"Chinese medicine concepts of food and energy"

by ALEX TAN

Traditionally, autumn is the harvest season. It is the time for our bodies to harvest and gather energy for the colder months ahead. In autumn, the yang of summer gives into the growing yinenergy of the approaching winter. There is less activity in the colder months, but more emphasis on substance, nurturing, and supporting and building our organs, fluids and blood. After summer, autumn is time to clear excess heat from the body, and then as temperatures drop, it is time to start warming the body, against extremes. While this may seem contradictory, summer heat saps strength, while internal warmth supports strength.

With the arrival of the strong drying winds, the deciduous trees lose their leaves in autumn. The wind and falling temperatures push the energy in and downward. While we feel the effects of wind on our skin, internally, the wind attacks the Lungs. Heat and dryness trapped in the Lungs can easily cause coughs and other Lung disorders.

In Chinese medicine, wind can drive external pathogens into the body but also can stir up internal blockages and emotional excesses. The emotions are largely regulated by the Liver and Gallbladder systems, so we must not forget to support the other organs, not only the Lungs in autumn.

The function of the digestive system often becomes deficient in autumn. Gastro-intestinal conditions are common at this time of year, and take extra care and eat well to prevent disease finding its way in through the mouth.  Read more here 

A Unique Blend of Eastern Medicine with a Western Perspective

Straight Bamboo TCM Clinic is open 5 days a week for acupuncture and related treatments.

& Individualised and personal treatment with a focus on holistic health, effective communication & information for English speakers
& Treatment and assistance designed to help you understand your imbalance and what you can do about it using Chinese medicine dietary therapy, Qigong, positive psychology and daily rhythms
& Acupressure, Moxibustion, Cupping, Gua-sha & Massage
& Lifestyle Consultation - How to gain greater health & happiness using ancient Chinese health knowledge - for people who want to increase health awareness and discover balance through positive interventions.

Clinic locations & times:
The Hutong - www.thehutong.com
Sunday               9am-6pm
Monday               8am-7pm
Tuesday              8am-6pm
Wednesday         8am-6pm
Thursday             8am-6pm
Price: 250rmb for 60 minute treatment/consultation

Kocoon spa lounge and elixirs@ The Opposite House - www.kocoonspalounge.com
Monday            8am-11am
Tuesday            8am-10am
Wednesday        8am-10am
Thursday           8am-10am
Price: 350rmb for 80 minute treatment/consultation

Note: For any cancellation within 24-hours of an appointment, cancellation fee of 100rmb applies
Call or email Alex Tan for appointments and more information:
Email: straightbamboo@gmail.com
Visit: www.straightbamboo.com 
Phone: 150 115 103 63