tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63358172691648033162024-02-19T10:19:10.452-07:00Immortal PalaceChinese medicineJosie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-30466895689657411482011-01-05T17:41:00.000-07:002012-03-09T19:31:28.771-07:00Immortal Palace blog has moved!Come visit my new blog and website here: <a href="http://immortalpalace.com/">http://immortalpalace.com</a><br />
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You will find lots of cool, useful info like how to give yourself a full body massage in 30 seconds (seriously!) and easy tips to improve your PMS symptoms, instantly de-stress, improve your digestion and lose weight naturally with or without the help of my needles.<br />
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Here's that link again: <a href="http://immortalpalace.com/"> http://immortalpalace.com</a><br />
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See you over there!<br />
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Josie Bouchier L.Ac.Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-2261818981040941102010-06-01T20:27:00.002-06:002010-06-05T11:16:20.336-06:00Gluten-free isn't so badWhen I was diagnosed with a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gluten_sensitivity">gluten sensitivity</a> several years ago, I thought I might as well forget about enjoying food ever again. (I recognize that look of terror in many of my patient's eyes when they first find out the same thing.) It was a rocky start, I ate a lot of chips and salsa. But, now, thankfully, my diet is considerably more varied. I would love to share with you what I've learned so that you don't have to go through what I went through... which was a lot of Chinese take-out, hold the soy sauce.<br />
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Now let me tell you two things I've learned about food that changed my life: First, eat more vegetables. Like, WAY more vegetables. Vegetables should constitute 40% to 50% of your diet. That means half your cart at the grocery store. Also, when you're choosing veggies, try to get all the colors in the rainbow. This will ensure that you are giving your body the full spectrum of nutrients. Example: Red tomatoes, orange carrots, yellow bell pepper, green broccoli, purple cabbage, white cauliflower.<br />
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Second, plan your meals. This will save you energy, time, and money in the long run. Once a week, jot down 5 or 6 dinner ideas (that incorporate plenty of veggies). Write down dinners on the left side, ingredients and other items on the right. (You know you're in a dinner-rut when you don't have to write down the ingredients anymore, like this note here. See my tip at the end of this post to remedy the dinner-rut situation.)<br />
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<b>Monday night: Tortilla soup. </b>This is one of my favorite recipes given to me years ago from one of my closest friends. (Thanks, Molly!) It's quick and easy to make, gluten-free, nutritious, and can be made vegetarian. Not to mention it's ridiculously yummy.<br />
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You will need:<br />
1 carton organic chicken broth (or veggie broth)<br />
2 heaping spoonfuls of your favorite salsa<br />
1-2 tsp cumin<br />
1 lime<br />
2-3 cloves of garlic (Actually, I usually do 4 or 5 cloves, depending on the size. I love garlic.)<br />
1/2 small white or yellow onion<br />
splash of olive oil<br />
1 fresh tomato<br />
1 handful fresh chopped cilantro<br />
1/2 can corn or hominy<br />
1 ripe avocado<br />
generous amount of feta cheese (I like to use goat feta)<br />
tortilla chips<br />
pinch of salt and pepper<br />
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Saute garlic and onion with olive oil in a sauce pan. Add broth, lime juice, cumin, salt, pepper, corn/hominy, and salsa. Let simmer 3-5 minutes. Serve in bowls with crumbled tortilla chips. Top with chopped fresh tomato, cilantro, avocado and feta cheese. You can also try adding other ingredients like radishes, peppers, tofu, black beans, or chicken. I like to add meat from a rotisserie chicken.<br />
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<b>Tuesday night: Shrimp Tikka Masala. </b>This one's a lot easier than it sounds. The trick is finding a good, pre-made Tikka Masala sauce like this one from <a href="http://www.seedsofchangefoods.com/our_foods/category.aspx?id=simmer_sauces">Seeds of Change</a>, which you can usually find in the "ethnic" food section at the health food store.<br />
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Saute your favorite veggies in a frying pan with a little olive oil. I like to use garlic, onion, mushroom, zucchini, green and red bell pepper. In a separate pan, cook the shrimp with olive oil until they go from grey translucent to opaque pink, which only takes a few minutes. Set the shrimp aside. (Unfortunately, shrimp are scarce in the supermarkets since the recent oil spill, so chicken, tofu or beef would be a good substitute.)<br />
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Don't overcook your veggies! When they are tender, but still vibrant in color, pour in the jar of Tikka Masala sauce. When it starts to simmer, throw in the shrimp for another minute or two just to warm them up. Serve over a bed of rice and add a dollop of plain <a href="http://www.redwoodhill.com/yogurt">goat yogurt</a>.<br />
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<b>Wednesday night: Pizza.</b> What I love about pizza night is that it's quick, easy and fun, with infinite topping possibilities.<br />
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. When I'm cooking for two, I like to make all four of the <a href="http://www.glutino.com/content/view/27/45/">Glutino</a> personal sized pizzas (find them in the freezer section) and then save the rest for lunch leftovers. They heat up nicely in the toaster oven.<br />
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Spread tomato paste or pizza sauce generously on your pizza crusts. Grate a thin layer of goat mozzarella cheese. (Goat dairy is easier to digest than cow dairy, and it tastes fantastic. I pretty much only eat goat dairy.) Top with your favorite toppings. I like to use black olives, artichoke hearts, red onion, pepperoni, mushroom and green bell pepper. Then add another layer of grated mozzarella.<br />
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Place pizzas directly on the oven rack and bake for 7-10 minutes or until crust and cheese begin to turn golden brown. Serve with a simple salad tossed with vinaigrette. <a href="http://bragg.com/zencart/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=6">Bragg's</a> is one of the few dressings I've found that uses olive oil instead of canola. (Canola oil is made from rapeseed, and is not meant for human consumption.)<br />
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<b>Thursday night: Spaghetti and meatballs. </b>Spaghetti has been my favorite meal since I was a kid, so you can imagine how thrilled I was to find <a href="http://www.tinkyada.com/">Tinkyada</a> gluten-free pasta that actually tastes like real pasta. After having lived in Italy for a year in my 20s, my "pasta palette" is not easily fooled.<br />
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Start by putting water on to boil for the spaghetti. While you're waiting, start chopping veggies. I like to use garlic, onion, a quarter of an orange and yellow bell pepper, broccoli and mushrooms. Throw them all in a frying pan with a little olive oil and saute. Again, don't overcook. When veggies are tender and vibrant, pour in your favorite spaghetti sauce. Cover and let simmer on low heat.<br />
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If your water is boiling, add the noodles and follow directions on the package. I like to add a little <a href="http://www.realsalt.com/">sea salt</a> and vegetable oil to the water to add a little flavor, and so they don't stick together as easily. Stir frequently. Taste until they are cooked al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Strain and spray with cold water.<br />
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While the spaghetti is cooking, start on the meatballs. In a bowl, using your hands, mash together 1 lb. of <a href="http://www.grasslandbeef.com/Page.bok?template=beef.html">grass-fed beef or buffalo</a>, one egg, and <a href="http://www.foodforlife.com/gluten-free-wheat-free-breads.html">gluten-free bread</a> crumbs. You can also add some chopped up garlic, onion, and salt and pepper. Form the mixture into 12 balls, and place them in a frying pan with a little vegetable oil. (Olive oil will get too hot and burn.)<br />
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When the meatballs are cooked through, add them to the simmering sauce and veggies. Serve over noodles and enjoy!<br />
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Mmmm. All this talk of food is making me hungry!<br />
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<b>Friday night: Tacos. </b>Next to spaghetti, tacos might be my second favorite meal of all time.<br />
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In the Mexican food section of the grocery store, find a packet of taco seasoning. Cook the meat according to the instructions on the package. I recommend using grass-fed beef, buffalo or elk.<br />
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While the meat is cooking grate some goat cheddar cheese, and chop up some lettuce and/or red cabbage, cilantro, avocado and onion. Warm some taco shells in the toaster oven for a minute or two. (Careful, they burn!) Fill the shells with the meat, toppings, and your favorite salsa. Easy-peasy!<br />
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<b>Saturday night: Cashew carrot ginger soup w/ halibut. </b><a href="http://www.pacificfoods.com/our-foods/creamy-soups/cashew-carrot-ginger-all-natural-soup">Pacific Natural Foods</a> makes this soup, and it's easy to transform it into a full meal by adding your favorite ingredients. The cashew makes it creamy, but it's dairy-free as well as gluten-free. The flavor punch of this soup is off the charts. Seriously, get ready for a party in your mouth.<br />
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Saute some onion, garlic, mushroom, broccoli, and bell pepper in a sauce pan with a little olive oil. When the onions start to turn translucent, pour in the carton of soup. Let simmer as you cook the fish.<br />
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Halibut or cod are good flaky, white fish to add into the soup. (Check <a href="http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART02049/facts-about-fish.html">here</a> for Dr. Andrew Weil's opinion on incorporating more fish into your diet.) In a separate pan, lightly cook the fish in a little butter or olive oil. It's easy to overcook fish, so be mindful. After a few minutes, when the fish is done, add into the soup and top with freshly chopped cilantro or red cabbage.<br />
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<b>The dinner rut.</b> When you find yourself in one of these, find a friend or two and ask to trade some recipes. Recently, a friend copied some recipes for me that she had downloaded, tried, and loved from <a href="http://epicurious.com/">epicurious.com</a>. You can type in any ingredient and it will instantly sort through thousands of recipes for you. It's a great way to use up certain food items and expand your horizons. A similar website I've found is <a href="http://supercook.com/">supercook.com</a>.<br />
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<b>Don't forget about dessert! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">On a side note, the best dairy-free ice cream I've found (and I've tried them all) is <a href="http://www.purelydecadent.com/products/purely_decadent_Coconut_Milk.html">Turtle Mountain's Purely Decadent</a>. They use coconut milk instead of soy as the base, which makes the texture unbelievably creamy. Instead of sugar they use low-glycemic agave, and they even make a gluten-free cookie dough ice cream! </span></b><br />
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Keep an eye out for a future post on gluten-free breakfast ideas. And in the mean time, buon appetito!Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-79316676549819252632010-03-29T11:04:00.002-06:002010-05-17T17:54:05.355-06:00Let's talk about stress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HYc-16AHeWUgCRiJM6wsm4iEa9LZNXvcFOAz-bM-4RqQytjmB_NfD4QnYvKy1XJQMcwOGrkK3Rag75Qfyb5y9MGGY8vmdblVJ0ErmyprKoH_Q2pHSkvxjDpwCGC47olQQLf4w0dvE87V/s1600/DSC03053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3HYc-16AHeWUgCRiJM6wsm4iEa9LZNXvcFOAz-bM-4RqQytjmB_NfD4QnYvKy1XJQMcwOGrkK3Rag75Qfyb5y9MGGY8vmdblVJ0ErmyprKoH_Q2pHSkvxjDpwCGC47olQQLf4w0dvE87V/s400/DSC03053.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">In my previous blog entry on <a href="http://immortalpalace.blogspot.com/2010/03/tips-for-painful-periods.html">painful periods</a>, I suggested eliminating stress around the time of your period, or, for that matter, in your life. One of my readers brought up a good question about stress: </div><blockquote>"The sneaky thing about stress is that most of us have been so stressed for so long that we think it's a normal state of being (especially if we're surrounded by similar people). Some individuals, like you, are lucky enough to learn to slow down early on and others realize it late in life when their body "screams" with chronic illnesses. How would you advise people to reflect on and accurately assess the level of stress in their lives so that they can make necessary changes?"</blockquote><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>Awareness is the first step.</b> Pay attention to where you feel stress in your body. Do you tend to feel tension in your stomach, neck, shoulders, head, low back? What causes you to feel these areas tighten, ache, or burn during the day? Is it driving in traffic, fighting with a close family member or spouse, certain scenarios or people at work? <b>Try to zero in on the specific events</b> that cause your head to ache, nausea to rise, or adrenaline to surge, and ask yourself if there are any measures you can take to avoid or <b>eliminate these triggers</b>. For example, what about riding your bike to work instead of driving, or leaving slightly earlier or later to avoid rush hour? Often there are simple changes you can make to adjust stress levels, even slightly, that will make a big difference.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">When I'm talking with patients, often they will consider unpleasant symptoms "normal." Some examples include: gas and bloating after eating, frequent tension or sinus headaches, seasonal allergies, PMS symptoms, light-headedness when hungry, fatigue, insomnia, and so on. <b>These are the whispers I was talking about.</b> These are not normal symptoms to be experiencing on a regular basis. This is your body giving you its first warning. Listen! </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">9 times out of 10, if your body is still at the whisper stage, and hasn't started screaming yet, reducing stress will help diminish your symptoms significantly. <b>Here are some great ways to de-stress:</b> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhZMarvhVVag_ZMrbB3s5JbQnRoGePrNVm1WXWsKdaKzgOJHpjGmgVO_XdI4Wvc4UkvXIjPJRKvMuiQNHH3br3zxe1IsfVh3yJCP4CyoVztpF-ouiUjsmRgC36BVprGbKgfqF7bKBsru7/s1600/DSC03386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwhZMarvhVVag_ZMrbB3s5JbQnRoGePrNVm1WXWsKdaKzgOJHpjGmgVO_XdI4Wvc4UkvXIjPJRKvMuiQNHH3br3zxe1IsfVh3yJCP4CyoVztpF-ouiUjsmRgC36BVprGbKgfqF7bKBsru7/s400/DSC03386.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><ul><li><b>Lavender: </b>Get a little vial of lavender essential oil from the health food store and always keep it with you. Dab a drop under your nose with a cotton ball or tissue. Or sprinkle a couple drops on your pillow at night before you go to sleep. Lavender instantly relieves anxiety and promotes a feeling of calmness and relaxation. Plus, it smells good! (Above is a photo I took of a field of lavender in Northern California. I took all these photos of Hearst Castle, Sonoma, Occidental.)</li>
<li><b>Foot bath: </b>In the evening, an hour or two before bedtime, fill a large pot with hot water and soak your feet for 15 to 30 minutes. In Chinese medicine, your Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians begin at your feet. Warming these channels will help you feel more relaxed and sleep more soundly. </li>
<li><b><a href="http://www.bachflower.com/38_Essences.htm">Dr. Bach flower remedies</a>: </b>Find these flower essences at any health food store. Spend a few minutes reading through the descriptions on each bottle, and find the flower essence that is right for you. Put a few drops in your water bottle for the day, or simply put a couple drops beneath your tongue. The formulas are clear, odorless and tasteless and they are known to improve your emotional state of being. Rescue Remedy is their most popular formula and is wonderful for anxiety in adults, children, and even pets. </li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Think happy thoughts: </span>Most of us have gotten WAY too tolerant of negative thoughts making themselves at home in our heads. Practice prevention and think of things that make you happy. Think of a time in your life, or a person, or a thing--anything--that brings a smile to your face. Focus on that feeling, and try to make it grow. See just how good you can feel. Feel it in your arms and hands, chest and stomach, legs and feet. Do this exercise as often as you can. You will create an energetic environment in your body and mind that will not be able to host negative thoughts (or disease). </li>
<li><b>Write it down:</b> If there's something stressful you simply can't stop thinking about, write it down. Get a spiral notebook and start journaling. You'll be surprised how satisfying it will feel to "get it all out" and you may come to some enlightening conclusions in the process. If you're afraid of someone seeing what you've written, find a safe place to keep your journal, or dispose of the pages after you've written them. </li>
<li><b>Schedule time for yourself:</b> "Free time" doesn't mean "available time." If you're anything like me, you fill your schedule to the gills. Before saying "yes" to everything that comes your way, take a minute and evaluate your free time for the week. Block out some time that's just for you. During this time, make sure to do something that makes you happy: take a walk, listen to a favorite album, watch an old favorite movie, give yourself a facial or pedicure. Do something that feels nurturing and relaxing. </li>
<li><b>Eat mindfully: </b>Make eating a healthy ritual. It is important not to eat and feel stressed at the same time. This is how food allergies get started! Avoid stressful discussions or thoughts during mealtime. Put on pleasant music, light a candle, or cut some fresh flowers. Get out the matching salt and pepper shakers, the cloth napkins, the nice dishes--whatever makes you happy. Eat slowly, and focus on the feeling of eating good food that is nourishing your body. </li>
<li><b>Acupuncture: </b>Getting an acupuncture treatment puts your body in a deep state of relaxation and is known to significantly reduce stress and anxiety. Regular acupuncture treatments can help your overall feeling of well-being. </li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdYzkg4Qhdvzps0c8RM1Eg9DsVMlcqI8LYsh4cSGv7oUNQvQC_CMeH3s2D0-1poWXMg_74TjEPXjwjaSK1Kn60DY9S5lSiTuM_2qc0l7QJAe9k_m8b78pa3XlP6p8rAzV0gRPuQyXlxaL/s1600/DSC03394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZdYzkg4Qhdvzps0c8RM1Eg9DsVMlcqI8LYsh4cSGv7oUNQvQC_CMeH3s2D0-1poWXMg_74TjEPXjwjaSK1Kn60DY9S5lSiTuM_2qc0l7QJAe9k_m8b78pa3XlP6p8rAzV0gRPuQyXlxaL/s400/DSC03394.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>Advanced stress-awareness tip:</b> Look for the literal, underlying message, too. For example, if you are having digestive issues, ask yourself, what am I having trouble "digesting" in my life? Or, how am I nourishing or not nourishing myself mentally, emotionally, spiritually? Write about the symptoms you are experiencing, and then see if the description reminds you of something else going on in your life. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzgyFgThAaIJgoJe878nkO5jRel_DHQM4kA0p39gpmmUkPtK-aFd_VkMmrQwsmwxXoKRaTig06G8owPdw6ZjTdMyqSaYP0xU_1LY9nCefCzQXaMxnDFf1e7RxwIiGk-UKQTI2-gV37Nrr/s1600/DSC03521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzgyFgThAaIJgoJe878nkO5jRel_DHQM4kA0p39gpmmUkPtK-aFd_VkMmrQwsmwxXoKRaTig06G8owPdw6ZjTdMyqSaYP0xU_1LY9nCefCzQXaMxnDFf1e7RxwIiGk-UKQTI2-gV37Nrr/s400/DSC03521.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Above all, be kind to yourself. You deserve to feel happy and relaxed all the time. </div>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-13104999640130557142010-03-19T20:52:00.005-06:002010-04-05T20:19:58.873-06:00Tips for painful periods<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpQ0U3d9cYFWi644SYKnGENbl-7M-kZDNRDub8r8Lm2StPCjaSwvbMc5fiwjS0iLNBwrrIINXb6t9uuybMuQZj8_6fQDjyrC49NGaMGNsqnjTBXksYqWFCXJa8ahLQLfIhtpmwXhnLu9j/s1600-h/DSC03461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjpQ0U3d9cYFWi644SYKnGENbl-7M-kZDNRDub8r8Lm2StPCjaSwvbMc5fiwjS0iLNBwrrIINXb6t9uuybMuQZj8_6fQDjyrC49NGaMGNsqnjTBXksYqWFCXJa8ahLQLfIhtpmwXhnLu9j/s400/DSC03461.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>When I was a kid, my mom always stressed the importance of listening to my body: "Obey the whispers, or you will hear the screams."<br />
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So true, Mom.<br />
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This may sound ridiculous, but recently I realized how <a href="http://immortalpalace.blogspot.com/2010/03/lets-talk-about-stress.html">stressed out</a> I am. Well, actually, my period told me. (Sorry, guys.) Honestly, my period has never been a walk in the park, but it was starting to feel more like a walk down a dark alley with a gun pointed to my head.<br />
<br />
So, I began to investigate. I had no other choice--the scream was deafening. "Okay, Body, I hear you. What is it you want to tell me?" (I promise, I'm almost done with this metaphor.)<br />
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I'll save you the long, drawn-out gab fest my body and I had, and I'll summarize. Basically, it told me to SLOW the heck down.<br />
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In Chinese medicine (there it is!), stress causes your qi to stagnate. Qi stagnation, particularly Liver qi stagnation, is one of the main causes of painful periods in women.<br />
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If you are experiencing painful cramps or irritability before your period, here are some quick tips to help smooth out your Liver qi:<br />
<ul><li>The week before your period, only consume moderate amounts or completely <b>avoid red meat, dairy, salt, sugar, alcohol and caffeine</b>. These foods lead to constraint of Liver qi which will make your PMS symptoms worse. </li>
<li>Get moving! The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi throughout the body. We can help the Liver do its job by participating in mild, consistent exercise. <b>Walking briskly five times a week, for 30 to 40 minutes</b>, yoga (not hot yoga, it will drain your yin too much), and tai chi are great examples. </li>
<li>Drink a mug of warm water with <b>fresh squeezed lemon juice</b> every morning. The sour quality of lemon is known in Chinese medicine to address and relieve the Liver. </li>
<li>Stress is the number one cause of Liver qi stagnation. This may sound obvious and impossible, but I'll say it anyway, try to <a href="http://immortalpalace.blogspot.com/2010/03/lets-talk-about-stress.html"><b>eliminate stress as much as you can</b></a> around the time of your period -- and, for that matter, in your life. </li>
<li>And, of course, make sure to get <b>r</b><b>egular acupuncture treatments</b> and a <b>Chinese herbal prescription</b> from your acupuncturist that will specifically address your symptoms. Acupuncture is known to help regulate women's cycles and diminish PMS symptoms significantly. This I can tell you not only as an acupuncturist, but from personal experience. </li>
</ul>Coincidentally, Liver is related to the element Wood, which corresponds to the season of Spring! And here we are on the cusp of this beautiful season, full of new energy poking up through the ground.<br />
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I took these photos last summer in the Redwood Forest, while studying the powerful presence and nature of Wood with my Five Element class.<br />
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Welcome Spring, keep your Liver happy, and listen to the whispers.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvez5WaEY6OXyY2mUDwn2M2EUIFG_uns3gPbIaag1JeXcDoU2xcqaVJJpv9V5tR70W3dxFuvuID5IN54InGWH0eEASKAXAnW0E2eBJg_HN1ouLsMYa4H1YAxiB0rUTjHDLn2kV5LqCcYAh/s1600-h/DSC03474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvez5WaEY6OXyY2mUDwn2M2EUIFG_uns3gPbIaag1JeXcDoU2xcqaVJJpv9V5tR70W3dxFuvuID5IN54InGWH0eEASKAXAnW0E2eBJg_HN1ouLsMYa4H1YAxiB0rUTjHDLn2kV5LqCcYAh/s400/DSC03474.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-35047033885372495062010-02-14T11:53:00.000-07:002010-02-14T11:53:34.981-07:00Happy Chinese New Year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYJqlGjpq_xJCk69H-zjISYPOz80FfbVwdsZrvFRjYj00S0Uya0IROAtIdM0QxshNRsR0SzD378GC8AVNsUKNIZHq8rUAearCLaetEBil8mYO8Qx41GEdi4yusb6hdJlNf4yu9FlWCuFt/s1600-h/calig.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYJqlGjpq_xJCk69H-zjISYPOz80FfbVwdsZrvFRjYj00S0Uya0IROAtIdM0QxshNRsR0SzD378GC8AVNsUKNIZHq8rUAearCLaetEBil8mYO8Qx41GEdi4yusb6hdJlNf4yu9FlWCuFt/s400/calig.gif" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #444444; font-family: Garamond, Palatino, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 26px;"><em>In peaceful tranquility quiet your mind, then empty and erase your mind of thoughts.</em><br />
Written by the grand master and doctor Mu Wee Dang at the age of 91. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Garamond, Palatino, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; font-size: 19px; line-height: 26px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #444444; font-family: Garamond, Palatino, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 26px;">For some sound Chinese medical advice from Gwyneth Paltrow's acupuncturist, check out her weekly newsletter: <a href="http://goop.com/newsletter/69/en/">Goop</a></span></div>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-78584913732613951012010-01-20T19:01:00.000-07:002010-01-20T19:01:40.696-07:00Humble pie<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Had me a slice of it recently. After <a href="http://immortalpalace.blogspot.com/2009/12/dose-of-my-own-medicine.html">my visit with Dr. Cao</a> over the holidays, my stubborn symptoms persisted. In the middle of a sleepless, fevered night, sitting up on the couch, coughing so hard I was seeing spots, I knew something was seriously wrong. I made the decision to call a doctor first thing in the morning.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">This was a big step for me. I normally don't go to the doctor. Ever. I grew up with my mom who is an alternative healer, and now she is also an acupuncturist. My whole life, I took herbs and hot baths instead of antibiotics.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I remember when I was about 13 years old, my gym teacher suggested I get tested for exercise-induced asthma. My mom took me to the doctor, and the poor thing tried to give me a steroid inhaler. My mom refused, saying steroids would do more harm than good, and then whispered to me that we would try some herbs instead. The doctor actually cried. I think she thought I was being raised by wolves.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">My mom was always adamant that we have health insurance. Just in case. But, for everyday maladies--physical, emotional, and spiritual--we had much more effective tools at our disposal. <br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">On New Year's Eve morning, as I frantically googled doctors and clinics in the neighborhood, I couldn't help but feel a little defeated. Why didn't Chinese medicine take care of it? Why couldn't I heal myself without western medicine? I'm an acupuncturist for Pete's sake! I have all the tools at my disposal. Darn it.<br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The PA listened to my lungs and told me I had pneumonia. Two thoughts went through my mind: "Pneumonia!? Really!?" And, "At least it's a dragon that out-smarted my Chinese medical sword, and not some rookie beast." Okay, not in those words exactly.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I took everything she gave me -- the inhaler, the hard-core antibiotics, even the prescription strength cough syrup with codeine so I could finally get some rest. Nothing holistic about it, I was desperate to feel better and to stop rescheduling my patients. It's funny, I think most people come to alternative medicine as a last resort, after they've exhausted all western medical options. I'm the complete opposite.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">But I did start to feel better. Within 8 hours. After being sick for two weeks, this seemed like nothing short of a miracle. I have never been so grateful for western medicine in my life.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">As a former pre-med student / medicine woman's daughter / acupuncturist, I am reminded how important it is to combine healing modalities to achieve optimum health. I have always believed this to be true, but never more so than I do now.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Now that I am completely recovered, thanks to western medicine <i>and</i> Chinese herbs, I am insanely grateful for my health, and my sense of compassion is renewed for people who are sick.<br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">This has been one of the coldest winters we've had in Colorado. An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure. Take it from me.<br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1) <b>Wear a scarf!</b> In Chinese medicine, Wind enters the body through the nape of the neck and the lower back, which then turns into Wind Cold and Wind Heat, otherwise known as the common cold or flu. Keep these areas covered during the winter.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">2) <b>Don't over-extend yourself. </b>Conserve your energy. In Chinese medicine, your qi (or energy) sinks inward and downward during the winter. Get in touch with your inner bear and enjoy hibernation mode.<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><br />
</b><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">3) <b>Eat right. </b>Sugar is scientifically known to compromise or temporarily shut down your immune system. Do your body a favor and minimize your sugar intake during winter months. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">5) <b>Stay warm.</b> In Chinese medicine, it is true that you actually get a cold from being out in the cold. Those old wives knew what they were talking about.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OBxdXgYgVr2ynFuiMCBmnso1Be1UGTN6NVJNVoH0zRTeWKtVf5LtYeWlfa1uZuo7efzbS_W02hRkODuD-YUXDM6n4fWHunnfcxulbclvy5kDH8abIkGwxI8ndpeVrwxez5UFExAgIEGp/s1600-h/DSC03699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4OBxdXgYgVr2ynFuiMCBmnso1Be1UGTN6NVJNVoH0zRTeWKtVf5LtYeWlfa1uZuo7efzbS_W02hRkODuD-YUXDM6n4fWHunnfcxulbclvy5kDH8abIkGwxI8ndpeVrwxez5UFExAgIEGp/s400/DSC03699.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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</div>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-83556933637666399672009-12-29T17:45:00.001-07:002010-01-07T11:31:16.179-07:00A dose of my own medicine<div class="MsoNormal">I have developed a whole new appreciation for health and disease over the past week. After pulling it together for the holidays, I finally met the couch last Saturday, and haven’t moved far from it since. That is, except for my big adventure yesterday to visit my former professor, and Chinese medical doctor, Dr. Cao. From past experience as a patient and student, I knew I was in for an authentic experience.<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> “It just isn’t the same to needle yourself,” I told him while I was lying on his treatment table. He nodded and wisely smiled. He propped me up with pillows to lessen my cough, handed me a bottle of dark brown liquid and told me to drink it, unwrapped a carton of Chinese herbal lozenges. He positioned 3 heat lamps around me and felt my pulse, looked at my tongue. After quickly identifying my condition, he began burying needles in several obscure acupoints. I’m not gonna lie, it hurt like hell. Traditional Chinese Medicine, as it is practiced in China, is much more aggressive than the Chinese medicine we practice in the States. We Americans are, to but it bluntly, total wussies. <br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> But I toughened up and kept my eye to the finish line: feeling better. If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that Dr. Cao is truly a master in our profession, and he knows exactly what he’s doing. I have never seen anyone work with more precision, unwavering skill and concentration. Not to mention wisdom and integrity. <br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> Dr. Cao came back several times to re-stimulate the needles, just as the intense sensation had subsided. I winced and he said, “Sorry, has to be strong.” Before and after the treatment, he also performed Tui Na (Chinese massage) that nearly had me clinging to the ceiling. (Again, wussy.)<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> I immediately felt better after the treatment, and I told him so as I handed him a tip, which he adamantly refused. He wrote me a prescription for a raw herbal formula, and I thanked him. This was the moment I had been looking forward to… and dreading. <br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"> Raw herbal decoctions are hands-down the most effective way to take herbs, as opposed to powder, pills, or capsules. However, the trade-offs are that it’s time-consuming to prepare, it smells awful and tastes worse. I sometimes fantasize about having a full raw herbal pharmacy, but then I always stop and ask myself, “Would any of my patients actually do this? I don’t know if I would!” <br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> Well, prepare a raw formula I did. (It’s been awhile.) And I re-discovered a certain satisfaction in the making of your own medicine.<br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Cheers to your health!<br />
</div>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-58883616777191674242009-12-20T11:08:00.003-07:002010-01-07T11:38:41.204-07:00Drumroll please...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: auto;">The new treatment room!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Come experience the coziness.<br />
</div>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-56603384647095118002009-12-02T00:32:00.003-07:002009-12-02T11:12:56.792-07:00Immortal Palace is expanding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFdJj4Gj8nGNmZWcw_kAQRb0FNoYccHVGJd4RT8m4DClSV61Okr9TyFrQQ8q5oFrL3b3c0CpV_InZqYieTBK-WC9PRTzgM-DQPnj2AFoZzqpsQxRyED3nqd18RYTCD0pEqsDzps9OoBk7q/s1600-h/DSC03713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFdJj4Gj8nGNmZWcw_kAQRb0FNoYccHVGJd4RT8m4DClSV61Okr9TyFrQQ8q5oFrL3b3c0CpV_InZqYieTBK-WC9PRTzgM-DQPnj2AFoZzqpsQxRyED3nqd18RYTCD0pEqsDzps9OoBk7q/s400/DSC03713.JPG" /></a><br />
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Lots of exciting things happening at Immortal Palace! Finally got a sign out front, for starters. Thanks to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lisarundall">Lisa Rundall</a>--<a href="http://cargocollective.com/lisarundall">designer extraordinaire</a>--and her awesome dad.<br />
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Also, thanks to the recent success of an Immortal Palace <a href="http://www.groupon.com/denver/">Groupon</a>, I have rented out a second treatment room. Right now, it just looks like a pile of furniture in the corner, but I am going to have it set up by Friday.<br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Speaking of Friday... Immortal Palace will be open for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=187290513541&ref=mf">Tennyson Street First Friday Art Walk</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Stop by this Friday, December 4th from 6 to 9pm to check out the new treatment space, sip a plastic cup of wine (very classy), and admire new resplendid glass pieces from artist <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/resplendid">Susan Mattson</a>, and whimsical lamps by artist <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lisarundall">Lisa Rundall</a>. (Lisa also makes <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lisarundall">gorgeous jewelry</a>!)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">Receive your coupon for $15 off your first acupuncture session at Immortal Palace. They expire at the end of the month, so don't miss out!</span><br />
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Also, there is a new business moving in downstairs from Immortal Palace called <a href="http://grassrootsmmj.com/">Grassroots</a>. They are a coffee shop, art gallery, and medical marijuana dispensary, and they hope to be open sometime in the next month or so. I especially like the new paint job they did on the building!<br />
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Hope to see you Friday!Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-85990774836178999902009-10-27T16:28:00.004-06:002009-10-27T22:41:59.152-06:00Enjoy autumn, prepare for winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Chinese Medicine recognizes each season as corresponding to an element. Currently, we are in the Metal time of year, quickly transitioning into Water. These photos were taken on a recent hike outside Evergreen just before the height of the changing Aspen leaves--a breathtaking event in Colorado.<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As autumn departs, follow these tips to prepare for winter:<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1) Eat warm foods, drink warm liquid.</b> Don't put out your <a href="http://www.ctif.org/IMG/jpg/objectives_2_-_Bernard_Krol_Poland_-2.jpg">digestive fires</a> with cold, raw salads or ice water. Steam or wilt your salads. Or drink a mug of warm water as you eat your salad to keep your belly warm. Soups are your new best friend. (Keep an eye out for future posts on yummy soup recipes.)<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>2) Buy an old fashioned hot water bottle at your local drug store.</b> You know those <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=72139&aid=336064&aparam=hot%20water%20bottle&scinit1=hot%20water%20bottle">red rubber ones</a> with the screw-on stopper? Just warm some tap water in a kettle, take it off the heat before it boils, and fill the hot water bottle 3/4 full. Forget what I said about soups, this will actually be your new best friend. Take it to bed with you to warm up your feet, cuddle up on the couch with it on your lap, wedge it between the couch and your lower back, sling it over your shoulder and lean up against it -- pain will melt away, your cheeks will get rosy, and, I swear, it's the next best thing to taking a hot bath.<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>3) Get an<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1256673126626"> </a></b><b><a href="http://www.target.com/Electric-Kettles-Kitchen/b?ie=UTF8&node=13385431">electric kettle</a></b><b>. </b>I LOVE electric kettles. I really can't say enough good things about them. I probably use mine at least 5 times a day. The wonderful thing about electric kettles, as opposed to stovetop kettles, is that they boil water sooner than you can reach for a tea bag. And since you will be drinking more warm beverages (ahem) and filling up your new hot water bottle, you will need it.<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>4) Visit your </b><a href="http://immortalpalace.com/"><b>acupuncturist</b></a><b> </b>for a seasonal alignment treatment, or to boost your immune system for the upcoming cold season. Prevention is key!<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is a recent email from a patient, who prefers to remain anonymous, after I helped her through a nasty flu virus:<br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">"Hi,<br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Just wanted to let you know I think I am FINALLY feeling better. Much better now! Thank you so much for taking care of me and helping me through this thing. Thanks, Josie. Just wanted to let you know your treatment plan worked. Again."<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUl86-B2xub25Oo3aXJvbzx7KmIEL3YnQaooqL0OnEh4TShwBCWqYwtczCwJAqUnlXPcijWPRLbbhxqgLFLECwdjL60nvnr4achg0Ru-WGMwKOxVV1k9W_pH_O_RrLsreEO9B-m7JG5rwX/s1600-h/DSC01912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUl86-B2xub25Oo3aXJvbzx7KmIEL3YnQaooqL0OnEh4TShwBCWqYwtczCwJAqUnlXPcijWPRLbbhxqgLFLECwdjL60nvnr4achg0Ru-WGMwKOxVV1k9W_pH_O_RrLsreEO9B-m7JG5rwX/s400/DSC01912.JPG" /></a><br />
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Be well, and stay warm!Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-74141533022840267712009-09-22T11:12:00.001-06:002009-09-22T20:33:57.767-06:00If you can melt butter, you can make ghee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghee">Ghee</a> is the best of both worlds -- rich, buttery taste without the dairy. Ghee cooks well because it doesn't burn, and its nutty, slightly carmelized flavor is delish. Buy it at the supermarket, however, and you will curse your acupuncturist for recommending it to you. (What, does she think I'm made of money??) <br />
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Broke, dairy-sensitive, butter-lovers rejoice! (Or those just wanting to nurture their inner <a href="http://thenonconsumeradvocate.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/recipe1_martha2.jpg">homemaker</a>.) It will only cost you as much as the cheapest pound of butter you can find.<br />
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What you'll need:<br />
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1lb. unsalted butter (salted will burn)<br />
Cheesecloth<br />
Scissors <br />
Rubber bands<br />
Stainless steel pan (will not work with non-stick pans)<br />
Empty jars with lids<br />
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Put the stove on med-low heat, unwrap all the butter and plop it in the pan like so...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXdPt0U4pesMKsM91e_RNtpDyD0HvPWJ9pBQk_i6DpKZcrtkjL6sh5NIUFB8GsTjilHCNUlO6B-5-tlive6oNhHud2B5nvVhenCWPbKcFKimzda5Oos2Q8mPHprPym1ZJgBbbf-rqyVfT/s1600-h/DSC01762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXdPt0U4pesMKsM91e_RNtpDyD0HvPWJ9pBQk_i6DpKZcrtkjL6sh5NIUFB8GsTjilHCNUlO6B-5-tlive6oNhHud2B5nvVhenCWPbKcFKimzda5Oos2Q8mPHprPym1ZJgBbbf-rqyVfT/s320/DSC01762.JPG" /></a><br />
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Once the butter has melted, turn the heat down to low and listen for the "cooking" noise. It's not a boil; if it's boiling, turn down the heat. It's more like the low gurgling noise your tummy makes if it's unhappy or digesting. (In the biz we call it "<a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6689">borborygmus</a>.")<br />
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Let the butter cook for 30 minutes. Once you get the hang of it, it's easy to make ghee while you are cooking dinner or cleaning up the kitchen... or baking gluten-free zucchini muffins (recipe to come)!<br />
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While the butter is cooking, prepare your jars. For each jar, cut a large square of cheesecloth -- enough to fold over once and still have enough to cover the mouth of the jar and form a small well in the center to catch the dairy solids. (Cheesecloth usually comes already folded two layers thick. Fold it one more time before straining the liquid, so that it is four layers thick.) Place the cheesecloth over the jar and secure it with a rubber band.<br />
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Now, after 30 minutes has passed, start looking for dairy solids collecting on the bottom of the pan. The ghee is ready when the dairy solids are slightly browned. Gently tip the pan towards you, so that you don't get splattered by bubbling butter, and take a look.<br />
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If it looks like this, it's not ready yet.<br />
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If it looks like this, you're good to go!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFumcOqUA9iYHyXR1IQ7qZ920-B3aNTzto1gE4XOxfMF1kWSCGE0QI2NrIo1KFVUTanNxg1hS3l9srsIJXPJuA7YB8BhIQC7_7LWkzQWNExJFXNmFr99puJa4ZZQx7JZB8LQk_AJZgzpQK/s1600-h/DSC01774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFumcOqUA9iYHyXR1IQ7qZ920-B3aNTzto1gE4XOxfMF1kWSCGE0QI2NrIo1KFVUTanNxg1hS3l9srsIJXPJuA7YB8BhIQC7_7LWkzQWNExJFXNmFr99puJa4ZZQx7JZB8LQk_AJZgzpQK/s320/DSC01774.JPG" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Remove the pan from the burner and let it cool. (Pouring the hot liquid in the jars can make them crack.) Don't let it cool so much that it turns solid, just enough so it's warm and still liquid. (If you let it cool too long, just warm it up again.)<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When it's the right temperature, pour it into your jars. (I like to use mason jars with wide mouths, or old jelly jars.)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyT9qIFkEOHDOwVXq8_V1HPWZbgrlrqme4ZbKc5KxBYIuuO2qkvYPkPcV3nR8js4Kb6TPq1qBA91cdRnMby6Zf6eSSowT0DyMWrbUejGKNfmoZ7NqMnjEhEkl1r2eBq34ZcNuwP278wi36/s1600-h/DSC01779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyT9qIFkEOHDOwVXq8_V1HPWZbgrlrqme4ZbKc5KxBYIuuO2qkvYPkPcV3nR8js4Kb6TPq1qBA91cdRnMby6Zf6eSSowT0DyMWrbUejGKNfmoZ7NqMnjEhEkl1r2eBq34ZcNuwP278wi36/s320/DSC01779.JPG" /></a><br />
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</div>Once you are done, screw the lids on and leave on the counter overnight. When they are room temperature, I like to keep one jar in the fridge for later, and one on the counter so that it remains soft and spreadable for everyday use. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4ak8p6ZH-K1nJNV5MvE4QBJXqGYa7JCTFahEIG3EEBib1RDTaNwNRcDyxqAFwoJ_29V0yNOBcNrkgqi75S8UlLdQbCU7ozeYEnGpr35XY589MiWvnea5jdSwqFUaf7ds7mAbFMQZd3C1/s1600-h/DSC01782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4ak8p6ZH-K1nJNV5MvE4QBJXqGYa7JCTFahEIG3EEBib1RDTaNwNRcDyxqAFwoJ_29V0yNOBcNrkgqi75S8UlLdQbCU7ozeYEnGpr35XY589MiWvnea5jdSwqFUaf7ds7mAbFMQZd3C1/s320/DSC01782.JPG" /></a><br />
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Enjoy!Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-11488884197220208202009-09-16T15:33:00.000-06:002009-09-16T15:33:52.281-06:00Confucius considers disease<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ8lvIi-KOO8dCPAPK5t2XjcU-yD8M1VHQf3C3vGJIEhjQhuwnSh8T0dWgKkKqxjd3scod-vD-28C9No_-hQLY98EtPnUuNVBdoseKMgEFfMQyuaM8PiQWgUQA_nPRCrV20nF6wqvrJ9yq/s1600-h/DSC03616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ8lvIi-KOO8dCPAPK5t2XjcU-yD8M1VHQf3C3vGJIEhjQhuwnSh8T0dWgKkKqxjd3scod-vD-28C9No_-hQLY98EtPnUuNVBdoseKMgEFfMQyuaM8PiQWgUQA_nPRCrV20nF6wqvrJ9yq/s400/DSC03616.JPG" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>"Disease arriving is like a mountain crashing. Disease leaving is like silk unraveling."</b></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: center;">-Confucius </div><br />
<blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></blockquote>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-23576286791324549492009-09-09T11:49:00.002-06:002009-09-09T12:04:21.601-06:00Testimonial: The effects of acupuncture are immediateOne of my patients wrote me an email after her second treatment, and I wanted to share with you an excerpt. Thank you, Brenda, for your warm responses and for letting me pass this on to my readers!<br /><br /><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"></span><blockquote><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;">"Dear Josie,<div>I told [my daughter] on Friday, that her b'day present to me, which was an introduction to the 'Immortal Palace,' has been my best present ever. I had not expected the two treatments I've had with you so far to be so effective, so quickly!</div><div>1. No more collapse of my left nostril while sleeping, since treatment on Wednesday. Left eye has stopped watering and is no longer red!</div><div>2. While my knee area is not yet pain free, the pain is definitely less than it was.</div><div>3. I am continuing to be able to sleep 6-7 hours a night without waking. This is such a break though for me.</div><div>4. As for the herbs, they are absolute magic! For the first time in a long while, I am hopeful that I shall be able to lose weight. I took them around 6:00 p.m., after I returned home from my appointment with you. That evening, NO feeling of the need to munch after dinner! Since then, I find I have to remind myself to eat at regular times!... It makes it easy to eat healthfully and I have no interest in foods with white flour or sugar! (Still fancy ice cream on occasion though. That interest has not completely gone away!)</div><div><br /></div><div>So, thank you for everything, Josie. You have obviously been a good student during your studies of the last four years. Looking forward to my next appointment with you.</div><div><br /></div><div>Affectionately, Brenda"</div></span></blockquote>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-79186867342564430482009-09-08T19:59:00.002-06:002009-09-08T20:05:24.818-06:00Thank you for coming to First Fridays!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIvAf1jfo94LZt1HzWgqk_3YscHVqWcwznNqIkV0UPdHwOK_NmOeUJk68A9YdLK_kGhKcdiHCpVYpfO8cG9Ap5IlZ32dppSyCC0ZiE_1t8UbaX2n1HmJ_I9M5ozB8QesoIctaG_Bl26JQ/s1600-h/DSC01672.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIvAf1jfo94LZt1HzWgqk_3YscHVqWcwznNqIkV0UPdHwOK_NmOeUJk68A9YdLK_kGhKcdiHCpVYpfO8cG9Ap5IlZ32dppSyCC0ZiE_1t8UbaX2n1HmJ_I9M5ozB8QesoIctaG_Bl26JQ/s320/DSC01672.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379282775675841986" border="0" /></a><br />Check out the pics on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=120673&id=122064081408&l=881caadb30">facebook.</a>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-79784606114924357392009-08-31T22:54:00.008-06:002009-09-08T12:32:20.826-06:00Immortal Palace will be open for First Fridays!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMirUgvr6uDiTKKBeZk57ZuMER7C004UlmO4WeYAdDuRa3zR7d8Ow71ufiCXKSeVEUt4cE9odZ0TeZB3opj_x1S4jqbTSfsaoqfEo86BzBGBZkUPAGtKA_uptJMf8cgBE4-QwVcKSI5YD/s1600-h/DSC01671.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMirUgvr6uDiTKKBeZk57ZuMER7C004UlmO4WeYAdDuRa3zR7d8Ow71ufiCXKSeVEUt4cE9odZ0TeZB3opj_x1S4jqbTSfsaoqfEo86BzBGBZkUPAGtKA_uptJMf8cgBE4-QwVcKSI5YD/s400/DSC01671.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379164590995318818" border="0" /></a><br />Friday, September 4th<br />6:00pm - 10:00pm<br />3867 Tennyson Street (go around left side of the building and upstairs)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Enjoy wine and snacks while browsing innovative local art, and receive a special discount on your first acupuncture treatment!</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(102, 102, 0);"></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 102, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);"></span> </span>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-54082341475072844332009-08-25T16:46:00.012-06:002009-08-26T01:01:34.863-06:00Chinese medicine sees the body as a garden<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHtJM2DKGz_WVcrK6OZAHPGCrP8b03nhKYWc-bRvUSKAGf7MBdNgVqOkWaPNtI9cLRTp5GeI_9C8Brl1KRpqyRPaDxX2FjaFtmCoYmJ6lLRodDwDTxTlWfYZ0MzPj0L7-iLlhEfj4trHP3/s1600-h/DSC03674.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHtJM2DKGz_WVcrK6OZAHPGCrP8b03nhKYWc-bRvUSKAGf7MBdNgVqOkWaPNtI9cLRTp5GeI_9C8Brl1KRpqyRPaDxX2FjaFtmCoYmJ6lLRodDwDTxTlWfYZ0MzPj0L7-iLlhEfj4trHP3/s320/DSC03674.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374138140302627506" border="0" /></a><br />This afternoon I came home and saw the first cheerful bloom of our mini-sunflower patch. Nearly six feet tall, it looked me right in the eye. This seemed like nothing short of a miracle to me--not only because I planted it from seed, and it somehow turned sun and water into a gigantic flower perched on a human-sized stalk, but also because I planted these seeds weeks past the universally accepted "seed planting" date with no more green thumb strategy than my fingers crossed. But there it was--against all odds! My miracle sunflower! Staring me in the face.<br /><br />Even though I wasn't sure my flowers would grow or even bloom, I kept watering and weeding. All summer. Even though my funky little flower bed looked a little pathetic and sparse, I kept at it. Some part of me had faith and hope. And then one day, they all started blooming like fireworks. One after the other--first my cosmos, then my zinnias, both also planted from seed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPxuYxJJ15GWIUnpU4Yq8iEhK-AoCW2nEKinTylwL3I25vnYz6eOHv5PTxlPt6h1IXOY65gfszP0_frDa8BoKY3Yl9dj3KJnGmScoLL7OTAo7MgPp0da29ntEnOYi7CdDKyBylqUQlyUL/s1600-h/DSC03669.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPxuYxJJ15GWIUnpU4Yq8iEhK-AoCW2nEKinTylwL3I25vnYz6eOHv5PTxlPt6h1IXOY65gfszP0_frDa8BoKY3Yl9dj3KJnGmScoLL7OTAo7MgPp0da29ntEnOYi7CdDKyBylqUQlyUL/s320/DSC03669.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374138378015899026" border="0" /></a><br />Which got me thinking: Gardening is a powerful metaphor for healing the body.<br /><br />Every time you think a thought, you plant a seed. When you focus on that thought--whether it is positive or negative--you are watering the seed. The more this thought is nurtured, the more it will grow, eventually into physical manifestation--whether positive or negative. Against all odds.<br /><br />As a practitioner of Chinese medicine, I see many patients who are affecting their own health by the way they are tending to their "inner garden." Interestingly, the body and its state of health is likened to the garden in <span style="font-style: italic;">Between Heaven and Earth:</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">A Guide to Chinese Medicine</span>.<br /><blockquote>"Both the garden and the human body are microcosms of nature. The processes, cycles, and condition that exist in a garden can also be observed in the life of a human being."<br />-Harriet Beinfield, L.Ac. and Efrem Korngold, L.Ac., O.M.D<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Between Heaven and Earth </span></blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>My advice as a novice gardener, as an acupuncturist, is to pay attention to the thoughts you are planting. Are they improving your health or diminishing it? Are you watering flowers or weeds?Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-73194739663139626422009-08-25T16:03:00.006-06:002009-08-26T01:11:55.810-06:00Cooling summer foods<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisw3i-322SL_k0H5E8MBiu8Ttwcav3z6fmhxp_xp1Zo0mEFfN-tsnxf-yLjD8st5Un4GikU98wFdjlDM7PkAXj4VPXJ4eb8mtAMCIG026TgSf4HHrKuLNMyO6ddEzh5W0VmUEnffBiKyfC/s1600-h/DSC03681.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisw3i-322SL_k0H5E8MBiu8Ttwcav3z6fmhxp_xp1Zo0mEFfN-tsnxf-yLjD8st5Un4GikU98wFdjlDM7PkAXj4VPXJ4eb8mtAMCIG026TgSf4HHrKuLNMyO6ddEzh5W0VmUEnffBiKyfC/s320/DSC03681.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374035023393306354" border="0" /></a><br />I just ate the juiciest, sweetest, fattest Colorado peach that has ever graced my taste buds! Oh, how I love peaches in the summertime! Is there a more sumptuous fruit?<br /><br />In Chinese medicine, peaches are indicated to moisten the intestines and help with constipation; peach kernels are prescribed to treat blood stasis in the body.<br /><br />Many common foods are used therapeutically in Chinese medicine. This August, while we are experiencing above 90 degree temperatures here in Denver, I prescribe the following foods to relieve summer heat:<br /><br />- Peaches<br />- Pears<br />- Watermelon<br />- Green tea (yes, it is cooling!)<br />- Mung beans (soak and cook them like a porridge)<br />- Cucumber<br />- Lotus root<br />- Water chestnut<br />- Bamboo shoot<br />- Seaweed<br /><br />And for dessert, I prescribe this soul-healing concoction:<br /><br />Vanilla ice cream (Try this gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, <a href="http://www.turtlemountain.com/products/purely_decadent_Coconut_Milk_VanillaBean.html">best-ice-cream ever</a>!)<br />Sliced peaches<br />Cinnamon (sprinkle on top)<br /><br />Divine!Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-12274803527572374032009-08-22T10:42:00.004-06:002009-08-25T16:44:51.969-06:00Acupuncture can help induce labor<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgia601Eg-OFVNqUtrE3i44wQ3HUzARoPSJVPz1hNu-cnz1sko9PwnhBJhARH-wSC5s3f376BVMX_N8Bff6oIvgH_cZ_0baDhfHzUmSMvrOuG0aEblJ7M3-JlVq3rB3KLqv1V5-3CPKzwxZ/s1600-h/DSC01648.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgia601Eg-OFVNqUtrE3i44wQ3HUzARoPSJVPz1hNu-cnz1sko9PwnhBJhARH-wSC5s3f376BVMX_N8Bff6oIvgH_cZ_0baDhfHzUmSMvrOuG0aEblJ7M3-JlVq3rB3KLqv1V5-3CPKzwxZ/s320/DSC01648.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372860979039259074" border="0" /></a><br />My dear friend Ashley had her baby girl yesterday! This photo was taken on Monday, right before I gave her an acupuncture treatment to induce labor.<br /><br />In Chinese medicine, needling certain acupoints can help encourage the body to begin labor. I use a technique called e-stim which introduces a small current of electricity through needles inserted in the lower back area. Although this procedure sounds intense, the sensation is quite mild and feels like a light tapping. Ashley reported feeling extremely relaxed and fell asleep during her treatment.<br /><br />In addition to needling and e-stim, I also insert a tiny needle in the ear that represents the uterus. Stimulating this area of the ear, according to Chinese medicine, actually stimulates the uterus. In fact, your entire body is represented on your ear! How did they figure that out??<br /><br />I was happy to learn this morning that Mom and Baby are doing so well that they are going home from the hospital this afternoon, a day early. Welcome to the world, little Ella! I can't wait to meet you tomorrow!Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-37163225191260677602009-08-17T15:07:00.003-06:002009-08-19T17:17:51.837-06:00What are you creating with your thoughts?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaW10xnmFTL0azuybHmhfgvDpl5_VyyqJZt0rvBl_5hQgTRtlXrQd-cIwwJc6BEMkN9bra0fQ2oECwen_n0xOCFqg25R880B7sZqIW8L-Z-y80kTXE3HizmULdtJTVn4hLw_50sNzGd_d/s1600-h/DSC01413.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaW10xnmFTL0azuybHmhfgvDpl5_VyyqJZt0rvBl_5hQgTRtlXrQd-cIwwJc6BEMkN9bra0fQ2oECwen_n0xOCFqg25R880B7sZqIW8L-Z-y80kTXE3HizmULdtJTVn4hLw_50sNzGd_d/s320/DSC01413.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371325545488401570" border="0" /></a><br /><blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>"In the same way that sculptors mold clay into the creation that pleases them, you create by molding Energy. You mold it through your power of focus--by thinking about things, remembering things, and imagining things. You focus the Energy when you speak, when you write, when you listen, when you are silent, when you remember, and when you imagine--you focus it through the projection of thought."</blockquote><blockquote>--Esther and Jerry Hicks, Ask and It Is Given</blockquote><br /> Imagine if everyday for 5 minutes you focused on a thought that filled you with such overwhelming joy that every cell in your body was bathed in that emotion and responded by functioning at its absolute best.Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-48574309847218206772009-08-04T13:18:00.000-06:002009-08-05T12:55:22.000-06:00Gwyneth Paltrow loves acupuncture<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQT0S6aLQaX6p-LtEIyrh2eJp1VxRNw1CgvaVaajSvBGPqycG-AYkttSVOG6un4DMqo5Xwe2rloGmmrkRCWY6iWnTqoJOgoUufoq8Nk3xG_lkShtTL4b5Ow3YJvDUysBmgsLBMwUuFuagr/s1600-h/article-1041370-013798650000044D-681_468x499.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQT0S6aLQaX6p-LtEIyrh2eJp1VxRNw1CgvaVaajSvBGPqycG-AYkttSVOG6un4DMqo5Xwe2rloGmmrkRCWY6iWnTqoJOgoUufoq8Nk3xG_lkShtTL4b5Ow3YJvDUysBmgsLBMwUuFuagr/s320/article-1041370-013798650000044D-681_468x499.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366191404547885362" border="0" /></a><br />Remember when Gwyneth Paltrow showed up to a red carpet event with bruise-colored circles on her back? No, they were not octopus kisses (I know that's what you were thinking). These markings are from an ancient Chinese therapy called cupping.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTfnB2Ae8XOw-W0wC9oIZq53MoaUGfFYjTxDhhZAr0sOK9cVFFWvcu5GEPC6AKUVvMxG-GkBoeVgMKFwT3DonHYENMj84iOEW8Zkpum-HdP2ptrJWidHxHyv29Xm0BQQoshLW0eixG-qo/s1600-h/cupping.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 219px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTfnB2Ae8XOw-W0wC9oIZq53MoaUGfFYjTxDhhZAr0sOK9cVFFWvcu5GEPC6AKUVvMxG-GkBoeVgMKFwT3DonHYENMj84iOEW8Zkpum-HdP2ptrJWidHxHyv29Xm0BQQoshLW0eixG-qo/s320/cupping.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366470556067178290" border="0" /></a><br />A cotton ball is soaked in 90 proof alcohol, lit on fire, placed inside the glass cup, and then quickly removed to create a vacuum-like suction. The cup is then placed on an area of the body such as the back, stomach, or shoulder. I use cupping on my patients to promote blood flow and circulation, remove toxins from the body, and relieve pain. Cupping is useful for many ailments such as the common cold, asthma, hives, shoulder and back pain, to name a few.<br /><br />Recently, Gwyneth Paltrow began a weekly newsletter called <a href="http://goop.com/newsletter/39/?utm_source=Goop+Newsletter&utm_campaign=a13be97504-Goop39_06_18_2009&utm_medium=email">GOOP</a> where she shares healthy recipes, favorite travel destinations, books to read, among many other useful tidbits. Check out this <a href="http://goop.com/newsletter/39/?utm_source=Goop+Newsletter&utm_campaign=a13be97504-Goop39_06_18_2009&utm_medium=email">installment</a> where she talks about acupuncture and Chinese medicine! Thank you Gwyneth!Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-83115453457372645852009-08-03T09:21:00.000-06:002009-08-04T13:50:14.677-06:00Testimonial: Acupuncture speeds up post-surgery healingOne of my patients wanted to share with me and my readers her experience with acupuncture. Thanks, Rachel!<br /><br />“I had surgery on my hand to reattach a cut nerve and tendon. My doctor and occupational therapist told me that I should not expect to gain full range of motion in my affected finger. In addition to my regular therapy treatments and massage, I saw Josie Bouchier weekly for 8 weeks of my recovery. She used a variety of techniques to break up scar tissue and promote nerve growth. On my last visit with the Occupational Therapist, he told me he was honestly surprised that I have regained my entire range of motion, and that I was in the 95th percentile of those who had the type of procedure I had. He said, "whatever you're doing, keep doing it!" I attribute my successful recovery to acupuncture, and Josie's thorough understanding of the healing process. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking speedy recovery from surgery or other wounds, or any other issue for which western advice and prescriptions only partially treat.”<br />-Rachel, Business AdministratorJosie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-37003007754605524692009-08-01T11:24:00.002-06:002009-08-22T10:41:07.598-06:00Saturday morning pancakes (gluten free!)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigMsQxbe_etDCynJXh3OZsex_xsdC4NDBN3G6Lf0zw1_S8P1LcbFYCtsezG5JEXc_kmtaP44AtTbHcUq51KTSuvSnN8PhYsXZC8o0zODIbsMWDM-8WCLezjL89WdhcG2autdCbLR8fiWW/s1600-h/DSC03663.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgigMsQxbe_etDCynJXh3OZsex_xsdC4NDBN3G6Lf0zw1_S8P1LcbFYCtsezG5JEXc_kmtaP44AtTbHcUq51KTSuvSnN8PhYsXZC8o0zODIbsMWDM-8WCLezjL89WdhcG2autdCbLR8fiWW/s320/DSC03663.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372829098372053394" border="0" /></a><br />In Chinese medicine, every organ in the body has a certain time of day where it functions at its best. The Spleen and Stomach, which rule digestion, have the strongest <span style="font-style: italic;">qi</span> (or energy, pronounced "chee") in the morning hours. As the day goes on, their qi weakens.<br /><br />Many people eat the least amount of food or nothing at all in the morning, more in the afternoon and the most at night. This not only causes indigestion and other related issues such as heartburn, acid reflux, gas, bloating, etc., but can also lead to weight gain, sluggishness and insomnia.<br /><br />Thus, it makes more sense to eat--as my professor, Dr. Cheng, used to say--"like a king in the morning, a layman in the afternoon, and a pauper at night." To add to that, a different professor, Dr. Cao, used to emphasize "take 100 steps after every meal." When I follow these two ancient Chinese rules, I am always grateful. And you will be, too!<br /><br />To start your morning like a king (or queen) try this yummy egg free, dairy free, gluten free pancake recipe!<br /><br />1 cup Pamela's gluten free pancake mix<br />3/4 cup hemp milk (Living Harvest is the best brand)<br />1/3 cup apple sauce (as an egg and oil substitute)<br />small capful of vanilla extract<br />a few generous shakes of cinnamon (also try a little ginger and nutmeg)<br />3/4 cup chopped frozen peaches (or blueberries, or raspberries)<br /><br />also try adding 1/2 cup or so of your favorite ground seeds (sunflower, flax, sesame, etc.). However, you may need to add a little more hemp milk so the mix does not get too dry. Adding seeds to your recipe will keep you satiated for MUCH longer.<br /><br />Preheat a skillet on low heat and mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Try using ghee (clarified butter) to cook your pancakes. (Ghee is a great alternative for butter when cooking because the dairy solids are removed so it doesn't burn. Keep an eye out for a future post on how to make your own ghee.) Pour a couple blobs of batter onto the sizzling ghee and be patient while they brown. Gluten free pancakes without egg cook slower than regular pancakes.<br /><br />Garnish your pancakes with a little dash of cinnamon, your favorite maple syrup and a dollop of plain goat yogurt. (Many people who are dairy sensitive can eat goat dairy with no problem.)<br /><br />Enjoy!<br />(And don't forget to take 100 steps afterwards!)Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6335817269164803316.post-22449677642121576812009-07-30T19:55:00.000-06:002009-07-31T12:22:00.967-06:00Immortal Palace Grand Opening<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpxftByTJ3FeKixrN30Kfeeb870wG3Sn1g4vbYuK0ARB4_XfbeCmsp0hneKM8I6e5qNyiLVPQTLoTnrYRnZuHiymw6CtwjuyN66C_vTIKz2SOdN5q0zABol66p3ftHn01ZWgdtl8tUzRn/s1600-h/DSC01181.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpxftByTJ3FeKixrN30Kfeeb870wG3Sn1g4vbYuK0ARB4_XfbeCmsp0hneKM8I6e5qNyiLVPQTLoTnrYRnZuHiymw6CtwjuyN66C_vTIKz2SOdN5q0zABol66p3ftHn01ZWgdtl8tUzRn/s320/DSC01181.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364688456715915586" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSZc_4WsDC8E8T7dr4u1ADwvvoDoqicLFfIXnUygdrNGzHvFQsMEdukNOP9KnvFA1Tl2_Onmy_B7xUmCOIsCkU2R_2Tbxd9LcF2UdvKLR49A6s2_v2lMEyky5ojj-Rpz_CXPRqjJ90w17/s1600-h/DSC01183.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSZc_4WsDC8E8T7dr4u1ADwvvoDoqicLFfIXnUygdrNGzHvFQsMEdukNOP9KnvFA1Tl2_Onmy_B7xUmCOIsCkU2R_2Tbxd9LcF2UdvKLR49A6s2_v2lMEyky5ojj-Rpz_CXPRqjJ90w17/s320/DSC01183.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364647299935008402" border="0" /></a><br />After painting the floors, walls, and trim...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0WL0dmqjncAYMQLEe9O72NBlEce5WQ4sxBFRH6LTefpWYs8ijd39O5yYIasbX4vLfVFKZp_4VU4GZvyhr9S6rlSvASCwi9VUdrt7kGXduK84FuD0SLS0YfR0DrWU45Xr9P1yh2wIzwsD/s1600-h/DSC03625.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0WL0dmqjncAYMQLEe9O72NBlEce5WQ4sxBFRH6LTefpWYs8ijd39O5yYIasbX4vLfVFKZp_4VU4GZvyhr9S6rlSvASCwi9VUdrt7kGXduK84FuD0SLS0YfR0DrWU45Xr9P1yh2wIzwsD/s320/DSC03625.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364687998357133938" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzh9XiMtbLRoiep7Bdu6MvMcY2MHBmL9lgVvI8UAJKNVJST2i_W-0-jaKWcD3oNwzGF8tqtnI5aJnzIdd5RCjz5CGQn8gVftCCqIaFusFO_ue_Ux8YjCslc-dy1iRqgGn5t3X6FFITnyOC/s1600-h/DSC03624.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzh9XiMtbLRoiep7Bdu6MvMcY2MHBmL9lgVvI8UAJKNVJST2i_W-0-jaKWcD3oNwzGF8tqtnI5aJnzIdd5RCjz5CGQn8gVftCCqIaFusFO_ue_Ux8YjCslc-dy1iRqgGn5t3X6FFITnyOC/s320/DSC03624.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364690059144480930" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1jk6UM2kibYK7d5_fc2sXhOkJCaMOjnQEKsl5yoDd1usi_1GNLwfJ2d713UDAjEJeMmDMW1Giuf5SlilMemETQ5JJ7RM01Pt_rfTd9qF7qNRA4mkJavLWZ_B8uvYNbPAam2lt4UKFVJm/s1600-h/DSC03657.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1jk6UM2kibYK7d5_fc2sXhOkJCaMOjnQEKsl5yoDd1usi_1GNLwfJ2d713UDAjEJeMmDMW1Giuf5SlilMemETQ5JJ7RM01Pt_rfTd9qF7qNRA4mkJavLWZ_B8uvYNbPAam2lt4UKFVJm/s320/DSC03657.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364686226550872738" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Immortal Palace opened its doors.<br /><br /><br /><br />Much to my delight, friends and family came in happy droves and enjoyed snacks and wine.<br /><br /><br /><br />Now the space feels properly introduced to the world! Thanks to everyone who came!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsyoLMDYfZEJo2PIjaOg2V7kh4_6XtFWJeaJTZtLN4n7XVD2sEpt84KCkum7-9rmrVSCC3_Y_Tz2x-yXfNX778ct_IQkOUle0yfWYmatwnwBxKB6GfM6d4unrIAhX_VdbLd4WOm6i3BATB/s1600-h/DSC03647.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsyoLMDYfZEJo2PIjaOg2V7kh4_6XtFWJeaJTZtLN4n7XVD2sEpt84KCkum7-9rmrVSCC3_Y_Tz2x-yXfNX778ct_IQkOUle0yfWYmatwnwBxKB6GfM6d4unrIAhX_VdbLd4WOm6i3BATB/s320/DSC03647.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5364684629600172866" border="0" /></a>Josie Bouchier L.Ac., M.S., Dipl. O.M. (NCCAOM)http://www.blogger.com/profile/02492140947988828374noreply@blogger.com0