Healthy and calm

These are unsettling times. I find myself in a state of anxiety, given the situation with the coronavirus. Perhaps you're feeling the same? As an acupuncturist, I know that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the philosophy of wellness. So I’d like to offer my short list of suggestions for staying healthy and finding calm in a world of chaos. Staying Healthy:

• Eat your veggies (especially leafy greens in the season of spring)

• Exercise (critical for releasing nervous energy in your body)

• Get quality sleep (aim for 7-8 hours per night)

• Boost your immune system with QiGong (free 10 minute practice here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac08kMK-dyI)

• Connect w/friends & family (via an old fashion phone call or a new fangled zoom call)

Finding Calm:

• Limit your exposure to the news (try watching a documentary or comedy instead)

• Enjoy fresh air (while you're outside hug a tree, no social distance needed)

• Meditate (if you are new to this, check out www.headspace.com)

• Breathe in deeply and exhale slowly (several times a day)

I hope you find these suggestions helpful. Please join me in sending gratitude to the nurses, doctors and health care workers on the front line of this pandemic. Be well, Joan