Tag Archive for: sleep

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Ashwagandha for Anxiety!

Ashwagandha for Anxiety!

Ash-what?

Ashwagandha is an Adaptogen herb.

It has been used within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic Medicine for quite some time.

 

What is an Adaptogen herb?

An adaptogen herb helps the body adapt to stress.

 

Ashwagandha helps…

  • Anxiety
  • Sleep
  • Stress

 

Why I like Ashwagandha…

Safety

Ashwagandha is very safe.

Compared with other adaptogens such as Ginkgo or Ginseng, which one should really take a break from using from time to time, Ashwagandha is not like that. Ginseng works somewhat like an upper-Ashwagandha is not like that at all. In fact, some women even take it while nursing, which of course is between the individual and their primary care doctor/ OBGYN doctor. 

Effective

Ashwagandha works. It is very effective.

I do like others, such as Rhodiola. Though, Ashwagandha seems to work more often with my patients than Rhodiola.

 

Long-term

Ashwagandha is safe to use long-term.

Unlike some adaptogen herbs, Ashwagandha does not need to be stopped for a brief period of time, as others like Ginseng do.

 

Written by Aleesha Ackerman, LAc

Thanks for Reading!

Aleesha Ackerman is a certified and state licensed acupuncturist with a Master’s degree in acupuncture. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hamline University. Aleesha owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture clinic for Pain and Women’s Health in Anoka, MN.

She became interested in acupuncture and holistic medicine when acupuncture cured her of debilitating migraine pain-many years after an auto collision with a semi-truck. Aleesha specializes in treating acute, chronic pain, digestion and Women’s Health by treating the root cause and by treating the whole individual. Women come to her everyday with hot flashes, mood imbalance and low energy. 

Patients at Aleesha D Acupuncture report feeling cared for, listened to and are happy to get the much-needed pain and stress relief from their treatments!

Why wait? Start Your Relief Today- contact Aleesha D Acupuncture in Anoka today to schedule your appointment!

 

Feel Better, Move Forward

Aleesha D Acupuncture is located in historic downtown Anoka at 229 Jackson St.

 

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025,

 

 

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How to Use Essential Oils for Sleep…

Applying Essential oil to Acupuncture Points for Sleep:

Sometimes I like to apply peppermint essential oil or lavender essential oil to the bottom of the feet on K-1 acupuncture point.

Using a cotton ball or a cotton swab can avoid getting the oil into your eyes later! Trust me-this will not help you to sleep.

I can attest to this.

 

Where: Massaging the essential oil into the soles of your feet at this point helps bring the “Qi” or energy down from the head

(over-thinking) and into the feet. This can help us to feel more grounded and relaxed and ready for sleep. 

 

When: Also, I believe the sheer ritual of rubbing oil into the feet can be soothing to the mind.

It is almost like the mind can relax in knowing we are taking care of the body and it is okay to stop thinking now.

This is why it is part of my bedtime routine.

 

What: Many of my patients ask which brand I use…I like to use Aura Cacia brand for essential oils since they are mostly organic and are a local MN company (support local). I also really like Posumon Chinese herbal peppermint oil and this is what I use in treatments and can order for purchase, if you would like.

 

Carrier Oils to use with essential oils:

  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Grapeseed oil
  • Sweet Almond oil
  • Castor oil (hexane-free)

I like to use castor oil for feet and hair (watch for future post on hair) and sometimes add a bit to my facial oil. 

You can always add a drop or two of natural vitamin E oil (natural preservative) if you do not plan to use the oil within a week. Be sure the vitamin E oil is natural and not synthetic.

Use unrefined and organic oils and cold-pressed when available.

Thanks for Reading!

Anoka Acupuncture with Aleesha D Ackerman

Written by Aleesha Ackerman, LAc

Aleesha Ackerman is a certified and state licensed acupuncturist with a Master’s degree in acupuncture. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hamline University. Aleesha owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture clinic for Pain and Women’s Health in Anoka, MN.

She became interested in acupuncture and holistic medicine when acupuncture cured her of debilitating migraine pain after an auto collision with a semi-truck.

Aleesha specializes in treating acute and chronic pain and Women’s Health. Women come to her everyday with issues such as stress, hot flashes, mood, Insomnia, low energy and for Cosmetic Acupuncture for wrinkles, crow’s feet, laugh lines and improvement in overall skin tone . Read more about Aleesha and what she specializes in Here.

 

Patients at Aleesha D Acupuncture say they feel listened to and taken care of.

They are happy to get the much-needed pain and stress relief from their treatments!

 

Aleesha D Acupuncture is located in historic downtown Anoka at 229 Jackson Street just off Highway 10 with free parking.

Get in and Feel Better, Move Forward!

 

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

 

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3 DIY Pressure Points for Sleep…

3 DIY Acupuncture (AcuPressure) Points for Sleep…

Massaging these three points before bed can help ease you into sleep.

These are the same acupuncture points licensed acupuncturists may use if your main complaint is Insomnia.

 

Acupuncture Points to Massage for Sleep:

 

  1. AnMian -This acupuncture point translates into “Peaceful Sleep”…

 

Location: behind the head, midway between GB20 (where your finger sinks in behind the base of the skull)

and TB-17 (right behind the ear lobe). This point is used often by me in my practice for patients with Insomnia.

Locate AnMian between these two points.

 

 

2. Kidney 1- This is a very grounding point…

 

 

Location: bottom (sole) of the foot, right under the pad.

This is at the lower border of the top 1/3 of the foot. 

This point may be a bit tender and your finger may easily slide into this space.

 

3. Kidney 3- This is a great point for both Kidney Yang Deficiency and Kidney Yin Deficiency.

It both nourishes Kidney Yin and tonifies (strengthens) Kidney Yang. 

I use this versatile point often.

What is Yin vs Yang? (check back–we will explore in a future post)!…

 

Location: Behind the inner ankle bone, between the medial (outer) malleolus (ankle bone) and the Achilles tendon.

 

There you have it- 3 Acupuncture Points You can do AcuPressure on at Home for Better Sleep.

Allow an extra 10-minutes every night before bed.

Climb into bed and gently massage each area for about 30 seconds, then go to the next point.

Repeat the sequence a few times, if needed, using essential oil if desired….Then catch some Zzzzzz’s!

 

Essential oils with Acupressure for Sleep:

 

Thanks for Reading!

Written by Aleesha Ackerman, LAc

Aleesha Ackerman is a certified and state licensed acupuncturist with a Master’s degree in acupuncture. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hamline University. Aleesha owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture clinic for Pain and Women’s Health in Anoka, MN.

She became interested in acupuncture and holistic medicine when acupuncture cured her of debilitating migraine pain after an auto collision with a semi-truck.

Aleesha specializes in treating acute and chronic pain and Women’s Health. Women come to her everyday with issues such as stress, hot flashes, mood imbalance, low energy and for Cosmetic Acupuncture for wrinkles, crow’s feet, laugh lines and improvement in overall skin tone . Read more about Aleesha and what she specializes in Here.

 

Patients at Aleesha D Acupuncture say they feel listened to and taken care of.

They are happy to get the much-needed pain and stress relief from their treatments!

 

Aleesha D Acupuncture is located in historic downtown Anoka at 229 Jackson Street just off Highway 10 with free parking.

Get in and Feel Better, Move Forward!

 

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

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Mindfulness through Qi Gong Movement…

What is Qi Gong?

Qi Gong is an energy practice. It is very old. It is useful to relax the body and mind. Qi gong uses breathing and movement.

We were required to take Qi Gong classes in grad school as soon-to-be licensed acupuncturists.

It is used by many in Asia to promote longevity, and a clear mind. You can use it, too!

 

I like to start each day and end each day doing the breathing exercise followed by the movement for 5 minutes total.

I know you are “supposed” to practice these exercises longer. Like 5 minutes each for the breathing and movement. If you can do 10 minutes every morning and night, that is even better.

 

but… I know myself. Pigeonholing myself into that rigid way of “all or nothing” thinking just doesn’t do it for me. 

There are too many rabbit holes for me to go down each one completely.

Many of us are like this. 

 

It’s not that I don’t want to follow rules, it’s just that if I have to follow rules that don’t fit my lifestyle, I just won’t do it.

It has to be easy enough to add one more thing to my day. Or, out it goes!

 

So, I settle on doing it for 5 minutes every morning and again 5 minutes every night. Do what you can.

Compliance is better than no compliance.

Make peace with wherever you are at. 

 

What is Qi?

Qi is our Life force Energy.

Qi travels through our body’s Meridians.

 

What are Meridians?

Think of Meridians as highways where energy (or Qi) travels.

Meridians are Energy Pathways.

 

Why Move the Qi?

When Qi gets stagnated (stuck), we can become ill in body and/or mind.

We want to keep the Qi free-flowing to maintain health.

A physical example is when scar tissue forms (stagnation) after surgery.

Once the skin has created that matrix of protection in scar tissue, acupuncture can help break up the stagnation or scar tissue. Things like numbness, lack of sensation there and pronounced scarring can all be helped with acupuncture. Many are amazed by scars healing better after acupuncture. About 6 weeks after a caesarean section (C-section) acupuncture can help to start to diminish the abdominal scar. (Sorry, shameless plug).

A mental example of Qi getting stuck is called “Qi Stagnation” and this shows up as irritability or depression, and possibly bitter taste in the mouth or rib-side pain. Acupuncturists call it “Liver Qi Stagnation” and it is common in the Western world here. Acupuncture helps this in people every day. Qi gong can help your mood and focus over time, too.

 

Here is a short Qi Gong breathing exercise Intro…

Qi Gong breathing:

 

Inhale, extend your abdomen, allowing it to fill with air.

Exhale, contracting abdomen while you release the air. Feel it first coming from the bottom of your lungs. Push the air up and out until you feel your abdomen and chest are like a deflated balloon.

 

As you breathe in, imagine your Qi flowing through all the channels in your body.

Guide the flow of your Qi through breathing easy and gentle. Do not try to force it through.

Do the same as you breathe out. If visualizing helps, do that. 

 

Here is a short Qi Gong Movement Exercise:

Start movement from the waist, keeping it soft and gentle. Start swaying slowly from the waist.

Move your arms in a swaying motion. Sway your arms side to side across your torso, gently. 

Your arms may land on your torso in the front and back of your body.

Knees are slightly bent.

Hips may sway with the movement.

 

I like to end by giving myself a generous, yet gentle bear hug.

Especially now during COVID-19.

I have not hugged my kid in six months…Maybe give yourself two bear hugs.

 

Qi gong can help us to relax. We can learn to re-program our bodies and minds to be more mindful, less reactive. Less anxious.

Remember, be gentle. This gentle movement can be a useful tool to help wake up your body first thing and also to wind down the body and mind, letting it know that you are respectfully preparing it for sleep in a gentle, caring, and mindful way.

 

A Short Intro to Loving Kindness Meditation to Feel at Ease

Written by Aleesha Ackerman, LAc

Aleesha Ackerman is a certified and state licensed acupuncturist with a Master’s degree in acupuncture. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hamline University. Aleesha owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture clinic for Pain and Women’s Health in Anoka, MN.

She became interested in acupuncture and holistic medicine when acupuncture cured her of debilitating migraine pain after an auto collision with a semi-truck. Aleesha specializes in treating acute and chronic pain and Women’s Health. Women come to her everyday with issues such as stress, hot flashes, mood imbalance, low energy and for Cosmetic Acupuncture for wrinkles, crow’s feet, laugh lines and improvement in overall skin tone . Read more about Aleesha and what she specializes in Here.

 

Patients at Aleesha D Acupuncture say they feel listened to and taken care of.

They are happy to get the much-needed pain and stress relief from their treatments!

Aleesha D Acupuncture is located in historic downtown Anoka at 229 Jackson Street just off Highway 10 with free parking.

Get in and Feel Better, Move Forward!

 

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

 

 

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Acupuncture for Post Traumatic Stress

Acupuncture for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or PTS…

 

PTS(D) has been shortened to PTS.

Drop the “D” and Drop the Stigma.

This is a VERY REAL issue that more folks than you think (and their loved ones) must deal with.

 

Why Acupuncture for PTS:

  • Sleep
  • Energy
  • Anxiety
  • Drug-free
  • Mild to Moderate Depression

 

Most report on how much better their sleep is after Acupuncture.

Anxiety and Depression improves. Energy gets better.

Brain fog and memory around fuzzy thinking seems to lift along with the mood. 

Overall, PTS patients report improvement in their Quality of Life (QOL). 

Most people now days are looking for a drug-free alternative for their PTS issues. Acupuncture provides that medical alternative. Licensed acupuncturists pay a state medical tax to provide acupuncture medical therapy.

 

 

Findings of PTSD Research & Acupuncture on Depression, Anxiety and Impairment…

  1. Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) shows Acupuncture improvement in PTSD compared to a Waitlist Control Group with no improvement.
  2. Therapeutic effects on PTSD of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acupuncture was about the same.
  3. Research shows Acupuncture and SSRI treatment had no significant difference.

SSRI’s are a class of  seretonin Reuptake Inhibitors anti-depressant drugs.

SSRI’s are the most commonly prescribed anti-depressants. They treat moderate to severe depression. 

   4. More Trials are needed in order to prove what the evidence suggests on how acupuncture can improve PTS(D) issues. This is how science works. We need to be able to measure the same thing over and over and over again in order to prove that something works the way the evidence seems to indicate.

 

More money is spent on researching Acupuncture and Pain relief. The U.S.A. military has spent a lot on studying acupuncture and pain.

One pain protocol that I use at times for severe pain was started by the military and is called, “Battlefield Acupuncture.” 

Interestingly enough, I only claim acupuncture can help with mild to moderate depression. This is because not enough research is available as of yet to show it significantly helping with severe depression. This is also because acupuncture is not a replacement for prescribed antidepressants. One must always work with one’s doctor before tapering from prescribed medications. 

 

 

Most of my Patients who have seen me for PTSD-related issues get good results. Schedule Online Here

Thanks for Reading!

Written by Aleesha Ackerman, LAc

Anoka Acupuncture with Aleesha D Ackerman

Aleesha Ackerman is a certified and state licensed acupuncturist with a Master’s degree in acupuncture. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hamline University. Aleesha owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture clinic for Pain and Women’s Health in Anoka, MN.

She became interested in acupuncture and holistic medicine when acupuncture cured her of debilitating migraine pain after an auto collision with a semi-truck. Aleesha specializes in treating acute and chronic pain and Women’s Health. Women come to her everyday with issues such as hot flashes, mood imbalance, low energy and for Cosmetic Acupuncture for wrinkles, crow’s feet, laugh lines and improvement in overall skin tone . Read more about Aleesha and what she specializes in Here.

Patients at Aleesha D Acupuncture say they feel cared for and listened to. They are happy to get the much-needed pain and stress relief from their treatments!

Aleesha D Acupuncture is located in historic downtown Anoka at 229 Jackson Street just off Highway 10 with free parking.

Get in and Feel Better, Move Forward!

 

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

 

 

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5 Ways to Improve Your Pain Tolerance

5 Ways to Improve Your Pain Tolerance. But, first…

 

Where Low Pain Tolerance Comes From

  • Trauma
  • PTSD/ PTS
  • Genetics
  • Pandemics/ Disasters/ Wars

Your Pain Tolerance can say a lot about you.

Interestingly, studies have found red heads to have lower pain tolerance. There may be more than one factor at play…

 

Genetics can influence our Pain Tolerance, according to research. In my clinical experience, this is often true.

 

Trauma- Having a low pain threshold can come from past trauma such as early childhood trauma, including abuse/neglect.

It can also be a response from adult trauma or abuse.

Natural Disasters, Wars and Pandemics increase the stress response and can affect Pain.

 

PTSD is a condition that can affect Pain tolerance. It is often called PTS (dropping the “D” for Disorder can lessen the stigma).

Pandemics can cause a form of PTSD or PTS. 

Did You Know?…Acupuncture can be effective for the PTSD Person suffering with Anxiety, Sleep and Stress. It is true. I have seen it and experienced it.

Check Back for More on PTSD Here 

 

It will be interesting to see how the current COVID-19 Pandemic affects people in relation to Pain tolerance!

 

CBD Topicals and Oil taken by Mouth can Help with Pain and Stress.

Practitioner Grade CBD Products are sold here at Aleesha D Acupuncture. 

 

Read More on CBD  Here

 

5 Ways to Improve Your Pain Tolerance (Reasons it May be Low)…

  1. Sleep
  2. Stress-Reduce it!
  3. Stress-Take on Less
  4. Movement
  5. Breathing 
  6. Talk Therapy
  7. Meditation

 

By the Way, Acupuncture is Great for Pain!

How does Acupuncture Work on Pain?…

Acupuncture Activates the Nervous System which then tells the brain to release pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins.

 

Sleep- Sleep is huge! Sleep is when your body repairs. Those who have a deficit of sleep show lower pain tolerance. 

Stress- If Stress makes Pain Worse, then Let’s lower our Stress. There are ways we can improve our stress. It is true that sometimes genetics has an influence. However, we do not need to take on new stress. Say “No” to new responsibilities if you are already stressed. Reduce the stress you already have (see other ways on the above list to help).

Movement- We can do daily movement. If we are too stressed out to do strenuous exercise (like H.I.I.T. training) or Hot Yoga, we can opt for slower, more gentle options. This is often not a very Western way to look at self-improvement. We often think we need to Go-Go-Go and Work-Work-Work. We think Faster and More is better. Well, I am here to tell you that in my early twenties I had a lesson in this…

I did Qigong for the first time for 45 minutes and didn’t think anything of it other than it was an interesting activity to try that “old” people do just to do something…Boy was I WRONG. DEAD WRONG. Then next day I awoke to soreness in muscles everywhere. Muscles I did not even know I had. Movements like Qigong (Chigong), TaiChi and Gentle Yoga stretches can have a profound positive effect on our bodies since they use all muscles. Sometimes keeping muscles taut and stretching them gently in order to release long-held stress.

Meditation is great for reducing stress. I am a lifelong participant and recommend DAILY practice to reduce your stress. It has even been proven to lower blood pressure! Perhaps this is why doctors of old would prescribe petting a cat to their bp patients.

 

Meditation Resources Here

 

Breathing exercises- Becoming aware of the breath can be a life saver for stressful times in our lives. Hey! We will always be jumping through hoops of fire in life. We need to train ourselves to stop and breathe. Like acupuncture, breathing can get you out of the Fight or Flight and back into the Rest and Digest. I like a few techniques and will share two:

  1. The 1-2 count: Breathe in on count of 1; breathe out on count of 1. Then breathe in on count of 2; breathe out on count of 2. Repeat. If you forget which number you are on, start at 1 again. So Simple. The brain can easily return to this even when stress is causing fuzzy thinking. 
  2. The 4-7-8 Breathe in for a count of 4-hold breath for a count of 7-exhale out for a count of 8. This one helped me be able to hold my breath for over a minute! It takes practice so start slowly. Check with your doctor before holding your breath longer than this exercise.

Talk Therapy- Many with intensified pain have had Childhood trauma, especially during the early formative years (ages 1-3) and also on up to age 7. I am not going to get real science-y here and you can do your own further research into this. Just know that the memory of trauma affects the nerves when the brain is “triggered” and we carry these traumas in our tissues. Ever feel the stress in an injured area of your body?-It is kind of like this.

These days almost everyone has seen a talk therapist so get the stigma right out of your head! Seeking help from a licensed therapist can help you to see why you are holding stress in your body and you can begin (under the care of a professional) to work through this and improve your body’s response to stress and your ability to improve your pain tolerance can follow.

These days therapy can be done through virtual means (in the middle of a pandemic) thanks to companies like Telehealth and Zoom. No excuses. Take care of yourself. Time for Self Care. Especially during a Pandemic, do the Self-Care.

 

Remember, our Minds and Bodies are Connected into this one Being we call Self. Often, emotional pain goes un-noticed until physical pain manifests. And it ALWAYS Manifests Physically, eventually. Now, go take care of Yourself. You are investing in Your Now Self & Your Future Self. Show them both some Love. Perhaps the Love & Care You did Not Get in Childhood.

Check Back for a Great Stress Reduction Therapy You Can do Anywhere. Anytime.

 

Thanks for Reading!

Written by Aleesha Ackerman, LAc

Aleesha Ackerman is a certified and state licensed acupuncturist with a Master’s degree in acupuncture. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hamline University. Aleesha owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture clinic for Pain and Women’s Health in Anoka, MN.

She became interested in acupuncture and holistic medicine when acupuncture cured her of debilitating migraine pain after an auto collision with a semi-truck. Aleesha specializes in treating acute and chronic pain and Women’s Health. Women come to her everyday with issues such as hot flashes, mood imbalance, low energy and for Cosmetic Acupuncture for wrinkles, crow’s feet, laugh lines and improvement in overall skin tone . Read more about Aleesha and what she specializes in Here.

Patients at Aleesha D Acupuncture say they feel cared for and listened to. They are happy to get the much-needed pain and stress relief from their treatments!

Aleesha D Acupuncture is located in historic downtown Anoka at 229 Jackson Street just off Highway 10 with free parking.

Get in and Feel Better, Move Forward!

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

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CBD Oil for Chronic Pain (Anoka Pain and Women’s Health)

CBD Oil for Chronic Pain

What is CBD?

CBD is an alternative Pain/ Inflammation Relief available to the public. CBD is taken in a variety of forms.

At first, I was hesitant to carry anything CBD because I figured it was just another fad (snake oil) without much research to back up the claims of it being effective.

Boy, was I wrong… After trying it myself on my neck around my occipital muscles and avoiding muscle tension pain and muscle knots- I was hooked!

This is when I decided to start carrying CBD varieties and offering this magic inflammation-reducer remedy to my patients-who mostly come in for Chronic pain and chronic issues such as Sleep, Headaches and Anxiety.

 

At Aleesha D Acupuncture, CBD is sold as Oil taken internally, Ointment and Stick (the latter two apply externally to the skin)

  • Oil
  • Ointment (cream)
  • Stick.

 

Cream or Stick Use: Pain, Chronic Pain in Muscles or Joints.

Use on: The stick is good for travel, in a gym bag and reaching areas like the back and feet.

Oral Oil Use: Anxiety, Sleep, 2nd Vehicle for Major, Chronic Pain (use with Cream or Stick for Pain for best effect). This is sublingual oil, meaning it goes under the tongue.

 

Why Try CBD for Chronic Pain & Other Issues:

CBD is non-habit-forming so one will not become addicted to CBD as may be the case with other pain-relief substances, drugs and medications. Many are looking for Opioid-alternatives in this day and age with all the heart-breaking addiction happening as a result of taking pain-reliving opioid drugs over time.

It is easy to travel with and use CBD when needed.

It is more affordable than many alternatives, such as issues around medications and costs of surgeries.

  • Medication alternative
  • Surgery alternative
  • Non-addicting
  • Affordable
  • Easy to Use

Why Try CBD at Aleesha D Acupuncture?

The brand at Aleesha D Acupuncture uses Charlotte’s Web™hemp extract, the Gold standard.

CBD products carried are practitioner-grade 

CBD Cream carried here has the most powerful formulation of 11% camphor, 16% menthol for fast pain relief (instant to minutes)

Then the CBD kicks in after the camphor and menthol take effect (about 15 minutes)

–This is why CBD products have menthol and camphor added.

 

CBD Oil & Uses:
CBD Oil is commonly used to reduce severe, chronic pain and inflammation, anxiety and insomnia.

  • PAIN
  • ANXIETY
  • ARTHRITIS
  • HEADACHES
  • INSOMNIA
  • INFLAMMATION
  • BACK PAIN/ NECK PAIN/ BONE-ON-BONE KNEE PAIN

 

CBD Oil & How to Take:

CBD Oil is taken orally and sublingual (under tongue). Typically the inflammation-reducing oil is held under the tongue for 30-seconds and then swallowed. Some take it in the morning, bedtime or both.

CBD Oil & When to Take:

When to take CBD depends on symptoms and the individual. If taking for Insomnia or Sleep issues, it probably makes most sense to take CBD at night. If taking for Chronic pain and the pain disturbs sleep, taking CBD at night is a good place to start. If pain is worse at the beginning of the day, as is normal for Rheumatoid Arthritis patients, try taking CBD in the morning to get the joints going for the day.

CBD is sought after because it can be an alternative to addictive substances, both legal and illegal and has surprisingly effective pain-relief results! This is why it flies off of the shelves here at Aleesha D Acupuncture.

Thanks for Reading!

Feel free to post Questions/ Comments directly to the blog. 

Check back for the next post on CBD ointment (cream)…

Written by Aleesha D Ackerman, LAc

Aleesha D Ackerman

is a licensed acupuncturist. She owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture in Anoka, MN. She holds a Master’s degree in Acupuncture. Aleesha was first turned on to acupuncture due to her chronic, debilitating migraine headaches following an auto accident with a semi-truck during high school.

Aleesha specializes in treating Pain, Headaches, Anxiety, Low energy, Low mood, Digestion issues and Women’s health, including helping the body with balancing hormones during Menopause and Perimenopause to relieve hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, and PMS. She successfully treats patients with all types of headaches, including Tension headaches.

Aleesha suffered many years herself with migraine headaches. She can truly empathize with her suffering patients and her passion is to help them feel better.

Feel better, Move forward

Call 763-762-7142 or Schedule online with Aleesha atAnokaAcupuncture.com

Aleesha D Acupuncture is located in downtown Anoka at 207 E Main near Andover, MN.

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

Serving Anoka County, the north metro, Minneapolis, St Paul, and the Twin Cities area.

 

 

 

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Improve Sleep with Acupuncture (Anoka Pain and Women’s Health)

Yes, Acupuncture really works for Insomnia!

Need Sleep? Get Acupuncture for Insomnia!

Acupuncture is great for sleep, whether you have a hard time falling asleep, staying asleep or both.

 

In fact, most people comment that their sleep improves with acupuncture, even when sleep was not their reason for getting acupuncture!  Read a Patient Testimonial on Acupuncture for Insomnia Here.

 

Reasons to Get Acupuncture for Insomnia:

  • Natural Drug alternative
  • No side effects (besides occasional bruising)
  • Relaxing Therapy / Reduces Stress
  • Naturally Balances the Body out of Fight or Flight Response

 

3 DIY AcuPRESSURE Points for Sleep!

 

(Acupuncture is an alternative to sleep medications which will not cause drug dependency or unwanted side effects).

Acupuncture is great for Anxiety. Aleesha D Acupuncture treats patients for Anxiety on a daily basis.

Read a Patient Testimonial on Acupuncture for Natural Medical Treatment of Anxiety Here.

 

Acupuncture helps the body to balance itself. This is why it is a viable medical treatment for many health issues.

Some of what Acupuncture Treats Will Surprise You! 

 

Read 10 Surprising Things Acupuncture Treats Here

 

I hope you found this post helpful.

Thanks for reading.

Written by Aleesha D Ackerman, LAc.

Aleesha is a licensed acupuncturist. She owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture in Anoka, MN. She holds a Master’s degree in Acupuncture. Aleesha was first turned on to acupuncture due to her chronic, debilitating migraine headaches following an auto accident with a semi-truck during high school.

Aleesha D Ackerman, LAc specializes in treating Pain, Headaches, Anxiety, Low energy, Low mood, Digestion issues and Women’s health, including helping the body with balancing hormones during Menopause and Perimenopause to relieve hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, and PMS.

Call 763-762-7142 or Schedule online with Aleesha at AleeshaDacupuncture.com

 

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

Serving Anoka County, the north metro, Minneapolis, St Paul, and the Twin Cities area.

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10 Surprising Things Acupuncture Treats (in Anoka Pain and Women’s Health)

10 Surprising Things Acupuncture Treats (Pain and Women’s Health)

 

1. Hot flashes- Patient Testimonial 

Acupuncture helps Hot flashes, sweating, low libido, low energy and mood imbalance during Perimenopause, Menopause and with Thyroid Disease.

 

2. Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety and mild to moderate Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder or Seasonal Depression (SAD), Fibromyalgia and low mood are often treated with Acupuncture

3. Fatigue

Acupuncture helps fatigue and improves low energy

 

Allergies & Skin Issues Here

4. Allergies, Skin rash, Excema, Psoriasis, Hives, Shingles and Acne are all treated using Acupuncture

5. Back Pain- Patient Testimonial Back pain, Low back pain, Lumbar strain or sprain, Degenerative disc pain and Sciatic pain is treated routinely using Acupuncture

6. Shingles

Acupuncture can help relieve skin rash and nerve pain of Shingles and help avoid future nerve damage caused by non-treatment of Shingles

7. Breech baby

Moxa or Moxibustion is an herb used by Acupuncturists and is lit and burnt over the point (not in contact with skin) to flip a breech baby about 79% of the time according to Western research! Much better than an invasive procedure…

Yes, I have done it.

–Yes, it Works!–

8. Insomnia- Patient Testimonial

Acupuncture improves sleep and people report sleeping more soundly even if sleep is not what they came in to see their acupuncturist for

9. Period Cramps

Period cramps, Endometriosis, pelvic pain, abdominal pain and abdominal digestive pain are treated using Acupuncture

10. Trigger Finger-Patient Testimonial

 

Acupuncture treatment for Trigger Finger may allow you to avoid surgery if treatment is done early enough and often enough, usually using electric stimulation with needles

Acupuncture treats many issues. This is not an extensive list of surprising things acupuncture treats. Stop by weekly to read more about acupuncture and what you can do for your own health and wellness. Feel better, Move forward.

 

10 More Things Acupuncture Treats!

 

Why wait? Start Your Relief Today- contact Aleesha D Acupuncture in Anoka today to schedule your acupuncture appointment!

Written by Aleesha Ackerman, LAc

 

Aleesha is a licensed acupuncturist. She owns and operates Aleesha D Acupuncture in Anoka, MN. She holds a Master’s degree in Acupuncture. Aleesha was first turned on to acupuncture due to her chronic, debilitating migraine headaches following an auto accident with a semi-truck during high school.

Aleesha D Ackerman, LAc specializes in treating Pain, Headaches, Anxiety, Low energy, Low mood, Digestion issues and Women’s health, including helping the body with balancing hormones during Menopause and Perimenopause to relieve hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, and PMS.

Call 763-762-7142 or Schedule online with Aleesha at AleeshaDacupuncture.com

 

DISCLAIMER

This article is not intended to replace any health care. No information on this site should be relied on to determine medical diagnosis or treatment for a medical condition. As with any health concerns, always be sure to consult your health care provider with any health concerns.

Licensed Acupuncturist in Anoka Serving Andover, Anoka, Big Lake, Champlin, Circle Pines, Columbus, Coon Rapids, Dayton, East Bethel, Elk River, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Isanti, Lino Lakes, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Now Then, Oak Grove, Osseo, Ostego, Ramsey, Saint Francis, Saint Paul, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, Vadnais Heights and White Bear Lake.

Zip codes we treat: 55304, 55303, 55309, 55014, 55316, 55433, 55448, 55327, 55330, 55432, 55040, 55401, 55402, 55403, 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55410, 55411, 55412, 55413, 55416, 55418, 55419, 55421, 55422, 55011, 55311, 55369, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55101, 55109, 55110, 55111, 55113, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55120, 55124, 55125, 55115, 55118, 55119, 55121, 55122, 55123, 55126, 55129, 55130, 55146, 55127, 55128, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55166, 55166, 55168, 55170, 55175, 55187, 55188, 55171, 55172, 55014, 55025, 55371, 55398, 55308, 55960

Serving Anoka County, the north metro, Minneapolis, St Paul, and the Twin Cities area.

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