What is acupuncture, how does it work, is it for me? These may be some of the questions you have thought of when your hear someone talk about acupuncture. Acupuncture is believed to have originated in China around 100 B.C. and is a key part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, TCM. TCM is the belief that there is energy called Chi or Qi running through channels in body called meridians. Along these meridians are points called tsubos or what we commonly refer to as acupuncture points. When the Qi is not flowing properly this is considered "disease" in TCM. An analogy of streets with cars and traffic lights will help you to gain further understanding. The streets are the meridians, the cars are the Qi, and the traffic lights are the tsubos. Sometimes the traffic flows properly, sometimes the traffic is congested, and sometimes it is stagnate or non existent. TCM believes that your environment effects your Qi flow. The weather such as too much wind or too much dampness, the foods you eat, and even the emotions you experience are just a few ways your Qi flow can be disrupted. The imbalance of Qi flow can effect your organs and general function of the body. How does acupuncture help? Each traffic light or tsubo has its own characteristics and is were the acupuncturist will work to restore Qi flow. It is up to your acupuncturist to determine which meridians and points need to be worked on. Some people may see better results from acupuncture than others. This is usually because it depends on the root cause of your issue. It also may be finding the right acupuncturist for you. It is also something you must do numerous times to keep the Qi flowing properly, similar to massage. It is not a one time fix me kinda thing. This very basic information about acupuncture and TCM there is much much more, acupuncture school is typically a 4 year school here in Texas. There are many great acupuncturist here in Dallas, I do commonly refer Dr. Bai. He began practicing in China and has developed a strong following here in Dallas. A link to his website is in the links section below. Acupuncture can help alleviate many problems and can be used as a preventive measure as well.

Geranium essential oil is derived by steam distillation from the plant. Geranium has several different botanical species the one most commonly used for essential oil is pelargonium graveolens. A link directly to Source Vital's Geranium is provided in the links section of the newsletter, and it is also available for purchase at your next massage. Geranium has a light but very floral aroma. Geranium has many benefits and is a great addition to massage. Geranium is highly recommended for alleviating/treating anxiety. Especially anxiety from being overworked and nervous exhaustion. It is uplifting and can help stress and depression as well. Geranium is beneficial for the circulatory system, it helps poor blood circulation and blood pressure. It also can help blood to coagulate and helps to speed up the healing process of wounds. It has many other skin benefits similar to rose. It can help to minimize scars and firms/tightens skin making it a great anti aging tool. Geranium helps to relax the body and muscles. It is an anti inflammatory for muscles and can assist in alleviating muscle pain. It is a sedative and can promote extreme relaxation. It also helps to balance hormones and can induce menstruation there for it should be avoided while pregnant. Interesting Fact: Geranium can help fight inflammation in the neural pathways and could help fight diseases such as altzhemiers and dementia. ***Information provided on essential oils not a substitute for medical advice. It is for educational purposes only. Please consult a physician for medical treatment and advise.