Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month: TCM Tips for Bright Eyes & Healthy Vision

Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month:
TCM Tips for Bright Eyes & Healthy Vision

“The eyes are the window to the soul” as the saying goes. This couldn't be held more true in Traditional Chinese Medical theory as we look to the eyes to diagnose the quality of the shen, or spirit. Clear, bright eyes tell us the spirit is vital and strong, whereas dull eyes that lack spark suggest emotional struggles. Our eyes provide us a unique perspective into various aspects of health such as our emotional states, digestive function, and sleep quality. Keeping those soul windows sparkling requires a lifetime of maintenance.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology designates August as Children’s Eye Health & Safety Month as a way to educate the public on ways to promote healthy eyes and vision. Prevention of injury and early detection in children are essential to ensure the possibility of long-term vision health, but adults and children alike can also benefit from basic Chinese Medicine health tips that protect our peepers and keep them shining.

1) Screentime Restrictions: While all the meridians have a connection to the eyes, it is the liver that “opens in the eyes”. The vision is nourished by liver blood. Too much strain, such as from harsh light, is said to drain the liver blood. The blue light from electronics has been linked to problems like blurry vision, dry eyes, even cataracts. So whether you’re 5 or 55, set some limits on screen time. If work requires you to be on the computer for extended periods, try some blue-blocker glasses to ease the strain.


2) Diet: Goji berries, a traditional medicinal berry throughout Asia have recently gained popularity in the West for their anti-aging benefits and can be found in many health food stores. They are also considered nourishing for liver blood and famous for protecting the eyes as they are rich in antioxidants that have been shown to protect the retina of the eye. Blueberries are another berry that should be included regularly for their high antioxidant content and have been shown to improve night vision. Dark leafy greens are traditionally promoted to build liver blood and are nutrient-dense vegetables, high in Vitamin C and E, as well as carotenoids, that lower risk of eye disease.


3) Get Good Sleep: Want to know one of the best ways to prevent puffy dark circles under the eyes? Don’t slack on sleep! Nighttime is the body’s time to rest and allow the organs time for repair. Fatigue is a sign that the qi has not had the chance to replenish itself and can reveal itself outwardly as tired droopy eyes. The liver repair time is 1-3am, when we should be in deep sleep, but getting a full 7-9 hours of sleep a night is vital to restore and support our whole system.


4) Acupressure Massage: Stimulation of certain points have been shown to increase blood flow to the eyes and muscle of the eye. Some simple acupressure massage techniques can be used regularly to soothe and brighten the eyes by supplying vital energy. Using your thumbs, find the point, at the inside corner of the eyebrow just under the bone where you feel an indent. Push up and massage with a circular motion for 30 seconds. Then using the thumb and index finger, massage the bridge of the nose near the corners of the eyes. Finally, slide down with index fingers right into the depression just underneath the highest point of the cheekbones, in line with the pupils and apply gentle pressure.


In addition to these self-care tips, one of the best recommendations for bright healthy eyes is keeping a bright healthy attitude. Nourish and support your spirit so that when that shen shines through your eyes it reveals your own uniquely inspired passion for life.


Let us help you with the maintenance required for all aspects of healthy vision. Call today to book an appointment. We’ll take good care of you, your eyes and that spirit that shines through.

Bate’s Method of Eye Health

Bate’s Method of Eye Health

Tired of having to use your glasses or contact lenses in order to see? Well, look no further, there is a natural way to regain your eyesight and retain optimal eye health. The method that makes this possible is called the Bate’s Method. Created by Dr. William H. Bates in 1891, the Bates Method has been used as an alternative form of ophthalmology for over a hundred years.

Bate’s believed his alternative therapy to regaining eyesight revolved around the idea that most eye problems were caused by habitual, or recurring strain to the eyes. Bate’s assumed glasses were ineffective and encouraged people to try his alternative solution to fixing eyesight. One part that makes up the method is a series of specific eye exercises, which aim to alleviate the strain causing the patient’s eye issues.

The first key exercise we will introduce is the near-to-far shifting of focus. This exercise will work to promote a balanced use of your eyes, it will help build flexibility in the eye muscles and increase your mind-eye coordination. The object of the exercise is to look at photograph while you hold one of your fingers about 10 inches away from your face. The idea is to shift focus between your finger and the photograph, this will either cause you to see an illusion of two fingers, or two photographs, depending on what you are focused on at the time.

Eye stretches are another exercise critical to the Bate’s Method. Eye stretches take around three minutes to complete and they are very easy to do. First, you must close your eyes and relax all of the parts of your face while maintaining deep and easy breathes. Now, with your eyes closed stretch your eyes in an up and down motion, repeat this 20 times. After you have stretched the eyes up and down, close the eyes again and roll them in both clockwise and counterclockwise motions, repeat this step 20 times as well. Eye stretches are imperative to optimal eye health, they reduce pressure in the eyes and help your eyes relax.

In addition to exercises for the eyes, the Bate’s Method calls for changes to diet and the amount of exposure you receive from the sun. In terms of diet changes, smart things to do when incorporating the Bate’s Method are to cut sugar and fat from the diet, and to add a hearty amount of fruit, nuts and vegetables. Although dieting won’t increase your exposure to the sun, sunning, an idea unique to the Bate’s method will.

Sunning is the idea that an individual’s eyesight will improve after staring directly at the sun. In order to stare at the sun you have to work up to it first, but overtime Bate’s stated you will notice improvement to your overall eye health. Sunning must first be started gradually with a small light source such as a lamp and then through practice and exercise you can then start staring at the sun.

There are many part to the Bate’s Method and you should be sure to do them all when trying to retain optimal eye health. 

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM

New York Sports Acupuncture

www.NewYorkSportsAcupuncture.com

888.375.5444

Research Update: Acupuncture and Ophthalmologic Health

Research Update:  Acupuncture and Ophthalmologic 

Health

A study conducted by researchers at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and published by the Journal of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, demonstrates how acupuncture can improve visual acuity, reduce light sensitivity and decrease visual defects. The study tested the efficacy of a four point acupuncture prescription in the treatment of loss of vision. The researchers used three acupuncture points around the eye and one point in the suboccipital region. All of the points are classically indicated in Traditional Chinese Medicine for the treatment of eye problems. The test concluded acupuncture is beneficial in the treatment of vision problems.

http://www.healthcmi.com/Acupuncture-Continuing-Education-News/1625-acupuncture-improves-visual-acuity-and-reduces-defects

              

The eyes can reflect a lot of things regarding a person’s overall health.  Illnesses can be detected by the ophthalmologist in the very early stages. And conditions like glaucoma, neuritis and even vision loss can be indicators of systemic health problems. TCM has always known about the connection between the eyes and a person’s health. Many eye conditions respond well to acupuncture treatments and these methods have been used for centuries to assist in keeping the eyes healthy.

              

TCM pays very close attention to the relationship between the organs and the tissues.  Imbalances within the body can sometimes manifest as problems in the eyes. If a person is treated for eye problems, the underlying imbalances that have caused these issues will also be treated by the licensed acupuncturist.

              

The main concept behind acupuncture is the nourishment and movement of blood and energy throughout the body to create harmonic balance. Quite frequently, there are imbalances in more than one organ system that lead to problems in the eyes. But the organ system most closely associated with the eyes in TCM is the liver. In TCM, the liver “opens to the eyes.” The liver provides the primary energy flow that is responsible for the support of healthy vision. Within the eye, certain meridians have primary influence over specific areas. For instance, the pupil is influenced by the kidney meridian, the retina is influenced by the liver and kidney meridians, and the sclera is influenced by the lung meridian. Reading the eye is one of the tools acupuncturists utilize when diagnosing a patient.

              

Receiving regular acupuncture treatments can be very beneficial in the prevention and treatment of ophthalmologic conditions. But there are some things that can be done at home too that may also help.  Acupressure massage can reduce tension in the eyes and contribute to overall eye health. This can be done multiple times throughout the day to help stimulate blood flow and positive energy into the area.  There are also several frequently used Chinese herbs that can help keep the eyes healthy, including goji berries and chrysanthemum flowers. Both of these herbs can be steeped into green tea for a nice eye rejuvenation tonic.

              

To find out how acupuncture and TCM can help you with any vision issues you might have, locate a licensed acupuncturist in your area and set up a consultation or appointment.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM

New York Sports Acupuncture

www.NewYork SportsAcupuncture.com

888.375.5554

Does Your Liver Need a Spring Tune-Up?

Does Your Liver Need a Spring Tune-Up?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season is ruled by a particular organ system and spring is connected to the liver. What does this mean? Well, you probably notice changes in the way you feel, both physically and mentally, as the seasons change. I know I tend to feel a bit more contemplative and introspective during the winter months. Once spring hits, I'm ready to recharge and get things done. The liver energy is strong and assertive, the type of energy you need to create plans and then propel them into motion. However, if your liver is a little out of balance, you might notice you are more irritable or on edge than usual. Here are a few signs that your liver is in need of an acupuncture tune-up:

1. You've noticed an increase in headaches lately, and these headaches seem to feel worse when you aren't active. Generally these headaches tend to manifest at the vertex of your head.

2. You might begin to feel constipated or bloated. Your bowel movements might become irregular, alternating between constipation and loose stools. Hard, difficult stools that appear pebbly are also a sign of liver imbalance.

3. Your friends or coworkers are scared of you, because you are cranky, cranky, cranky. When liver energy is out of balance you might feel agitated, irritated and generally out of sorts. Sometimes irritation can expand into outright anger more easily than it would if this energy was flowing smoothly.

4. Ladies, you may notice your PMS symptoms have been worse lately. Bloating, breast tenderness, sensitivity...you can blame all of the above on your liver. If your periods are more painful or clotted, this is also due to a stagnation of liver energy.

5. Your eyes are red, itchy or irritated.

6. Your shoulders, neck or jaw are uncomfortably tight. If the liver energy is out of balance, it can flow upward. This causes everything in your body to rise up: you might grind or clench your teeth, your shoulders will levitate up around your ears, and you might experience symptoms of TMJ.

7. Your allergies are in full force, complete with itchy, red, watery eyes.

If you are suffering from any of these issues, your body is crying out for a visit, give us a call!

New York Sports Acupuncture

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM

888.375.5444

www.NewYorkSportsAcupuncture.com

Goji Berries – The Little Red Superfruit

Goji Berries – The Little Red Superfruit

The shriveled red Goji berry doesn’t look like much at first, but this Himalayan fruit, otherwise known in Tibet as the “key to eternal youth”, is a superfood packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. You can add it to almost any meal, it tastes delicious, and it may add some pep to your step.

Chinese medicine has known about this berry, Lycium barbarum, or “wolfberry”, for many years, and it’s used as an herbal remedy to treat many age related ailments, as it’s been known to treat the root and essence of the body, the kidneys, and the liver, which stores blood. You can eat it alone or along with other herbs that boost the benefits to create a formula specific to your individual needs. Your acupuncturist is the best person to assess and create a formula for you.

The Goji has 21 minerals, including beta carotene, and trace elements. It also has a powerful antioxidant called zeaxanthin, B vitamins, and has more vitamin C than oranges. The Goji berry also has fiber so you feel full (hello weight loss!) and has about 13% protein depending on the dosage. The Goji contains lutein, which benefits the eyes, as well as the mentioned beta carotene which also benefits the eyes and skin.

What all of these nutrients tell us is that this berry helps keep the blood more alkaline, white blood cells are fortified along with your immune system, and all the amino acids, vitamins and minerals means oxygen is transported nicely through the body. So what do you get? Well-being, more energy, vitality, stronger immunity, and healthy eyes.

The Goji berry tastes sweet and a bit sour and is bright in color. It’s best to buy organic and good quality berries, or you can grow your own.

Some benefits may include improved vision, more energy, lowering of bad cholesterol, increased energy, better sleep, weight loss, improved hair thickness and luster, and less dryness. Goji berries also may help fight depression.

You can include these berries in trail mixes, cereals, or salads, or just eat them straight from your hand. How much to eat to stay healthy? The answer to that depends on your individual needs and palate. Start with a few grams, then a handful, and go from there according to how you feel and what your body is in the mood for.

Goji berries belong to the nightshade family, foods that contain solanine. These foods include tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplant. Some individuals, like those who have arthritis, may have an allergy to these foods and it is not recommended for them in that case. If you are taking some medications like blood thinners, blood pressure medication, or diabetes medicine this berry may not be right for you. It also is a “warming” food, so refrain if you have a fever or the flu. If you are fine with those foods and don’t run too hot, go ahead and indulge in what might become your favorite berry.  Benefits may vary depending on the individual, and it’s best to start with a smaller amount and see how you feel. If these aren’t for you, you can also try similar foods like the acai berry, elderberry, or tart cherries. It’s best to eat them by themselves instead of in a juice with other fruits.

Bishara Wilson

New York Sports Acupuncture

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

888.375.5444

8 Superfoods for the Eyes

8 Superfoods for the Eyes

Improving eye health can be as simple as switching up your diet and adding some healthier choices. Certain foods can have a great impact on not only overall health but vision as well. Below are some natural foods that are great to eat on a daily basis.

Carrots: Carrots are filled with beta-carotene, a vitamin A that is good for retina health and overall eye function.

Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, arugula and other similar greens are full of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin that have been shown to lower the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. Bottom line, up your salad intake!

Fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and trout are packed with the omega-3 fatty acid DHA. DHA is known to help chronic dry eyes. Those with dry eye syndrome tend to have a lower level of DHA than average. Another option can be fish oil supplements with DHA.

Eggs: Eggs are overall a great health food, filled with calcium, iron, zinc and folate. Eggs also have lutein and vitamin A, which helps night blindness and dry eyes.

Whole grains: Whole grains are another food that can be important in any diet for a healthy lifestyle. Grains such as quinoa, buckwheat and spelt have a low glycemic index, which can help lower the risk of macular degeneration.

Citrus fruits and berries: Not only are they tasty, but fruit such as oranges, berries and grapefruit are full of vitamin C, which can reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Legumes: Legumes such as kidney beans, black-eyed peas and lentils contain high amounts of bioflavonoids and zinc, which can help retina health and reduce the risk of eye disease.

Pistachios. Most nuts are good for health, but pistachios are especially helpful for the eyes. This nut contains lutein and zeaxanthin as well at vitamin E. These vitamins can significantly lower the risk of cataracts and other eye diseases.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Sources:
http://bit.ly/1PP3FId
http://bit.ly/1R6yJWu
http://bit.ly/1PZviBY

7 Tips to Healthier Vision

7 Tips to Healthier Vision

Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that eye diseases are related to deficiencies in the liver and kidney organs and result from an imbalance in the body. There are many ways to improve eye health and prevent damage down the road. Finding the root of the problem and taking preventative measures is important when it comes to eye health. Below are simple ways for healthier vision.

Eat right. Certain foods are great for eye health. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been known to improve eye health. Specifically, try adding in more spinach, kale or collard greens into your diet. Fish such as salmon, tuna and halibut are filled with omega-3 fatty acids, which are also great for eye health.

Give it a rest. If you’re like most working adults and spend hours on the computer every day, make sure you’re taking breaks from screen time to reduce eye strain.  The best strategy is the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes looked 20 feet away from your computer for 20 seconds.

Protect your eyes. Protect your eyes just like you would your skin when in the sun. Make sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from damaging UV rays. Make sure to find sunglasses that offer both UVA and UVB protection.

Quit smoking. There are many health reasons to quit smoking. A lot of people aren’t aware that smoking can expose your eyes to high levels of oxidative stress, which damages blood vessels. Smoking can increase your risk for many health problems that affect the eye. Contact a doctor to discuss ways to quit.

Know your history. Many eye problems can be genetic. See if family members have any eye conditions and make sure to get regular check ups if this is the case to help maintain healthy vision.

Take care of your contacts. It is easy to get into bad habits when it comes to contact wearing. Make sure to replace your contacts at the recommended time. Wash your hands before touching your contacts and take them out at night to give your eyes the rest and oxygen it needs.

Acupuncture. A number of studies found that acupuncture may have positive effects on people who suffer from chronic dry eye. One study showed that acupuncture could help reduce tear loss that those with dry eye usually experience. Common eye problems that acupuncture can treat include glaucoma, cataracts, chronic dry eyes, macular degeneration, optic neuritis, optic atrophy.

Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA

New York Sports Acupuncture

(888) 375-5444

www.newyorksportsacupuncture.com

Sources:
http://bit.ly/1LrUITq

http://1.usa.gov/1R6z2k4

http://bit.ly/1SvF80O

http://bit.ly/216XbvH