Seasonal Acupuncture: Supporting Health Through Every Season

Seasonal changes can affect your body in noticeable ways—lower energy, more immune stress, allergies, or increased stress. Seasonal acupuncture is a practical, preventative approach that helps the body adapt smoothly to environmental shifts while supporting overall wellness.

Seasonal Health Challenges

Each season places different demands on the body:

• Spring: Allergies, headaches, detox stress

• Summer: Heat-related fatigue, dehydration, restlessness

• Fall: Dryness, respiratory issues, digestive changes

• Winter: Low energy, joint stiffness, frequent colds

Acupuncture works by supporting the body’s natural regulatory systems, helping you respond more efficiently to these seasonal stressors.

Immune System Support

Seasonal transitions can affect the body in various ways. Acupuncture can be used to:

• Support immune response

• Improve circulation and lymphatic flow

• Help the body recover more quickly from seasonal illnesses

Many people choose acupuncture at the start of fall or winter as a preventative immune support strategy, rather than waiting until symptoms appear.

Energy Balance and Vitality

Changes in daylight, temperature, and routine can disrupt energy levels. Seasonal acupuncture focuses on restoring balance by:

• Reducing fatigue and brain fog

• Supporting better sleep quality

• Helping regulate stress and mood changes

By aligning treatments with seasonal needs, acupuncture encourages smoother energy flow and more consistent vitality year-round.

Preventative Care Strategies

Seasonal acupuncture is most effective when combined with simple lifestyle adjustments:

• Schedule tune-ups at the start of each season

• Adjust diet to include seasonal, warming or cooling foods. Winter is a good time to eat

  more warm food, less raw veggies.

• Prioritize rest during fall and winter

• Stay active but avoid overexertion during seasonal transitions

This proactive approach can reduce the frequency and intensity of seasonal symptoms before they become disruptive.

Why Choose Seasonal Acupuncture?

Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, seasonal acupuncture emphasizes prevention, balance, and long-term wellness. Regular treatments can help:

• Strengthen resilience to seasonal stress

• Support immune and energy balance

• Promote overall physical and mental well-being

Listening to your body and adjusting care with the seasons is a simple yet powerful way to stay healthy all year long.

Feel free to contact the office with any questions!

Take care!

Dr. Alex

Wellness That Works in the Real World of Motherhood

Let’s be honest: “healthy habits” often sound like something other people have time for or something we’ll do when we have more time/less stress. When you’re juggling work, family, laundry, meals, the daily to-do list, and everything else life throws at you, it can feel impossible to fit in one more thing, especially doing something for you!

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to do everything to make a difference in your health. Small, simple, consistent habits can have a huge impact on your energy, mood, and well-being...and your family will notice and learn from you, too.

Here are a few tips to help you realistically incorporate healthy habits to your active life that can help you and your family:

1. Start your morning with one grounding ritual

You don’t need a 2-hour morning routine to set the tone for your day. Try choosing just one simple ritual that helps you start calm and centered, even if it’s only for a few minutes:

• Step outside and take 3 deep breaths of fresh air. Be slow and intentional in this moment. (bonus points for doing some grounding (standing barefoot on the earth) at the same time!)

• Stretch your spine and shoulders while your coffee/tea brews or breakfast heats up.

• Say a short prayer, affirmation, or intention for the day. Shifting our mindset to gratitude

• and intention can make a huge impact on our mental outlook and framework for our day.

These small moments signal to your nervous system that it’s safe to slow down, and that calm energy carries into how you show up for your day and your family.

2. Redefine “exercise”

Movement doesn’t have to mean a gym session or a workout video. Your body doesn’t necessarily care how you move, but it thrives on movement, so these activities can help:

• Do squats while you do daily activities: need to pick up a sock? Squat! Folding laundry, take mini breaks to squat! Sit in a squat or supported squat on a stool while playing with your kids or working on the computer.

• Dance with your kids in the living room or while you are cooking or cleaning; put on some of your favorite music and have some fun!

• Go for a family walk after dinner or during your child’s sport practice.

Every bit of movement supports your circulation, lymph flow, posture, and nervous system health. Progress is built in the everyday moments, not the perfect ones. Keep choosing the small steps that feel realistic for you

3. Focus on colorful and nutrient-dense food

You don’t need elaborate meal plans or expensive supplements to fuel your body well. Focus on adding nutrients, color, and variety instead of cutting things out. Try these tips:

• Add one extra veggie or fruit to each meal.

• Prep easy snacks (like nuts, boiled eggs, cut-up peppers) on Sunday (or your prep day).

• Swap bone broth for water in recipes to support gut and overall health.

When your plate is full of real, nourishing food, your energy, hormones, and digestion thank you.

4. Support your nervous system throughout the day

Between drop-offs, work, and life, your nervous system takes on a lot. Incorporate mini resets:

• Roll your shoulders and take slow, deep breaths before driving or entering the house to release tension and reset your system.

• Do a 20–30 second shake-out of your arms and legs to move stuck energy and help your body reset (kids love doing this with you!).

• Do a quick sensory reset: run water over your hands, step outside for a moment of fresh air, or place a cold water bottle on the back of your neck. These simple sensations can calm your nervous system in seconds.

These small pauses create a ripple effect leading to less overwhelm, more calm, and better resilience through busy days.

5. Let go of “all or nothing” thinking

Perfection isn’t sustainable: presence is. A skipped workout or overly processed meal doesn’t erase your progress. What matters most is returning to what makes you feel your best and repeating those choices.

The goal isn’t to do more...it’s to do what matters most, with intention.

6. Bonus: Model wellness for your family

Your kids learn wellness by watching you. When they see you stretch, rest, eat real food, or go to your chiropractic and holistic care appointments, you’re teaching them that taking care of their body matters.

It’s not selfish; it’s leadership.

You don’t have to do it all, you just need support that fits your life!

If you’re ready to create simple, sustainable habits that support your energy, mood, and health (without adding more to your plate), we can help!

We focus on realistic wellness for real moms and families: care that helps the nervous system reset, body move better, and mind feel calmer...so you can show up as your best self. Let us help you find habits and routines that fit your needs and your lifestyle.

Schedule your next visit (or a “wellness reset”) to reconnect with your body, recharge your system, and bring more balance into your daily life.

Because when you feel less stressed and more balanced, it impacts others around you...especially your family!

In Health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

Chinese Medicine and Focus

Chinese Medicine and Focus

For thousands of years, Chinese medicine has recognized that focus is not just a mental challenge —it's a reflection of your whole-body balance. When your Qi (vital energy) is flowing smoothly and your organ systems are in harmony, clarity and mental endurance come naturally.

Let’s dive into how Chinese medicine helps boost focus, and how you can bring some of its timeless practices into your everyday life.

1. The Role of the Spleen in Mental Focus

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen isn’t just about digestion—it’s deeply connected to your ability to concentrate, think clearly, and process information. A "weak Spleen" might show up as brain fog, distractibility, or that heavy, tired feeling that no amount of coffee fixes.

Try this:

• Start your day with a warm, cooked breakfast like oatmeal to support spleen energy.

• Avoid excessive raw, cold, or sugary foods, which can "dampen" spleen function and slow the mind.

2. Calm the Shen: The Spirit of the Heart

In TCM, the Heart houses the Shen, or spirit. When Shen is calm, your thoughts are clear, and your attention is grounded. But when Shen is disturbed—by anxiety, lack of sleep, or overstimulation—focus can become a challenge.

Try this:

• Practices like meditation, qi gong, or even a simple cup of warm herbal tea can help re center your mind.

• Acupuncture can be helpful as well.

3. Acupressure for Attention

Stimulating certain acupoints can help wake up the brain and improve focus. Yintang, located between the eyebrows. It’s known to calm the mind and improve mental clarity.

Try this:

• Gently press and massage Yintang for 1–2 minutes when you feel scattered or

overwhelmed.

• Another helpful point: DU20 at the top of the head, often used to uplift energy and sharpen the mind.

4. Adaptogenic Herbs and Tonic Teas

Chinese herbal medicine offers a wide range of adaptogens—herbs that help the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Some well-known options for boosting mental energy include:

• Ginseng – especially good for low energy and fatigue

• Rhodiola – supports stamina and cognitive function

• Gotu kola – helps with memory and alertness

5. Align with Natural Rhythms

In Chinese medicine, your body's energy shifts with the seasons and times of day. Honoring these rhythms can help you focus better with less effort.

Try this:

• Do mentally demanding tasks in the morning, when the Yang energy is strongest. • Take screen breaks and allow your eyes to rest every hour.

• In the evening, wind down naturally—avoid stimulating content and bright lights before bed.

Final Thoughts: Balance, Not Burnout

Chinese medicine teaches us that focus isn’t about forcing yourself to grind harder—it’s about supporting your mind and body so focus flows naturally. Whether it’s sipping a warm herbal tea, doing a few minutes of acupressure, or adjusting your meals to nourish your Spleen, small shifts can add up to big clarity.

The Season of You: Nurturing Yourself Postpartum

Spring is a season of renewal, making it the wonderful time to focus on healing, restoring energy, and embracing self-care. The postpartum period is a delicate time when your body, mind, and emotions are adjusting to this stage of motherhood. Postpartum has different periods and is not just the first few months after birth. In reality, postpartum healing continues for months and years after. From physical healing to mental and emotional changes to hormone balancing, your body needs time and focus as it journeys through this period. By incorporating holistic care into your routine, you can nurture yourself naturally and feel more balanced as you step into this new season of life.

1. Prioritize Postpartum Recovery with Rest & Movement

Your body has gone through incredible changes, and has done amazing things! Remember: recovery takes time. We say “slow is fast.” Spring is a great time to gently reintroduce movement (and enjoy time outdoors!) while also ensuring you get the rest you and your body need:

● Rest When You Can: Take advantage of longer daylight hours by napping during the day (when you can) and allowing yourself to have slower mornings.

● Gentle Walks Outside: Fresh air, sunshine, and movement help boost circulation, improve mood, and support healing. Vitamin D from the sun is very healing and supports optimal immune function, too. Plus being out in nature, seeing nature bloom and grow, can be healing as well!

● Pelvic Floor Therapy: Balancing, strengthening, and restoring pelvic function is essential for postpartum recovery after both vaginal and C-section births.

2. Support Your Nervous System with Chiropractic Care

Tension and joint restrictions postpartum can contribute to back pain, neck tension, posture issues, headaches, and even postpartum fatigue. Chiropractic care may help:

● Restore spinal function and alignment after pregnancy and birth

● Support the nervous system for decreased tension, optimal nerve function, and even better hormone regulation

● Improve posture and reduce stress and tension in your neck and shoulders

3. Eat Seasonal, Nutrient-Dense Foods for Energy & Healing

Your body needs extra nourishment to recover, heal, and support breastfeeding (if applicable). Spring is full of fresh, vibrant foods that help nourish and replenish your body.

● Leafy Greens: Help detoxify and provide essential vitamins and nutrients.

● Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts, and seeds support hormone balance and healing.

● Antioxidant-Rich Berries: Boost the immune system and combat fatigue.

● Hydration: Incorporate electrolytes such as coconut water or mineral packs or sip on herbal teas (such as nettle and red raspberry leaf) to support hydration and recovery.

4. Reconnect with Yourself Through Mindful Practices

Motherhood can be overwhelming, and spring offers an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and work to manage stresses.

● Grounding: Walking barefoot allows the body to absorb the earth’s natural energy.

● Sunlight Exposure: Supports mood and vitamin D levels.

● Breathwork & Prayer or Meditation: Helps regulate stress, centers yourself, and promotes emotional balance.

5. Detox Your Home & Body Naturally

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your house…it’s for your body too! Reduce your exposure to toxins by:

● Switch to non-toxic cleaning & skincare products: Reduce the toxic load on your body. ● Opt for essential oils instead of artificial fragrances: Incorporates natural aromatherapy and supports optimal hormone function.

● Eat local, fresh, and organic (when possible): These choices optimize nutrients and limit chemical pesticides.

6. Build a Support System

You don’t have to do postpartum alone! There are many options for community and support:

● Seek Out Support Groups: Connection is key to emotional well-being (and is very beneficial for your healing process)!

● Consult Holistic Practitioners: Chiropractors, acupuncturists, functional medicine providers, pelvic floor therapists, mental health providers, and massage therapists can provide essential postpartum support.

● Ask for Help: Spring is about new beginnings; accepting (and allowing) help enables you to embrace this season with more ease.

Embrace Postpartum Wellness This Spring

Taking care of yourself, especially postpartum, is not a luxury, it’s essential. By incorporating holistic self-care practices, you can take the steps needed to restore your energy, nurture your body, and fully embrace the beauty of motherhood this spring. Reminder: we are here to help and support you along your health and wellness journey. Whether you are seeking holistic care and healing support or tips and recommendations for navigating the postpartum period or challenges you may be facing, we are here for you and your family.

Please reach out if you need care or support.

In health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

@clechiropractic

clechiropractic.com

216-952-3830

Spring Renewal and Postpartum Wellness

Spring Renewal and Postpartum Wellness

Spring is a season of renewal, making it the wonderful time to focus on healing, restoring energy, and embracing self-care. The postpartum period is a delicate time when your body, mind, and emotions are adjusting to this stage of motherhood. By incorporating holistic care into your routine, you can nurture yourself naturally and feel more balanced as you step into this new season of life.

1. Prioritize Postpartum Recovery with Rest & Movement

Your body has gone through incredible changes, and has done amazing things! Remember: recovery takes time. We say “slow is fast.” Spring is a great time to gently reintroduce movement while also ensuring you get the rest you and your body need.

✔️ Rest When You Can – Take advantage of longer daylight hours by napping during the day (when you can) and allowing yourself slower mornings.

✔️ Gentle Walks Outside – Fresh air, sunshine, and movement help boost circulation, improve mood, and support healing. Plus being out in nature, seeing nature bloom and grow, can be healing as well!

✔️ Pelvic Floor Therapy – Balancing, strengthening, and restoring pelvic function is essential for postpartum recovery after both vaginal and C-section births.

2. Support Your Nervous System with Chiropractic Care

Tension and joint restrictions postpartum can contribute to back pain, headaches, and even postpartum fatigue. Chiropractic care helps:

🔹 Restore spinal function and alignment after pregnancy and birth

🔹 Support the nervous system for decreased tension and better hormone regulation

🔹 Improve posture, and reduce stress and tension in your neck and shoulders

3. Eat Seasonal, Nutrient-Dense Foods for Energy & Healing

Your body needs extra nourishment to recover, heal, and support breastfeeding (if applicable). Spring is full of fresh, vibrant foods that help nourish and replenish your body.

🥬 Leafy Greens – Help detoxify and provide essential vitamins and nutrients.

🥑 Healthy Fats – Avocados, nuts, and seeds support hormone balance and healing.

🍓 Antioxidant-Rich Berries – Boost the immune system and combat fatigue.

💧 Hydration – Incorporate electrolytes such as coconut water or mineral packs or sip on herbal teas (such as nettle and red raspberry leaf) to support hydration and recovery.

4. Reconnect with Yourself Through Mindful Practices

Motherhood can be overwhelming, and spring offers an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and work to manage stresses.

🌸 Grounding – Walking barefoot allows the body to absorb the earth’s natural energy.

🌞 Sunlight Exposure – Supports mood and vitamin D levels. 󰩓 Breathwork & Prayer or Meditation – Helps regulate stress, centers yourself, and promotes emotional balance.

5. Detox Your Home & Body Naturally

Spring cleaning isn’t just for your house—it’s for your body too! Reduce your exposure to toxins by:

🧴 Switch to non-toxic cleaning & skincare products – Reduce the toxic load on your body.

🕯 Opt for essential oils instead of artificial fragrances – Incorporates natural aromatherapy and supports optimal hormone function.

🥗 Eat local, fresh and organic (when possible) – These choices limit chemical pesticides and optimize nutrients.

6. Build a Support System

You don’t have to do postpartum alone! There are many options for community and support:

🤱 Mom Support Groups – Connection is key to emotional well-being (and is very beneficial for your healing process)!

🙌 Holistic Practitioners – Chiropractors, acupuncturists, functional medicine providers, pelvic floor therapists, mental health providers, and massage therapists can provide essential postpartum support.

💬 Ask for Help – Spring is about new beginnings, and accepting (and allowing) help enables you to embrace this season with more ease.

Embrace Postpartum Wellness This Spring

Taking care of yourself, especially postpartum, is not a luxury—it’s essential. By incorporating holistic self-care practices, you can take the steps needed to restore your energy, nurture your body, and fully embrace the beauty of motherhood this spring. Reminder: we are here to help and support you along your health and wellness journey. Whether you are seeking holistic care and healing support or tips and recommendations for navigating the postpartum period or challenges you may be facing, we are here for you and your family. Please reach out if you need care or support!

In health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

@clechiropractic

clechiropractic.com

216-952-3830