Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic healing system that has been practiced for thousands of years, focusing on balancing the body’s energy, or “qi,” to maintain health. One of the key principles in TCM is the connection between the body and the seasons, with each season corresponding to specific organs and meridians. In TCM, spring is considered a time of renewal, growth, and expansion. During this season, the liver and gallbladder meridians are particularly emphasized, as they are believed to be most active in the spring months. Spring represents a period of energy flowing upward and outward, mirroring the rising and blossoming nature of plants during this season.

The liver is the organ associated with the wood element in TCM, and it plays a crucial role in the smooth flow of qi throughout the body. A balanced liver ensures that energy moves freely, which is important for emotional well-being, digestion, and overall vitality. When the liver meridian is out of balance, it can lead to symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and digestive issues, especially during the transition into spring when the liver’s energy is more easily affected. TCM practitioners often recommend gentle detoxification practices in the spring to support the liver’s function, such as drinking herbal teas, eating light and cleansing foods, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and flow.

The gallbladder, closely linked to the liver in TCM, is responsible for storing and excreting bile, which aids digestion. The gallbladder meridian, running along the sides of the body, is seen as a pathway that governs decision-making, courage, and taking action. When the gallbladder is in harmony, individuals feel decisive, confident, and capable of moving forward in their lives. In contrast, an imbalanced gallbladder can result in indecision, frustration, or even physical symptoms such as headaches or discomfort in the ribs. The springtime energy encourages the gallbladder to “take action,” and TCM stresses the importance of nurturing both the liver and gallbladder during this season to align with this natural flow of energy.

Spring is an ideal time to harmonize the liver and gallbladder meridians, supporting the body’s innate ability to thrive in the changing season. Practices like acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary adjustments are commonly used in TCM to help regulate these meridians. Foods such as leafy greens, sprouts, and sour flavors are thought to nourish the liver and enhance its function, while activities like yoga, tai chi, and walking in nature can help circulate qi and alleviate any blockages. By understanding the seasonal rhythms and supporting the liver and gallbladder, individuals can make the most of the energetic shift in spring, fostering vitality, health, and emotional balance as they step into the season of renewal.

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“Look deep into nature, and you will understand everything” -Albert Einstein

Chinese Medicine (CM), no matter what it is addressing, views the human body as a microcosm of nature.  In order to be in a prosperous state of balance, ALL aspects of a person must be in alignment—mind, body and spirit. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine focuses on harmonizing each person’s internal “climate” as a means of healing.  More specifically, CM is used to bring balance in seemingly small ways that have a profound impact on the body’s state of health.  For example, sleep might not seem related to digestion, yet it has an important effect from a CM perspective.

The practice and treatment of CM takes a more gradual approach, especially when compared to a Western medical paradigm.  Most Westerners (us!) are used to the “quick fix”—an antibiotic for infection or NSAID for pain relief.  CM, on the other hand, takes time.  A common analogy is that CM is used to “tend the soil and the root” so that our body can strengthen and heal.  Not only does this include regulating the many subtle and more significant imbalances, it also includes creating a state of calm that lasts outside of the treatment room.  Tending the soil literally means nourishing the root  from which health grows!— Diet and lifestyle not only refers to the food a person consumes, but also the ideas we believe, our responses to daily stressors and reframing our approach to navigating difficult situations (Food choices are still important :))  Such changes take time to embrace as a daily practice but very much affect a person’s internal climate and state of well being.

Acupuncture is a therapy that is used on a weekly basis—it’s like going to the gym.  If the goal is to get into good shape, one gym session every few weeks is not going to get you there.  Each acupuncture treatment is a message sent to the body to move what is stagnant, support what is deficient and clear any resulting pathologies.  Newer studies have shown that acupuncture is “dose dependent”—it’s not one single session but rather consistent treatments which address a person’s individual’s landscape that yield best results.  Western medicine understands that  our body has a natural balance or “pulse” and acupuncture redirects this pulsing into a healthy rhythm.  When the body is balanced, optimal function is possible.

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Dr. Alex is a NCCAOM Board-Certified and Licensed Acupuncturist in the State of Michigan, With a strong medical background, she earned her Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc) degree from Pacific College of Health and Science in Chicago, Illinois.

During her three and a half years of study in Chicago, Dr. Alex gained extensive clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings. She specializes in various acupuncture techniques, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), orthopedic needling, electro-acupuncture, and Master Tung acupuncture — known for its rapid and effective treatment of acute and chronic pain. In addition, Dr. Alex has been studying Acupuncture and Reproductive Medicine, focusing on male and female fertility.

Dr. Alex began her career as a general dentist after earning her degree from the Dental School at the University of Medicine in Niš, Serbia. With over a decade of experience in fast-paced, well-regarded dental clinics, she developed a deep commitment to patient care and holistic wellness.

Her journey into acupuncture was inspired by a deeply personal experience when a third family member was diagnosed with cancer despite leading a healthy lifestyle. Witnessing the limitations of conventional medicine and the side effects of standard treatments, Dr. Alex sought a more comprehensive approach to healing — one that addresses the root causes of disease and activates the body’s self-healing mechanisms.

Through her studies and practice, she has embraced the philosophy that individualized treatments yield the most enduring results. Dr. Alex firmly believes in treating patients as whole beings to successfully restore balance and harmony in their lives.

The post Welcome Dr. Alex Mladenovic, D.Ac, L.Ac – Our Newest Acupuncturist! appeared first on Michigan Associates of Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine.

We often have patients come into clinic with multiple concerns. Digestion issues are frequently part of a complex of symptoms. Many erroneously think acupuncture is only used for pain. Chinese medicine however, is a full body medicine and can help improve digestion by gently supporting the body to heal itself through several mechanisms.

1. Regulation of Qi and Blood Flow: According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), digestion issues can result from imbalances in “Qi” (vital energy) and blood flow. Acupuncture aims to restore balance by stimulating specific points on the body, which can enhance the flow of Qi and blood to the digestive organs.
2. Modulation of the Nervous System: Modern research suggests that acupuncture may affect the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions including digestion. By modulating the nervous system, acupuncture can potentially improve gut motility and reduce symptoms like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.
3. Reduction of Inflammation: Some studies indicate that acupuncture might help reduce inflammation in the gut. This could be beneficial for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or gastritis, where inflammation plays a key role in symptoms.
4. Stress Reduction: Stress can significantly impact digestion. Acupuncture may help alleviate stress and anxiety, which in turn can positively influence digestive health. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, acupuncture can indirectly improve digestive function.
5. Enhancement of Digestive Function: Acupuncture might help stimulate digestive enzymes and improve overall digestive function. It is thought to enhance the digestive process by supporting the stomach and intestines in processing food more effectively.
6. Pain Relief: For conditions associated with abdominal pain, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acupuncture may provide relief by targeting pain pathways and reducing discomfort.

While many people report positive outcomes from acupuncture, its effectiveness can vary. It’s important to be used in conjunction with diet and lifestyle changes for a more comprehensive approach to digestive health.

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The next day, still in shock and running on little sleep, I went to see my doctor. While my low back was sore, I didn’t think it was anything serious. However, I could barely bend my elbows, and my wrists were tender, though I retained some range of motion. It was clear that my elbows had taken the brunt of the fall.

Diagnosis: Broken Elbows, No Surgery

The X-rays confirmed my suspicion—broken elbows. Luckily, they weren’t as severe as fractures in my wrists or shoulders, which would have required surgery or casting. My doctor reassured me that elbows heal through movement and that no immobilization was necessary. Instead, he told me, “Just wait for your body to heal.”

But passively waiting didn’t sit well with me. As an alternative medicine practitioner, I knew there were ways I could actively support my healing process. I decided to take a proactive approach, combining both traditional and alternative therapies to speed up my recovery.

Healing Through a Holistic Approach

Mental Healing: Rest Is Essential

Healing starts from the inside out. The body doesn’t heal when we’re stressed or rushing through life—it heals when we rest. While sleep is vital, I realized that simply going back to my usual routine too quickly would hinder my progress. My body was physically repairing broken bone, and I needed to honor that by prioritizing rest.

I made sure to support my body during the initial days of healing by incorporating a variety of therapies:

• Acupuncture
• Sound Bowl Healing

Additionally, I listened to binaural beats while lying in front of the fireplace for at least 30 minutes, three times a day. This helped me enter a deep state of relaxation and promote healing. By giving myself this level of care early in the recovery process, I knew I was setting the stage for long-term success and minimizing the risk of future complications.

Internal Healing: Supplementation & Remedies

In addition to mental and emotional rest, I focused on internal healing with the following:

• T-Relief: I took one tablet up to five times daily, under the tongue, away from meals and mint. This homeopathic remedy is designed to reduce pain and inflammation, particularly after acute injuries.
• Vitamin D: I supplemented with 5000 IU daily during the first month of recovery, as vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health and immune function.  D3 with Vitamin K is the best form.
• Bone Builder Forte by Metagenics: MCHC is a highly absorbable crystalline compound that provides everything found in healthy bones.  

Physical Healing: Active Recovery

Even though I had to scale back my usual activities, I knew it was important to keep my body moving in a way that supported my healing. Here’s what I did:

• Movement: I reduced the intensity of my swimming routine but didn’t stop altogether. Gentle movement, even at a slower pace, helped keep blood flowing to the injured areas.
• Hot Tub Therapy: I spent time in the hot tub with my elbows near the jets, using the warm water to promote circulation and reduce stiffness.
• Acupuncture: For injury recovery, acupuncture was essential in getting my body out of “fight or flight” mode and into healing mode. The tiny needles stimulate microcirculation, which accelerates the recovery process.
• Light Therapy (Celluma Laser): I also incorporated Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), which uses specific wavelengths of light to improve cellular performance. Light therapy has been shown to:
  • Increase blood flow
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Stimulate collagen production
  • Accelerate tissue repair

The Celluma Laser, an FDA-cleared device based on NASA research, delivers blue, red, and near-infrared light energy to promote healing by stimulating cellular activity and supporting the body’s natural repair processes.

Two Weeks Later: Results Beyond Expectations

When I returned to my doctor for a follow-up two weeks later, he was impressed with my progress. He said, “You’re healing faster than most of my patients! You’ve regained more range of motion in two weeks than some people do in a month. What did you do?!”

It was a reassuring moment, confirming that my holistic approach was working. But I didn’t stop there. I asked my doctor how long the bones would take to fully heal and put that information on my calendar for the next 12 weeks. This served as a constant reminder to prioritize recovery and avoid rushing back into a hectic lifestyle.

The Importance of Patience and Proactive Healing

In the end, the journey wasn’t just about “waiting” for my body to heal. It was about being an active participant in my recovery, using a combination of traditional and alternative therapies to support my body at every stage.

While it’s tempting to push through pain or return to our normal routines too quickly, I learned that recovery requires patience, rest, and intentional care. By honoring the healing process early on, I set myself up for a stronger and more complete recovery.

Taking Control of Your Healing Journey

No matter the injury, you can take control of your healing process. Whether you’re dealing with a broken bone, muscle strain, or another injury, consider incorporating a holistic approach that includes both medical care and self-care practices. Rest, movement, and the right supplements and therapies can all play a crucial role in your recovery.

By committing to this process, you’re not just waiting for time to heal you—you’re actively supporting your body’s natural ability to heal itself.

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What is Light Therapy?

Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) is the application of light energy to tissue to obtain therapeutic benefits. The energy is used to improve cellular performance. LLLT is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties and has a variety of applications across many medical fields. Research has shown that LLLT can increase circulation, accelerate tissue repair, decrease inflammation, and assist in your fertility.

How Does Light Therapy Work for Fertility?
Specific wavelengths of light energy, when properly absorbed, up-regulates compromised cells and:

• Aids in Blood Flow – This process promotes the release of nitric oxide, which helps to increase blood flow, nutrient delivery and cellular health to the ovaries and uterus.
• Stimulates Cellular Activity – The light (photon) energy is absorbed by photo acceptors in the mitochondria that result in production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The ATP produced then stimulates various metabolic processes which can result in the repair and regeneration of cell and tissue components. It provides energy for the embryo to divide and implant.
• Reduces Inflammation – Inflammation is a common cause of infertility. By promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, inflammation is reduced. It also speeds up healing and reduces postoperative pain from egg retrieval.
• Balances Hormones – By stimulating the production of hormones like estrogen and progesterone, menstrual flow can be regulated & ovulation is improved resulting in the increase chance of conception.
• Increases Collagen Production – Collagen is an essential nutrient that contributes to the strength and integrity of the ligaments in support of the uterus. Softens scar tissue and adhesions and supports uterine receptivity.
  What is Celluma?
  Celluma is a low-level light therapy device available today that is FDA cleared, and based on NASA research. Celluma delivers blue, red and near-infrared light energy simultaneously to safely treat a wide variety of conditions. Each wavelength is absorbed by different molecules that act as a signaling mechanism for different cellular processes.
  When to Add Light Therapy for Fertility:
• Low AMH and High FSH
• Egg Quality issues
• Thin lining during IVF cycles
• During IVF and FET in support of implantation
•  When you have not responded to western medicine
  therapies
• Women 35 and over
• PCOS or ovulatory disorders
• Endometriosis

For more information, check out Celluma’s website, full of data

https://www.celluma.com/pages/led-light-therapy-science

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Castor oil packs are a folk remedy used for detoxification of the liver.  It encourages the movement of blood and lymph throughout the body.  Castor oil is put onto a cloth and then placed over the liver/abdomen.  (For fertility, this pack is placed over the reproductive organs—from below the belly button to the pubic bone, between the hip bones).  Next, a heat pack is placed on top while you lay with it for about 30-60 minutes.  For fertility, it is useful to get blood to move, reduce inflammation and can reduce cysts on the ovaries.  (Think painful periods and PCOS!)  In this way, they are similar to the actions of acupuncture!  I often recommend using castor oil packs in between acupuncture visits to enhance the effects of the acupuncture treatment.

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The journey to becoming parents is not always as simple and easy as it may appear on the surface. Although it is not often talked about, many couples have difficulty conceiving, for a variety of reasons.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 17.5% of the adult population experiences infertility.  This is equivalent to 1 in 6 adults worldwide.

Infertility is rooted in many causes.  At times, infertility can be unexplained (no known cause).  Other contributing factors can include endometriosis, fibroids, PCOS, advanced maternal age (for the women) or sperm count, motility or morphology, varicocele or other structural issues (for the male).   Oftentimes, it is due to a combination of a few factors.

Male factor infertility is very common.  To determine the cause of male factor infertility – it is important to get a semen analysis. The analysis will evaluate the sperm count, motility and morphology. A meeting with a urologist will also determine if there are other contributing factors such as structural, varicocele or infection.

While there are several assisted technologies  to treat male factor infertility, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine offers  effective and impactful tools to help produce better quality sperm in a relatively short period of time.

Acupuncture: Acupuncture influences the natural healing life force of our body called Qi. Qi helps to influence, strengthen, build and move our body forward in healing and repair.  Acupuncture increases blood flow, reduces inflammation and supports the body in regeneration and repair.  Sperm regenerates approximately every 90 days.

Chinese Herbal Medicine.  No two individuals are alike, and this understanding applies to Chinese Herbal Medicine. Chinese herbs are prescribed in a combination – a formula which can include 2 to 20 different herbs.  Certain formulas are created for specific categories and conditions. These conditions can address issues of reproductive health while, at the same time, can address additional/underlying issues contributing to fertility such as stress/depression/anxiety, muscle tension and fatigue and digestion.  One formula for the whole body

Chinese Medicine Diet/Nutrition It is well known that diet and nutrition can significantly influence the body’s ability to return to wellness.  Toxins in our diet and in processed foods, alcohol, and marijuana all negatively influence sperm outcomes.  This is a fact.  Chinese Medicine dietary guidelines direct the patient on how to eat, what to eat and, more importantly what not to eat.  Meeting with an acupuncturist can be very helpful in making these  positive choices.

Supplements:  There are several supplements that can have a very positive impact on sperm and reproductive health for men.

CoQ10,  also known as ubiquinone,  is an antioxidant. It is present in cell membrane and lipoproteins. CoQ10 can help with sperm motility and morphology.

L-Carnitine is a natural antioxidant that has been shown to have positive effects on improving sperm quality, motility, count, and morphology, It enhances the antioxidant defense system.

Vitamin D is important for many body functions including fertility.  Studies link low levels of this vitamin with poor sperm quality, especially motility, and show that supplementation can improve the health of your sperm.

Lycopine is another antioxidant that has been shown to reduce oxidative damage in sperm. Lycopine rich foods include tomatoes, watermelon, and red/pink fruits and berries.

As I have always stated – healing is never a straight line. An interdisciplinary approach to health offers the most comprehensive approach to fertility wellness for both men and women!

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In 18 years of practice, I’ve had my fair share of conversations supporting a patient in figuring out what to do next.  When it comes to health, the journey forward is not black and white.  There are many things to consider when you’re thinking about possible treatments whether they be medication, surgery, or alternative routes.  What I’ve found over the years is that folks aren’t always thinking as clearly as they may like to in these situations.

Oftenttimes, beneath the surface of rational thought lies a complex web of cognitive processes that can subtly influence our choices. These processes, often referred to as cognitive distortions, can significantly impact the quality and effectiveness of medical decisions.

What are Cognitive Distortions?

Cognitive distortions are patterns of thinking that are irrational, biased, or inaccurate. They can shape how we perceive information, interpret situations, and make judgments. These distortions are not deliberate; rather, they are automatic and often rooted in deep-seated beliefs or past experiences.

Examples of Cognitive Distortions in Medical Contexts

1. Catastrophizing: This involves magnifying the importance or implications of a health issue or medical procedure. For instance, someone might overly focus on the potential risks of a treatment without adequately considering its benefits.  This is very common as no one wants to be in these positions in the first place.  We have a lot of fear and resistance that comes up with health challenges.  
2. Overgeneralization: Drawing broad conclusions based on limited evidence. For instance, assuming that because one treatment did not work well for a friend, it will also fail for oneself.  I often hear this when people do an excessive amount of internet polling.  Of course it’s good to do research but you can’t take other people’s journeys on as your own.  
3. Confirmation Bias: Seeking out information that confirms preexisting beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence. This can lead individuals to favor sources that support their views rather than considering a balanced perspective.  This is very important in the day and age we are in where often times our medical information comes from patients rather than experts.  
4. Emotional Reasoning: Making decisions based on emotions rather than objective facts. For example, someone might refuse a necessary surgery out of fear, despite medical evidence indicating its benefits & safety.  I see this in practice mostly when people want to leave surgery as a “last result” when there are some occasions where the surgery is the only true way to fix the situation and waiting longer will only make the surgery more difficult to perform and recover from.  
5. Labeling: Applying overly simplistic labels to oneself or others based on health conditions. This can lead to stigma or self-fulfilling prophecies regarding health outcomes.  This is a quite common reaction to going on medication.  I’ve seen “health influencers” making statements such as “all medication is poison” while this is simply not true.  There are plenty of folks taking medication for whom it is wholly life affirming – meaning they are able to be the best versions of who they are – and have little to no negative side effects.  It is just a very nuanced conversation and to say all medication is poison is a part of why people feel the stigma and don’t take medications that they very may well need.  

Impact on Medical Decision-Making

• Treatment Compliance: Patients may fail to adhere to prescribed treatments or therapies due to exaggerated fears or misconceptions.
• Decision Paralysis: Overwhelmed by negative thinking or catastrophic predictions, individuals may struggle to make decisions, delaying necessary medical interventions.  Having a helpful medical team is the best way to navigate this situation.  Friends and family are generally not educated enough on these topics to be weighing in.  
• Misinterpretation of Information: Patients may misunderstand medical information or selectively focus on details that confirm their biases, leading to misguided choices.  
• Stress and Anxiety: Persistent cognitive distortions can exacerbate stress and anxiety related to health conditions, further impairing judgment and quality of life. This is quite common for people who experience looping thoughts.  They often are so anxious that they can’t get the proper treatment that they need, which keeps them stuck in their health challenges rather than moving through them.  

Addressing Cognitive Distortions

Recognizing and addressing cognitive distortions is crucial for improving medical decision-making:

• Education and Awareness: The first step begins with having the capacity to realize your anxiety, biases, and lack of education could be playing a role.  When we’re the patient, it’s impossible to be objective.  This will help you to see where you’re making choices from.  
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT techniques can help individuals identify and challenge cognitive distortions, promoting more balanced and rational thinking.
• Shared Decision-Making: Collaborative approaches between patients and healthcare providers can help ensure that decisions are based on comprehensive information and aligned with the patient’s values and preferences.
• Support Networks: Engaging with support groups or counseling services can provide emotional support and alternative perspectives, reducing the impact of cognitive distortions.

I’m grateful to be a part of the process of fostering awareness and reducing biases.  It’s hard to be in the patient seat which is why it takes a village of practicioners to support us when we’re going through something.

By fostering awareness, promoting education, and integrating supportive interventions, we can empower individuals to make more informed, rational, and ultimately beneficial medical decisions. Addressing cognitive distortions is not merely about correcting faulty thinking patterns but about enhancing the overall quality of care and outcomes for patients.  

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The side effects of chemotherapy and/or radiation can leave a person feeling completely depleted emotionally and physically. In addition, the side effects are different for everyone depending on the type of treatment and a person’s baseline strength.

In the clinic, we see a significant number of patients complaining of fatigue, physical weakness, all levels of digestive problems, numbness and pain to name just a few. Because chemotherapy is a treatment just as powerful as the disease it’s supposed to treat, it can depress our Qi- our life force- which fuels the efficient working of all parts of our bodies.

By focusing on strengthening our life force or Qi, acupuncture can help improve some of the fatigue and weakness. In addition, focusing on the Spleen Qi- the organ associated with digestion and utilization of food and drink, acupuncture may help with the many digestive related side effects.

When acupuncture promotes the movement of  Qi and blood, it often helps to ameliorate pain. However, just as important as addressing the physical pain and manifestations of cancer treatment, is the importance of helping with the emotional upheaval a cancer diagnosis can bring..

Of the many wonderful benefits of acupuncture, one of the most frequent comments our patients tell us is how calm and peaceful they are after treatments. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine is one of the few forms of medicine where treatment side effects are an upside: a sense of calm and well being, improved sleep and movement toward a more positive outlook on life.

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine helps with the following issues:

• Neuropathy
• Digestive issues including: Nausea, Constipation, Diarrhea and Acid Reflux
• Fatigue and Insomnia
• Inflammation and Physical Pain
• Anxiety, depression and other Emotional Distress

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