Acupuncture and Infertility
by Sarah Larson, L.Ac.
Topic : Acupuncture

Our fertility and drive to procreate are central to our existence, and a very basic yet strong motivator to push our species forward. When issues with fertility arise, one’s self-worth can be challenged, and one may feel very isolated in dealing with reproductive difficulties.

What can acupuncture do for fertility?

Acupuncture can help some women with infertility because it improves blood flow to the ovaries, which strengthens egg health, and to the uterus, which bolsters the uterine lining helping to hold the baby to full term.

Acupuncture also helps to relieve stress, anxiety and depression when trying to get pregnant. This allows the body to function as it should, and possibly lessens the release of cortisol, the detrimental “stress” hormone. High cortisol levels can stop a woman from ovulating, which then leads to an inability to get pregnant.

Acupuncture is effective for conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) which is one of the most common causes of infertility and for endometriosis. These are chronic conditions which may need regular treatments for a few months, but studies have shown acupuncture to be quite effective in regulating menstruation in patients with PCOS and endrometriosis.

Self-care for infertility

• Improve your diet: avoid sugary and fried foods, excess chocolate, caffeine and foods high in salt.
• Include antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium.
• Join a support group to avoid being isolated.
• Drink lots of water and get moderate exercise, such as walking.
• Stress relief is essential: learn meditation, do yoga or start a fertility journal.

There is hope for both women and men who struggle with infertility. Acupuncture is a very viable option.

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The Benefits of Stretching
by Anne Welch, Massage Therapist
Topic: Massage

As you age, your muscles tighten and range of motion in the joints can be minimized. This can put
a damper on active lifestyles and even hinder day-to-day, normal motions. A regular stretching
program can help lengthen your muscles and make daily living activities easier.

It does not have to involve a huge time commitment, but stretching can end up giving you huge
results! Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect from a regular stretching program:

• Reduced muscle tension
• Increased range of movement in the joints
• Enhanced muscular coordination
• Increased circulation of the blood to various parts of the body
• Increased energy levels (resulting from increased circulation)

Stretching is important for people of all ages! One of the greatest benefits of stretching is that
you’re able to increase your range of motion, which means your limbs and joints can move further
before an injury occurs. Post-exercise stretching can also aid in workout recovery, decrease
muscle soreness, and ensure that your muscles and tendons are in good working order. The more
conditioned your muscles and tendons are, the better they can handle the rigors of sport and
exercise, and the less likely that they'll become injured.

Stretching comes naturally to all of us. You might notice that if you have been sitting in a particular
position for a long time, you stretch unconsciously. It feels good! In addition to that good feeling, a
consistent stretching program will produce large gains in flexibility and joint movement. Be kind to
your muscles and they will be kind to you!

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The Power of C!!!
by Farah Husain, Licensed Esthetician/Makeup Artist
Topic: Skincare

So what’s the fuss about antioxidants, in general, and Vitamin C, in particular? You can’t turn on your television these days without getting antioxidant overload from all the commercials touting the magical qualities of their skincare products. Well, for once, I can tell you that it’s all true... sort of. The exception is that not all antioxident formulations are created equal. Vitamin C, and specifically L-Ascorbic Acid, need to be present in your skincare products at a relatively high concentration to really do the trick. Use a product that is 18% or higher to bring optimal results. Those fab results include neutralizing free radicals, the nasty little buggers that age your skin and break down your elastin and collagen. In addition, Vitamin C gradually evens out your skin tone because it fades sun damage and gives you the glowy supermodel skin we all lust after.

Another thing to consider before purchasing a Vitamin C serum or cream is that the professional lines most commonly found in spas, plastic surgeon and dermatalogical offices are often “pharmaceutical grade.” The pharmaceutical grade skincare label ensures that you are using the finest grade, and is therefore generally a more effective skincare product.

So in review:
• look for the term “L-Ascorbic Acid”
• make sure your Vitamin C serum or cream is labeled at 18% or higher
• check that it’s pharmaceutical grade

Invest your dollars wisely and use what works!

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