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Move Qi, relieve pain

By Cindy Black / November 16, 2017 /

Relieving pain can be that simple. Qi (energy) is the basis of the physical structures of the body. When the Qi is plentiful and flowing, we experience ease of movement. Abundant and flowing Qi manifests as supple and toned muscles and flexible joints. Qi flows through pathways called meridians. Because Qi is energy, it is…

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hands-on massage

Guiding and Yielding – the Art of Meridian Massage

By Cindy Black / November 2, 2017 /

Responding is the key Chinese medical theory is the science of Meridian Massage. But how do we actually “do Meridian Massage?” That is the art, and it will be unique to every practitioner. Guiding and Yielding This simple principle has become the basis of all that I do within my self-care practices, and my work…

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Funny surgeon

Gallbladder removal and Gallbladder Meridian

By Cindy Black / October 19, 2017 /

Remove the Gallbladder, keep the meridian The gallbladder itself is a physical organ that can be surgically removed. The Gallbladder meridian is one of 12 energetic pathways, called meridians, in Chinese medicine. Meridians are not removed by surgery because they are purely energetic pathways. Joint pain and the Gallbladder Meridian Qi (“chee“) is the energy…

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5 points to clear brain fog

By Cindy Black / October 5, 2017 /

Better focus using acupressure points Brain fog, fuzzy mind, tired in the head – all of these symptoms can be relieved with acupressure. Chinese medicine offers us many acupoints that “clear the mind.” 5 Acupoints to Clear the Mind 1. Du (Governing Vessel) 20 2. Four Extra points Si Chen Cong These five acupressure points…

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Taking a deep breath

Room to breathe

By Cindy Black / September 21, 2017 /

Make space for the lungs To fully inflate during an inhale, the lungs need room to expand. The rib cage lifts and opens a bit upon inhalation, while the diaphragm moves down toward the abdomen. When we breathe, these two actions create space for the lungs to inflate. There is always room for more air!…

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Lungs

Supporting the Lungs with Meridian Massage

By Cindy Black / September 7, 2017 /

Lungs are the “Tender Organ” The Lungs are vulnerable to fluctuations in temperature, air quality, and airborne pathogens. Because they are so vulnerable to outside conditions, the Lungs are said to be the most tender Organ in Chinese medicine. Lungs are the Yin Organ pair to the Large Intestine The Yang partner of the Lungs…

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Lung meridian

12 Meridians of Chinese Medicine

By Cindy Black / August 24, 2017 /

Qi flows in meridians Qi (energy) flows through specific pathways called meridians. Chinese medicine mapped the pathways of the 12 meridians thousands of years ago. On these pathways, over 350 points (also called acupressure points, acupuncture points, acupoints) were identified. Points are specific locations on meridians where the Qi can be accessed. What are the…

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Acupuncture points contraindicated in pregnancy

Acupuncture points contraindicated in pregnancy

By Cindy Black / August 10, 2017 /

Acupuncture points and pregnancy Why are some points contraindicated during pregnancy? This is a very common question and concern. There is no absolute, 100% agreed upon list of these points in modern times. However, knowing the reasons for traditionally contraindicated points has guided my work. Listen to a recording of this post: Based on what…

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Big Fire

Fire Meridians

By Cindy Black / July 27, 2017 /

Four Meridians of the Fire Element Only the Fire Element has four meridians associated with it. The other Elements of Chinese medicine each have just two meridians. Every Element is associated with a season: Fire – Summer Earth – Late Summer Metal – Fall Water – Winter Wood – Spring 5 Elements of Chinese medicine:…

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woman with dog

Spirit in every session

By Cindy Black / July 13, 2017 /

Becoming consolable In order to get the help you seek from others, you must allow their help. Sometimes people arrive at the practitioner’s office hoping to be fixed. After explaining a long list of problems and how no one has been able to “figure it out” yet, they place themselves upon the massage table, wondering…

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