Category: Blog

Into the Light of The Night . . .

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I live in Austin Texas, and was one of the fortunate to experience yesterday’s Solar Eclipse from my own backyard. I felt a deep emotional connection to the world and all it’s inhabitants in that moment. It moved me to tears and to imagining . . .

What if . . .

As many of us did during the eclipse totality . . . we could be still long enough to observe the sky, feel the weather cool down our skin in the evening, and listen to the secrets of the night. The songs of the cricket and the owl; the sound of the night breeze and the feeling as it moves through our hair. There is wisdom to be found in the dark, the yang (light), and in the yin (night).

Perhaps, if we were still, we could REMEMBER our deep connection to each other and the world. Perhaps we would gain insight and feel together into a part of something larger than the issues that divide us on this planet.

I love science! I sought out a master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine because it was tied to the natural rhythms and patterns of nature and the natural process of healing that’s available to each of us when we listen to our body’s wisdom. The study of Five Elements, and Yin and Yang have served me well. This has been an ongoing deep and fascinating study that has led me to view the world in a more connected way. There, I began my journey into understanding and appreciating my place and responsibility on and to our beautiful planet. The journey continues to unfold, as it does for each of us, and I continue to learn and grow into my natural rhythm.

Citizen science projects have always intrigued me as ways to learn about our place in the world, and the bigger cosmos. Just the basic orbital mechanics are magic to me. I want to share with you NASA’s Citizen Science Opportunities — asking citizens like you and me to observe the night skies, weather patterns, the night-time creatures, light pollution, the flight patterns of birds and how to protect them, and more. There are also some post-eclipse studies to partake in! Maybe I will see you there.

Einstein studied the cosmos on the path to his theory of relativity. Part of his theory — general relativity — explains the law of gravitation and its relation to the forces of nature. We are connected, and there is so much more we can gain from this connection if we remember how to slow down, and listen for the answers!

Once, a long time ago, someone who did not understand me well said, “Everything is not that cosmic, Charlotte.” Yet, I continue to believe most things are!

Let’s reach for the glimmering edge of the sun . . . and go beyond it into the light!

A Reminder:

The Acupuncture Cabin is running a special through the summer: Acupuncture Treatments are only $100 for new patients, and $75 for current and follow-up patients!

And check out a Brentwood neighborhood yoga studio I love — Shuniya Yoga Collective — it’s a great place to connect to your rhythms, and rest and restore.

Much love and Cosmic light to you my friends,

Photos taken by a friend Steve in my backyard!

Charlotte

Seasons Health

Happy Spring Equinox!

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Spring is in bloom! The butterflies and dragonflies are on their way to the Acupuncture Cabin, and It’s the perfect time for an acupuncture treatment in the refreshing spring air.

This Spring and Summer, take advantage of our Acupuncture Cabin Tuesday and Thursday Special Pricing:

Current Patients $75.00 for an hour visit (a $60.00 savings), and New Patients $100.00 for 75 minutes (a $75.00 savings)

Book now


I invite you to . . .

Slow down and listen to nature’s rhythms this spring, and watch yourself flower! Connect to the wishes and creativity blooming in you, and the rhythm of your own heart.

Remember the wise ways of our ancestors long ago who lived closer to nature, and read about the ancient sites built to align with the Solstice and Equinox.

Let the sun and moon guide you through your days and nights. Put your bare feet on the earth, begin your day with a greeting to the sun, and say goodnight to the moon! This is a way to connect to your circadian rhythm — the 24-hour internal clock that regulates your cycles of waking and sleeping by responding to the changing light. This ritual helps you reset to your natural way of being in the universe, and can melt away the stress of our many too dos. You’ll see the benefits of connecting to the slower, steady rhythm of nature.

I hope to see you and your friends at the Acupuncture cabin and garden this spring and summer! Mamas and papas — slip into your parasympathetic rest and restore before and while your kids are home in all their summer glory. Note if you have an older child or sitter to come with you, you can bring the kids to play in the fenced back yard while you get a much-needed acupuncture nap!

Acupuncture is also great for treating and preventing spring allergies as it helps balance your immune system!

Make your appointment here


Mamas, be sure to check out Nest and Bowl’s circle of support called Rooted Mothers. There’s a circle coming up soon. Among other offerings, they also have a lovely retreat for mothers in May where I will be providing acupuncture! Circle up to meet and support yourself and your sisters in motherhood.

Wishing you and yours a happy, healthy, abundant Spring!

Love Charlotte
Seasons Health

I much appreciate your sharing my blog with your family and friends!

Cool the Fire in Your Body and Soul🔥

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Photo of Barton Springs at night.
Barton Springs, Austin, Tx. Photo by my son Zachary Allen.

Summer specials at the Acupunture Cabin!

Current Pricing:

New Patient (1 – 1/2 hour session) $175.00

Followup Treatments (1 hour session) $135.00

Packet Savings (to be used during the summer months):

Buy 4 treatments to stay in the summer flow for $500.00 (a $40.00 Savings).

Buy 6 treatments for $750.00 (a $60.00 savings).

Make Appointment Here

We are well into the Fire of Summer! It is oppressively hot in the Lone Star State of Texas, even in our beautiful spring fed oasis of Austin, Texas. We have heat and humidity, with occasional dry spells and crazy Texas storms! Looks like it’s the pattern for the next couple months, or so it goes . . .

So how to navigate the seasonal changes and extreme weather patterns?

Consider what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has to offer! Acupuncture cools the internal fires of summer heat and dampness that can invade our bodies this time of year. Along with a cooling and balancing dietary approach plus daily gentle body movements, you can keep the rivers of qi flowing in the damp swamp of summer!

Remember, flowing water doesn’t stagnate — same is true for our bodies!

“Summer heat” and “damp heat” are TCM conditions where excess heat and/or dampness can become trapped internally, as if we are under a humid blanket. When our bodies are cared for properly, we can naturally release heat and dampness through body movement, sweating and urination. Our inner state of health is important to carry us through more intense periods of weather patterns. Yet at times the intensity is simply too much; our bodies need extra loving care to release the excess, cool the flame, and rebalance. When ignored, our fluid system can seize up, leading toward heat-induced health issues ranging from minor to major. In the summer we are more likely to see skin rashes, ear aches (fluid stagnation), yeast and fungal infections, digestion stagnation (constipation), loose stool (damp heat), summer coughs, and colds. We may also experience “heat in the heart,” which affects our mood or actual heart function.

We are all uniquely individual, and each of us has different needs around diet, nutrition, exercise, and remedies depending upon how summer heat patterns are showing up for us — yin or yang, damp or not, and so on. Regardless of how things show up, acupuncture and herbal medicine prescriptions can help to balance, and replenish free flowing fluid and qi (energy).

Summertime Tips:

Drink plenty of fresh spring water – room temperature, or a warm tea to promote sweat as needed. Add cooling herbs to your water: mint, anti-viral and calming lemon balm, thyme, and sage.

Avoid excess cold and carbonated drinks, sugar, caffeine and alcohol – – these excesses slow down qi flow and trap heat and damp in the body. This causes inflammation.

Strengthen the Middle (digestion) in order to resolve feeling stuck and foggy headed. Eat simple, light, and easy-to-digest cooked meals. Try stewed or room temperature local seasonal fruits, savory congees, and porridges with seasonal fruits and veggies. Nourish and restore with light summer veggie soups, good fats, pasture raised eggs and meats, and nuts and seeds. Think local and seasonal. During each season, what we need grows where we are! In the summer our naturally cooling fruits and veggies grow. Visit your local farmer’s market — I love the Mueller Market on Sundays.

Remember: Avoid excess raw and cold food in the summer – this causes stagnation > inflammation > damp heat

Once we know what your body needs, together we can design specific acupuncture prescription points, exercises, meals, and drinks. We will apply individual, sustained strategies based on TCM principles and diagnoses that are tried and true.

Also, check out the offerings at one of my favorite Austin spots, Curcuma Kitchen for beautifully healing Ayurvedic foods and dietary tips.

Put your body under an old Cottonwood tree at Barton Springs, listen to the breeze blow through the tree, watch the leaves dance.

It’s cooler at the springs (pure magic). There are shade seekers, snorkelers, drummers, people from all walks of life coming to soothe their fires and open their flow of qi. Dive In!

Watching a drummer on the Barton Springs hillside, I see all the meridians that begin and end in the finger tips – he is giving them all a good stimulation – the music flowing out exudes his good balance of Qi. Swimmers are nourishing their bladder and kidney water element meridians as they stretch the calves and thighs of their legs, and the underside and front of their arms with each new stroke of their hands through the water. A swim in the springs always feels like a smooth gentle cleansing flow over my body, reminding me of my innate ability to move in rhythm with nature, rather than technology. The cool flow of spring water helps my body’s thermostat regulate and center in the crazy heat. For those of you wanting to nourish your kidney and adrenal energy, swim between 5 and 7pm! Then watch the sun set at the springs.

With that, I have worked myself up to wanting a good swim – so off I go to the springs. I hope to see you at the Acupuncture Cabin this summer, and perhaps at the springs!

Other News

Hey mamas! Be sure and check out Nest and Bowl’s circle of support called Rooted Mothers. There’s one coming up soon; also see the many other offerings they have! Circle up to meet and support your sisters in motherhood.

I am a currently a contract employee at Amend Wellness in Elgin Texas one day a week. I am proud to be a part of this cutting edge, more functional and holistic model of care for addiction and mental illness. Check it out.

Stay Tuned for outdoor Qi Gong classes with Charlotte in the fall!

Much love,

Charlotte, Seasons Health

I much appreciate your sharing my blog with your family and friends!

Transitioning From Fall to Winter

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Happy Holiday Season My Friends!

Big News! Existing patients can now make appointments online — see the bottom of this blog for the details!

Fall has been beautiful here at the Acupuncture Cabin. The trees put on a stunning show of bright yellow, orange and red, and are now losing the last of their leaves in preparation for winter.

The Acupuncture Cabin visitors and I have had the sweet experience of watching my pollinator garden come to life as the Fritillary butterfly joined in the dance of fall colors unfolding! If you want to see the Gulf Fritillary’s life cycle, plant passion flower vine. I gratefully witnessed nature’s dance as the propagation of this butterfly unfolded in my yard. I watched the Fritillary busily go about laying eggs on the passion vine, the hungry caterpillars eating every last leafy sprout, the miraculous chrysalis stage, and lastly the emergence of a magnificent butterfly. What a site to behold! This particular butterfly emerged right on my patio screen door.

  • The Gulf Fritillary Butterfly

Self Care Tips for Winter

Winter is a natural time of letting go and self renewal. Take care of yourself by aligning with the energy of the winter season and observing what nature is teaching us. This is a sweet time to move with the flow of nature and release anything you’re holding that no longer serves your highest good. If you feel sad while letting go it’s ok, mother nature will hold your tears. Settle into the present moment and find a favorite place to watch nature’s dance, take some notes as the last of the leaves are letting go with help from the wind. Watch as the creatures collect seeds, nuts and berries to fatten and fuel up. Create your own self-care rituals to support your bodies natural rhythms in preparation for the colder winter’s stillness. I’ve listed below a few tips for you . . .

Protect Your Body. Your Wei (Protective) Qi draws inward in the winter so guard it well by making sure you dress warm in the cold and windy weather – protect your head with a hat, your neck with a scarf, your body with a jacket.

Stay Hydrated. Winter can get very dry — hydrate your body with water, teas, herbal baths, lotions and balms.

Eat Warming Foods. Soups, Traditional Chinese Medicine porridges (I have recipes for you!), teas and ancestral foods to warm your body through and protect your energy stores. And yes go ahead make some winter apple, pecan and pumpkin pies with natural sweeteners to warm your soul!

Slow Down. The days are shorter, the nights longer — go to bed early and sleep in when you can! Don’t take on too much, spring is the season for doing more. Embrace a slow steady pace to support your immune system this Winter.

Move Your Body. Just 20 minutes a day, or more. This keeps your rivers of Qi energy flowing freely, and supports you in letting go of toxins and stuck emotions which can cause illness; it also supports the lung and large intestine organs that most need our care in the winter months.

Get Outside! Connect with your true nature by connecting to the bounty of nature around you! This is ancient wisdom, our ancestors lived by their connections to nature, and this age old practice is so needed in todays modern world — the great outdoors will restore your body and soul!

And last, but not least get yourself to the Acupuncture Cabin for some warm and cozy immune system support! If you are a current patient you can click to schedule below. If you are new to Seasons Health, or it has been over one year since I have seen you, please send me an email and I will get you on the schedule myself so we have plenty of time to catch up and assess how I can best assist you in optimal health this winter.

Make Your Acupuncture Appointment Here!

(Existing clients only)

I wish you each a vibrant healthy winter season, and all the best of the upcoming year. Fill yourself to the brim with nature’s bounty, long restorative walks, plenty of rest, deeply nourishing foods and teas. Surround yourself with the people and things you love.

I would be honored if you would please share this blog with your friends and family. And you can Reach out to me to purchase a holiday treatment for a loved one. I hope to see you soon at the Acupuncture Cabin.

Bountiful Blessings and Love,

Charlotte

Seasons Health

Are You Tired, Irritable and Anxious From the Heat?

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Calm The Spirit, Nourish the Heart and Restore Energy Flow with Acupuncture

Summer Specials

Summer Special For Current Patients — 4 treatment package for $450.00 ($50.00 Savings)

Summer Special for New Patients — New Patient Visit $130.00 ($20.00 Savings).

Facial Acupuncture Packets — Current and new Patients $130.00 per treatment ($20.00 Savings per treatment). 6 treatments in 6 weeks recommended for good results. A rejuvenation for summer skin — brings blood flow to your face, restores and brightens the skin to a healthy glow, supports entire head, brain flow and body as well.

All Specials available through September 2022 and must be used by October 31st 2022.

Check out Lindsey Kalb’s Beauty Counter products for natural skin care here. First time buyers get 30% off!

Summer is Time to Nourish and Balance Heart Fire

To enhance our connection to nature and balance our bodies in the summer, we need to care for our heart. In Chinese medicine, the heart is ruled by the fire element and balanced heart fire is vital to keep the qi flowing freely. When over exposed to the excess summer heat, our heart fire can easily become unbalanced which can make us feel tired, irritable and anxious. To balance our fire element, we can use the element of water. All things that enhance the element of water in our bodies have cooling, calming effects . . . whereas fire element is energizing. There is a sweet dance these elements do in our bodies when in balance that makes us feel so good!

Summer Rituals

Yes, it’s HOT and easy to lie around in the AC, but this can stagnate our energy. Acupuncture helps beat the heat and get energy flowing. So when you want to lie around, come to the Acupuncture Cabin and get a treatment.

Tune into the slow energy of summer to balance the fire and water elements and get your rivers of energy flowing freely! Create some sweet summer rituals to soothe your heart in the crazy heat.

Rituals fill our vessel, and are a nice way to pour in loving self care. My favorite summer ritual to start the day is to first make a refreshing tea of Mint, Thyme, Lavender or Lemon Balm from my garden. Ancient Chinese Secret: hot tea opens the pores and releases the magical water our body makes to cool us down — sweat! As you sip your morning tea or other healing beverage like lemon water, celery juice or detox smoothie, make your plan to get outside while it’s cooler out. Go for a walk, do some energy balancing qi gong with Marisa, and catch some healing first morning rays of sunshine.

Practicing Summer rituals and turning all artificial light off after 10pm will reset your circadian rhythms and support your adrenals to power you through each day without stimulants that drain your energy. The early morning gentle summer breeze is heart soothing – close your eyes and connect to the morning sounds of nature.

In the late afternoon or evening take a plunge into Barton Springs — this brings in the cooling water element to balance heart fire energy. Live moving streams and rivers are the best way they soothe and remind your own rivers of energy to move. I learned to swim in Barton Springs as a child so it’s a special place for me. If you go to the springs early or late in the day it’s so peacefully quiet. Try a night swim!

Turn off the News

Remember my last blog advice — “Turn Off The News!” Who wants to start their morning listening to bad news? Ground yourself first in loving morning kindness, then if you do end up reading news, it isn’t setting the tone for the day. Perhaps know enough about the hard times to be of service in some meaningful ways, but strive not to worry over them. In a worry state we can do no good in our own little corner of the world.

Early Morning Open Consciousness
by Charlotte Sobeck

She held her heart with all her might
And woke into the dark glass night
A climb to mountain tops to seek
A dive to the abyss so deep
Things we hide protect and keep
Collected secrets while we sleep
Secrets take our hearts away 
From highest joy and deepest pain
The chance to feel the love again
Open up, let it bleed that fragile glass heart in its need
My promise is your soul will gain, even amongst the darkest pain
The joy of dancing in the rain

A song was released by the Impressions and performed by Curtis Mayfield in 1965. It had a bold, comforting theme about the struggle for freedom during that time. It was named the unofficial song of the civil rights movement. Many of these freedom issues are still amongst us today. The song reminds me of the power we have when we choose to unite and come from our hearts with gentle kindness. That is where the true power lies . . . 

People get ready
There's a train a comin'
You don't need no baggage
You just get on board . . . 

Much love to you my Seasons Health friends.  I hope to see you soon in the Acupuncture Cabin.  Please share my blog with your friends and family and spread the heart love.  We are all better equipped in the world when we take care of our hearts.

- Charlotte

Turn Off the News . . .

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“And Build a Garden with Me” ~ Lukas Nelson

I am sitting in my backyard in the healing sunshine, embracing seasonal living while watching nature do its colorful dance. The winter weather brings a different look to the acupuncture cabin — the grass is a rich dark green, the flowers are gone and the red oak is hanging onto its last few leaves. The Acupuncture Cabin is cozy and warm, sunlight filters into the room and shines on the table, and on crisp dry days I slide open the cabin doors. You can hear the birds go about gathering the seeds I’ve put out for them…

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), our Lung organ system is where we want to send our self-love this winter.

Ancient Chinese Secrets for Health in Winter

In TCM, the lungs and large intestine organs are linked by the same meridian system — this means cold, dry or damp winter air penetrates easily from the most superficial organ – the lungs, to one of the deepest organs – the large intestine. So to remain healthy we must support the lungs to be a strong barrier to weather extremes–this helps avoid cough, common colds and other viruses. In TCM we believe you don’t just “catch” a virus or contagion — you become ill with a virus when your body systems including the innate immune system are not well tended to. The foundation of Tibetan medicine is that mind and body are closely related. Therefore, Tibetan physicians have always considered a sound mind as a prerequisite for a healthy body. To keep the mind healthy, meditation is important to stay balanced and out of fear patterns that break down our bodies resilience. The Dali Lama promotes that as we move forward to make new discoveries, we must preserve and promote our ancient wisdom –and the innate wisdom of our own bodies.

The Cedar bloom is here, so let’s support the immune system to stay balanced and out of overreaction during this prolific show!

Keeping our lungs moist in dry weather is a good for the immune system. My favorite food for moistening the lungs is pears. Eat them in abundance. I love them steamed. Pears are in season now, because what our body needs grows in the season and location we live within. Nourish and strengthen your body with the abundant deep root vegetables, dark hearty greens and healing herbs that grow in the winter. We need them for energy stores, strength and stamina — nature is so smart!

Check out the seasonal foods that grow in the Austin region here. And shop your local farmers market – it’s charged with healing energy, kindhearted people, and amazing local farmers and food!

Modern Tips for Immunity Boosting

  • Sugar is a #1 immune system dis-regulator –Get your sugar naturally – in fruits, sweet herbs and veggies like carrots, beets and dates.
  • Zinc is helpful — Oysters, chickpeas, cashews and almonds are a great sources.
  • Vitamin D — Eat mushrooms; they lower risk of infection.
  • Probiotics — Eat fermented veggies and yogurt without added sugar. Many foods contain healthy prebiotics to assist your body in producing probiotics.
  • Eat antiviral and antibacterial foods — Chew a clove of garlic a day. Try Young Living’s Vitality Line Oregano – one or two drops is plenty. These both pack a punch, so don’t overdo it. Yowza!
  • If needed for an infection, concentrated plant supplements like Mediherb’s Andographis and Boswellia are good. And Astragalus can be helpful pre and post imfection. I can help you find the perfect supplements for your body at your next appointment, or via an online herbal consult. Reach out at cls@seasonsheatlh.com.
  • Get plenty of sleep — Sleep helps with cytokine production. These signal the immune system to do its job by affecting the growth of all blood cells and other cells to help the body’s immune and inflammatory responses.
  • Avoid excess EMF’s in your home — Check out some well-tested and documented remedies here at Aulterra. Spending many hours on and around electronics can lower your immunity.
  • Nurture your nature by managing your stress – You’ll enjoy the benefits of reduced cortisol. This also lowers fight or flight patterns and anxiety, depression and overwhelm. Try calming music and meditation; I love Joe Despensa’s YouTube videos. Try lying on the earth and connecting with its healing heartbeat — taking in nature quickly calms the spirit.
  • Keep your body moving — Keep your rivers of innate wisdom flowing with movement.
  • Acupuncture for optimum health — Acupuncture supports and balances your whole body and immune system through your energetic pathways!

You might also further pursue the paradigm shift that’s happening in the medical field – towards modalities that empower our body and its innate wisdom, instead of compromising it. Along those lines, I want to share with you a new favorite place of mine. Try the sauna and cold plunge! . . . Kuya

I also like Dr. Zach Bush’s YouTube videos and symposium on the “Innate Immune System” and how it functions optimally.

An essential oil remedy to soothe sore throats and tame coughs

Honey-Thyme Cough Alleviator

Mix in small bowl:

1/3 cup honey (use Manuka honey to increase the antiviral effects of this remedy)
6 drops thyme essential oil (To be sure the thyme essential oil you select is suitable for internal use, try Young Living’s vitality line.)

Store in small jar and use 1/2 to 1 tsp as needed or add to Traditional Medicinal’s Breathe Easy Tea.

Acupuncture Cabin and Seasons Health News

  • My patients will now have access to my new online pharmacy with a 25% discount on all supplements ordered there. I will get you set up at your next appointment.
  • I am collaborating with Marci Warren, LPC, a holistic trauma therapist with over 15 years of experience healing self and others. You will love her! In early May we will co-facilitate a women’s healing group in nature for women who care for others. This foundational support is vital for recovery, healing and post-traumatic growth — especially for women who carry so much. I am excited to share ancient healing remedies with the group — including healing with plants, Qi Gong exercises to support and cleanse our energy and many Ancient Chinese Secrets! More information to come!

I encourage you to come enjoy the warm, cozy Acupuncture Cabin soon – it’s a special place each season of the year. Slow down, breathe, nurture yourself abundantly. Stop doing and just BE in silence with your beautiful self — that is where the waves of calm and connection to your wisdom are found.

I wish you all a New Year full of joy and confidence that you and your loved ones are safe, sound and healthy. Whether you are new to Seasons Health or a long-time friend, I am grateful for you. I would love for you to share this post with anyone you feel would be happy to receive it. Many thanks.

“People travel to wonder at the height of mountains, at the huge waves of sea, at the long courses of rivers, at the vast compass of the ocean, at the circular motion of the stars; and they pass by themselves without wondering.” ~ St. Augustine

With Love,

Charlotte
Seasons Health

SOS — Self Care Is Necessary for Good Health and Vitality

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Do You Feel Hungover From The Ups And Downs Of The Last Two Years?

Over the last two years there has been so much transition. This is hard on our physical and emotional body – and our immune system to boot! I invite you to slow down and immerse yourself in self care — rushing head on can be dangerous after navigating difficult times. FILL YOUR CUP SEVERAL TIMES A DAY with deep self care for your physical and emotional body. Then, from that place of going inward – expand out to your community and all your to do’s.

In the beginning of the spring of 2020, I found myself with a lot of time on my hands to contemplate. After losing my contract job as an acupuncturist due to the pandemic, the stillness and time I spent outdoors reflecting upon what was next for me is something I’m now deeply grateful for. I spent time on my back screened porch watching fireflies in the early evening; I ate my breakfast and dinner on the porch, watching wildlife coming to take in the spring air with me.

A thoughtful patient gifted me an Audubon membership and I went on an early misty morning bird walk at Commons Ford Ranch this spring. I was impressed by the many species of birds I saw in just two hours — including a Yellow Billed Cuckoo! Yep, there really is such a creature and it predicts the rain with it’s loud call more accurately than our weatherman! This slowing and stillness amongst the sights and sounds of nature helped me sort things out, and let necessary things go. I found gratitude for things taken for granted in my busy day to day life – time with my precious son, our sweet cottage home, and my health and vitality in the second half of my life. I was inspired to create a pollinators garden — I built it, and they came! The bees, the butterflies, moths, hummingbirds and other birds are all participating in the natural habitat I’m nurturing for them. And, I built the wonderful Acupuncture Cabin for you! This has all connected me to something very important . . . .

We Are All Part of Nature And The Natural Process Of Things

In my garden I give to the planet that supports me . . . I never use pesticides inside or out, I plant native trees and plants for the abundant wildlife. Here, I watch the cycles of life that have always taken place on our planet unfold before my eyes and listen to what it has to teach. Hippocrates said, “When there is an imbalance on earth, look to nature for answers . . . ” We have experienced a profound look at a great imbalance over the past years. And still the cycle of life continues. Through my TCM practice, I have been the grateful witness of new babies coming into our world, and many on their way currently growing in the ever amazing mother’s womb.

My Masters of Science at AOMA Integrative School of Medicine was the beginning of my learning to think outside mainstream medicine whenever I can to support health, and to remember how truly powerful and amazing our innate immune system is when we nurture it.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and holistic healthcare offer tried and true methods for building a strong immune system, and for supporting immunity through a health crisis.

Connect To Nature — What Do You Like To Do Outdoors?

The Negative Ions In Nature Are Healing!

Put your body in moving water, a river, a waterfall, a natural spring. Lie on the earth and get your daily grounding in . . . If not in your own backyard, we have an abundance of beautiful parks right here in the Austin area. I recommend Austin’s very own Barton Springs, Pedernales Falls State Park, South Llano River State Park, and Blanco State Park. Further out there is Garner State Park, and Lost Maples. Oh my gosh so many to choose from — I recommend the book “The Swimming Holes of Texas” by Julie Wernersbach and Carolyn Tracy at University of Texas Press, Austin.

The gift of living a healthy lifestyle is priceless, as it helps our immune system do it’s job. Eat healthy, local and seasonal. Plant a Garden — get inspiration from Barbara Kingsolver’s Book “Animal, Vegetable, Miracle,” and any read by Michael Pollan who says, “Eat Food, Not too Much, Mostly Plants.”

Get plenty of sleep, move your body daily, drink spring water, (I like Mountain Valley) and they deliver it right to my door!

In that spirit, I would like to invite you to the Acupuncture Cabin, it is such a sweet place to come for a relaxing, deeply restorative self care session.

The Acupuncture Cabin in the Spring

Now the wildflowers are gone but the pollinators garden is buzzing right along. My patients love the open air cabin on cool days, gentle rain sounds on the metal roof, sun filtering through the green vines at the window, birds singing in the garden, the music . . . come embrace the experience!

REMEMBER ACUPUNCTURE IS GOOD FOR THE SOUL!

  • Great for boosting immunity
  • Calms the Central Nervous System
  • Good before and after traveling — I can help you with a supplemental immune support travel kit!
  • Helps restore your parasympathetic nervous system’s resting state, and get you out of fight or flight patterns — treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
  • And I offer telemedicine Traditional Chinese Medicine and Holistic Healthcare consults, to promote wellness, or to support recovery from an illness.

I am here for you my Seasons Health friends. Just shoot me an email to make an appointment at the Acupuncture Cabin, or for me to come to you for a home visit. Please, share my blog with any friends or family you think may be interested. Thank you for supporting my practice.

Namaste, Charlotte

“Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it“ Buddha

Seasons Health Acupuncture Cabin–Your Peaceful Place.

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Greetings to all my Seasons Health friends! I hope this blog finds you all healthy and happy. I would like to extend a warm welcome to my new office in the Brentwood Neighborhood in North Central Austin. I am treating patients Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday in the cabin, and continue to offer Home Visits on Fridays. Email me to schedule an appointment!

This is my space, I call it the Acupuncture Cabin. It is an old building given new life with the help of friends and family and some amazing contractors. It’s a sweet spot with a cozy cabin feel. See video below.

Anxiety and depression are at an all time high in both children and adults because of the many lifestyle changes we’ve had to make due to Covid-19. Acupuncture, and other non-needle Chinese medicine and holistic modalities are extremely effective treatment options for anxiety and depression, as well as being one of the best avenues for building a strong immune system.

Here you can review Seasons Health’s Contagious Virus Protocols. In these unprecedented times, I have created a space where you can let go of your worries, and get steady in peace and solace for yourself. Come get a deep healing acupuncture nap!

I look forward to treating you, your family and friends in my cozy Acupuncture Cabin. Take sweet care of yourselves and have a very happy and healthy 2021.

Namaste,

Charlotte

“WE ALL SHINE ON! LIKE THE MOON AND THE STARS AND THE SUN” (J.LENNON)

Staying Grounded in a Health Crisis and Embracing Boredom

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Let’s all take a collective deep cleansing breath and reset our nervous systems.  

We are living in times unseen for many of us.  Rather than repeat the important mainstream do’s and don’ts we’ve all heard by now, I’d like to share with you some ancient wisdom to keep us grounded and in a place where we can do the most good for ourselves and others.

Check the “Run for your life!” mind chatter

The body’s stress response is designed on an evolutionary level to protect us from danger in emergency situations.  Where swift action is required in order to save ourselves or another, this stress response gives us power to survive.  Our body releases glucose, cortisol and other hormones into the blood stream during high stress. These hormones and chemicals help us run faster, increase strength and sharpen brain function. Our blood pressure rises and we’re primed to conquer any emergency! This same stress response shuts down systems in our body that are not required in an emergency like our digestion, reproductive hormones and other endocrine system functions that are vital. Ideally, this stress response would only be put into action on rare occasions.  Yet in today’s fast-paced stressful environment, some of us get stuck in patterns of stressful thoughts, rushing around and not sleeping or eating well.  This creates chronic health issues over time. Our bodies forget how to slow down and settle into our “Rest and Restore” parasympathetic nervous system.

Do you scroll email, news or social media late at night when your body needs to rest, restore and gather back the Qi it lost during the day?  It’s no wonder we are so stressed.  This pattern is unsettling to the central nervous system – fear-induced mind chatter and social media, non-stop doing, and not enough “being” throws our body into an excited response called the sympathetic response aka “fight or flight.” It’s characterized by anxiety, rapid heart rate and shallow breathing which depletes us of our vital resources and our super powers when we truly need them.

Embracing Boredom And Coping With Stress

Many today feel the need to be perpetually stimulated — watching the news as we eat, listening to music during exercise or chores, being on our laptop, phone and TV all at the same time. It’s a constant stream of stimuli.  If you find absence of this stimulus brings discomfort and you are scrambling to fill the space with talk or technology,  it may be time to practice embracing stillness and just be with what is.  Teach your body to rest and restore.

A wise meditation teacher Chogyam Trungpa taught about two kinds of boredom:

  1. “Hot Boredom” is that strong uncomfortable feeling that propels us to seek entertainment. It’s like being locked in a padded cell where we feel irritated, bored, closed in with just our thoughts.  Yet as we evolve in our practice of being still we begin to move into a different, higher state.
  2. “Cool Boredom” is where we notice our boredom without reacting to it in the same way.  It feels more spacious; we allow ourselves to sit with it, observe and lean into the boredom and thoughts without judgement — allowing it to exist as it is.  When we do this daily, a shift occurs over time and we learn to tap into the deep calm river that flows through each of us when needed.  It’s this steady calm transferred into real life situations — like the health crisis our country is experiencing today — that make us stronger individually and collectively.   So don’t buy into the fear. Stay steady my friends.

Ancient secrets Sustain calm and balance in the storms of life

Slow down, ground, and just be in each moment as it unfolds:

  • Just one deep breath can reset your nervous system.  For a deeper reset try 4-7-8 breathing (there are many good videos on youtube.com.)
  • Practice daily mindfulness: meditate, walk, close your eyes and just be with the stillness.
  • My personal favorite app to support mental well being is “Calm.”  I use their simple 5-10 minute guided meditations daily. The sleep stories lull me off to dreamland, I enjoy the soothing music compositions as I go about my day, and am especially impressed by the classes they offer by masters in the field of mindfulness. Patients can email me for a 30-day free trial of the Calm Premium app to get started.
  • Yoga may elevate the brain’s GABA levels and create calm.
  • GET OUTSIDE! Get fresh air daily.  Whether it’s sunny or rainy — take a walk, dig in the garden, pull weeds, hug a tree, feel the wind in your hair, connect to the earth under your feet and hear the music of nature!

Facing COVID-19

As for COVID-19, yes it is out there . . . and yes, this is a worthy of our calm and collected attention.  Remember your daily calming practices.  From there, take good care of yourselves and others. As my Dad told me often, “Don’t be scared, be smart,” and remember to separate facts from fear.

Please Note:  If you or someone in your family shows signs of COVID-19, you cannot show up at any walk-in urgent care or other clinic (including Seasons Health).  At this time, most clinics do not have the tools available to test you correctly. Please stay home if you think you are getting a cold/flu or COVID-19. Then call your doctor, describe your symptoms and they will inform you of the next steps to take. If you are experiencing any urgent symptoms, such as high fever, difficulty breathing or other symptoms of immediate concern, call 911, or go to your local emergency room.

Helpful links:

CDC Coronavirus Homepage
CDC Proper Handwashing Technique
City of Austin Updates on COVID-19

Other ideas to get you through the storm

  • Take a few daily supplements for preventative care such as vitamin C, Zinc, and a probiotic. There are many other options for preventative care and illness I suggest based upon each individual’s needs.
  • Practice good self-care to maintain a healthy immune system:  get plenty of exercise, healthy foods, purified water and sleep. Bring in your own special stress busters. I like to take long walks, practice yoga and meditation, bounce on my mini trampoline, garden, and get plenty of deep belly laughs!
  • Avoid exposure to crowds for now; avoid being with others when either you are they are feeling sick — don’t wait until you run a fever to self-quarantine. Remember studies are showing many people are asymptomatic with COVID-19.  One of those studies, published by Eurosurveillance found that of the 634 who tested positive aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship 328 of them showed no symptoms.  This means people who have the virus could be spreading it without knowing, which could be especially dangerous to older adults and people with underlying health issues.
  • Essence oils are a wonderful addition to your wellness kit
    • Create a calming atmosphere by Defusing therapeutic-grade essential oils in your home:  Like Young Living’s Stress Away, and Grounding, thieves, lavender or orange.
    • Looking to purify the air: Purification is the blend for you.
    • To create an uplifting environment try peppermint, lemon or lavender, or blend the three!
    • Think respiratory care with R.C., Raven and my favorite Ravintsara. These can bring a comforting aroma when applied to the chest.
    • Please Note:  Young Living’s Vitality line of oils are labeled for internal use, so you can safely and confidently use them as an addition to your wellness routine.  Thieves Vitality is a good choice to support a healthy immune system.*  Other vitality oils to consider?  How about Lemon Vitality.  It only takes a drop or two.
    • *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
    • Please contact me if you would like to learn more about essence oils and why I choose Young Living.
    • See Leslie’s Lifestyle Links on Facebook for more essence oil tips.

I invite you to tap into the deeper still waters of healing that run through each of us when we take time to sit, let go and listen to our inner wisdom.  Teach the people you love to do the same . . . Moreover, I am here to help and support you, your family and friends as you navigate the best choices for your health needs.

Charlotte’s Home Visits and Remote Holistic Healthcare Consults

**I am always available for online/remote holistic healthcare consults.** I can help you navigate the many options available for both preventive and healing purposes.  Together we will come up with a plan that may include diet, nutrition, lifestyle and calming tips, Chinese herbal formulas, and other wellness formulas.  Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine formulas have been around for centuries; they helped us through SARS and other health epidemics in the past.  They are now among the best and safest of herbal antivirals.

I close with sage advice from The Way of Zen to guide you through your days, this one is hanging in my very own kitchen:

Do one thing at a time

Do Things slowly and mindfully

Connect Deeply with People and Nature

Meditate frequently

Appreciate Silence

Expect Nothing

Be grateful for everything

Observe without judgment

Consume less, create more

Let go of fears and desires

Listen to understand, not to respond

Be Patient and generous

Love Deeply

Live Simply

And there is Always John Prine, who advises in his “Spanish Pipedream” song:

Blow up your TV, throw away your paper

Go to the country and build you a home

Plant you a garden, eat a lot of peaches

And try and find Jesus on your own . . .

From the light in me to the light in you, I wish you peace and calm to carry on through the storms of life.  We will all do this together, and we will be fine.

— Charlotte

 

Pregnancy and Postpartum Care Acupuncture And Holistic Wellness Treatments

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Excellent self care during pregnancy and afterwards in the postpartum year sets the stage for well-being throughout motherhood and the nourishment extends to your child, family and beyond.  Taking care of yourself first really matters!

Many things contribute to well-being during pregnancy and postpartum, including plenty of rest, eating a well rounded nutritious diet, gentle exercise, stress management and nurturing your passions to mention a few.

Acupuncture treatments are excellent self care!   Acupuncture helps keep your body’s energy flowing freely to your reproductive and other vital organs, keep hormones balanced and helps your body relax, so it can focus on what it is innately able to do — grow and give birth to a strong healthy baby and stay healthy afterwards!

In addition to relaxing your body and helping manage general aches, pains, stressors and fatigue; regular acupuncture relieves the following common ailments experienced during the pregnancy and postpartum years:

  • Back and hip pain
  • Fatigue
  • Neck and shoulder tension
  • Achy hip and other joints
  • Carpal tunnel, De Quervain syndrome
  • Numbness and tingling in fingers
  • Sciatica
  • Pregnancy rhinitis
  • Swelling of hands and feet
  • Milk production issues
  • Postpartum depression
  • High Blood Pressure
  • and other issues that can arise during the pregnancy and postpartum years . . . just send me an email if you have any questions!

A solid self care practice during pregnancy will keep your reserves flowing for when they are needed even more — in motherhood!  Taking care of yourself teaches your children the importance of self care in their own lives. My heartfelt advice is to become solidly settled into rituals of mama care during your pregnancy and postpartum years, which will enable you to care for others from a full cup and avoid going through motherhood depleted.

Schedule an appointme nt to discuss your specific needs and get started in your self-care rituals for the pregnancy and postpartum years.  I would be honored to help build a self-care plan tailor-made for you!

mama love,

Charlotte