By Angie
Acupressure is the application of moderate to firm pressure to various points over the body to produce a therapeutic effect. These points are the same as used for acupuncture – it is just the method of stimulating these points that is different. Acupressure allows you to treat yourself (or others) anywhere, at any time, using only your hands and some basic knowledge. It is a very effective way to bring about positive changes in your body and mind, and is very useful tool to have up your sleeve!

Here are some acupressure points that might be helpful for the post-natal period. As you are pressing the points, close your eyes, focus on making your breathing slow and regular, and put your attention on a healing thought, affirmation or image to enhance the therapeutic process. Some suggestions for affirmations to repeat to yourself whilst doing the acupressure points are given below for each situation.

By Angie
In a previous post we introduced the idea of a “Sitting Moon”, a Chinese tradition that enables a new mother to be supported in the post-partum period so that she can rest as much as possible and restore herself to radiant health.

During this time and continuing on into early motherhood, there are also things that a new mother can do for herself to encourage healing. These include “mother-warming”, acupressure, meditation, acupuncture and special attention to nutrition. These self-healing techniques help a mother to feel her best to ensure good health for the future, and also so that she can enjoy these precious, beautiful days with her baby. We will talk about all of these things over the next few blog posts.

By Angie
If you are pregnant, or know someone who is, learning about Zuo Yue Zi (literally translated as “Sitting Moon”) will be invaluable for a better recovery post-partum and for optimal health ahead. Zuo Yue Zi is a tradition whereby the month after birth, the new mother receives exceptional care and nurturing whilst also observing adequate rest, relaxation and specific self-care practices. This month is exceptionally important for restoring the mothers health and energy, preventing any future illnesses or imbalances caused by the pregnancy, and ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby. 

In traditional times, Zuo Yue Zi was practiced almost universally across China. Due to the fast pace of modern life, it is not so widely practiced anymore, however those who do observe this custom know that there are significant benefits above and beyond simply following tradition. In China and Taiwan, there are even centers where women can go to receive this nurturing care for the first month after birth, if they can not receive this care from their families.

Nature has a wonderful way of providing us with what we need, when we need it. This is especially true when it comes to the foods available each season. Autumn brings with it a bounty of fruits, vegetables, and herbs that nourish the body and support health and well-being. Being aware of seasonal foods and attuning your diet to your body’s needs is a great way to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature.

The harvest season is a time to prepare your body for the cold winter ahead. Your diet should shift toward richer, denser foods that will provide you with extra energy and warmth. Consider increasing your intake of protein, fats, and whole grains but be sure to keep up your exercise program, to control weight gain.

We are very lucky to welcome Amy Duong to our clinic! Amy already has her own full-time practice at Bankstown, but out of passion and commitment to Chinese Medicine she will be offering affordable treatments to the community via Affordable Acupuncture on Sundays. She is already booked out for her first shift this Sunday, so you might have to get in quick to catch an appointment with her!

Here are some words from the lovely Amy to introduce herself to you:

"Hello! I would like to introduce myself as the new and lucky addition to the Affordable Acupuncture team. I graduated from UTS in 2012 in the Chinese Medicine degree and in that short time have had lots of opportunities in helping people with their natural healing.