we are gentle with our selves and hopeful.

It is no coincidence that the longer nights of wintercoincide with the time to be attentive to our kidney (adrenals) and bladder. We should take the cues of the season to ensure plentiful and restorativesleep, going to sleep earlier and rising later (as is possible).

For additional more specific information on nutritionalsupplementation and herbs most appropriate during this time of year, you mayspeak with Dr. Pastore, M.D. and/or Diane Rooney, M.S., L.AC., DIPlL. OM.,L.M.T., Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs. Sue Noyes, HHC also has manysuggestions for appropriate nourishing foods.

CHIKitchen

Millet is a wonderful gluten-free grain, which has a highprotein profile in comparison to other grains. It is said to strengthen thekidneys, is beneficial to the stomach and spleen-pancreas, builds “yin” fluids,moistens dryness, and is alkalizing, balancing over-acid conditions. Thisdelicious breakfast cereal idea will start your day off right on cold wintermornings.

Warm Breakfast Millet

1 cup millet, rinsed

2 or 2 ½ cups organic almond milk (or water)

1 teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon vanilla extract (alcohol free)

A few grains of sea salt

Toppings:

1 teaspoon of pure maple syrup, drizzled, or stevia to taste

Sprinkle with 1 tbs. ground flaxseed, or nuts of choice

Seasonal fruit

Combine millet, almond milk, and seasoningsin saucepan. Bring to gentle boil, stir and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover andsimmer for about 25 - 30 minutes. It is done when it is light and fluffy, and theliquid is absorbed. Serve with toppings. Makes 2-4 servings depending onappetite.

Getting in the Flow: Winter = Water

2012-01-07T09:06:00.000-08:00

---Sue Noyes, HHC

Have you ever peeked at the last chapter of a book first? That is what we are doing by starting with winter --- the end of all the seasons. Winter is associated with “Water,” the element of tranquility and flow. The element of water also most significantly corresponds to the kidneys, and the accompanying adrenal glands, which represent the root energy of all the organs.

Living “Elemental”: Water

Body:

To keep your kidneys healthy, it is important to keep them warm and well hydrated. When you are outside in the cold weather, make sure you are keeping your lower back warm. Longer jackets and coats work well, along with an under-layer that tucks into your pants.

Keep well hydrated by liberally drinking warm teas, especially those with ginger or cinnamon. One way to check on your hydration level is to sip hot water throughout the day; if you are still thirsty by evening, you may have been dehydrated.

Winter is an especially good time to practice fluid exercises like Tai Chi, qigong, and yoga. These practices keep the body flexible, improve circulation, and calm the mind.

Mind:

Think of a tranquil pool of water. Winter is a time to be still and reflect on your goals and desires for the year ahead. If you have been journaling, reading back through your entries gives perspective. You may realize how far you have come, and also discover your “sticking points” --- issues that still need work. This insight will help you make more targeted plans for the days ahead.

Spirit:

It has been said that we are spiritual beings having a human experience. Taking a few minutes at the start of each day to read an inspirational book, pray, or meditate will nurture your spirit. This will bear fruit in how you approach the day ahead. Another way to get more in touch with our spiritual nature is to pay more attention to our dreams --- the flow of our unconscious thoughts. You may want to try keeping a notebook and pen by your bedside, and upon awaking, immediately write down any recollections of your dreams or first thoughts.

CHI Kitchen

Your body will appreciate warm, grounding foods in the winter, such as hearty soups, stews, whole grains, and nuts. Here is a winter soup recipe to brighten your day.

Winter Warm-Up Soup

1 cup yellow split peas, rinsed well

2 quarts filtered water

1 5”piece of kombu, rinsed well

1 small onion, chopped

2 carrots, sliced

1 cup winter squash, cut in small chunks

½ cup chopped parsley

¼ teaspoon sea salt

Miso to taste

Put split peas, water, and kombu in a pot. Heat until just before a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Add the onion, carrots, squash, and salt. Continue to simmer until all vegetables are tender. Dilute the miso with a little stock, and simmer for 5 more minutes. Remove kombu if desired. Use the soup as is, or puree in blender for smooth texture. Top with parsley before serving. Serves 8.

Harmony: 5 Elements for 5 Seasons

2012-01-05T06:49:00.000-08:00

Eating “seasonally” has been trending in popular culture nowadays, and it intuitively resonates with most of us. Traditional Chinese medical philosophy echoes this simple truth: the seasons have a profound cyclical effect on our well-being. The Chinese 5 Element system expands this concept as a way of understanding more completely how natural changes in the outside environment and within the body can affect wellness. At CHI-Medicine, Dr. Pastore incorporates these ancient principles in her holistic approach to patient care.

Our 2012 blog will delve into each of the 5 Elements --- Water, Wood, Fire, Earth, and Metal --- and their corresponding season, to bring these principles out of the theoretical realm into everyday life. What you will find in our blog each month is practical tools and simple explanations of how to apply seasonally the 5 elements to keep our bodies in harmony.

So, have fun --- go “Elemental”!

2011-11-08T17:10:00.001-08:00

A step closer to achieving our goal of creating a complete holistic wellness center, CHI Medicine has added some amazing practitioners and services to our practice. Keep your eyes open for special introductory programs being offered by our nutritionist, acupunctarist, and massage therapist! Bios to follow:)