Top 10 Reasons Everyone Should Get Acupuncture in Vail Valley

Everyone can reap the benefits of acupuncture by Krystal Kinnunen.

If you have been wondering if acupuncture is right for you, this blog post will share the top ten reasons out of the many reasons why acupuncture is for everyone. If you feel inspired by this blog post to receive acupuncture for yourself, Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture is here to guide you.
Book an appointment online or call us at (828) 739-0345

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1. Acupuncture keeps you healthy

Acupuncture is an excellent tool for maintaining optimal health. The most important part about acupuncture is consistency. When my patients begin to see results or even fully recover, I still recommend coming in for follow-up appointments. Studies produced by the National Institutes of Health have stated that regular acupuncture has been shown to increase the amount of T cells in the body. T cells kill harmful viruses and bacteria in the body. Acupuncture stimulates the brain to activate its natural immune response in the body, thus keeping the immune system stronger and more vigilant. This cellular response from acupuncture lasts for several days after a patient receives an acupuncture treatment. Therefore, receiving weekly acupuncture treatments will prevent your body from becoming sick. Allergies, colds, flu, and seasonal sicknesses can be effectively treated with acupuncture. Acupuncture, when used as preventative medicine, increases your overall well-being and leaves your immune system feeling boosted and strong!

2. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and improves sleep

One of the most common issues people are faced with is dealing with stress. The busyness of daily life and feeling stressed about making time for work, family, and your own self care can be overwhelming to the body and mind. Increased stress can also lead to decreased sleep. Stress and lack of sleep can both be detrimental to a person’s health and overall wellbeing. Acupuncture can help! Acupuncture works efficiently to soothe and calm the nervous system, promoting states of calmness and deep relaxation. Acupuncture additionally works to treat the root cause of insomnia and sleep difficulties.

3. Acupuncture improves your energy levels

One of the most universally known words in Traditional Chinese Medicine is “Qi”. This word is defined as energy. If you are feeling drained, fatigued, like you are running out of energy constantly, you could be experiencing a Qi deficiency. Qi deficiencies can happen due to stress, a poor diet, lack of exercise, and many other everyday factors. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are able to nourish and replenish Qi, therefore replenishing and encouraging increased energy levels in your daily life. At Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, we perform a thorough intake that will help to analyze where you are at with these different levels.

4. Acupuncture decreases muscular pain

Acupuncture is an excellent option to consider for both acute and chronic pain. Acupuncture works hard to send signals to the body that say “release endorphins” which are the body’s all-natural chemical pain-relief. An increase of energy and blood flow through the body and tissues from acupuncture works to speed up the body’s natural healing processes.

5. Acupuncture treats headaches

Many people who deal with persistent and chronic headaches may continue to suffer even after taking pain medicine or seeing a doctor. Acupuncture works to get to the root issue, making it an excellent therapy tool for headaches of all types. Examples may be migraines, tension headaches, or hormone headaches - but I have great news, acupuncture can help to treat these with great success! In the case of many patients of acupuncture, acupuncture has worked to decrease the frequency and severity of headaches and for some, it has resolved the issue completely.

6. Acupuncture improves digestion

It is a belief in Traditional Chinese Medicine that a healthy digestive system is the basis for overall good health. Digestive issues have become increasingly widespread, with common issues and symptoms including: bloating, constipation, IBS, and chronic abdominal pain. Referring back to the TCM belief of digestion being the basis for overall health, if you suffer from digestive issues you may be experiencing other symptoms throughout other aspects of your health. Acupuncture and TCM work efficiently to regulate, soothe, and restore the digestive system for optimal health.

7. Acupuncture improves your mood

This list already discussed the issue of stress in daily life, however something that should be addressed is anxiety and depression. These mental health issues can make everyday tasks feel difficult or too much to complete. Self-care is one of those tasks that can often be neglected when someone is faced with anxiety or depression. The good news is that acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help you. Acupuncture is great at treating anxiety and depression. Whether used alone for mood disorders or accompanied by Chinese herbal supplements, this form of healing will prove to be extremely beneficial for your overall mental health.

8. Acupuncture treats hormonal issues

One of the most common reasons my patients see me for acupuncture is for hormonal imbalances. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine have proven to be incredibly beneficial for treating and relieving symptoms and disorders related to these problems. Whether it is premenstrual, menstrual, or menopausal reasons, acupuncture can help. Registered acupuncturists can assess and treat several common TCM patterns within each phase of a woman’s cycle. A few examples in the first phase, the menstrual phase, include the following: pain during menstruation (which can indicate blood stagnation, blood deficiency, and cold in the uterus), blood clotting, throbbing headaches (which may be related to liver yang rising), dull headaches during or after bleeding (which is related to qi and blood deficiency), heavy or flooding periods, spotting and/or thin periods, and diarrhea. Prominent disorders such as PMS, irregular periods, painful periods, and heavy periods can all be helped by acupuncture and TCM. If you have experienced any of the above symptoms or disorders with your monthly cycles, acupuncture and herbal medicine can help. All of these occurrences are signs that there is an imbalance in the body that needs to be healed.

9. Acupuncture helps infertility

Chinese Medicine and infertility acupuncture is an invaluable resource for supporting healthy conception and addressing infertility issues. Both modern science and ancient texts agree on this. Many studies are proving the benefits of incorporating acupuncture into your fertility treatment approach. Regular acupuncture sessions at the Vail Valley fertility clinic can support a healthy conception, as well as help with many medical conditions that may be contributing to difficulty conceiving, including:

• Increase fertility naturally

• Ovarian cysts

• Premature ovarian failure

• Luteal phase defect

• Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes

• Thyroid issues

• pH balance

• Restricted blood flow to the uterus and ovaries

• Poor egg quality

• Sperm quality and mobility

• Irregular Cycle

• Advanced maternal age (AMA)

10. Acupuncture for pregnancy

In addition to the care of your doctor and/or midwife, regular prenatal acupuncture treatments throughout pregnancy are an excellent source of holistic, loving care for both mother and baby. My treatment space is designed to promote relaxation, healing, and support during this special time in your life.

Pregnancy changes the body in many ways. The process of supporting the development of a new life can be challenging for expectant mothers. Many will experience a variety of physical and emotional effects over the course of their pregnancy, from digestive issues to disordered sleep. Incorporating regular pregnancy acupuncture treatments can support your body and mind throughout each stage of your journey, helping you maintain optimum balance. And the benefits of acupuncture go beyond relieving common discomforts associated with pregnancy—regular sessions can also reduce your risk of miscarriage, assist with easier delivery, and facilitate your transition into motherhood once your child is born.

For more information on what I am able to treat throughout each trimester of your pregnancy, please visit this link: https://www.krystalkinnunen.com/pregnancy-acupuncture-vail-valley

'Tis the Season!

A Holiday Letter For You

'Tis the season! The month of December has arrived and the anticipation of time with loved ones, joyous memories, and the spirit of generosity and love surround us. As 2021 comes to a close, I am reflecting on all of the lovely moments from this past year. I am grateful to each and every one of you for helping to support and show love to my clinic this year. May your holiday season be filled with happiness, health, and prosperity.

With Love,

Dr. Krystal Kinnunen

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An excellent gift idea is to give self-care options to your loved ones. For many people, implementing self-care can be difficult in the stress and busyness of life. By giving the gift of acupuncture, you are giving the gift of health and wellbeing! Gift certificates are now available for purchase from Asheville Integrative Acupuncture. Whether you a gifting it to an acupuncture regular, someone who has never experienced the treatment, or even yourself - we promise this gift will not disappoint. Follow the link below for more information on how to purchase a gift certificate for yourself or a loved one during this holiday season!

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“Why is chicken soup superior to all the things we have, even more, relaxing than Tylenol? It is because chicken soup has a natural ingredient which feeds, repairs and calms the mucous lining in the small intestine. This inner lining is the beginning or ending of the nervous system. It is easily pulled away from the intestine through too many laxatives, too many food additives and parasites. Chicken soup heals the nerves, improves digestion, reduces allergies, relaxes and gives strength.”

-Hanna Kroeger, Ageless Remedies from Mother's Kitchen

Chicken broth is excellent for replenishing Qi in the body. Nourishing, warming, and great for healing! Bone broth works to heal your gut, supports your immune system, is great for your hair, skin, and nails, is beneficial for joint health, and works hard to help get toxins out of the body. Check out the link below to receive a nourishing recipe from the cookbook “Nourishing Traditions” by author Sally Fallon, with Mary G. Enig, Ph.D.

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The following link is the full December newsletter for Asheville Integrative Acupuncture:
https://conta.cc/33hYwLV

Increasing Happiness with Gratitude

Fall Harvest. Abundance. Gratitude.

How do these terms apply to your life?

For me, when I think of November, I think of the true bounty in my life. From everything both small and large that I am grateful for. I also think of the practice of letting go. The earth ceremoniously releases leaves from each branch and in my own ceremony I look inward. A ceremony of considering everything that I need to let go of. This is not always easy. But when you pair the two together - abundant gratitude and the act of letting go - you find the balance between the two.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there are many correspondences for the fall season. Fall is associated with the element of metal and the emotions of grief/sadness. The Yin organ associated with fall is the lungs and the Yang organ associated with fall is the large intestine.

This newsletter will discuss the significance of gratitude, how to warm and nourish the body, and how acupuncture can help to ease seasonal illnesses and holiday stress.

Read the November newsletter here: https://conta.cc/3bKG0gd

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Did you know that giving thanks can make you happier?

This is why everyone always says you should make daily gratitude lists - but they are on to something! A study produced by Harvard Health in August found a correlation between “giving thanks” and improved happiness levels.

“With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. In the process, people usually recognize that the source of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a result, being grateful also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals — whether to other people, nature, or a higher power. In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.”

- Harvard Health Publishing

Women’s Cycle Within Yin and Yang (Pt. 2)

~ The Menstrual Phase ~
Blog Post Pt.2

In Chinese medicine, the menstrual cycle is broken into two halves and four phases. The two halves are the Yin phase and the Yang phase. The four phases are menstrual, post-menstrual (follicular), ovulation, and pre-menstrual or implantation (luteal).

This blog post is the second in our latest series:
“Women’s Cycle Within Yin and Yang”
if you missed the first post of this series you can catch up here:
https://www.krystalkinnunen.com/bloghome/yinyang

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Yin Phase and Menstrual Bleeding

In the first five days of a woman’s cycle, they are experiencing the menstrual phase. The main focus at this point in the cycle is to move Qi and blood. This stage is the one that most people immediately think of when speaking of a woman’s cycle. This part of the cycle is often referred to as “bleeding”, as the body releases accumulated blood. This time of release allows the body to make way for regeneration and to begin the reconstruction process of new blood. During this phase, the blood releasing from the uterus needs to move downwards smoothly and unconstrained. As women near the end of the bleeding period, the blood and yin of the body will begin to rebuild. 

At the beginning of a woman’s cycle, the body is in the yin phase. When you are in the Yin phase of the menstrual cycle, your body will feel most balanced if you are being restful. In this state of rest, you allow the body downtime to regenerate and nourish itself. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the yin in our bodies represents the cooling, moistening, nourishing, growing, and fertile operations. To assist these natural processes of the body it is important to stay hydrated, keep warm and avoid high-intensity exercise. The best movement for this time is gentle, conscious, and light exercise. There are many wonderful options for movement and self-care during this phase. Massage, naps, yoga, meditation, swimming, and long walks in nature are all excellent ways to keep the Qi moving and the blood flowing. When you are in this first phase of your cycle it is important to eat foods that are warming, good for digestion, improve circulation, and assist in detoxing the body. Blood-moving foods like turmeric, ginger, eggplant, seafood, leafy greens, and berries are a few great examples that you can incorporate into your cooking. An additional way to support the body is to avoid cold raw foods, iced drinks, or fatty fried foods as they can slow the body’s blood flow, which can lead to stagnation. Instead, focusing on warming and nourishing foods is the best way to support your body’s systems and energy. Think of it this way: cold temperatures cause the blood vessels in the body to constrict, reducing the amount of blood flow that is circulating throughout the body. The same applies in regards to what we put into the body; cold drinks and food will reduce circulation while warming foods will increase circulation. This phase in the cycle is all about the downward flow!

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Common Issues in the Menstrual Phase and Treatments

Yin and yang are attributed to being the birth center of Chinese Medicine and therefore the essence that permeates all aspects of the practice. With this in mind, it is important to remember that everything is about balance. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are amazing ways to help the body balance and regulate its systems. Acupuncture is a highly effective medicine for irregular cycles, PMS, and maintaining regular cycles. It is recommended that 4 treatments per month (1/each phase) are ideal for at least 3 cycles (3 months). With consistent treatments and incorporating the additional resources of foods and movements, the menstrual phase can be greatly improved for women. Around menstruation time the strong yin energy pull in our bodies pushes us towards introversion, meditation, creativity, and yearning for extra self-care or nourishment. These are healthy and normal aspects of a woman's cycle.  What is abnormal are menstrual disorders such as PMS, irregular cycles, and heavy bleeding. The good news is that menstrual imbalances can be regulated with acupuncture if treatments are consistent.

Registered acupuncturists can assess and treat several common TCM patterns within each phase of a woman’s cycle. A few examples in the first phase, the menstrual phase, include the following: pain during menstruation (which can indicate blood stagnation, blood deficiency, and cold in the uterus), blood clotting, throbbing headaches (which may be related to liver yang rising), dull headaches during or after bleeding (which is related to qi and blood deficiency), heavy or flooding periods, spotting and/or thin periods, and diarrhea. Prominent disorders such as PMS, irregular periods, painful periods, and heavy periods can all be helped by acupuncture and TCM. If you have experienced any of the above symptoms or disorders with your monthly cycles, acupuncture and herbal medicine can help. All of these occurrences are signs that there is an imbalance in the body that needs to be healed. Have you experienced any of the following symptoms listed above monthly? Would you like to try acupuncture to assist in balancing and regulating these occurrences?

Asheville Integrative Acupuncture is here to support you.

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Sources:
http://www.vcaspa.com/blog/2018/8/8/acupuncture-for-each-phase-of-your-menstrual-cycle
https://vickicollins.com.au/understanding-the-4-phases-of-your-period-and-what-to-do-in-each/
https://londonacupuncture.co.uk/understanding-chinese-medicine/the-menstrual-cycle

The Significance of Pumpkin Spice

Do you know why pumpkin spice is everywhere during this time of year?

Get this, the spices such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves are warming to the body.

This is why pumpkin spice is everywhere.

As the season changes and we experience fluctuation in the weather, it makes the body more susceptible to getting sick! The defensive qi moves deeper in the body during warmer months and comes closer to the surface during colder months. We are in a transitional season!

Similarly, a lovely Asian formula - Gui Zhi Tang - can help!

Gui Zhi Tang is a cinnamon decoction that helps warm the body and supports the immune system to adapt to the changing seasons.

Cinnamon Twig Formula (Gui Zhi Tang), is one of the most enduring and versatile formulas in the history of Chinese herbal medicine. The first appearance of the Cinnamon Twig Formula in-text dates from the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 A.D.). The source text is the Shang Han Lun, written by Zhang Zhong Jing.

AND guess what...

ACUPUNCTURE works wonders for the immune system, just like herbal remedies!

Check out this link to read more from our October newsletter: https://conta.cc/3lIhW3u

Women’s Cycle Within Yin and Yang (Pt. 1)

The Yin Yang symbol is very simple yet profound, as most powerful and timeless symbols are. It is often attributed to being the birth center of Chinese Medicine and therefore the essence that permeates all aspects of the practice. It is an all inclusive lens that has the appropriate amount of flexibility to be applied to any situation. This is how it can work so beautifully with the uniqueness of each and every individual life.

In Chinese Medicine, the Yin Yang symbol, much like the moon’s phases, correlates with the phases of the menstrual cycle. This correlation can be used as a tool to understand and treat various issues within women’s health. The menstrual cycle is deeply connected to other cycles and rhythms of the body. Understanding the nuances and seeing the connections of all of these cycles can help guide you in making the best life choices for your overall health. In that inspiration, here at Krystal Kinnunen Acupuncture, we are starting a series of articles, each one devoted to one of the 4 phases of your cycle. We will be breaking down what’s going on during each of these phases, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, along with common women’s health issues and various solutions to them. Before we dive into that, it is important to have a clear understanding of Yin and Yang, so let's begin with the symbol itself as an explanation for the essence of everything. 

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Understanding Yin and Yang

The beginning of Yin and Yang - the outside line - is drawn first as a complete circle and represents the boundary of the universe. This is crucial to know, as yin and yang are part of ONE whole. They are not separate symbols, but can only exist in relation to one another. There is a common saying “no such thing as pure yin or yang.” Simply stated, but easily forgotten! This means that even though Yin and Yang are opposite, they cannot exist without the other. The concept of something being pure yin or pure yang is simply impossible. This interdependence is represented additionally through the symbolism of the smaller circles within each side - the circles show the other side's color, indicating their dynamic to one another: two parts of one whole. The smaller circles are recognized to be the eye of the two fish. The concept of Yin and Yang in Traditional Chinese Medicine began with the idea of a sunny side and shady side of a hill. One hill with two parts, two perspectives. The shady side of the hill is cool, moist, and less active. The sunny side of the hill is warm, dry, and more active. As the sun moves across the sky, the sun and shade also move across the hill. One simply cannot exist without the other. Although Yin and Yang are one whole, the two sides represent the polarity of the masculine and feminine energies within the universe. Opposition combined perfectly with interdependence to create a balanced, homeostasis like state.

Their respective traits can be viewed as follows:

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  Yin is often referred to as: the feminine energy that resides inside of everyone. This is not based on gender. It’s the mother, It’s the dark new moon, It’s the cool dark winter night, or soft earth beneath your feet. Yin is stillness, rest, always changing transformation. 

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  Yang is often associated with the masculine energy. Warm sunlight touching your face. It’s upward movement, action, bright pure refined light. It’s the father, clear direct space holder, consistent steadfast energy, motivated by action and continuous change. 

By understanding the concept of Yin and Yang it becomes easier to understand the cycles of our bodies. Yin and Yang is all about balance. There is always movement between the two, nothing is ever static. If the dynamic is equal they will cancel each other out. Learning to be in harmony with Yin and Yang requires dancing with these energies within yourself. Knowing when to take action and when to be still. When to stay cool and grounded or when to be fiery and steadfast. Chinese medicine is a holistic practice in which no one part of the body is seen as separate from the person as a whole. When learning to care for yourself as a whole, you begin to see the interconnectedness of your entire being - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

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The Four Menstrual Phases and their Relation to Yin & Yang

In Chinese medicine the menstrual cycle is broken into two halves and four phases. The two halves being the Yin phase and the Yang phase. The four phases being menstrual, post-menstrual (follicular), ovulation, and pre-menstrual or implantation (luteal). At the point in the cycle when post-menstruation switches to the ovulation phase, Yin switches to Yang. Already we can begin to see the relationship of Yin and Yang to the female menstrual cycle based strictly off of the TCM classifications of the cycle. One of the foundational principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine is to understand these natural cycles and adapt your behavior to take advantage of them. This enables you to avoid future imbalances and treat any that may occur, thereby assisting you to avoid diseases and increase your overall vitality and longevity. 

Just as Yin and Yang flow in seasons and traits, the menstrual cycle does too. By categorizing the four phases of the cycle into Yin and Yang states, you can begin to understand what your body needs the most during each phase. If you are in a Yin phase of the menstrual cycle, your body will feel the most balanced if you are being more restful. In this state of rest, you allow the body “down time” to regenerate and nourish itself. If you are in a Yang phase of the menstrual cycle, your body will feel the most balanced if you are being more active and filled with movement. By creating an environment of movement and activity you are encouraging the body to motivate your natural flow. Think of it this way: in the Yin phase you are resting the body as it menstruates and replenishes, in the Yang state you are energizing the body to prepare for the next cycle ahead.

In the next part of this series, we will further examine the first phase of the menstrual cycle. We will discuss the characteristics of this phase and how it applies to Yin and Yang. This will be a multi-part series that honors the beautiful connections of our physical bodies with this ancient, balanced symbol.

Acupuncture for Boosting the Immune System

Hello my loves, I wanted to share with you my fall newsletter for 2021. As we enter into the season of cooler weather and changing leaves we are also entering into flu season. Additionally, Covid-19 is still around — it is important that now we focus on strengthening and protecting our immune systems. This newsletter will touch on the preventative measures I have been taking and speak on the importance acupuncture plays in boosting our immune function. I am sharing exciting news regarding the new team at Asheville Integrative Acupuncture and sharing several great resources as well for the upcoming months.

Read Here: Fall Newsletter

If you know someone who is pregnant and does not currently follow this newsletter or blog, I would LOVE for them to see these offerings as well. If so, please share this link or forward this newsletter to your friends!

Thank you for your continuous outpour of love and support.

Love,
Krystal

Empowered Pregnancy + Spiritual Mentoring

Here’s my current love letter ( newsletter) for you.

I’m still available for Virtual Health Visits over zoom or the phone.If you need any support, I’m here for you. I’m also available for spiritual mentoring which  just lights me up like the dormant seed cracking and pushing up through the soil. It feels like new life, new beginning and stepping into my higher calling. To schedule email me krystal@krystalkinnunen.com

Also are you pregnant or know anyone who is? I have given birth to a new project that feels so juicy and is also in alignment with my training, my current work and my higher destiny. I’m very passionate about supporting pregnant mothers and the cultivation of strong babies, strong parents and strong families. It’s my honor and mission to do so as I truly believe this is how we shift and heal humanity; it all begins in utero. I bet you know someone who knows someone who’s pregnant and would LOVE to see this offering. If so, please share this link or forward this newsletter to your peeps.!

Thank you! Here’s to your health…

Love,

Krystal

(Shelter in Place) Stress management tools

Gratitude Despacho

We are living in uncertain times, as we all “Shelter in Place” safe in our homes during the COVID-19 my dear teacher and friend Omileye Achikeobi-Lewis quickly put together this brilliant collaborations of counselors, yoga instructors and holistic practitioners to provide multiple fifteen minutes free stress management tools for kids and parents on her  Peace Am I Mindful Tools YouTube Channel. It was a great honor to be invited to share how to make Gratitude Despachos with our children. 

A Despacho is an Andean Peruvian ceremonial offering filled with intentional prayers for Pachamama (Mother Earth), and the Apus (Mountain Spirits). It’s a beautiful piece of art loaded with flowers, sugar, candies, corn meal, tobacco and many other things.

My andean teacher Dona Silvia Calisaya Chuquimia teaches the importance of being in Anyi (Sacred reciprocity) with our living world. Despachos are one way to give great thanks and give back to our pachamama (mother earth). 

Staying Well: Steps to Prevent the Coronavirus

Do you find that every time you turn on the radio, television or social media, the first thing you hear about is the spread of the Coronavirus?  There is some good fact-based information out there but there is also a lot of fear. Remember fear doesn’t solve any problems so stay in the present moment while also being proactive.

Acupuncture can help boost your immune system without using expensive drugs with all their side effects.  How does acupuncture work for immunity? We all know that acupuncture is an ancient method of medicine and it works by balancing the energies of the body, or the Chi. 

Studies have shown that the body's immune system is more able to destroy bacteria and viruses with the help of acupuncture.  With acupuncture, the brain is able to increase the T-cell levels of the body. These T-cells are what destroys the invading viruses.  Researchers think that the acupuncture needles provoke the body’s immune response; the body sees the needles as invaders and gathers the white cell and T-cell count like an army to fight them off.   The great after-effect of acupuncture is that the benefits of this lasts days after your acupuncture session.

Acupuncturists can also prescribe potent herbal formulas in order to prevent flu-like viruses as well as formulas to help if you do get sick.  

Wellness Tips

Here are some tips to help you stay well:

• Take Vitamin C, 3000mg/day divided into 3 daily doses of 1000 mg each

• Zinc, 20 mg/day

• Magnesium, 400 mg threonate

• Vitamin D, 2000 - 5000 i.u. (check with your doctor as to the best amount for you)

• Daily tea made of lemon balm, a known anti-viral

• Mullein, strengthens the lungs

• Echinacea

• Elderberry

• Avoid handshakes and hugs… perhaps the Oriental greeting of bowing has more practical implications aside from showing respect. Warm smile and nod is great. 

I also recommend making your own blend of Thieves oil:

40 drops of clove bud

35 drops lemon

20 drops cinnamon bark

15 drops eucalyptus radiata

10 drops rosemary

Diffuse this in your home.  Make a disinfecting spray with it by adding 3 drops to 3 ounces of water in a spray bottle.  You can use the diluted Thieves Oil as a hand sanitizer, rub on the bottom of your feet to keep away cold and flu, or rub it on areas where you may have aches and pains.

Hand Washing

Washing our hands is the best prevention, it’s easy and effective, but there is a right way. Here are five steps to hand washing from the CDC website: (a link has also been provided)

Follow these five steps every time.

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.

2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.

4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.

5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

You may also use Hand Sanitizer when soap and water are not readily available. Be sure it is at least 60% alcohol.  (For the proper way to use hand sanitizer, go to the link provided below.)

www.cdc.gov/handwashing

Be Prepared, Don’t Panic!  

WASH YOUR HANDS, try to prevent touching your face often, clean surfaces that you touch often (or that your kids touch), and as preparing for a storm, it may be a good idea to stock up on non-perishable foods and water.  The CDC says that face masks do not prevent getting the virus, but if you or a loved one should get sick, they should wear one to prevent spreading it to others. The N95 face mask can help prevent sickness if it fits properly on the face.  We have all seen the effects of people panicking before a storm and we know that only causes more issues. Be prepared and know that we can prepare for the worst and still expect the best outcome. And if you would like to boost your immune system, Book your appointment!

The Importance Of Acupuncture During IVF

In Vitro Fertilization

Everyone has their own reasons for trying In Vitro Fertilization or IVF. When you first decided to have a baby, the chances are you did not think about the need for ultrasounds, blood tests and administering shots every day just to conceive. You have most likely spent the last few years trying all of the other options prior to considering In Vitro Fertilization in Vail Valley. It is important to understand this process is expensive and will require a great deal of your time. What you may not realize is acupuncture improves fertility. This means you can improve the success of the IVF process with Chinese medicine and acupuncture. 

The Research

There have been a lot of research studies determining acupuncture improves fertility and pregnancy rates. One of the most important studies was conducted in 2002. There were 160 participants using In Vitro Fertilization. The participants receiving acupuncture on the same day the embryo was transferred had an increased pregnancy rate of 42.5 percent as opposed to the 26.3 pregnancy rate for those not receiving this additional procedure. The research has led to numerous In Vitro Fertilization physicians encouraging  acupuncture. Some of these clinics even provide this procedure on-site for the day the embryo is being transferred.

How Acupuncture in Vail Valley Increases the Chance of Pregnancy

If you are having trouble getting pregnant, acupuncture can assist with:

• Decreasing inflammation

• Regulating your hormone balance

• Soothing anxiety and stress

• Increasing your uterine and ovarian blood flow

• Calming your central nervous system

• Alleviating the side effects of In Vitro Fertilization medications

• Decreasing your cortisol levels

• Supporting robust endometrial lining development

• Fostering mental, physical and emotional well-being

• Benefiting the quality of the egg

• Aiding in the implantation of the embryo

Acupuncture offers support for your reproduction by making certain adequate nourishment is received by your reproductive organs. Both aging and stress can result in a decrease of the blood flowing to your ovaries and uterus. Acupuncture regulates your nervous system to increase your flow of blood. This enables your blood vessels to dilate. This will release blood rich with nutrients to your uterus and ovaries. This may improve your response to fertility medications. When your uterine blood flow is increased, the result is a thick uterine lining. This is ideal for implantation, better eggs, improved response and a good lining.

If you are having trouble getting pregnant using IVF, it could be that your treatments have placed you under a lot of stress. This is one of the reasons so many individuals have stopped their treatments. Acupuncture will help lower your stress. According to research, placing needles in the skin causes the body to release endorphins. These are the natural pain killers in your body. This is the reason you feel so relaxed after having a session. Endorphins calm your mind, slow down your breathing and relax your muscles. Numerous individuals going through IVF have stated this helped them relax while being treated.

Improving Your Chances of Conceiving

The main goal of pregnancy acupuncture is to help you have a healthy baby while ensuring your own health. When acupuncture is performed on the same day the embryo is placed in your uterus, your chances of becoming pregnant improve. Receiving an ample amount of sessions is an important factor for your success. Five years of research were compared. This involved women who only had In Vitro Fertilization and women who also chose to have acupuncture. The women who had thirteen to fifteen sessions of the additional procedure as well as In Vitro Fertilization doubled their chances of becoming pregnant and having a child as opposed to the women who had In Vitro alone.

Your Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, you will be discussing your medical history. This includes your tests and bloodwork, your gynecological history, and the analysis of your partner's sperm. You need to provide a list of all your current medications including In Vitro Fertilization medications, prescription medications and all the supplements you are taking.  You will also be given a “physical examination” that is feeling the pulses in your wrist and observing your tongue to assist in the Chinese medicine diagnosis. 

The practitioners of Chinese medicine base your initial evaluation using the Chinese medicine system. This is how your personal treatment plan is created. Although you are able to begin your treatment anytime you choose, you will receive the best possible outcome by starting right away. The treatment schedule is different for each individual. General guidelines are in place to ensure your treatment is appropriate for your situation.

The Preparation for Egg Retrieval

You should start your weekly treatment at least eight weeks before your egg retrieval. Your sessions should increase to twice a week during your ovarian stimulation, roughly two weeks before your egg retrieval. You should continue your treatments for three to five days during your recovery after your egg retrieval. If you are having a (FET) frozen egg retrieval, you should start your weekly treatments eight weeks before your egg retrieval. You can also have sessions twice per week - four weeks before your frozen egg retrieval. You will still need a minimum of eight sessions. On the day of your egg transfer, you should have your sessions on-site if possible. 

The Recommended schedule for Treatment

If your pregnancy test is positive, the recommendation is continuing your treatments throughout your first trimester. This will provide you with the support you need for your first few vulnerable months. You should have weekly sessions during your first trimester. This will help ensure the blood flow to your uterus is optimal. This is important for fetal and placental development. During this time, numerous women experience fatigue, nausea, anxiety and vomiting. Your sessions can help with all of these symptoms.

During your second trimester, you should have your sessions as you need them. Once you start your second trimester, you have established your pregnancy. You can decrease your sessions provided you are not having any complications with your pregnancy. The recommendation is having one session each month for maintenance provided you are still not experiencing any symptoms and have plenty of energy.

During your third trimester, your treatments should be scheduled once or twice a week once you reach your 32nd week. Acupuncture pregnancy treatments are effective for helping babies in the breech position move into the correct position. Your sessions will also help relieve pain in your pelvis and lower back, decrease carpal tunnel pain, reduce swelling and prepare you for labor.

The importance of Remaining calm with IVF

A lot of individuals become a little overwhelmed by In Vitro Fertilization. It is important to try to remain calm and continue the process. Instead of spending all your time concentrating on your potential pregnancy, take the time to pamper yourself and relax. You can practice yoga, take a warm bath, go for a walk in the park, meditate or watch some of your favorite television series. If you have any questions or concerns, you can ask about them during your sessions. Your fertility treatments can be successful. If the end result is holding a baby in your arms, your journey will have been worth every single step.

Sacred Activism

The world is in a time of great transformation and many people are experiencing upheaval. And many are feeling overwhelmed and not sure what they can do. 

In my latest blog talk radio, I discuss what Sacred Activism means to me and also share from Andrew Harvey's book The Hope A Guide to Sacred Activism. Harvey shares 11 things we can do now to begin making a difference. 

To listen click here. Enjoy!

Warmly,

Krystal 

Women's Health & Spirituality Radio Blog

Check out my radio series... 

Charlotte View presents Women's Health and Spirituality with Krystal Kinnunen
Are you ready to experience a new way of navigating your Life? If so, you have tune in to the right show! Do you feel like there is a greatness in you but there is something holding you back? Have you tried to rise up but old traumas keep bringing you down?
During this show, Krystal will provide refreshingly simple advice on health, transformation and ritual to all listeners and callers. Inspiration for women who are struggling with low self-esteem, and/or anxiety, and who are ready to step up and shift their consciousness to thrive, once and for all! Krystal believes in every moment as an opportunity for a miracle and a catalyst for change; in finding the light and positive in every situation; in seeing the beauty in the unseen, the esoteric, and in the mystical mysteries of life; in sisterhood and ritual as way to heal; in living a spirit-led soulful-life that is full of Grace.
In her blooming practice, Krystal supports women with healing old wounds, hurts, traumas so they can flourish as their authentic self. Cultivating high frequency attitudes, routines, and healing practices to help unlock their true potential. Creating radical self-care rituals. Encouraging daily-devoted spiritual practices. Living a holistic lifestyle.
Krystal is a Licensed Acupuncturist, Herbalist, Transformational Healer and Sacred Space Holder for women. Some call her a Modern Day Medicine Woman. Krystal is the sacred holder of mystic insights and healing wisdom. She holds a Master’s Degree in Oriental Medicine, is a Certified Kundalini Yoga and meditation instructor. She is a Reiki Master, and currently studying Peruvian Shamanism. She lives in Vail Valley, CO where she is raising two beautiful daughters.
Contact Krystal Kinnunen: www.KrystalKinnunen.com / (828) 301-7166 / krystal@krystalkinnunen.com

Guest Blogger for the Asheville Mothership: Acupuncture + Pregnancy

It is with great delight that I share having the honor of being a guest blogger for the Asheville Mothership! 

For thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine has been used to promote the health and well-being of pregnant women and their babies. Even with all of today’s technological advancements, conventional medicine is not always able to address the most common challenges experienced during pregnancy in a drug-free, non-invasive manner. Acupuncture, by restoring the smooth flow of energy throughout the body, offers a safe and relaxing way to relieve common ailments throughout pregnancy and prepare mother and baby for a safe, natural birth.

To read more click here

The Gong Plays me

Shannon Ledford has created sacred space to come together & play in magic on her Honor The Feminine Podcast.  I am honored to be a guest and loved sitting down with Shannon to share myself and my work.  The Honor The Feminine podcast is a great place to connect with incredible & inspiring women & men.  #honorthefeminine

Listen Here

Jyot’s wisdom: Beloved Elder

A few weeks ago, Aaliyah (my 17 month old toddler)  and I had the honor of being with this beloved wise elder grandmother-Jyoti. I was deeply touched by her love and wisdom. When Aaliyah ran up to sit on her lap, Jyoti greeted her with open arms, tears welled up in my eyes and streamed down my cheeks. We were sitting in a closing community circle after experiencing her beautiful Earth Altar ceremony at Laughing Water’s Retreat Center.

I realized just how much I miss my mother and grandmother.

It came to me, that my daughters are not getting to grow up knowing their wise grandmothers from my side. Luckily this weekend, several wise and powerful women adopted us. The truth is we need our elders they carry wisdom. My grandmother raised me and taught me so much about the power of devotional prayer and being in service. Granted, she was not necessarily empowered but she was in the spiritual realm. It was refreshing to be around a tribe of wise empowered elders. It’s an honor to adopt them as our spiritual family.

Our culture has lost the knowingness of taking counsel from the elders. I humbly bow to Jyoti and the 13  Indigenous Grandmothers. Jyoti is responsible for bring these grandmother together and spreading their healing love across the world.

We must listen and awaken to our deepest hearts of love and intuition. It's whispering and nudging you... take heed now before the call is like a brick over the head. That would hurt, right?

The Great mother is calling you. She has nothing but unconditional love.

You are worthy.

The time is NOW.

It's time to come back to the wisdom of the First Nation's sacred technology of the earth. We must drop into the wisdom of our hearts and release the mind in order to bring things back into balance.

There's a lot of ego floating around- where people are expressing beliefs when the truth is we don't know anything! Jyoti says the First Nation people believe we aren't adults until we reach the age of 51.

In our culture we have cut ourselves off from our elders and the wise ones.

Grandmother Jyoti is true wisdom keeper.

I'm deeply touched by her. And I humbly bow acknowledging that I'm still a child and open myself to learning the original principles of being- the original instructions - the seed wisdom carried in the  Indigenous People as my soul and DNA awakening and activated.

Here’s a lovely interview with Jyoti where you will learn about her and wise woman ways.

It’s with great honor that I can now call Jyoti a mentor. When you come to me for assistance I’m connected to her wise counsel beyond myself. We need wise elder’s in our lives. We aren’t meant to do this alone. If your family isn’t able to offer you the wisdom you seek, find your tribe and adopt a mentor- a wise one. It’s time we weave back in the collaborative support of the maiden, mother, and crone (wise grandmother).

Why did I choose a snake and wings for my logo?

For far too long the snake has been misunderstood and misrepresented in our culture.

The snake has powerful medicine to teach us. To me, it represents the cycle of life, death and rebirth. It is transformational, primal energy and life force. The shedding of the skin represents letting go of the old and becoming new again.

In Kundalini yoga, the serpent represents the primal life force that resides at the base of our spine. When it rises we awaken to our true benevolent selves.

The wings connect us to the Angelic realm and represent liberation and freedom. It’s reflective of the rise of the Divine Feminine reemerging within us all. Also, the ancient symbol of the caduceus--two snakes wrapping around a staff with wings--has become a symbol of medicine in our culture.

It’s my honor to hold sacred space for your transformation and healing to occur.

I took the Healing Oath, written by the great healer Sun Simiao (581-682 AD), which states:

I promise to follow the way of the great physician. I will serve to live in harmony with nature, and teach patients to do the same.

I will stay calm and completely committed when treating disease. I will not give way to personal wishes and desires, but above all else hold and nurture a deep feeling of compassion.

I will be devoted to the task of saving the sacred spark of life in every creature that still carries it. I will strive to maintain a clear mind and be willing to hold myself to the highest standards.

It will be my duty to diagnose suffering and treat disease. I will not be boastful about my skills and not driven by greed for material things.

Above all, I will keep an open heart. As I move on the right path I will receive great happiness as a reward without asking for anything in return.

-from the text “On the Absolute Sincerity of Great Physicians” by Sun Simiao.

Peruvian Nusta Exploration

Trust and Surrender

I recently had this wake up call… I need to stop trying to make things happen instead allow things to unfold at an organic pace.

Surrender and Trust are my new mantras.

Lately I’ve been super active and motivated to build my business while at the same time showing up for my family like a super mom. Staying up late working on my business plans then falling into bed only to be woken up several times by my dear sweet Aaliyah who’s teething. One night my 10 year old woke up as well because she had played with the darn Ouija board at a sleepover, which scared the crap out of her. Thank goodness it scared her and she won’t wanna play with it again. One less thing for me to worry about as she enters her teen years…

I didn’t realize how hard I was pushing until I discovered a bald spot on the top my head. Hair loss is normal after giving birth but this is rather extreme. I sat with it in meditation and realized that I’ve been trying to do it all on my own… this good ole Midwestern-Southern gal works hard to make things happen – be in action mode. Take charge. Do it all! Sure I can run to the office and treat clients, come home in between and nurse my baby and start dinner and run back to office. Come home feed everyone, clean up, put baby to bed, get back up and keep working on the business. Why not? I’m a super mom. And granted I’ve gotta give my dear partner, Michael, props. He’s an amazing support and does so much around the house and helps with baby. He’s a wonderful father and so supportive.

The clarity I received is that, yes I can do it all and the most graceful way to hold it all together is by just being. Have patience. Trust that something greater than me is taking the lead and holding it all. I don’t have to hold it all or make it happen. The best way for me to practice what I preach –radical self care – is to trust and surrender. It’s all happening and it doesn’t need to be perfect. And YES I’m about to get all woo woo here. It’s time to ask yourself: How much do I truly trust something greater than me will take care of it all?

Call upon your angel support team. It’s time to let your intuition lead and guide you. In our western culture we have forgotten to truly have faith and trust. It’s time to call upon the wisdom of the tribe. Ask for help from your community, your tribe. We aren’t meant to do this all alone. We need to call upon, build and connect with our soul tribe. I’m going out of a limb writing this – I believe it to be true and crucial for our wellbeing. We all need to come together. Period. It’s time!

If you are struggling to find your community, click here:  Mastin Kipp gives 7 tips on how to find your tribe.

Surrender and trust. Surrender and trust. Surrender and trust.

Update:  My hair has fully grown back and is healthy thank goodness to Acupuncture and herbal medicine!! Yay, it really does work.