After 19 years in practice, I have had the privilege of working closely with individuals, guiding them through profound transformations in their lives. However, recently, my aspirations have grown broader. I’ve been reflecting on how acupuncture can reach and benefit more people. How can this ancient healing art address modern needs? And how can we make acupuncture more accessible and widely accepted?

During a recent weekend retreat in Sedona with a group of 12 women to celebrate a dear friend’s birthday, I carried these questions in my heart. It was during this retreat that someone shared a powerful insight: “When you have a goal that’s bigger than what you can accomplish on your own, you must find others who are already working toward that goal.”

That conversation was a turning point for me. Upon returning home, I took action and revisited an old connection—the Michigan Society of Acupuncturists (MISA). Fifteen years ago, before the birth of my first child, I served as MISA’s Membership Chair. While I had continued to pay dues over the years, I felt the urge to reconnect with this organization. I reached out to the board and asked to return, this time with the goal of building a stronger, more connected acupuncture community in Michigan—one where acupuncturists can feel supported and share resources with one another.

As I moved forward with this vision, I sought out like-minded individuals on a national level and discovered the American Society of Acupuncturists (ASA), an organization I had not been aware of previously. MISA has been a member for years, so I applied to become the Michigan Liaison for ASA—and I am thrilled to share that my application was accepted! As part of my new role, I will be leading quarterly meetings aimed at advancing the recognition and integration of acupuncture across the country.

I am deeply inspired and grateful to be in community with others who share this vision. This is an exciting opportunity, and I look forward to the collective efforts that lie ahead.

https://www.michiganacupuncture.org/about/

American Society of Acupuncturists – https://asacu.org/

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February 14: The official day of eating chocolates for breakfast.

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Let the countdown begin!  

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Celebrate the magic, cherish the moments, and make these holidays unforgettable

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One of my favorites! Great as a side dish or, add protein for a main entree!

Snap Pea and Fennel Salad
6 cups thinly sliced sugar snap peas, ends trimmed and string removed
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil
½ cup thinly shaved fresh fennel
2/3 cup roasted salted pistachios or other roasted salted nuts of choice
2 ears of corn, roasted, cooled and kernels removed
Dressing:
5 Tbsp lemon
5 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
2 Tsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp maple syrup
3 Tbsp finely minced shallot
½ tsp salt
½ tsp fine black pepper
Directions:
1. In an 8 oz bottle, combine dressing ingredients. Cover and shake to blend. Taste and add
more lemon, mustard or syrup as desired. You Can make a day or two ahead and
refrigerate.
2. In a large bowl, combine snap peas, fennel, basil, pistachios and corn.
3. Before serving coat with dressing. Gently toss.
4. Garnish with additional basil or pistachios.
5. Serve immediately after adding salad dressing.

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Honoring all who have worn the uniform with pride and courage.

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It’s time for pumpkins, candy, and magic Have a boo-tiful Halloween

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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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Wishing everyone a peaceful and joyous Labor Day!

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