From the Desk of Ted Ray:

Well, another year is coming to an end and it’s time tally up our list of failures and missed goals, and worry about gaining too much weight during the holidays. WAIT! That’s way too depressing. How about a different perspective? Take a moment to focus only on what you’ve done well this year—new skills learned, successes with your kids, new programs launched at work, or perhaps making it to the gym two days per week. Now, imagine yourself a year from now. What you will be achievements will you be celebrating?

Quantum physics says that our view of a situation has an effect on its outcome. If this is true, then we must view things in the way we desire them become. As you approach holiday eating and 2008 goal planning, don’t focus on your limitations. Instead, visualize yourself eating healthily. Take time to plan your goals for 2008 and review them weekly. Remember, that to which you pay attention gets done.

Acupuncture for Sciatica: More than Symptomatic Relief?

If you’ve ever experienced sciatica, you know what a pain it can be. Symptoms include aching or burning pain in the butt (medical term) and may include nerve-like pain down the back or side of the leg. Typically symptoms are worse on one side.

• Nerve root problems at the spine around L4 and L5
• Muscle tightness causing nerve compression

Though the pain feels serious, acupuncture can get to the root of the problem. Acupuncture relaxes the muscles pushing on the sciatic nerve, and reduces nerve inflammation by “turning off” the pain signals that are. Usually 6-8 treatments address the bulk of the problem, but each person is different.

Herbal spotlight: Ginkgo Biloba

Some controversy exists in the medical community about whether Ginkgo can improve memory, but among those in the know (people with real clinical experience using this herb), it has many health improving benefits.

I use Ginkgo in my new Jet Lag Formula because it eliminates that foggy-headed feeling associated with long flights. More importantly, it offsets free-radical damage to the nerve cells in the brain. Lastly, Ginkgo can also improve blood flow to the brain and extremities make it ideal for flying and for anyone with poor circulation.

Ginkgo is widely available in health food stores. I recommend the Gaia Herbs brand. Buy a liquid extract or phyto-cap. Look for a standardized extract to 4 mg/ml Flavone Glycosides. Follow the recommended dosage on the bottle.

Ted Ray, L.Ac.
Mountain View, CA 94040
Ph: 650-564-9002
info@peninsulaacupuncture.com

Peninsula Acupuncture is a patient-focused clinic offering a full range of Traditional Chinese Medical techniques including acupuncture, herbs, cupping and tui na.

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