by Sunshine Healing ArtsGet to know one of our fabulous receptionists!
Ava Kimball
"Hi, I’m Ava I was born and raised here in Jax. I love the beach and in my free time you can usually catch me doing yoga or getting coffee at one of the local coffee shops. I just graduated from fletcher high school and can’t wait to see what’s next to come! I am getting my 200 hour yoga teacher certification this summer and I can’t wait to see where that takes me. I am also very passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. I eventually want to become a captain of a charter boat so I can explore and travel the world while on the ocean."
We love having Ava on the Sunshine Healing Arts team and are very proud of her!
by Erika Weber, APAcupuncture for Tennis and Golf Athletes
Acupuncture is commonly known for its benefits in reducing stress, increasing energy, and improving overall health. However, did you know that acupuncture can also be extremely helpful in treating golfing and tennis injuries? In this blog, we'll explore the different types of injuries that golfers and tennis players often experience and how acupuncture can help.
Low Back Pain
Low back pain is a common complaint among golfers due to the repeated twisting and turning of the spine during swings. Tennis players may also experience low back pain from the constant bending and twisting movements during play and the constant start and stop movements. Acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation in the low back, as well as help to improve flexibility and range of motion.
Knee Pain
Knee pain is another common complaint among golfers and tennis players. The repetitive motions of the sport can lead to overuse injuries, such as tendonitis or bursitis. Acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation in the knee, as well as improve circulation to the affected area.
Leg Pain
Leg pain or 'shin splints' is a common issue for golfers who walk long distances carrying their clubs. Tennis players may also experience leg pain due to the constant running and stopping on hard surfaces. Acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation in the legs, as well as improve blood circulation to the affected muscles.
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a common complaint among golfers due to the repetitive motion of the shoulder during the swing. Tennis players may also suffer from shoulder pain due to overuse especially on their serve. Acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder, as well as improve range of motion and flexibility.
Tennis Elbow
Trying to switch up your stroke to a more Western forehand but experiencing pain? Tennis elbow is a condition that results from overuse of the arm, causing pain and inflammation in the elbow joint on the top of the elbow. Acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation in the elbow, as well as improve circulation to the affected area.
Golfer's Elbow
Similar to tennis elbow, golfer's elbow is a condition that results from overuse of the arm, causing pain and inflammation in the elbow joint, typically at the inner aspect of the elbow. Acupuncture can help reduce pain and inflammation in the elbow, as well as improve range of motion and flexibility.
In addition to acupuncture, there are several stretches and exercises that golfers and tennis players can do to improve their game and prevent injuries. Here are a few examples:
- Hamstring stretch: Sit on the ground with one leg straight and the other bent. Reach forward and try to touch your toes. Hold for 30 seconds and switch legs.
- Quadriceps stretch: Stand with one hand against a wall for balance. Bend one knee and grab your ankle with your hand. Pull your heel toward your buttock and hold for 30 seconds. Switch legs.
- Shoulder stretch: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms at your sides. Reach your right arm across your chest and hold it with your left hand. Hold for 30 seconds and switch arms.
- Forearm strengthener: Hold a small weight in your hand and sit at a table or desk. Rest your forearm on the table with your wrist hanging off the edge. Slowly raise and lower the weight by bending your wrist up and then down. Repeat for 10 reps and switch sides.
In conclusion, acupuncture can be a beneficial treatment option for golfers and tennis players who are dealing with pain or injury. In addition to acupuncture, incorporating stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine can help prevent future injuries and improve your game.
So, the next time you're on the golf course or tennis court, remember to take care of your body and seek acupuncture for any injuries or pain you may experience!
by Erika Weber, AP
Summertime is here and it's time to lather on that sunscreen before you head out for some fun in the sun! Not all sunscreens are created equal though. In this blog, we'll dive into the difference between store-bought and homemade sunscreens and why you might want to consider making your own.
Florida’s Sunny Beaches: What’s the Best Sunscreen for Florida Beach Lovers?
First, let's talk about store-bought sunscreen. While it's convenient, readily available, have a high SPF and be water resistant, it's important to pay attention to the ingredients. Many commercial sunscreens contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can be toxic to coral reefs and other marine life. Living the beach life in Florida is amazing but it’s important to remember to respect the incredible ocean here for us. Additionally, some of these chemicals can also be absorbed into the body and potentially cause health issues. So, when purchasing your sunscreen, be sure to opt for those with natural and safe ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Now, let's move on to homemade sunscreen. The main advantage of making your own sunscreen is that you have complete control over the ingredients and can ensure that they are all-natural and safe. Homemade sunscreen can be much less expensive than store-bought options. If you chose to do a clean and safe store bought sunscreen it can be pricey. Some cons is that there is limited protection. You may not be able to get the same level of broad-spectrum protection as you can from a store-bought sunscreen unless you add high levels of zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Another con is that homemade it not water resistance. Reapplication is a must, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
However if you decide to go the homemade route, it can be a fun summer DIY project! Here's a recipe for a simple homemade sunscreen:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup shea butter
- 1/4 cup beeswax pellets
- 2 tbsp non-nano zinc oxide powder
- 1 tsp vitamin E oil
- A few drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- In a double boiler or glass bowl over a pot of simmering water, melt together the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pellets.
- Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the zinc oxide powder, vitamin E oil, and essential oil (if using).
- Pour the mixture into a small jar or tin and let it cool completely before use.
- Voila! You now have a DIY sunscreen that is safe, natural, and effective at protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
So, whether you choose to use store-bought or homemade sunscreen, make sure you always protect your skin when spending time outdoors. And, if you decide to make your own, have fun and get creative with the ingredients and scents!
It's that time of year again, where we celebrate the summer solstice and all the wonderful things that come with it. But as a Chinese medicine expert living in sunny Florida, I can't help but draw parallels to the fire element in traditional Chinese medicine.
First, let's talk about the summer solstice on June 21st this year. It's the longest day of the year, where the sun is at its highest point in the sky. It's a time of celebration and vitality, where we can fully embrace the warmth and light of the sun. However, as much as we love the sun, too much of it can lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration, and sunburns. A balance must be struck between enjoying the sun and protecting ourselves from its harmful effects.
Similarly, in Chinese medicine, the fire element is associated with joy, passion, and warmth. It's the element of summer, where we celebrate life and all its pleasures. But just like the summer sun, too much passion or excitement can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even heart palpitations. As with the sun, a balance must be struck between enjoying the fire element and protecting ourselves from its negative effects.
Here are some correlations for The Fire Element:
- Color: Red
- Sense organ/Sense: Tongue - Speech / Hands - Touch
- Smell: Scorched (burnt)
- Taste: Bitter
- Bodily Fluid: Sweat
- Quality of Movement: Maximum Expansion
- Progressive/ Life Cycle: Growth / Life
- Season: Summer
- Climate: Heat
- Yin / Yang: Heart (Pericardium) / Small Intestine (San Jiao)
- Body Areas Governed: Arteries / Veins
- Yang Activity: Intellect / Awareness, discernment
- Yin Activity: Wisdom / Knowing, deep synthesis (knowing of life)
- Consciousness: Spirit, self awareness "I Am."
- Role: Propels (pushes) blood
- Emotion: Joy / Sadness
- Natural Emotion: Harmony
- Pathological Emotion: Depression
According to the Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen (The Yellow Emperor’s Classical Text on Basic Questions), a 2,000 year old foundational text from the roots of Chinese Medicine, it is said of summer:
Go to rest late at night and rise early.
Never get enough of the sun.
Let the mind have no anger.
Stimulate beauty and have your elegance perfected.
Living in Florida, I can attest to the power of the sun and the fire element. It's a beautiful, vibrant place full of life and energy. But it's also hot, humid, and sometimes overwhelming. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the fire element, but it's important to take a step back and assess how it's affecting us as individuals.
So, as we enjoy the summer solstice and all the wonderful things it brings, let's also take a moment to reflect on our relationship with the fire element. Are we enjoying it in moderation? Are we protecting ourselves from its negative effects? It's a delicate balance, but with a little mindfulness and awareness, we can fully embrace the joys of summertime without getting burnt out. Check out this DIY homemade sunscreen recipe to incorporate into your self-care regimen.
And on that note, I'm off to enjoy a refreshing glass of water and some shade. Happy summer solstice, everyone!
by Erika Weber, AP
In recent years, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture have gained significant attention for their ability to improve men's vitality in sports performance and at the gym. Chinese Herbal Medicine incorporates the use of herbs to improve energy levels, boost endurance, and improve circulation, while acupuncture addresses the body's energy flow to enhance muscle recovery and reduce stress. The parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest mode) is stimulated during acupuncture and helps speed up recovery, restoring the body for progressively better performance outcomes. This is the opposite of 'burning the candle at both ends.' Together, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Acupuncture offer a safe approach to enhancing men's physical performance for a healthier and stronger body.
Chinese Medicine has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of men’s health issues as well. One of the most common issues that men face is poor sperm health and motility. This can occur due to a variety of factors including stress, diet, and environmental toxins. Chinese Medicine offers several remedies, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary changes. Acupuncture is effective in increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs, which can improve sperm quality and motility. Herbal medicine can also address underlying health issues such as hormone imbalances and inflammation that can contribute to poor sperm quality.
Another common men’s health issue is prostate problems, which increase in prevalence as men age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer are the most common age-related prostate issues. Chinese Medicine can offer remedies that can help reduce inflammation and swelling in the prostate gland. This can be accomplished through a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary changes. Acupuncture can also help improve urinary flow and reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections, which are common complications of prostate issues.
Heart disease is another common men’s health issue that can be improved through Chinese Medicine. Acupuncture can help reduce high blood pressure, a common risk factor for heart disease. Herbal medicine can also help improve heart health by reducing inflammation throughout the body and improving blood circulation. Additionally, dietary changes are important for heart health, and Chinese Medicine offers dietary recommendations that can help improve heart health such as reducing salt intake and increasing consumption of heart-healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
When it comes to men's health, Chinese medicine holds the belief that sexual health is a key component to overall vitality. In fact, Chinese medicine has been shown to improve sperm quality, increase libido, and enhance overall sexual performance. Sexual dysfunction can affect men of all ages. Chinese Medicine offers several remedies to help improve sexual function. Acupuncture and Herbal medicine can help improve blood flow and at the same time address underlying health issues such as stress, anxiety, and hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to sexual dysfunctions.
In conclusion, Chinese Medicine offers several remedies that can help address common men’s health issues such as sperm health, prostate issues, sexual dysfunction, and heart disease. With the use of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary changes, and other holistic approaches, Chinese Medicine can help men achieve optimal health and vitality.
Uses for Lavender Essential Oil
- Aromatherapy: Lavender oil can be diffused into the air to promote a sense of calm, relaxation, and peacefulness.
- Stress relief: Lavender oil is known to help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Sleep aid: Place a few drops of lavender oil on your pillow or diffuse the oil in your bedroom to help promote restful
sleep. - Skincare: Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help soothe irritated skin and reduce
acne. - Natural bug repellent: Lavender oil has a pleasant smell that repels mosquitoes, moths, and other insects.
- Headache relief: Massage a few drops of lavender oil onto your temples to help soothe headaches and migraines.
- Muscle relaxation: Lavender oil can be used in massage oils to help relax tense muscles and ease aches and pains.
- Soothing bath: Add a few drops of lavender oil to your bathwater to help calm your mind and promote relaxation.
- Air freshener: Lavender oil can be used as a natural air freshener to eliminate unpleasant odors and leave a fresh, clean
scent. - Household cleaner: Mix lavender oil with water and use it as a natural and non-toxic cleaning solution for your home.
*recommended for external use only
by Sunshine Healing Arts
As women, we are born with unparalleled strength and resilience. We endure a myriad of
challenges throughout our lives, and one of the most significant transitions we undergo is menopause. The transition from fertility to non-fertility can be a tumultuous time for women, both physically and emotionally. It is for this reason that we delve into how Chinese Medicine can be a support during menopause.
During our fertile years, the nourishing blood is given to others or wasted, as we grow another being in the womb or shed during menstruation. But the ancient view of this transition following these years understands that after menopause, this nourishment is kept for the self, nurturing the wellbeing and growth of the Wise Woman. Seen in this light, menopause is really something to celebrate!
During this transition to the Wise Woman, Chinese Medicine can help buffer symptoms and harmonize elements at work within the body. Chinese Medicine is rooted in the belief that the body has a profound ability to heal itself. It is a holistic approach to healthcare that considers the mind, body, and spirit as interconnected. For centuries, Chinese Medicine has been providing relief to women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Since every woman is different, Chinese Medicine provides a specific treatment plan for each person.
One of the most common symptoms that women experience during menopause is hot flashes. Chinese Medicine views hot flashes as a result of an imbalance in the body's natural cooling mechanisms. Acupuncture, along with Chinese Herbal Medicine has been effective in reducing hot flash episodes. The technique works by restoring balance to the body's energy flow, known as qi.
Another common concern during menopause is the decline in estrogen levels. This hormonal change can result in mood swings, insomnia, and vaginal dryness, amongst other issues. Chinese Medicine offers specific herbal formulas that has been shown to be helpful in managing these symptoms. It is a natural option that supports hormonal balance and can be an effective tool during menopause.
Over time, our bones can become brittle and prone to fractures. This is especially true for women who experience a significant decrease in bone density during menopause. Chinese Medicine recommends consuming foods rich in calcium and herbs like Eucommia Bark that supports the strengthening of the bones.
In conclusion, menopause can feel like a daunting and overwhelming chapter for many women. However, Chinese Medicine can provide a gentle and effective support system during this time. Its holistic approach to healthcare means that it addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual changes that occur during menopause. Through herbal remedies, acupuncture, and dietary guidance, Chinese Medicine can help women navigate this new phase of their lives with ease, grace, and wisdom.
Schedule your appointment today to discuss how Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help during menopause!
