Barb E Brown

Health, Happiness & Heart's Desire Coaching

Health: Body, Mind, Spirit

by

"If the body is sick, the mind worries and the spirit grieves; if the mind is sick, the body and spirit will suffer from it's confusion; if the spirit is sick, there will be no will to care for the body or the mind."
J.R. Worsley

A happy life is a balanced life; body mind and spirt.

When one area of life is out of balance we feel it in the other areas of our lives. If we are not feeling well physically, we won't feel well emotionally. Emotional upset also creates physical discomfort and illness. Having some kind of spiritual practice balances out the entire system and provides a centering point to come to in times of crisis, chaos, illness or change. So, the path to happiness and living our heart's desire is a matter of maintaining physical, emotional and spiritual health.  I advocate a holistic path to achieve this goal. This begins a journey into these various areas of our lives and how to care for each area in a holistic way.

Chinese Herbal Medicine

by

Chinese herbal medicine is a key component of Traditional Chines Medicine (TCM) and has been used for centuries in China. The philosophy is that there is a mind-body connection and the external environment stress can negatively impact health and wellness. There are thousands of herbs, minerals, teas, extracts and tinctures used to support wellness and treat symptoms and disease. A variety of herbal recipes deliver healing, therapeutic ingredients to the body so it can balance and heal.

The focus is primarily on health and prevention of disease rather that just treating symptoms. Most illnesses present with a clear set of symptoms, however, every person’s needs are different and therefore the herbal remedies prescribed will be unique to each individual seeking support. Practitioners are able to prescribe specific herbal remedies for each person and as the presenting conditions change and improve the remedies will be adjusted accordingly. The goal is to find wellness and balance and then the remedies will no longer be needed. It is very important to seek support from a trained practitioner when using herbal remedies.

Symptoms and illnesses that can be treated with Chinese herbal medicine include insomnia, fatigue, chronic pain, digestion issues, colds & flu, headaches, skin disorders, allergies, PMS, impotence & prostrate disorders, anxiety, depression and stress.

fresh edible bolete mushrooms 

Ginkgo biloba

anice and cinnamon 

ginger

Popular herbs include ginseng, ginkgo, mushrooms, wolf-berry, cinnamon, ginger, licorice, peony, and rhubarb.

Examples of herbs and their uses: 

Goji Berries (Gou qi zi) is easily accessible are packed with antioxidants. This little berry nourishes the blood and is beneficial for vision. It can be made into a tea, added to oatmeal or anything else you typically add cranberries or raisins to such as salads.

Longan Fruit (Long Yan Rou) can be found online or in Chinese herbal stores, helps with insomnia, heart palpitations, exhaustion, and anxiety as well as nourishes the blood. It can be added to oatmeal, desserts or made into a tea

Chinese Wild Yam (Shan Yao) is good for deficiency on one’s Qi. It helps with digestion, strengthens the kidneys and aids in hormone balance. It is easy to use and delicious in tea, soups and other blends. Chinese Wild Yams can be found in stores or online

American Ginseng (Xi Yang Shen) is milder than Chinese Ginseng. It nourishes both Yin and Yang energies, boosts the immune system, improves Qi, improves sex drive & performance, helps the body deal with stress, boosts the digestive system and improves the absorption of nutrients. It can be made into a tea or added to soups and stews. Avoid American Ginseng late at night

Lotus Seed (Lian Zi) regulates hormones, builds blood, strengthens the digestive system, supports the reproductive system in both men & women, helps with insomnia, anxiety and irritability. It can be added in meals, snacks and baked goods. This should not be used if you suffer with constipation or bloating.

Black Sesame Seeds (Hei Zhi Ma) benefits the liver & kidney, and treats dryness in hair, skin and eyes. It can be added to veggies and cereal.

Chinese Red Dates (Da Zao) nourishes the blood and builds Qi. Eating 1 or 2 each day increases energy and can be found in most Asian markets. It can also be made into a tea with rose, Goji Berries, and Chrysanthemum, as well as used in soups and smoothies.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the most accurate ways to diagnose for health issues and disease. Chinese herbs are a key component to treating patients as well as a beneficial way to maintain overall health and balance by adding certain herbs and foods to our meals, snacks and tea.

Although safe under most conditions, Chinese herbs should be taken under the supervision of a trained practitioner and not used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding. It is important to pay attention to products making sure they are high quality and do not contain dangerous additives, another reason to work with a trained herbalist or practitioner.

If you would like to gather additional information about Chinese herbs, check out the resources below.

Qigong for Health

by

Traditional Chinese Medicine Practices: Qigong

I love Qigong!

 I was first introduced to the practice when I thought I was signing up for a Tai Chi class, which is very similar to Active Qigong. In fact, what I signed up for was Meditative Qigong. I continued in the study of Qigong by completing a year long program of Energy Healing Qigong. My experience with Qigong changed my life, helping me to focus, ground, and heal, as well as help me form a deeper spiritual practice. I can't imagine my life without it!

Most Popular Method of Disease Prevention

Qigong is the most popular method of disease prevention in China. It is an ancient practice including flowing movement, gentle exercise, controlled breathing techniques, self-massage, and meditation, all used to cultivate and move the Qi or life energy through the body. Studies both in China and the US have shown that Qigong can reduce pain, anxiety, and depression. It is a practice that focuses on strengthening the immune system. It has also been found effective in treating hypertension, headaches, asthma, ulscers, arthritis, chronic pain, and some forms of cancer.

According to Chinese Medicine, health is the result of freely flowing Qi. Disease is the result of stagnant or low Qi caused by physical, emotional and environmental stress. Too much or too little Qi can create poor health, inflammation, tension, congestion, and weakness in the body.

We learned earlier that Qi means vital breath or life energy. Gong means “work.” So, the meaning of Qigong is “working with the life energy.” In Qigong the student learns to control the flow and distribution of Qi thus improving balance, health and harmony in the mind, body and spirit.

For Best Results

In order for the best results, Qigong should be practiced on a daily basis. It becomes a way of life. It doesn’t take long, 20-40 minutes is usually sufficient to feel the benefits. Qigong can be practiced standing, sitting or lying down so it is an ideal exercise for older adults and disabled individuals.

Qigong is broken down into three main applications:

  1. Martial Arts Qigong - exercise/external movement
  2. Spiritual Qigong - meditative and relaxing
  3. Medical Qigong including self healing and external Qi healing (similar to Therapeutic Touch.

Dong Gong, Jing Gong & Medical Qigong

The most popular type of Qigong is “dynamic” or “active” Qigong (Dong Gong). It is considered exercise and energetically "yang" because it is very active, moving the body while maintaining a quiet mind. There are many exercises to learn with fun names including the Five Animal Frolics and Turtle Breathing. Practicing this type of Qigong looks like slow, rhythmic, controlled dancing.

The other type of Qigong is “Tranquil" or “Passive” Qigong (Jing Gong). It is considered yin, meditative and spiritual. From the outside there is no movement but internally the mind is active and the Qi is controlled by concentration, visualization, and breathing. The body is still, yet the breath is moving. The mind is alert and paying attention to the Qi while the body is still and at rest.

Qigong is considered to be the way to prevent disease, improve health, and make recovery from illness or injury quicker. Qigong is a practice so that each person can take control of his or her own health and wellness.

Medical Qigong includes self healing Qigong which includes specific exercises, practices and meditations for the patient to follow. There is also an energy healing Qigong known as Was Qi Zhi Liao, external Qi Healing. It is an ancient Chinese method of Healing Touch and a branch of Medical Qigong. Meditative Qigong is always practiced as a compliment to Medical Qigong.

In order to practice External Qi Healing, the practitioner must be able to control his or her own internal Qi flow before being considered ready to work with others. During a healing session, the practitioner places his/her hands on or near the client’s body, assesses the vitality of the client’s Qi, and then transmits healing Qi through the hands and breath. It is a very relaxing experience!

Other forms of Qigong include:

  • Confucian Qigong - Improves one’s character
  • Business Qigong - A practice to help employees feel less stressed, maintain health and improve productivity.

An Easy, Gentle Practice for Anyone

Qigong is a gentle practice, meant to be learned over time. Its meant to be practiced daily, preferably in the morning, before breakfast, which is considered the best time to plant the “seeds of the day.” One who practices Qigong will feel changes after only a few lessons but one will feel a life-time of health if practiced on a regular and consistent basis. The body is considered a garden of energy that should be tended to on a regular basis. Qigong is a wonderful practice to tend to your inner garden.

You can find more information about Qigong in the links below. Enjoy!

Tai Chi for a Balanced Life

by

Traditional Chinese Medicine Practices: Tai Chi

Healing Benefits

Tai Chi is great exercise and has sustaining relaxation and healing benefits. Often described as meditation in motion, Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise “art” form.

Three philosophies are blended together in Tai Chi; the philosophy of Yin and Yang, aspects of Chinese Martial Arts, and many elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Yin and Yang

“The symbol for Tai Chi is a circle divided by a flowing line that represents the movement of a wave. Filling the circumference of the circle are two curved shapes of equal size, one white, representing yin, and one black, represent yang. There is a small dot of the opposite Cole in each shape, showing the sympathetic character of each to the other. The dynamic flow with the symbol represents the movement and the continuity of the life force.”
Source:
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Body-Mind Disciplines by Nancy Allison

Tai Chi consists of a slow and continuous series of circular movements. It is a low impact exercise so most anyone can practice it to improve overall health, balance, joint health and muscle tone. It is a process to bring balance to the mind and body.

Overall Well-Being

Tai Chi stimulates emotional, physical, mental well-being, and develops balance, stamina, and grace allowing students to let go of the tension in the body. By releasing the tension in the body it is easier for the mind to be calm. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, a healthy life includes emotional stability, a high degree of mental efficiency as well as physical stamina. Tai Chi helps to strengthen all of these areas in a person’s life.

Tai Chi is a set of movements that build on each other and are interconnected. The process is very important, from the beginning to the end. In order to get the best results, Tai Chi should be practiced on a daily basis to stimulate the body’s natural circulatory process, combat disease, and keep the mind alert yet calm. It is considered a life long practice to insure good health and wellness.

Practicing Tai Chi requires full concentration. This isn’t a practice you can do successfully while day dreaming. Breathing during a practice is natural and not forced. The movement is also natural, easy and flowing, although it does take some time to learn each form and find balance in the movements of the arms and the legs.

Meditation in Motion

A Tai Chi practice is generally 25 minute long. The movements look soft, continuous, light and fluid yet the body must be firm, stable and strong and the mind must stay alert and active. It is a series of circular movements, curves, arcs, and spirals because it is believed that moving in circles conserves energy, creates security and lessens nervousness.

Practicing Tai Chi is like taking your vitamins. You don’t feel the benefits unless you make the practice a regular part of your life. Practicing Tai Chi has many health and emotional benefits including improved posture, better balance, mastery of movement, improved health, increased energy and strength. Emotional benefits include increased awareness, more patience, a heightened sense of calmness and serenity.

You can probably find a class near you at one of the local recreation centers or you can get more information in the resources below. 

Passionate About Holistic Health

by

I'm passionate about holistic health! Yoga, Acupuncture, massage, reflexology, nutrition, naturopathy, homeopathy, Chiropractic, meditation, mindfulness, essential oils, herbal remedies, Qigong, Reiki, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shamanism and more! I've used these techniques as a client and studied many of them as a practitioner. They work! I'd like to share some of my favorites with you in the coming weeks. I hope you learn something new to try out.

I discovered Holistic health in the mid 90’s when my body couldn’t tolerate the antidepressants the doctor prescribed for me. They made me sick. Really sick. Two trips to the emergency room in the middle of the night sick. I knew I had to find another way.

I had a friend who was a chiropractor and also offered many holistic health options including homeopathy. She helped me with the side affects of the medication and eventually helped me to slowly wean off of the antidepressants. She introduced me to the world of holistic health allowing me to heal from the inside out. That started a passionate journey of healing and discovery for me. Today I’m also passionate about sharing my journey with others who may need to hear my message of hope about natural healing options.

Health is a balanced life. Mind, body and spirit. When one of those areas is out of balance the other areas will respond in an attempt to balance the whole. So when looking at ways to be healthy, I look at physical health, emotional health and spiritual health and the many holistic ways to bring those areas into balance.

According to the American Holistic Health Association, holistic health “is actually an approach to life. Rather than focusing on illness or specific parts of the body, this ancient approach to health considers the whole person and how he or she interacts with his or her environment. It emphasizes the connection of mind, body, and spirit. The goal is to achieve maximum well-being, where everything is functioning the very best that is possible. With Holistic Health people accept responsibility for their own level of well-being, and everyday choices are used to take charge of one’s own health.” You can read the full article here https://ahha.org/selfhelp-articles/holistic-health/.

There are many simple and natural ways to bring balance to the body. The best place to start is with your breath. So often, especially in times of stress we hold our breath or literally forget to breath. A deep breath is restorative to the body and tells our primitive brain that everything is okay. Another simple way to bring balance to the body is to get good sleep and rest when you are tired. Drinking enough water each day also helps the body maintain balance as well as eating a balanced and healthy diet. In addition, moving the body on a regular basis is also vital to living well. These are easy things we can do each day to balance our bodies. There are also a variety of natural treatment options when you need support.

This is the beginning of a series about holistic health and the variety of options there are to seek holistic support to reach optimum health and wellness. There is such a wide array of techniques to choose from including acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy, Chinese medicine, chiropractic, massage, yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, Pilates, Reiki, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, guided imagery, essential oils, supplements, herbal remedies and much more. In the coming weeks I’ll explore the benefits of each of these techniques.

I look forward to sharing this information with you and if you have questions please send me a note.

Holistic Health Options

by

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an ancient approach to health care. The three disciplines of traditional Chinese medicine have evolved over thousands of years and are considered to be safe for most who wish to try them. TCM traces its mixture of herbal medicine, acupuncture and massage therapy back to the origins of Taoism and Confucianism.

Health is Wholeness and Balance

In TCM, health is an inner resiliency that allows you to meet the demands of life. Being in a state of health helps you thrive in the face of environmental, physical, emotional and mental stress.

Qi (Also spelled Chi and pronounced chee)

Einstein showed us that everything is made of, and radiates energy. This subtle form of energy supports, shapes and enlivens our physical body and activates our lives. TCM practitioners call this energy Qi. Other cultures have named this energy calling it “prana,” “baraka,” “spirit,” “vital force,” and many more.

Qi is the vital energy in all living things, from the tallest tree to the smallest cell.

Our health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of our Qi.

Qi provides the power to accomplish everyday activities and is necessary for growth, movement, body temperature, protection against illness and overall regulation of our body.

When Qi is balanced and flowing freely, the body’s natural self-healing abilities are activated, enabling internal stability and harmony to occur. The body will flourish and true health and well being can be achieved.

Meridians

Meridians are like rivers inside the body. Wherever a river flows, it carries water that provides nourishment and sustenance for life on our planet. Similarly, meridians are the rivers where Qi flows inside us. Qi flows through meridians as in invisible current, energizing, nourishing and supporting every cell, tissue, muscle, organ and gland.

The stresses of daily life

Different stresses affect meridians and organ systems in different ways, disrupting or blocking Qi flow. A blockage in the meridians will restrict the supply of Qi required to nourish and support the cells, tissues, muscles, organs and glands. This blockage can manifest into various signs and symptoms.

Over time, the body as a whole becomes weakened, unbalanced, and its self-healing abilities are compromised. Eventually, it becomes susceptible to pain, disease, stress, anxiety and poor health.

The goal of Traditional Chinese Medicine is to improve the flow of Qi in the body providing relief from stress, improve overall immune health, balance the body, and provide healing.

When looking at TCM as an alternative treatment option, you might consider:

  • Acupuncture
  • Acupressure
  • Chinese Herbal Medicine
  • Qigong
  • Tai Chi
Copyright Inspiration Enterprises, LLC