Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Far East Holistic Health Care Center Acupuncture in South Pasadena, CA ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://drthomaslee.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://drthomaslee.com/blog/) - [A Quiet Turning Point: Healing the Gut from Within](https://drthomaslee.com/a-quiet-turning-point-healing-the-gut-from-within/) - According to the IFFGD, the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, approximately 5-10% of the world’s population has IBS, with most of those people under the age of 50. And like millions of people with gastrointestinal disorders, most have tried everything from elimination diets, medications, and probiotics, to stress management apps. One treatment many are surprised - [How Acupuncture Is Helping People Navigate Autoimmune Disease](https://drthomaslee.com/how-acupuncture-is-helping-people-navigate-autoimmune-disease/) - For those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, mornings can be measured in minutes. How long before the stiffness eases? How long before gripping the coffee cup without pain is a reality? How long before feeling normal kicks in? Even if you follow your rheumatologist’s treatment plan, take your medications, adjust your diet and pace your lifestyle, - [Finding Relief in the Middle of Change: Acupuncture Supporting Women Through Menopause](https://drthomaslee.com/finding-relief-in-the-middle-of-change-acupuncture-supporting-women-through-menopause/) - Many women recognize the symptoms: your body feels like it’s on fire, hot flashes inconveniently interrupting important meetings, night sweats soaking the sheets, mood swings, and fatigue that no amount of coffee could fix. These are the symptoms that usher in the menopause era. Doctors might suggest hormone replacement therapy (HRT), but for those looking - [Acupuncture as a Supportive Therapy in Cancer Care](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-as-a-supportive-therapy-in-cancer-care/) - Anyone going through cancer treatment remembers certain milestones; diagnosis day, first/last day of chemo, and hopefully the eventual all clear appointment. First, the focus is on survival. But as the weeks pass, it isn’t just cancer that patients are fighting. It’s the nausea that lingers for days, the bone-deep fatigue, the sleepless nights, and the - [Can Acupuncture Bring Relief Between Multiple Sclerosis Relapses?](https://drthomaslee.com/can-acupuncture-bring-relief-between-multiple-sclerosis-relapses/) - A diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) can change life in an instant. One minute you’re seemingly fine and the next you find yourself in a neurologist’s office. Symptoms can creep in over a few months. Symptoms like tingling in the hands, unexplained fatigue that sleep doesn’t fix, and moments where your legs feel like they - [Acupuncture for Stress and Anxiety: A Research-Backed Guide to How and Why It Works](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-stress-and-anxiety-a-research-backed-guide-to-how-and-why-it-works/) - Stress and anxiety have become defining health concerns of modern life. Fast communication, demanding schedules, and constant stimulation keep many people in a near-continuous “fight-or-flight” state. Over time this activation can disrupt sleep, digestion, mood, immune function, and cardiovascular health. While conventional treatments such as psychotherapy and medication can be highly effective, many individuals seek - [How an Ancient Therapy Supports Modern Reproductive Health](https://drthomaslee.com/how-an-ancient-therapy-supports-modern-reproductive-health/) - Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, and for many, the journey to conception involves more than medical testing and assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF. Increasingly, patients and clinicians are exploring integrative care, combining conventional medicine with evidence-informed complementary therapies. Among the most studied of these is acupuncture, a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - [The Benefits of Gua Sha: Ancient Technique, Modern Science](https://drthomaslee.com/the-benefits-of-gua-sha-ancient-technique-modern-science/) - For centuries, practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have used Gua Sha to promote healing, circulation, and balance in the body. Think of it as a scraping therapy performed with a smooth-edged tool. Today, it has evolved from a full-body therapeutic practice into a global wellness and skincare ritual used by acupuncturists, massage therapists, estheticians, - [Meridian Theory: The Ancient Map of the Body](https://drthomaslee.com/meridian-theory-the-ancient-map-of-the-body/) - For thousands of years, practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have described the human body using a very different "anatomy" than modern Western medicine. Instead of nerves, vessels, and organs alone, they spoke of an energetic network or a communication system linking every structure, function, and sensation. This network is called the meridian system. Today, - [How Acupuncture Complements Sports Medicine: An Integrated Approach](https://drthomaslee.com/how-acupuncture-complements-sports-medicine-an-integrated-approach/) - Modern sports medicine has evolved far beyond rest, ice, and painkillers. Today’s athletes, both professional and recreational alike, are increasingly supported by multidisciplinary care teams that may include physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers, chiropractors, nutritionists, and mental performance coaches. Within this integrated model, acupuncture has emerged as a powerful complementary therapy, bridging ancient medical wisdom - [What Is Moxibustion?](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-moxibustion-2/) - Moxibustion is a traditional therapy rooted in East Asian medicine that involves the application of heat to specific points on the body using moxa, a dried form of the herb Artemisia argyi (commonly known as mugwort). The goal is simple but powerful: warm the body, stimulate circulation, and support the natural flow of energy, often - [When Your Next Meal is Part of the Treatment Plan](https://drthomaslee.com/when-your-next-meal-is-part-of-the-treatment-plan/) - For many chronic health issues, everyday exposures matter most. Food isn’t only fuel. It’s raw material, signaling molecules, and a daily set of “instructions” your body reads repeatedly. The idea of food as medicine isn’t new. It shows up in traditional healing systems, in public health, and increasingly in modern clinical research. The most useful - [Cupping + Acupuncture: More Than the Sum of its Parts](https://drthomaslee.com/cupping-acupuncture-more-than-the-sum-of-its-parts/) - Do any of these scenarios sound like your life: a stubborn knot between the shoulder blades, a low-back flare that keeps returning, or a neck that feels "stuck" after long hours at a desk? Acupuncture needles can calm the nervous system and change pain signaling and cupping can mechanically decompress tight tissue and improve local - [Electroacupuncture: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Current](https://drthomaslee.com/electroacupuncture-ancient-wisdom-modern-current/) - The clinic was quiet except for the soft hum of a small device on the treatment table. A runner lay comfortably, acupuncture needles placed along her calf and lower back to address chronic pain that kept her from her regular running routine. Because of the chronic and nagging injury, she turned to acupuncture to find - [The Healing Landscape of Scalp Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/the-healing-landscape-of-scalp-acupuncture/) - Many healing journeys begin in unexpected places. For some, recovery starts not in the muscles of the back or the ligaments of a knee, but in the quiet landscape of the scalp, an area often overlooked except for styling, washing, and the occasional headache. Yet, for many people seeking relief from neurological, physical, and emotional - [Chinese & Japanese Acupuncture: Two Traditions, One Lineage](https://drthomaslee.com/chinese-japanese-acupuncture-two-traditions-one-lineage/) - Both Japanese and Chinese acupuncture spring from the same classical East Asian medical roots, yet they diverged over centuries into distinct clinical styles. In Japan, techniques evolved toward gentler, highly tactile methods. And in China, the practice of acupuncture tended to emphasize stronger needle sensation and standardized point prescriptions within Traditional Chinese Medicine, also known - [What is Five Element Acupuncture?](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-five-element-acupuncture/) - Five Element Acupuncture is a classical style of East Asian medicine that organizes diagnosis and treatment around the dynamic interplay of five phases/elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element is associated (in this framework) with organ networks, emotions, sensory patterns, and seasonal cycles. Treatment aims to restore harmony among these elements when one - [Stillness in Motion: The Healing Power of Qi Gong at Home](https://drthomaslee.com/stillness-in-motion-the-healing-power-of-qi-gong-at-home/) - Life can seem overwhelming and unmanageable at times. Everyone is looking for the secret self-care miracle that helps us cope. What may have been a desperate Google search for “natural anxiety relief” has become a daily anchor; the secret to staying calm, focused, and physically energized. A growing number of people are turning to Qi - [The Role of Pediatric Acupuncture in Children's Health](https://drthomaslee.com/the-role-of-pediatric-acupuncture-in-childrens-health/) - There are a variety of reasons for parents to seek out a pediatric acupuncturist. It usually isn’t the first resource sought out when a child is suffering from insomnia, infrequent bowel movements, or other digestive issues. However, more and more parents are looking for ways to treat these issues that don’t involve prescription medication that - [Pinpointing Migraine Relief with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/pinpointing-migraine-relief-with-acupuncture/) - According to the CDC, in the United States, over 15 percent of all adults complain about severe headaches or migraines, with prevalence among women more than twice as high as among men. In 2021, 4.3% of adults aged ≥18 years reported being bothered a lot by headache or migraine in the past 3 months, with a higher percentage - [Needle by Needle: Acupuncture and Healing from Trauma](https://drthomaslee.com/needle-by-needle-acupuncture-and-healing-from-trauma/) - People can experience trauma in a variety of ways. Trauma can be physical or emotional. It can be the result of an event like a car accident or through a relationship like with an abusive parent, teacher/coach, or spouse. Trauma doesn’t just reside in the mind but rather embeds itself deep in the body. It - [How Acupuncture Supports Healing in Autoimmune Diseases](https://drthomaslee.com/how-acupuncture-supports-healing-in-autoimmune-diseases/) - In January 2025, Mayo Clinic researchers and collaborators have described — for the first time — the prevalence of autoimmune diseases in the U.S. Their research, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, reports that about 15 million people are estimated to have one or more of 105 autoimmune diseases. Treatments can vary but more and more people - [Unlocking the Basics of Acupuncture: Understanding Qi, Blood, Yin & Yang](https://drthomaslee.com/unlocking-the-basics-of-acupuncture-understanding-qi-blood-yin-yang/) - If you’ve been thinking about trying acupuncture but aren’t sure what to expect, this article just might be the best place to start. Let’s explore the basic concepts that form the foundation of acupuncture, including the nature of Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, and how these elements influence health and healing. What Is Acupuncture? Acupuncture - [Finding Stillness: 5 Meditation Techniques](https://drthomaslee.com/finding-stillness-5-meditation-techniques/) - When Ethan first walked into the small, sunlit meditation studio at the edge of town, he wasn't sure what he was looking for. After months of grinding stress at work, sleepless nights, and a gnawing sense of emptiness, something deep inside him said it was time to slow down. But when the teacher began listing - [How Acupuncture Supports Recovery from Sports Injuries](https://drthomaslee.com/how-acupuncture-supports-recovery-from-sports-injuries/) - Whether you are an elite athlete or a weekend warrior taking your sport of choice seriously, every practice, every competition, and every training session or practice is likely aimed at perfection. But when you get sidelined by injury, your whole world can change quickly. And when standard injury recovery options like physical therapy provide little - [Why Hydration Is Essential for Life](https://drthomaslee.com/why-hydration-is-essential-for-life/) - In our busy lives, it’s easy to underestimate the silent, vital role water plays. We often think of hydration as something necessary only when we're exercising or sweating profusely. But hydration is critical to everyday health, affecting nearly every system in our bodies. Water is the Body’s Unsung Hero Water makes up about 60% of - [How Acupuncture Supports New Moms](https://drthomaslee.com/how-acupuncture-supports-new-moms/) - Late night, exhaustion, and countless diaper changes are expected for new moms. But what often isn’t expected are the overwhelming physical and emotional drain that can sometimes linger long after the hospital stay. Breastfeeding challenges, unpredictable moods, persistent back pain, and a deep sense of loneliness can become ever present in the daily life of - [Discover Acupuncture's Role in Digestive Health](https://drthomaslee.com/discover-acupunctures-role-in-digestive-health/) - No matter how clean you eat and how healthy your lifestyle, you reach a certain age, and you might begin experiencing persistent bloating, abdominal discomfort, and irregular bowel movements. Conventional treatments may prove frustrating and provide little relief. It might be time to look for a drug-free, non-toxic alternative: acupuncture. Acupuncture is believed to stimulate - [Let Acupuncture Help You Get Better Sleep](https://drthomaslee.com/let-acupuncture-help-you-get-better-sleep/) - It’s the middle of the night, usually between 2am and 4am, and you’re desperately searching for the elusive Sandman to bring you a dream, any dream, that will quiet your mind and make sleep less of a stranger. You resist the urge to scroll through your phone because that just may be the reason you - [Finding the Calm in the Storm: How Acupuncture Can Help Treat Anxiety](https://drthomaslee.com/finding-the-calm-in-the-storm-how-acupuncture-can-help-treat-anxiety/) - If you haven’t experienced an anxiety attack, you might not know the symptoms: clammy hands, heart pounding in your chest, your breath coming in short gasps, and an all-consuming sense of dread consuming you. Anxiety had been an unwelcome companion, interfering with work, relationships, and overall quality of life. Many who suffer from it try - [4 Ways Acupuncture Supports Women's Health](https://drthomaslee.com/4-ways-acupuncture-supports-womens-health/) - Imagine the hopelessness of knowing you’ve tried everything. For years, you have struggled with painful menstrual cycles, relying on over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes that barely made a difference. Frustrated and exhausted, you search for something else that might help. A friend recommends acupuncture and after a few weeks of research, skeptical but desperate, you - [How Acupuncture Combines with Adjunctive Therapies for Holistic Wellness](https://drthomaslee.com/how-acupuncture-combines-with-adjunctive-therapies-for-holistic-wellness/) - You might not think of combining acupuncture with other holistic wellness practices, but it is a great option to pair with a variety of adjunctive therapies. Let’s look at three different options to see how they might compliment each other and benefit a patient’s overall health and wellness journey. Perhaps the easiest way to express - [Finding Balance: How Acupuncture Eases the Side Effects of Cancer Treatment](https://drthomaslee.com/finding-balance-how-acupuncture-eases-the-side-effects-of-cancer-treatment/) - When someone receives a cancer diagnosis, it can feel like the world has tilted on its axis. The whirlwind of medical appointments, chemotherapy sessions, and the relentless tide of side effects can leave patients drained. Nausea, fatigue, and neuropathy can cloud the difficult days of treatment, making each step forward feel heavier than the last. - [The Benefits of the Anti-Inflammatory Diet](https://drthomaslee.com/the-benefits-of-the-anti-inflammatory-diet/) - When people face a variety of health challenges or simply changes in how they feel and their relationship to food, they may change their philosophy and look to food as medicine. And for those diligent enough to do the research, they may discover the anti-inflammatory diet—a nutritional approach that some say has transformed their life. - [The Science Behind Acupuncture and ADHD](https://drthomaslee.com/the-science-behind-acupuncture-and-adhd/) - When people first hear the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for either themselves or their children, there can be a mix of relief and apprehension. The relief comes from understanding the challenges that must be faced; the apprehension stems from concerns about the long-term use of stimulant medications. If you face such a - [The Synergy of Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care: A Path to Holistic Healing](https://drthomaslee.com/the-synergy-of-acupuncture-and-chiropractic-care-a-path-to-holistic-healing/) - Acupuncture and chiropractic care are two complementary therapies rooted in vastly different traditions but with a shared goal of restoring balance and promoting the body’s natural ability to heal. While acupuncture has its origins in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), focusing on the flow of energy through meridians, chiropractic care stems from Western practices that emphasize - [Shallow vs. Deep Acupuncture Needling](https://drthomaslee.com/shallow-vs-deep-acupuncture-needling/) - Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, originating in ancient China as a method to restore the body’s balance and promote healing. While the fundamental premise — stimulating specific points on the body to affect energy flow or “qi”— remains consistent, practitioners have developed varying techniques, including shallow and deep needling. Each method has - [Explore the Benefits of Facial Cosmetic Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/explore-the-benefits-of-facial-cosmetic-acupuncture/) - We all eventually hit the age where those fine lines and wrinkles around our eyes, nose, and mouth seem to become a bit more prominent than we would like. There are countless products and procedures out there for men and women, touting the benefits of reducing or even eliminating those pesky fine lines and wrinkles. - [The Benefits of Eating for the Seasons](https://drthomaslee.com/the-benefits-of-eating-for-the-seasons/) - Restaurants that have revolving seasonal menus have gained in popularity in recent years. The concept of seasonal eating has deep roots. Before the advent of modern agriculture and global trade, people naturally consumed foods that were locally available during specific times of the year. But today, the convenience of supermarkets allows us to eat almost - [Why You Should Try Electroacupuncture for Pain Management](https://drthomaslee.com/why-you-should-try-electroacupuncture-for-pain-management/) - For those suffering from chronic pain, traditional medications only provide temporary relief and can come with side effects that leave people feeling sluggish and unwell. Electroacupuncture combines traditional acupuncture with electrical stimulation, enhancing its effectiveness for managing pain and promoting healing. By delivering gentle electrical pulses through the acupuncture needles, this modern approach stimulates nerves, - [Five Transformative Health Benefits Acupuncture Provides for Overall Health](https://drthomaslee.com/five-transformative-health-benefits-acupuncture-provides-for-overall-health/) - As more insurance plans and more allied health practitioners begin to embrace what has traditionally been known as “alternative medicine” treatments, acupuncture has enjoyed a surge in popularity with potential patients desperate for a drug-free alternative for their overall health and wellness. Acupuncture, an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been gaining - [Enjoying The Ancient Art of Tai Chi](https://drthomaslee.com/enjoying-the-ancient-art-of-tai-chi/) - When walking the dog through a local park in the early morning, you may have noticed a group of people moving gracefully and effortlessly, like a river flowing around rocks. They are practicing Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art that combines slow, deliberate movements with deep breathing and mindfulness. Tai Chi, which was once - [Restoring Breath: Acupuncture for Treating Sleep Apnea](https://drthomaslee.com/restoring-breath-acupuncture-for-treating-sleep-apnea/) - According to the National Council on Aging, approximately 39 million U.S. adults suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. And for those with severe cases, it can lead to heart, kidney, and metabolic health complications. Despite trying the common solution of a CPAP machine and recommended lifestyle changes, many find their breathing issues persist, impacting not only - [Using Acupuncture as an Alternative Approach to Managing Menopause Symptoms](https://drthomaslee.com/using-acupuncture-as-an-alternative-approach-to-managing-menopause-symptoms/) - Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life, marking the end of her reproductive years. While this transition is entirely normal, it often comes with a range of challenging symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. For many women, these symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life. Hormone Replacement - [Acupuncture as a Treatment for Allergies](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-as-a-treatment-for-allergies/) - Allergies affect millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening reactions. Conventional treatments typically involve antihistamines, corticosteroids, or immunotherapy, but these approaches often address only the symptoms rather than the root cause. As people seek more holistic and natural treatments, acupuncture has emerged as a popular alternative therapy for managing allergies. - [Acupuncture for Treating Infertility in Men and Women](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-treating-infertility-in-men-and-women/) - Infertility is a growing concern worldwide, affecting millions of couples trying to conceive. As conventional treatments can be costly and sometimes come with side effects, many are turning to alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, for help. But what are the potential benefits of acupuncture in treating infertility in both men and women? Understanding Infertility Infertility - [The Benefits of Meditation](https://drthomaslee.com/the-benefits-of-meditation/) - Meditation, a practice rooted in ancient traditions, has gained significant popularity in the modern world for its numerous mental and physical health benefits. As stress and anxiety levels continue to rise, more people are turning to meditation as a means of finding inner peace and improving overall well-being. Meditation is a practice that involves focusing - [Finding Relief: The Benefits of Acupuncture for Treating Chronic Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/finding-relief-the-benefits-of-acupuncture-for-treating-chronic-pain/) - According to a study published in 2023, approximately 51 million people in the United States suffer from chronic pain, with about 17 million of those suffering from high-impact chronic pain. Those who suffer from chronic pain find their lives altered in difficult ways. The search for relief is constant. Traditional medicine offers various prescription medications, - [Understanding the Differences Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/understanding-the-differences-between-dry-needling-and-acupuncture/) - When most people hear the term “acupuncture” they think of needles being inserted into the skin. The term dry needling is often brought up for people suffering from pain as well and it also includes needles being inserted into the skin. But for the most part, that’s where the similarities end. Everything from their origins - [A Helpful Primer on Acupuncture Needles](https://drthomaslee.com/a-helpful-primer-on-acupuncture-needles/) - Just how many types are there and what do they all do? If you’ve ever thought about trying acupuncture, you might find yourself with an equal mix of curiosity and trepidation. What is this “ancient medicine?” How does it work? And what about all the different kinds of needles? Do they hurt? Let’s take some - [Finding Relief: Acupuncture for Neuropathy](https://drthomaslee.com/finding-relief-acupuncture-for-neuropathy/) - According to a 2014 study, approximately 10% of Americans suffer from some form of neuropathic pain. And those numbers have only increased since then. Neuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nerves, leading to pain, weakness, and sensory disturbances. Traditional treatments can offer limited relief depending on the severity of the condition and patients - [Acupuncture: A Gentle Touch in the Fight Against Cancer](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-a-gentle-touch-in-the-fight-against-cancer/) - Hearing you’ve been diagnosed with cancer can feel like getting run over by a freight train. It can be overwhelming to learn about the prognosis, treatment options, and what to expect as you begin the journey that will hopefully lead to a full recovery. The aggressive treatments, often including chemotherapy and radiation, can leave patients - [Acupuncture Offers Hope for Diabetes Management](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-offers-hope-for-diabetes-management/) - If you or someone you love suffers from type 2 diabetes, then you understand the challenges that come with this disease. Despite adhering to a medication regimen and making positive lifestyle changes, those dealing with diabetes might still struggle with managing blood sugar levels. Frustration and fatigue can be constant companions. But did you know - [Examining the Synergy of Acupuncture and Meditation](https://drthomaslee.com/examining-the-synergy-of-acupuncture-and-meditation/) - If you suffer from stress and anxiety (and really, who doesn’t?) and you are looking for better and holistic ways to cope, you might want to consider the combination of meditation and acupuncture. While there is a big difference between the two, what they bring together is a formidable duo in pursuit of complete wellbeing. - [Benefits of Working with Allied Practitioners](https://drthomaslee.com/benefits-of-working-with-allied-practitioners/) - How your acupuncturist can build bridges among your health care team. Let’s see if we can set the scene of something remarkable, something that could become the future of healthcare. Picture yourself walking into a doctor’s office or health clinic looking for relief from your debilitating chronic pain. The nurse calls your name and leads - [Veterans Can Find Relief and Recovery with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/veterans-can-find-relief-and-recovery-with-acupuncture/) - You would be hard pressed to find a warrior who didn’t come home wounded; either physically, emotionally, or more likely, both. Those who serve our country often return carrying the weight of their experiences, unable to find solace due to their deep emotional scars. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 11%-20% of - [Using Acupuncture to Manage Autoimmune Diseases](https://drthomaslee.com/using-acupuncture-to-manage-autoimmune-diseases/) - Autoimmune diseases can prove to be intricate and seemingly unsolvable puzzles for many people. And statistics prove this to be true as millions worldwide are impacted by autoimmune diseases ranging from rheumatoid arthritis to lupus, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, irritable bowel disease, and even Parkinson’s disease. Conventional medicine can diagnose 100 different autoimmune conditions, however - [Unlocking the Ancient Wisdom of Gua Sha](https://drthomaslee.com/unlocking-the-ancient-wisdom-of-gua-sha/) - Gua sha is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Practitioners of this medicine believe that a person’s qi, or energy, must flow unhindered throughout the body so you can feel your best. When qi becomes stagnant, health problems occur. With Gua sha, your acupuncturist uses a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape areas of your body where - [The Benefits of Detoxifying your Body with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/the-benefits-of-detoxifying-your-body-with-acupuncture/) - Life can be incredibly stressful. Even if things are “going well,” the constant pull of the needs of others including kids, coworkers, parents, and even friends can leave us feeling drained and often leads us into making poor lifestyle choices. But what if there was a place you could go to heal your body and - [Acupuncture for Orthopedic Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-orthopedic-pain/) - Orthopedic pain is a big deal for many Americans, and it comes in many different forms including knee, hip, shoulder, and other joint pain. Acupuncture has been proven an effective tool to deal with orthopedic pain…even Harvard Medical School thinks so. Chronic pain can be debilitating for those suffering from it and directly impacts quality - [Acupuncture & Athletes: A Winning Combination](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-athletes-a-winning-combination/) - Whether a weekend warrior or a seasoned semi-professional or professional competitor, athletes are always looking for that competitive edge, the thing that can keep them healthy and give them a bit more in the tank to defeat the competition. Sports acupuncture is a great tool athletes can use as part of their overall health care - [Acupuncture & Cupping: The Basics](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-cupping-the-basics/) - Cupping and acupuncture are the winning combination for dealing with chronic pain and muscle strains. Its popularity has grown in recent years, and you’ve probably seen professional athletes and celebrities with the telltale giant red welts all over their bodies. Here’s what you need to know if you are thinking about adding cupping to your - [What Japanese Acupuncture Can Do for You](https://drthomaslee.com/what-japanese-acupuncture-can-do-for-you/) - If acupuncture is new to you, you might not know that there are different forms of acupuncture. While Chinese acupuncture is a bit more mainstream here in the West, Japanese acupuncture is becoming renowned for its effectiveness. Traditional Japanese acupuncture (which includes Meridian Therapy) is defined as “an imbalance in qi and blood flowing in - [Does Acupuncture Treat Heart Disease?](https://drthomaslee.com/does-acupuncture-treat-heart-disease/) - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. And ethnicity doesn’t matter, as people of all racial and ethnic groups are impacted. With such serious statistics, many might wonder what treatment options are available. Did you know that - [Benefits of Adding Acupuncture to Your Wellness Routine](https://drthomaslee.com/benefits-of-adding-acupuncture-to-your-wellness-routine/) - This is the time of year when many are looking to start (or restart) their wellness routines. Self-care Saturdays may have fallen by the wayside during the holiday season and now is the time to get back on track. As you examine your health goals and wellness priorities this year, have you considered adding acupuncture - [Healing Trauma with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/healing-trauma-with-acupuncture/) - Trauma can be emotional or physical and carries a weight with it for those who suffer from a traumatic event and the longer post-traumatic stress that can come from it. Fortunately, we live in a time where help is available. Since acupuncture subscribes to the whole mind/body/spirit healing approach to balancing energy and achieving complete - [Acupuncture for Treating Leaky Gut Syndrome](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-treating-leaky-gut-syndrome/) - There are a variety of gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases that can contribute to what is known as leaky gut syndrome. So, what exactly is leaky gut syndrome? It’s close to exactly what it sounds like. Each one of us has semi-permeable guts. What that means is the mucous lining of our intestines is designed to - [The 12 Meridians of the Body Explained](https://drthomaslee.com/the-12-meridians-of-the-body-explained/) - The meridian system is a phrase that comes up often during acupuncture treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that energy (also referred to as qi) flows throughout the body much like blood does. When this flow of energy becomes disrupted, symptoms and disease can occur. Acupuncture and other forms of Eastern medicine work to restore the - [LED Light Therapy & Acupuncture: A Perfect Pairing](https://drthomaslee.com/led-light-therapy-acupuncture-a-perfect-pairing/) - Acupuncture is a proven treatment option when it comes to dealing with a host of health problems, from allergies to depression to chronic pain. Acupuncture is the key to restoring the body’s energy flow and achieving balance. Acupuncturists also may use herbal remedies, acupressure massage, and other modalities like LED light therapy to enhance their - [Winning Combination: Cupping & Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/winning-combination-cupping-acupuncture/) - While you might be familiar with acupuncture or Traditional Chinese Medicine, cupping might be a new concept. It’s become more popular in recent years as celebrities and professional athletes have touted its benefits and proudly showcased the sometimes giant red welts on their bodies. But what is cupping and how does it work with a - [What is Electroacupuncture?](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-electroacupuncture/) - While you might be familiar with what acupuncture is, have you ever heard of electroacupuncture? Just like traditional acupuncture, electroacupuncture uses needles on various acupuncture points. The difference comes in that with electroacupuncture, a small electrode is attached to the needles which allows a small amount of electricity to pass through, giving a slight vibration - [Three Reasons to Add Deep Breathing to Your Daily Routine](https://drthomaslee.com/three-reasons-to-add-deep-breathing-to-your-daily-routine/) - You might think breathing is second nature, right? You’re doing it right now as you are reading this. But did you know that there are different kinds of breathing and that what is called deep breathing can have important health benefits? Read on to learn just three of the most important reasons you should add - [Acupuncture for Healthy Weight Management](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-healthy-weight-management/) - Different weight loss drugs and diets are always coming into and out of fashion as different celebrities endorse different programs and plans. If you are looking for a long-term, drug-free solution, acupuncture just might be the perfect fit for you. What acupuncture does is regulate the flow of qi, or energy, throughout the body, bringing - [8 Benefits of Practicing Regular Meditation](https://drthomaslee.com/8-benefits-of-practicing-regular-meditation/) - Meditation has a reputation for several health benefits but here are the top eight reasons establishing a regular meditation routine can improve your overall health and wellbeing. But first, what is meditation? It is defined as the regular process of training your mind to focus and redirect your thoughts. Stress Buster Research proves that meditation - [Acupuncture and Peripheral Neuropathy Relief](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-peripheral-neuropathy-relief/) - According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 20 million people in the United States suffer from peripheral neuropathy. The NIH also notes that it is particularly common among those suffering from diabetes. So, what is peripheral neuropathy and can acupuncture help to relieve its symptoms? Peripheral Neuropathy Defined Medical professionals define peripheral neuropathy as - [Acupuncture Research Roundup](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-research-roundup/) - According to the National Institutes of Health, research has demonstrated that acupuncture could be helpful for a variety of pain conditions including back pain, knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, and postoperative pain. There is also evidence to suggest that it helps relieve joint pain “associated with the use of aromatase inhibitors.” Also, according to the - [Acupuncture for Treating Addiction](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-treating-addiction/) - People seeking treatment for addiction typically have a complex road to recovery. Everyone’s story is different, and people have different needs and respond to treatment in their own time and in their own way. What many people might not be familiar with are the supplemental therapies that can be used to help promote healing and - [What to Expect at Your First Acupuncture Appointment](https://drthomaslee.com/what-to-expect-at-your-first-acupuncture-appointment/) - Just like every patient is unique with specific needs and expectations, every practitioner is also unique with specific needs and expectations. If acupuncture is a new experience for you, you might be wondering what to expect. While not every practice is the same, there are a few general principles that will guide your first appointment. - [6 Acupressure Points to Help Manage Your Asthma](https://drthomaslee.com/6-acupressure-points-to-help-manage-your-asthma/) - If you or a family member suffer from asthma, you might be looking for another alternative to the typical treatment options. With little to know side effects, acupuncture and acupressure just might be what you have been looking for. There are actually six common acupressure points that can help you manage your asthma symptoms. Talk - [Three Tips to Staying Active at Any Age](https://drthomaslee.com/three-tips-to-staying-active-at-any-age/) - Staying active as a teenager and young adult is never an issue, but as we age, it can be a challenge to keep moving, especially if you suffer from a health condition or injury. However, it’s important to keep yourself moving as it can lead to a host of physical and mental health benefits. Follow - [Facial Rejuvenation with Cosmetic Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/facial-rejuvenation-with-cosmetic-acupuncture/) - There are countless articles and research papers on the benefits of acupuncture, but did you know that it can also be used to combat the signs of aging? A natural alternative to surgery or Botox, facial acupuncture is merely an extension of traditional acupuncture and Chinese medicine philosophy. Unlike an injection of Botox or some - [Four Reasons Self-Care Should be a Priority in Your Life](https://drthomaslee.com/four-reasons-self-care-should-be-a-priority-in-your-life/) - Self-care has become a trendy buzzword in the post-Covid era but the benefits to practicing regular self-care are undeniable. But first, let’s talk about what self-care is and what it isn’t. Self-care is taking steps to address your physical and emotional health needs to the best of your ability. Self-care is not being selfish or - [Can Acupuncture Help with Depression?](https://drthomaslee.com/can-acupuncture-help-with-depression/) - As mental health issues have come to the forefront in recent years, many have sought more natural treatment options that don’t involve pharmaceuticals and their potentially harmful effects. Acupuncture has become a popular option for treating mental health issues, including depression. But does it work? Before we answer that question, let’s give a proper definition - [What is Moxibustion?](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-moxibustion/) - You might have heard your acupuncturist mention Moxibustion as a treatment option. This unfamiliar term needs some definition and clarification for most. So, what is it? Moxibustion is defined as a form of heat therapy that involves burning the dried moxa plant and leaving it on or very near the skin’s surface, thus promoting the - [Embracing Herbal Therapy: What You Need to Know](https://drthomaslee.com/embracing-herbal-therapy-what-you-need-to-know/) - Herbal therapy has been championed by China and other Eastern countries for centuries. As Western medicine looks for more natural alternatives with fewer side effects, herbal medicine is gaining a foothold in the treatment of several common health concerns. Read on for advice from the Cleveland Clinic and learn what recent research has to say - [6 Ways to Stay Mentally Strong](https://drthomaslee.com/6-ways-to-stay-mentally-strong/) - Just as we develop our physical muscles to gain strength and maintain our health, we also need to pay attention to strengthening our mental muscles. Learning to develop mental strength can help in many ways from overcoming challenging situations, to learning from and bouncing back from failure to viewing these challenges as opportunities for growth. - [Acupuncture and Nutritional Support](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-nutritional-support/) - If you are one of the millions of people who made a New Year’s resolution last month to eat better and make healthier choices in 2023, then it might be time to take stock of how that process is going. Are you already off the wagon and back to your unhealthy habits? Or are you - [Food as Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/food-as-medicine/) - Mama Always Said: You Are What You Eat Maybe mom really did know best when it came to nutrition. As research has shown, what we eat can actually impact our health profoundly. Over the years, we have learned that our dietary choices can influence our risk of disease. And some have made it a profitable - [Why You Should Choose Acupuncture to Treat Fibromyalgia](https://drthomaslee.com/why-you-should-choose-acupuncture-to-treat-fibromyalgia/) - According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, fibromyalgia is one of the most chronic pain conditions. They say, “the disorder affects an estimated 10 million people in the U.S. and an estimated 3%-6% of the world population. While it is most prevalent in women (75%-90% of people who have fibromyalgia are women), it also occurs in - [Acupuncture Helps with PTSD Symptoms](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-helps-with-ptsd-symptoms/) - While commonly connected to those who have served in the military, post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD, can impact anyone who has suffered from violence or emotional trauma. The National Institute of Mental Health defines PTSD this way, “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after exposure to a potentially traumatic event that is beyond a typical - [Acupuncture for Chronic Back Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-chronic-back-pain/) - A Harris Poll released earlier this year found that approximately three out of ten U.S. adults currently suffer from chronic low back pain. To put it another way, that’s an estimated 72.3 million people! Common treatments usually include prescription medications which bring their own complications and side effects into the picture. If you are looking - [Acupuncture for Sports Injuries](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-sports-injuries/) - Whether you are a professional, college, or high school athlete (or maybe just a weekend warrior), you know that injuries can happen when you least expect it. Sometimes, it’s a traumatic injury because your body was pushed beyond its limit and sometimes, the injury comes from simple overuse. And every athlete wants to get back - [How Acupuncture Can Improve Lung Health](https://drthomaslee.com/how-acupuncture-can-improve-lung-health/) - The health of our lungs isn’t necessarily talked about a lot when general health is discussed. Typically, cardiovascular health, chronic pain, cholesterol and stroke risk tend to be the more common topics. Many don’t think about lung health until there is a problem and then improving it becomes priority number one. And it isn’t just - [Acupuncture as an Alternative to Opioids](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-as-an-alternative-to-opioids/) - According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, almost 50,000 people die every year from opioid overdoses, more than 10 million misuse opioids in a given year, and opioids are a factor in 72% of overdose deaths. You hear about the opioid crisis on the nightly news frequently but what can be done to - [Five Benefits of Consistent Acupuncture Treatments](https://drthomaslee.com/five-benefits-of-consistent-acupuncture-treatments/) - In a nutshell, traditional acupuncture, also known as Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM, works under the belief that the body is controlled by a flow of energy called qi traveling through pathways in the body that are called meridians. Acupuncturists believe that when these pathways become blocked and the energy can’t flow freely, various health - [Cancer Treatment Side Effects? Acupuncture to the Rescue](https://drthomaslee.com/cancer-treatment-side-effects-acupuncture-to-the-rescue/) - Cancer treatments can cause a variety of other side effects that also need to be addressed. More and more research is showing acupuncture as a viable option for additional pain management for those receiving chemotherapy or surgery and for the common side effects those treatments can bring. These side effects can include neuropathy, dry mouth, - [Acupuncture & Skin Conditions](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-skin-conditions/) - Got Acne, Eczema or Psoriasis? Acupuncture Can Help Our skin is our most visible organ and can often be the first thing people notice about us. If you suffer from a severe case of acne, eczema, or psoriasis, your skin care is the most important thing you think about. Over-the-counter medicine is a common first - [Acupuncture for Weight Loss](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-weight-loss/) - Most of us have those pesky few pounds that just won’t release their grip on us. We might try the latest diet or exercise trend but that weight just won’t come off. Or maybe you have more than just a little weight to lose. Rather than jump on the latest fad diet that sounds too - [Treating Sciatica Pain with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/treating-sciatica-pain-with-acupuncture/) - Anyone who has suffered from sciatic nerve pain can tell you it can be a very debilitating condition. It is typically caused by an impingement of the sciatic nerve in the lower back but the pain is actually felt radiating down the leg and in the buttock. There are several potential causes of sciatic pain - [Acupuncture for Better Circulation](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-better-circulation/) - Perhaps the greatest benefit of acupuncture is that this form of medicine has been practiced for thousands of years and has been specifically used to increase circulation for centuries. At the bedrock of this medicine are the techniques used to stimulate sympathetic responses resulting in blood vessel dilation and increased blood flow. Maybe a simpler - [Acupuncture for a Healthy Prostate](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-a-healthy-prostate/) - Prostate health might not be at the top of every guy’s health checklist but it’s important for men to get checked and get checked early if they have a family history of issues or cancer. And while it isn’t talked about very much, there is some promising research showing acupuncture is an effective treatment option - [Benefits of Acupuncture in Treating Immune Deficiency](https://drthomaslee.com/benefits-of-acupuncture-in-treating-immune-deficiency/) - Boosting immunity has become the buzzword of the last two years of the pandemic as everyone has examined ways to keep their immune systems strong to repel Covid-19. And most people understand that our immune systems are like the guards of the body's cells, tissues, and organs. A strong immune system will repel the worst - [Using Acupuncture to Treat Liver & Kidney Health: Why it Works](https://drthomaslee.com/using-acupuncture-to-treat-liver-kidney-health-why-it-works/) - According to the National Institutes of Health, chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 1 in 7 U.S. adults (an estimated 37 million). And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 4.5 million adults have been diagnosed with liver disease. Those are some sobering statistics, but did you know that acupuncture has - [Benefits of Acupuncture during Pregnancy](https://drthomaslee.com/benefits-of-acupuncture-during-pregnancy/) - Bringing a child into the world is one of life’s greatest gifts. But, along with the anticipation of that little bundle of joy, often comes some physical challenges and discomfort that can make for a long nine months. Did you know that acupuncture has been shown to address several issues that come up during pregnancy? - [Putting Your Best Face Forward with Facial Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/putting-your-best-face-forward-with-facial-acupuncture/) - Facial acupuncture might sound like too much to try (you’re going to put needles in my face?), but it really is beneficial to overall health and wellness. In a cosmetic facial acupuncture practice, the practitioner uses acupuncture points on the body to treat the underlying patterns of disharmony and local face points to address facial - [Three Ways Acupuncture Can Help with Menopause](https://drthomaslee.com/three-ways-acupuncture-can-help-with-menopause/) - For many women, the journey through menopause can be fraught with various symptoms that can range in severity from mild at one end of the spectrum to debilitating at the other. The menopausal transition is different for every woman and tailored treatments offered by acupuncture can provide significant benefits. Although studies outline more, let’s look - [Acupuncture for Mental Health and Wellness](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-mental-health-and-wellness/) - The conversation around mental health has become much more prominent in recent years thanks in part to the pandemic. Depression, loneliness, anxiety have all increased for many people especially in the last couple of years. Sometimes a prescription medication is needed to deal with a particular mental health issue but often, people are looking for - [The Benefits of Acupuncture for Chronic Fatigue](https://drthomaslee.com/the-benefits-of-acupuncture-for-chronic-fatigue/) - The Mayo Clinic describes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) as a “complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that lasts for at least six months and that can’t be fully explained by an underlying medical condition. The fatigue worsens with physical or mental activity, but doesn’t improve with rest.” It’s estimated that there are more than 200,000 - [Benefits of Acupuncture in a Palliative Care Setting](https://drthomaslee.com/benefits-of-acupuncture-in-a-palliative-care-setting/) - People entering a hospice or palliative care setting bring with them a host of symptoms and emotions and often a multidisciplinary team of doctors and care providers. Research has shown that the addition of an acupuncturist to the hospice team can be effective and impactful at providing maximum comfort and improve quality of life. Specifically, - [Three Things to Know About Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/three-things-to-know-about-acupuncture-herbal-medicine/) - Acupuncture and herbal medicine often go hand-in-hand. Herbal medicine is often used in conjunction with acupuncture, as appropriate, to support the body’s healing process. Just like a traditional medical prescription, herbs are prescribed by Oriental Medicine practitioners to address a variety of health concerns. They are often prescribed as formulas rather than specific individual herbs - [Establishing Care with Your Acupuncture Practitioner](https://drthomaslee.com/establishing-care-with-your-acupuncture-practitioner/) - Acupuncture has a proven track record of success but if you haven’t yet added acupuncture to your health care routine, then it’s important to note that your experience will greatly depend on the acupuncture provider you ultimately choose. And the best way to determine the right acupuncturist for you is to identify your specific health - [How Kids Can Benefit from Regular Acupuncture Treatments](https://drthomaslee.com/how-kids-can-benefit-from-regular-acupuncture-treatments/) - It’s becoming more and more common for parents to look for natural and effective treatment options to deal with childhood health concerns. Acupuncture is a great option for those looking to keep the whole family healthy in both mind and body. It really doesn’t matter how old you are, young or old, families can benefit - [Acupuncture Meridians and Qi Explained](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-meridians-and-qi-explained/) - If you are just beginning to look into acupuncture, you will be exposed to language you probably aren’t familiar with. One of the first phrases you might come across is the term “meridian.” Meridians are defined as the invisible channels through which qi (or energy) circulates throughout the body. The acupuncture points are the locations - [Acupuncture Can Help You Deal with Allergy Symptoms](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-can-help-you-deal-with-allergy-symptoms/) - Research tells us that acupuncture has been beneficial in treating a variety of conditions including high blood pressure, stress and anxiety, and headaches, just to name a few. And the good news is, you can add allergy symptoms to that list as well. The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation recommends that doctors - [Acupuncture Helps Treat Arthritis Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-helps-treat-arthritis-pain/) - According to the CDC, arthritis is a common health problem in the U.S., affecting more than 54 million people, with this number expected to rise to 78 million in the next 20 years. Among chronic diseases in the U.S., arthritis causes more disability than any other condition, including heart disease, diabetes, and back or spine - [Three Benefits of Using Acupuncture to Treat Your Migraines](https://drthomaslee.com/three-benefits-of-using-acupuncture-to-treat-your-migraines/) - Migraine headaches are debilitating for those who suffer from the pain. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, approximately 39 million people in the U.S. suffer from migraine disease. Some migraine studies predict that up to 12% of adults in the U.S. have migraines, with 4 million suffering from chronic migraines. Worldwide, it is estimated that - [Studies Show Acupuncture Helps Reduce High Blood Pressure](https://drthomaslee.com/studies-show-acupuncture-helps-reduce-high-blood-pressure/) - Those suffering from hypertension, or high blood pressure, are at risk for a host of other health issues including suffering a stroke or heart attack. And for some people, the prescription drugs used to treat high blood pressure either aren’t effective enough or bring on undesirable side effects. In recent years, studies have shown that - [5 Acupuncture Points to Help You Sleep](https://drthomaslee.com/5-acupuncture-points-to-help-you-sleep/) - According to the American Sleep Association (ASA), approximately 50-70 million Americans suffer from some type of sleep disorder. The ASA reports that insomnia is the most common specific sleep disorder, with short term issues reported by about 30% of adults and chronic insomnia by 10%. Getting enough sleep is critical to overall health and massage - [The Benefits of Qi Gong](https://drthomaslee.com/the-benefits-of-qi-gong/) - Acupuncture is one of three branches of ancient traditional medicine. The other two are herbal medicine and the practice of a physical and mental discipline called Qi Gong. The main objective of each branch is to bring about a harmonious flow of Chi. The art of Qi Gong dates back more than 5,000 years and - [Feeling Stressed and Anxious? Try Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/feeling-stressed-and-anxious-try-acupuncture/) - We all know that stress is just a part of life. We all have moments of feeling anxious or depressed, but when those feelings become more of a permanent fixture in our lives, it is time to get some help. What many may not know is how effective acupuncture can be in providing relief to - [Military Veterans Find Relief with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/military-veterans-find-relief-with-acupuncture/) - Military veterans often return from service with a host of physical, mental, and emotional challenges related to their tours of duty. Rarely does a service member present with just one health issue. A 2014 study summarized the challenges associated with treating veterans and their often complex medical issues. The study said, “Veterans of all war - [Six Ways Acupuncture Can Improve Women’s Health](https://drthomaslee.com/six-ways-acupuncture-can-improve-womens-health/) - Women’s health issues can be complex and unique to each person. However, traditional Western medicine solutions are full of invasive procedures that can alter hormones. Other solutions include prescription drugs that can have strong side effects for those taking them. Unfortunately, many women believe these are the only options. However, acupuncture can be a tremendous - [Four Ways Acupuncture Can Improve Men’s Health](https://drthomaslee.com/four-ways-acupuncture-can-improve-mens-health/) - Some men might not consider acupuncture as a first resort when wanting a health reset, but acupuncture can be a great way to deal with some of the issues that come with getting older. There are certainly more than four, but here are the top four ways acupuncture can improve men’s health. Reducing Stress Many - [Acupuncture is Great for Treating Chronic Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-is-great-for-treating-chronic-pain/) - The National Institutes of Health estimates that approximately 25.3 million adults suffer from chronic pain (defined as experiencing pain every day for the preceding three months). They also estimate that nearly 40 million adults experience what is considered severe levels of pain. Chronic pain can be debilitating for those suffering from it and directly impacts - [Top 3 Reasons Acupuncture is Great for Seniors](https://drthomaslee.com/top-3-reasons-acupuncture-is-great-for-seniors/) - As we get older, those aches and pains become a little more pronounced and life begins to create some new challenges. For many seniors, schedules become impacted with doctor’s appointments and trips to the pharmacy. If you haven’t tried acupuncture, here are three reasons you should give it a try as it can greatly help - [Why and How Acupuncture Works for Infertility](https://drthomaslee.com/why-and-how-acupuncture-works-for-infertility/) - Infertility struggles have become more and more common in recent years. There are many physical and environmental contributors to infertility and couples dealing with this issue are desperate for solutions. As it makes its way into the mainstream health world, acupuncture has become more of a go-to treatment method for both males and females; and - [Is Acupuncture Safe Post-Covid? 4 Things Your Acupuncturist Wants You to Know Before You Book Your Appointment](https://drthomaslee.com/is-acupuncture-safe-post-covid-4-things-your-acupuncturist-wants-you-to-know-before-you-book-your-appointment/) - To say that 2020 was a stressful year is putting it mildly. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, many people put checkups and other medical procedures on hold, including acupuncture treatments. If you are more than ready to get back to your treatments, here are four things your acupuncturist wants you to know about their safety procedures - [Acupuncture for Healthy Weight Loss](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-healthy-weight-loss/) - In the United States, an estimated 300,000 people a year die from obesity. In several studies over the last five years, researchers have shown patients who receive regular acupuncture treatments see faster weight loss results than those who do not. In each case, the acupuncture treatments were combined with dietary and lifestyle changes also aimed - [Acupuncture for Mother's Day](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-mothers-day/) - What better way to celebrate and support the mothers in your life this year than with an acupuncture appointment? As a one-time mother’s day gift, acupuncture is a relaxing, revitalizing hour all for herself. As a regular part of her health routine, acupuncture can keep her from getting sick frequently and offer a holistic treatment - [Acupuncture for Inflammation](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-inflammation/) - For many of the afflictions acupuncture can treat – allergies, back pain, headaches, the list goes on – reducing inflammation in the body is a primary reason acupuncture is successful. For decades now, doctors and medical researchers have been trying to learn what the biological mechanism is that allows acupuncture to reduce inflammation in the - [Acupuncture is Preventive Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-is-preventive-medicine/) - I think we all know someone, or maybe it’s even ourselves, who lives by the refrain, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it.” Often used to put off replacing outdated tools or technology, the phase can be connected to how we view healthcare as well. It can be hard to think about our physical health - [Acupuncture for Anger Management](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-anger-management/) - Anger is the emotion associated with springtime in Traditional Chinese Medicine. For most of us, we consider anger a bad emotion, something to avoid or get rid of, so why would it be one that TCM would shine a light on? Well, no emotion is inherently good or bad, it’s how we deal with challenging - [Regrowth: Spring and Traditional Chinese Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/regrowth-spring-and-traditional-chinese-medicine/) - Three thousand years ago, when Chinese medicine was first being practiced, there was no light or electricity. No way to mask the darkness of winter. No way, either, to ignore the longer, warmer days of springtime. Because it is such an ancient practice, a lot of the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine comes from a - [Acupuncture for Diabetes](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-diabetes/) - More than 34 million Americans have diabetes, and approximately 90 percent of them have type 2 diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Type 2 diabetes, while its exact cause is unknown, develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Because of this, treatment often - [5 Acupoints for Anxiety You Can Administer Yourself](https://drthomaslee.com/5-acupoints-for-anxiety-you-can-administer-yourself/) - “At a time when people are so conscious of maintaining their physical health by controlling their diets, exercising, and so forth, it makes sense to try to cultivate the corresponding mental attitudes too.” - HH the Dalai Lama, 1963 It can be easy to forget how much our mental state can affect our physical well-being. - [Acupuncture Wrapped: An overview of some of the most exciting discoveries in 2020](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-wrapped-an-overview-of-some-of-the-most-exciting-discoveries-in-2020/) - As we enter a new year, it is natural to want to look back on the last one. As humans, we have the gift and the hurdle of marking time, so it can feel helpful to recall memories we want to hold on to or look for lessons we can take with us. To that - [Intention setting in the new year](https://drthomaslee.com/intention-setting-in-the-new-year/) - It’s that time of year again: the time when many of us engage in the practice of setting a new year’s resolution. It seems, though, that hand-in-hand with new year’s resolutions is the prediction of inevitable failure. That as soon as you pick a resolution, you won’t actually make it through the whole year sticking - [Winter and your Kidneys](https://drthomaslee.com/winter-and-your-kidneys/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, health is achieved by living in balance with nature and the seasons. Winter, the season of the Water Element, is the season for slowing down, reflecting, and conserving our resources. We all feel this tendency, but we don’t always listen to our bodies. In Western culture, being active is rewarded and - [You’re Getting Sleepy...](https://drthomaslee.com/youre-getting-sleepy/) - Enjoying Naps in the Winter Season Most mammals are polyphasic sleepers, meaning that they sleep for short periods throughout the day. For humans, days are divided into two distinct periods, one for sleep and one for wakefulness, which is a monophasic sleep pattern. However, this may be a product of living in an industrialized world - [What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-seasonal-affective-disorder/) - Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a condition believed to be linked to a lack of sunlight where the individual experiences mood changes and emotions similar to depression. SAD occurs mostly in the Fall and Winter months when there is less sunlight exposure. It’s found that around 5 percent of people may experience SAD lasting 40% - [Acupuncture and Autoimmune Diseases](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-autoimmune-diseases-2/) - Autoimmune diseases are a collective group of disorders that plague nearly 50 million people in the United States today. When a person suffers from an autoimmune disease it means their own immune system is attacking the body and altering or destroying the tissues. Autoimmune diseases include things like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn’s disease, pernicious anemia, - [Balance Your Body - Stave off COVID-19](https://drthomaslee.com/balance-your-body-stave-off-covid-19/) - If you feel like you’re battling frequent colds, a cough that won’t quit, or just seem to be tired all the time, it may benefit you to find time for a daily walk or simple exercise routine. Doing this a few times per week can have many health benefits and help build your immune system. - [What is Moxibustion and How Can it Help](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-moxibustion-and-how-can-it-help/) - Traditional Chinese medicine is a medical system that incorporates numerous methods for treating disease and illness. One of the tools found in the toolbox of the Traditional Chinese medicine practitioner is known as moxibustion. This technique involves the burning of mugwort, known as “moxa”, which is an herb that facilitates healing. The purpose of moxibustion - [Herbs & Acupressure Points for Coronavirus](https://drthomaslee.com/herbs-acupressure-points-for-coronavirus/) - As we learn to navigate this new world where an ever looming virus is present, it’s important to learn which ways we can help ourselves and loved ones,get through a time of illness.. Below are herbal remedies and acupressure points for self-care to help aid with symptoms of COVID-19 such as coughing, shortness of breath - [4 Ways To Support Your Kids: Back-To-School & COVID](https://drthomaslee.com/4-ways-to-support-your-kids-back-to-school-covid/) - 2020 has proven to be a year of trials and growth for all of us. With a new school year just around the corner, it’s important to have an open dialogue with our children about what to expect, how to stay safe and how they can express themselves even with certain restrictions. GET THEM A - [Acupressure Points to Help Depression](https://drthomaslee.com/acupressure-points-to-help-depression/) - We’re confident that you’ve heard of acupuncture, but do you know where it comes from? The study and practice of acupuncture and acupressure have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years and is an ancient healing technique. Acupressure and acupuncture apply the same principles, but acupressure uses pressure points instead of - [Foods to Eat to Help Depression](https://drthomaslee.com/foods-to-eat-to-help-depression/) - Many have heard the question posed what came first, the chicken or the egg? But how does that concept apply to depression? It’s well-known that when we’re depressed, our motivation and interest in maintaining a healthy and balanced diet subsides in the same way our energy does. Harvard Medical Students positioned that same question in - [Traveling the Energetic Highway: What Are Meridians?](https://drthomaslee.com/traveling-the-energetic-highway-what-are-meridians/) - Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a system that seems quite foreign to many in the Western world. However, this medical system has been around for over 3,500 years, in comparison to the Western medical system, which has been around since the 19th century. One of the concepts of TCM is that of the meridian or - [Opioid Addiction: What Is It and Why Is It Prevalent Today](https://drthomaslee.com/opioid-addiction-what-is-it-and-why-is-it-prevalent-today/) - Opioids. A word all too common to today’s society. Since the late 1990s, the number of opioid-related deaths has increased dramatically, having taken the lives of nearly 64,000 Americans each year. The opioid epidemic is considered to be the deadliest crisis in United States history and overdoses have also become the leading cause-of-death in people - [Eastern vs. Western: How the Medical Practices Differ](https://drthomaslee.com/eastern-vs-western-how-the-medical-practices-differ/) - Almost everybody knows there are two very unique ways of treating disease and maintaining health. But not everybody knows how these two methodologies differ from one another. And depending on where you live in the world, there may be one that is more prominent than the other. Both systems have their pros and cons. So - [The Flu & You - How Can TCM Help?](https://drthomaslee.com/the-flu-you-how-can-tcm-help/) - Chinese medicinal clinical studies have suggested that using acupuncture as a preventative approach to colds and flu can reduce the incidence of upper respiratory tract infection and shorten the duration of the illness. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine work by rebalancing the body’s systems, regulating the body’s healing energies, and enhancing the immune system. Even though - [Meridian Point: Large Intestine 4](https://drthomaslee.com/meridian-point-large-intestine-4/) - Large Intestine 4 is one of the most important and influential acupoints in the entire body. The Chinese name for Large Intestine 4 is “He Gu” meaning union valley or converging valley. The point is located on the hand in the web between the thumb and index finger, also described as the depression where the - [Germ Theory: 101](https://drthomaslee.com/germ-theory-101/) - Why do some people always catch a cold, and others don’t? Viruses, germs, and bacteria are everywhere. They are in the food we eat, the air we breathe and the water we drink, but not all of them are bad or harmful. Think of the immune system as your body's security detail. The cells, tissues, - [Acupuncture: The Original Biohack for Migraines](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-the-original-biohack-for-migraines/) - Having recurring migraines is similar to parenting a temperamental toddler. When they go from being annoying to actively disruptive and mildly infuriating, there is often little one can do but grit your teeth and persevere. The helpful suggestions for managing this occurrence involved a mixture of expert opinion, anecdotal hearsay, individual tinkering and a big - [Successful Herbs to Move Liver Qi](https://drthomaslee.com/successful-herbs-to-move-liver-qi/) - We often say in Traditional Chinese Medicine that the liver is the system most easily susceptible to stress. Stress knots the Qi (energy) and makes its flow stagnate - this happens most quickly in the liver energy system. The liver, in TCM, is in charge of the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. This - [How to Stay Healthy As Winter Changes to Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/how-to-stay-healthy-as-winter-changes-to-spring/) - For most people, the change of seasons from winter to spring is something to look forward to. But it also means a time when people tend to get sick or seasonal allergies start to flare up. This can make things miserable for a lot of people. As the weather fluctuates between freezing cold and warmer, - [Food Color and Nutrition](https://drthomaslee.com/food-color-and-nutrition/) - In Chinese medical theory, food is considered medicine. Food has qualities and functions biochemically and energetically that target specific organs. Not only that, but the action a particular food takes to benefit that organ in terms of taste, color and temperature is what is included in Five Element theory. Food has a relationship to both - [Moxibustion and Dysmenorrhea](https://drthomaslee.com/moxibustion-and-dysmenorrhea/) - A study conducted by Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has determined that the use of moxibustion at specific days during a woman’s menstrual cycle can decrease pain associated with menstruation. Dysmenorrhea or painful menstruation is a big problem for many women. This study used moxibustion, an accessory modality of TCM, to treat the - [Acupuncture for Boosting Your Circulation](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-boosting-your-circulation/) - Healthy blood circulation is a vital component of life for human beings. Without proper blood flow, life would cease to exist. Blood isn’t the only thing that’s important, it’s what the blood is carrying that makes circulation so important. Blood carries fresh oxygen, hormones and nutrients that we absorb from our food. Without these components, - [5 Acupoints to Help You Navigate Your Stress This Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/stress-tcm-acupuncture-acupoints/) - There are several acupressure points that are known to treat stress and stress related symptoms. It’s important to understand that acupressure is not the only form of treatment and having a balanced diet, exercise regime and lifestyle will also decrease the chances of stress being a factor in your life. ACUPOINTS The following five acupoints - [Stay Healthy This Winter with a Balanced Qi](https://drthomaslee.com/stay-healthy-this-winter-with-a-balanced-qi/) - Winter’s element is water and is associated with the kidneys, which in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is considered the source of all qi and energy within the body. Winter is also associated with the bladder and adrenal glands. Focusing on inner reflection, rest, energy conservation and storage during the winter months is when it’s most - [Winter Acupuncture: Governing Vessel 14](https://drthomaslee.com/winter-acupuncture-governing-vessel-14/) - Governing Vessel 14 is called The Great Hammer. This point is located below C 7 on the spine. C 7, the seventh cervical vertebrae is the one which is the most prominent. Traditionally the vertebrae were referred to as hammers because of their resemblance to the tool. This point is great because it is the - [Five Self Care Tips for Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/five-self-care-tips-for-winter/) - Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that humans should live in harmony with the seasons. According to traditional Chinese medicine there are five seasons: winter, spring, summer, late summer and fall. Each season has many associations that help us change our habits, allowing for a more balanced mind and body. When these systems were being developed, people - [Acupuncture for Kids](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-kids/) - Most kids, as well as a lot of adults, are afraid of needles. So the pairing of acupuncture and kids might not be an obvious one. However, more and more parents are seeking alternative methods of treatment for their children, because our conventional medical system is faltering a bit. Pharmaceuticals are proving to be more - [Five Self Care Tips for Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/five-self-care-tips-for-fall/) - Fall is a favorite season for many people. The weather starts getting a little cooler, things are beginning to slow down and preparations for the holidays are in full swing. For many others, fall is not so festive. Many people get sick during the fall months, allergies can flare up for some, and many don’t - [Healthy Foods for Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/healthy-foods-for-fall/) - The season of fall brings cooler weather and shorter days. As with any season, the world adjusts accordingly. Plants begin to go dormant, animals begin scrounging for food to store to get them through the upcoming winter months and humans start winterizing everything. As fall descends on the land, it reminds us we need to - [TCM and Cystic Fibrosis](https://drthomaslee.com/tcm-and-cystic-fibrosis/) - Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that disrupts normal function of the epithelial cells in the body. Epithelial cells line the passageways of many of our vital organs, including the lungs, liver, kidneys, reproductive system and the skin. Those who have cystic fibrosis have a defective gene that impairs epithelial cell function. This can lead - [Acupuncture and Autoimmune Diseases](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-autoimmune-diseases/) - Autoimmune diseases are a collective group of disorders that plague nearly 50 million people in the United States today. When a person suffers from an autoimmune disease it means their own immune system is attacking the body and altering or destroying the tissues. Autoimmune diseases include things like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn’s disease, pernicious anemia, - [Five Reasons to Get Acupuncture for Low Back Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/five-reasons-to-get-acupuncture-for-low-back-pain/) - Statistics show eight out of 10 people will experience low back pain at some point during their life. Seeking medical treatment for back pain is very common. Typically back pain is fleeting and can be easily resolved with rest, heat and an occasional anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen. However, once the damage is done, the recurrence of - [3 Acupressure Points for Low Back Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/3-acupressure-points-for-low-back-pain/) - Statistics show that almost eight out of 10 people experience low back pain at some point during their life. Seeking medical treatment for back pain is very common. Typically back pain is fleeting and can be easily resolved with rest, heat and an occasional anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen. However, once the damage is done, the recurrence - [3 AcuPoints for Anxiety](https://drthomaslee.com/3-acupoints-for-anxiety/) - One of the most wonderful things about being an acupuncturist is the ability to stimulate points on my own body when I need to. If I get a headache, or feel a cold coming on, I can always hop up on my table for a quick tune-up with some needles. Even when I’m not at - [Seven Ways to Set and Achieve Your Goals](https://drthomaslee.com/seven-ways-to-set-and-achieve-your-goals/) - No matter what you’re trying to accomplish, setting goals is one way to help you get there. Often, when people have no goals, they lack motivation, focus and direction. Setting goals also provides a benchmark to determine whether or not you are succeeding. But how do you set goals if you’ve never done so before? - [4 Tips for an Energizing, Joyful Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/4-tips-for-an-energizing-joyful-summer/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season is associated with one of the elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Perhaps unsurprisingly, summertime is associated with the element fire. Fire represents maximum activity. In nature, everything is at its peak growth during the summer, so TCM sees our energy as its most active and exuberant. Summer - [Healthy Eating from Early to Late Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/healthy-eating-from-early-to-late-summer/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM is all about balance. In this ancient system, the key to health is to move through the world in such a way that our bodies can remain in homeostasis, in balance. This idea connects to sleep patterns, what we eat and ultimately the flow of Qi, or energy, throughout the - [Extraordinary Vessels - Chong Mai](https://drthomaslee.com/extraordinary-vessels-chong-mai/) - Most acupuncture points are located on the 12 primary channels that flow along the surface of the body. However, there are eight Extraordinary Vessels that flow more deeply in the body, and are perhaps even more powerful that the 12 primary channels. The Extraordinary Vessels regulate the 12 channels, and are deep lakes of energy, - [Extraordinary Vessels - Dai Mai](https://drthomaslee.com/extraordinary-vessels-dai-mai/) - In addition to the 12 main acupuncture meridians that flow along the surface of the body, there are also deeper channels of energy in the body called the Extraordinary Vessels. You can understand the relationship between the primary acupuncture channels and the Extraordinary Vessels by thinking about what happens when it rains: first, small ditches - [4 Lifestyle Tweaks to Thrive this Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/4-lifestyle-tweaks-to-thrive-this-spring/) - In traditional Chinese medical theory, one of the best ways to stay healthy is to live in balance with the seasons. Balance, in this context, means mindfully crafting your diet and certain aspects of your lifestyle based on what season it is. An easy way to think about this is with fruits and vegetables: we - [Eating Well for Springtime](https://drthomaslee.com/eating-well-for-springtime/) - Traditional Chinese medicine says aligning your diet with the seasons is one of the best ways to stay healthy. Mother Nature provides exactly what we need to be healthy. Paying attention to the fruits, vegetables and herbs that grow during different seasons in the region where you live is a great way to incorporate the - [Boost It With Ginseng](https://drthomaslee.com/boost-it-with-ginseng/) - Ginseng is said to resemble a human body in shape, and it has been used for years in Asia. Recently, it has become a popular item in Western culture. Many claims about this root have been advertised, such as its reputation for extending longevity and its use for stamina and endurance. Let’s look at the - [Dandelion: Detox With This Yellow Charmer](https://drthomaslee.com/dandelion-detox-with-this-yellow-charmer/) - Next time you’re in a wide open field, pasture or meadow dotted with beautiful yellow dandelions, know that these prolific little delights are not only beautiful, but packed with nutrition and offer a host of healthy benefits. Let’s explore this amazing flower. Dandelions are known as Pu Gong Ying in pinyin and are used frequently - [Five Reasons Acupuncture Helps Digestive Function](https://drthomaslee.com/five-reasons-acupuncture-helps-digestive-function/) - Digestion is a complex task performed by the body. It begins in the mouth and finishes when the ingested food leaves the body through the rectum. For all we have learned over the years regarding digestion, there is still so much more we don’t know or are still learning. For example, it wasn’t until recently, - [Herbal Tonics for Digestion](https://drthomaslee.com/herbal-tonics-for-digestion/) - Digestive disorders can be simple like flatulence or gas, or they can be much more serious, such as Crohn’s disease. But regardless of the severity of the disease, there is no doubt digestive disorders affect far more people than they should, especially in the United States. A recent survey reports nearly 74 percent of all - [Five Reasons to Get Acupuncture for Migraines](https://drthomaslee.com/five-reasons-to-get-acupuncture-for-migraines/) - Migraine headaches are a bit of mystery to the medical world. This ailment tends to be poorly understood and frequently undiagnosed and under-treated. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, this neurological disease affects nearly 39 million Americans. Migraines are characterized by severe, throbbing pain usually found on only one side of the head. Migraine headaches - [It's All In Your Head: Headaches and TCM](https://drthomaslee.com/its-all-in-your-head-headaches-and-tcm/) - There are four main types of headache: tension, cluster, sinus and migraine. And, there are varying triggers for these headaches, such as food, stress, hormones, dehydration and weather. Fortunately, eliminating the triggers and finding natural ways to prevent and help an ongoing headache are possible. Tension: Tension headaches are the most common and are the - [Acupuncture for Harnessing Willpower](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-harnessing-willpower/) - Ever had one of those days or weeks where you just can’t pull yourself out of bed in the morning? Or perhaps you just can’t say “No!” to the dessert tray. Regardless of the activity, willpower is what keeps some people disciplined. But it doesn’t make you a bad person if you have dessert with - [TCM and Seasonal Affective Disorder](https://drthomaslee.com/tcm-and-seasonal-affective-disorder/) - Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, is a form of depression that affects people all throughout the world. Most commonly experienced during fall and winter months, the symptoms of SAD include depression, hypersomnia, lethargy, difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts and decreased social interaction. Higher levels of anxiety are experienced at the end of the summer - [Walnuts and Your Brain](https://drthomaslee.com/walnuts-and-your-brain/) - Many people like to add walnuts to food to add some zest and a little crunchy kick, but walnuts are much more than a flavor additive, as they are chock full of healthy properties and have been used in Asia as an overall health tonic and brain booster for years. Let’s take a nutty look - [The Shen Mind Connection](https://drthomaslee.com/the-shen-mind-connection/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine looks at things differently and while it may be a little confusing, there is usually some common ground that can be found upon examination and explanation. One such area is the idea of the mind. The mind in Traditional Chinese Medicine is commonly referred to as the shen. In Chinese medicine, the - [Physical Aspects Related to The Lungs](https://drthomaslee.com/physical-aspects-related-to-the-lungs/) - In the world of Traditional Chinese medicine, the lung is probably the organ whose TCM functions overlap the most with its Western functions. Respiration, the immune system and the skin are all systems heavily influenced by the lung, both in acupuncture and in Western medicine. If you visualize where the lungs are located in the - [Mental and Emotional Aspects of the Lungs](https://drthomaslee.com/mental-and-emotional-aspects-of-the-lungs/) - As an acupuncturist, I am constantly assessing. Before my patients answer a single question, I am taking in cues as to what types of imbalances might be going on. In five-element acupuncture, the five major organ systems are the kidney, liver, lung, heart and spleen. When any of these systems are out of balance, certain - [Herbal Tonics to Reduce Stress](https://drthomaslee.com/herbal-tonics-to-reduce-stress/) - Stress is something that affects everybody. Stress is defined as a state of mental or emotional tension or strain resulting from demanding or adverse circumstances. This can result in a multitude of symptoms, including headaches, muscle tension, pain, insomnia, worry, anxiety, depression and even disease. And according to a recent survey, nearly 77 percent of - [Five Reasons Acupuncture Helps Reduce Stress](https://drthomaslee.com/five-reasons-acupuncture-helps-reduce-stress/) - Stress is a word many people are familiar with. The dictionary defines stress in multiple ways, but there is only one that matters when we discuss how stress affects our physical bodies. The definition is this, “stress is a physical, chemical or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension.” And while most people think - [Five Acupuncture Points for Indian Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/five-acupuncture-points-for-indian-summer/) - Acupuncture is part of a medical system that dates back nearly 3,500 years. This medical system is known as Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM. TCM acknowledges not four but five seasons. The fifth season, Indian Summer, occurs in late August through mid-September. Each season in TCM has a pair of organs or energetic pathways it - [Healthy Eating According to Traditional Chinese Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/healthy-eating-according-to-traditional-chinese-medicine/) - Do you consider yourself a healthy eater? Do you follow the guidelines set forth by the government for healthy eating? Or have you gone rogue? There are as many different definitions of healthy as there are colors in the rainbow. But according to traditional Chinese medicine, there are certain guidelines that will keep the body - [Herbal Formulas for Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/herbal-formulas-for-summer/) - Summer. The word alone stirs up thoughts of campfires, flip flops, popsicles, swimming and long sunny days. However, for many people it also means sunburns, mosquito bites and excessive sweating. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to deal with all of these issues. Sipping on some refreshing lemonade or munching on a slice of watermelon - [Five Acupuncture Points for Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/five-acupuncture-points-for-summer/) - Summer is a season of abundant energy and light, long days, pool parties, ice cream and lemonade. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recognizes summer as the time of year that has the utmost yang and therefore the element associated with summer is fire. In TCM, there are specific energetic pathways related to each season and element. - [Seven Ways Acupuncture Can Help Men’s Health](https://drthomaslee.com/seven-ways-acupuncture-can-help-mens-health/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete medical system that has been around for nearly 3,000 years. It combines nutrition, herbs, acupuncture and other modalities to help keep the body functioning properly, while also treating any ailments that might occur. TCM has been used to treat both men and women, regardless of their age, and - [TCM and Libido in Men](https://drthomaslee.com/tcm-and-libido-in-men/) - If your love life is lackluster, have you considered Traditional Chinese medicine to help a sagging libido? Acupuncture and herbal formulas may just be the ticket to improve your sex life and reignite your fire. There are many factors to consider that could be contributing to low libido in men, including stress, depression, age, drugs - [Why You Should Get Regular Acupuncture Treatments](https://drthomaslee.com/why-you-should-get-regular-acupuncture-treatments/) - Everybody knows you should see your family physician at least once a year and your dentist at least twice a year. But not everybody knows about acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine and the many benefits it can provide for you. If you start incorporating acupuncture into your health and wellness regime, you may not have - [Acupuncture and TCM for Sprains and Strains](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-tcm-for-sprains-and-strains/) - We’ve all heard of and maybe even experienced a sprain or a strain. But do you really know the difference? A sprain is defined as a stretch or tear of a ligament. A strain, on the other hand, is defined as an injury to a muscle or tendon. Sprains can result from a fall, a - [Herbal Tonics for Allergies](https://drthomaslee.com/herbal-tonics-for-allergies/) - An allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance, called an allergen. This could be anything from something you inhale to something you touch to something you eat. An allergic reaction may cause sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, a running nose, a sore throat and rashes. In severe cases, allergic reactions can induce - [Five Reasons to Get Acupuncture for Allergies](https://drthomaslee.com/five-reasons-to-get-acupuncture-for-allergies/) - Allergies, seasonal or otherwise, is one of the biggest health issues people deal with in the United States. And the numbers are rising every year. Part of this is because our agricultural practices have changed drastically in the past 40 years and our bodies are not accustomed to dealing with genetically modified foods or the - [Eating According to TCM: Five Foods for Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/eating-according-to-tcm-five-foods-for-spring/) - Spring is a time of renewal, regeneration, growth and energy. The plants and animals awaken from the slumber of the cold winter months. The vital nutrients that have been stored in the roots of the plants and the bodies of the animals, comes to the surface and life becomes more vibrant and fluid. Human beings - [Five Acupuncture Points for Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/five-acupuncture-points-for-spring/) - Spring is the season of growth, regeneration, increased activity and new beginnings. During the season of spring, people experience many changes. Allergies, high blood pressure, headaches, sinus pain and congestion, anger, irritation and tendon problems are just some of the issues common to the spring months. Many of these problems can be attributed to increased - [Mental/Emotional Aspects of The Heart](https://drthomaslee.com/mental-emotional-aspects-of-the-heart/) - The major responsibility of the heart in TCM is housing the mind and controlling the shen. “Shen” can be seen as the overall healthiness of the mind. When you look at a healthy person in good spirits, you know how you can see that in their eyes? There is a certain bright clarity and sense - [Physical Aspects of The Heart](https://drthomaslee.com/physical-aspects-of-the-heart/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the heart is the organ most closely linked to emotion. Think about all the terms we use every day to describe our state of mind: “heartsick,” “heartbroken,” “heartache” The heart is not the director of subtlety; the emotions it encompasses seem to always be on the far end of the spectrum, - [Auricular Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/auricular-acupuncture/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine is a medical system that dates back nearly 4,000 years. Auricular acupuncture was first mentioned around 500 B.C. in the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, which is the equivalent of the Bible for TCM practitioners. However, the method in which auricular acupuncture is practiced today is actually based upon discoveries that - [Why am I so cold?](https://drthomaslee.com/why-am-i-so-cold/) - Everyone feels cold sometimes, but some people are perpetually chilled to a point where it interferes with their lives. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, there are two different kinds of cold in the body: full cold and empty cold. Full cold refers to a condition where there is an excess of cold-type energy in - [The Bladder in Chinese Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/the-bladder-in-chinese-medicine/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the bladder is one of the six yang organs, paired with one of the six yin organs. The yin organs store vital substances (such as Qi, blood, yin, and yang), whereas the yang organs are more active and have a function of constantly filling and emptying. The bladder is a perfect - [Successful Tonics to Boost the Kidneys](https://drthomaslee.com/successful-tonics-to-boost-the-kidneys/) - The kidneys in Traditional Chinese Medicine are a vital energy system. They are the root of all yin and yang in the body, and they store our essence. They govern growth, reproduction and healthy progression through the different cycles of life. They play a role in healthy aging and preventing lots of age-related decline. They - [Eating Right for Your Body Type](https://drthomaslee.com/eating-right-for-your-body-type/) - Five Elements Traditional Chinese Medicine, a medical system that has been around for nearly 3,000 years, views the body differently than modern medicine. When the body is broken down to its core, its tiniest molecules can be classified as energy. This means every element of the universe resides within the human body, to some degree. - [Positive Side Effects of Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/positive-side-effects-of-acupuncture/) - During an initial session of acupuncture, most practitioners began with an extensive health intake that goes over all of the systems in the body. We use this to determine certain patterns of imbalance, allowing us to treat the root cause of issues. This is one way we differ from Western medicine. I have learned throughout - [Building Protective Qi with TCM](https://drthomaslee.com/building-protective-qi-with-tcm/) - Everybody gets sick at some point in their life. For some, it’s just a quick weekend thing. For others, it can last for several days and even weeks. Why do some people always get sick whenever there is a bug going around and others don’t? It all comes down to immunity. People who have a - [Five Ways to Increase White Blood Cell Count with TCM](https://drthomaslee.com/five-ways-to-increase-white-blood-cell-count-with-tcm/) - Leukopenia is a term used when there are less than adequate white blood cells in the bloodstream. This condition may make those suffering from it susceptible to infections. Leukopenia is often seen in diseases such as AIDS, cancer and lupus, as well as in common occurrences like the flu or a cold. Leukopenia can also - [Acupuncture and Alcohol Detoxification](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-alcohol-detoxification/) - Alcoholism affects nearly 16 million adults in the United States, yet only approximately 1.5 million Americans actually seek and get help to deal with their addiction. According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, nearly 88,000 people die from alcohol-related deaths every year, which makes alcohol the fourth leading preventable cause of death in - [Acupuncture and Cervical Health](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-cervical-health/) - Women’s health is a big part of the healthcare industry. And acupuncture can be very beneficial in caring for the overall health of women. Acupuncture has been especially effective in helping with things like infertility, turning breech babies, inducing labor and clearing up infections. The cervix is just one small part of the uterus. Specifically - [Ssshhhh: Organ Sound Vibration](https://drthomaslee.com/ssshhhh-organ-sound-vibration/) - Did you know shushing someone might actually may be beneficial to your health? There are six healing sounds known to Taoist qi gong practice that vibrate specific organs and promote emotional and physical well-being. It has been shown sound vibrations promote healing and provide a type of massage to the organs. Six main organs that - [Easy Does It Meditation](https://drthomaslee.com/easy-does-it-meditation/) - There is a large variety of meditation to choose from. It isn’t all just sitting cross-legged with your eyes shut. Let’s explore types of meditation. Types of meditation include Buddhist practices, transcendental, zen, mantra, chakra, sound, guided and active. How can someone choose where to start? Think about the type of person you are overall, - [Fermented Foods and Intestinal Health](https://drthomaslee.com/fermented-foods-and-intestinal-health/) - The modern world is changing every single day. Because of this constant state of change, our bodies are frequently having to adjust. We have a food supply being degraded and depleted of nutritional content, which in turn, causes our bodies to become depleted. Our soil and water is contaminated with antibiotics and deadly fertilizers. All - [Are Your Eyes Red or Inflamed?](https://drthomaslee.com/are-your-eyes-red-or-inflamed/) - In the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the liver energy flows upward into the eyes. When this energy is flowing smoothly and working as it should, your vision is clear and sharp, you have efficient night vision and the eyes are bright and well-lubricated. When out of balance, the liver can generate heat that rises - [Summer Solstice](https://drthomaslee.com/summer-solstice/) - During the summer solstice your yang energy reaches its peak. It is important to harness the peak of this yang energy, because as summer shifts into fall yang energy will decline. This great abundance of yang energy will translate throughout your body because during this season you are active and growing. According to five element - [IBS: Relief with Traditional Chinese Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/ibs-relief-with-traditional-chinese-medicine/) - Irritable Bowel Syndrome, otherwise known as “spastic colon,” is a common disorder that affects the colon and causes many disruptive symptoms. Many of these symptoms can be managed with a simple change in diet and lifestyle. Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture may be able to help. IBS symptoms may include gas, bloating, alternating constipation and - [Acupuncture: Not Just Needles](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-not-just-needles/) - Most people have heard of the field of acupuncture by now, but did you realize the scope of the practice encompasses Chinese medicine, which includes so much more than needles? Let’s explore this ancient therapy. First of all, the practice of Chinese medicine starts with a diagnosis. The practitioner asks many questions to build a - [Seven Ways Acupuncture Can Help Mothers](https://drthomaslee.com/seven-ways-acupuncture-can-help-mothers/) - One of the best gifts you can give your mother this Mother’s Day is the gift of acupuncture. Acupuncture can help with an abundance of health problems and get you feeling one hundred percent again. Mom’s make the world work, it’s a known fact. So this holiday season you should give your mother the gift - [Acupuncture for Addiction](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-addiction/) - Addiction is defined as the compulsive physiological need for and use of a habit-forming substance, which means addiction can come in a lot of different forms. People can be addicted to illicit drugs like heroin just as easily as they can be addicted to sugar. But for the purpose of this article, let’s stick to - [Does Your Liver Need a Spring Tune-Up?](https://drthomaslee.com/does-your-liver-need-a-spring-tune-up/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season is ruled by a particular organ system and spring is connected to the liver. What does this mean? Well, you probably notice changes in the way you feel, both physically and mentally, as the seasons change. I know I tend to feel a bit more contemplative and introspective during - [Acupuncture and colon cancer](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-colon-cancer-2/) - Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States with about 60,000 deaths from it every year. Like all cancer, treatment can be long, uncomfortable and come with many side effects. Those getting chemotherapy may experience nausea, vomiting, postoperative pain, cancer related pain, insomnia and anxiety. The chronic pain can significantly impact - [All About Moxibustion](https://drthomaslee.com/all-about-moxibustion/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine is a medical system that incorporates numerous methods for treating disease and illness. One of the tools found in the toolbox of the TCM practitioner is known as moxibustion. Moxibustion is a technique that involves the burning of mugwort, known as moxa, which is an herb that facilitates healing. The purpose of - [Heart Afire: The Fire Element](https://drthomaslee.com/heart-afire-the-fire-element/) - The organs in Chinese medicine are more than just a physical representation. The organs include not only their physiological function, but also their mental, emotional, spiritual and elemental qualities that align with nature and the seasons. Let’s explore the heart. The heart season is summer, and heart is considered the most yang: hot, bountiful and - [Valentine’s Day, TCM and Heart Health](https://drthomaslee.com/valentines-day-tcm-and-heart-health/) - Every February men all over the world flock to the local flower shops and jewelry stores in search of the perfect bouquet or piece of jewelry to express their undying love to their significant other. Why? Nobody knows for certain, but there are at least a couple of theories. One theory is a Catholic priest, - [Fighting Flu Season with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/fighting-flu-season-with-acupuncture/) - While the flu is actually not a season, we have become programmed to think of it as the months of November through March. On average, the flu hospitalizes thousands every year, especially the young and elderly. There are also a number of deaths related to the flu, mostly due to people already having compromised immune - [Going Deeper: The Kidneys](https://drthomaslee.com/going-deeper-the-kidneys/) - The organs in Chinese medicine are more than just a physical representation. The organs include not only their physiological function, but also mental, emotional, spiritual and elemental qualities that align with nature and the seasons. Let’s explore the kidneys. The kidney element in Chinese medicine governs water and is associated with the season of winter, - [Meridian Point for Winter: Large Intestine 4](https://drthomaslee.com/meridian-point-for-winter-large-intestine-4/) - Large Intestine 4 is one of the most important and influential points in the entire body. The Chinese name for Large Intestine 4 is “He Gu” meaning union valley or converging valley. The point is located on the hand in the web between the thumb and index finger, also described as the depression where the - [Foods for the Winter Season](https://drthomaslee.com/foods-for-the-winter-season/) - Everybody knows that food is what gives our bodies the energy we need to survive. But not everybody is aware that certain foods should be consumed during specific times of the year. In areas like the Midwest, where fruits and vegetables are harder to keep on hand when the weather becomes colder, this principle is - [Why am I so TIRED…and how to fix](https://drthomaslee.com/why-am-i-so-tiredand-how-to-fix/) - A very common complaint that acupuncturists hear from our patients is that they constantly feel tired. Sometimes this fatigue is related to lack of sleep, but sometimes no amount of rest seems to alleviate the sleepiness. From an acupuncture and Chinese Medicine perspective, there are numerous imbalances in our bodies that can cause the constant - [Five Ways to Alleviate Insomnia](https://drthomaslee.com/five-ways-to-alleviate-insomnia/) - Insomnia is a phenomenon almost everybody experiences at some point in their life. And most of us don’t know how or why it happens. Insomnia is defined as difficulty falling asleep, despite being tired. Combatting insomnia may be easier than you think. Here are five simple ways to fall asleep faster and stay asleep all - [How to Prepare For Seasonal Affective Disorder](https://drthomaslee.com/how-to-prepare-for-seasonal-affective-disorder/) - When the seasons change you have to be ready for a change in mood, especially as we move from fall into winter. Although it may not seem as drastic of a shift as you think, it matters more to our mental and physical states than you may know. Seasonal affective disorder is estimated to affect - [7 Reasons to Seek Out Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/7-reasons-to-seek-out-acupuncture/) - Do you ever feel your life's a ride that won’t ever stop? How many nights do you wait for Mr. Sandman to magically appear? How often do you truly take time for yourself? Do you have aches and pains almost daily? Are over-the-counter or prescription medications controlling your life? When was the last time you - [Nutrition for Heart Health OM Nutrition & Hypertension](https://drthomaslee.com/nutrition-for-heart-health-om-nutrition-hypertension/) - Oriental medicine (OM) nutrition combines ancient wisdom with modern science. OM nutrition is a holistic approach, which aims to balance all five flavors within most meals with one or two flavors being emphasized for therapeutic purposes. OM nutrition for a hypertension emphasizes bitter flavors, sour flavors and energetically-cooling foods. OM theory states the bitter flavor - [7 Ways to Communicate Healthy Habits to Your Kids](https://drthomaslee.com/7-ways-to-communicate-healthy-habits-to-your-kids/) - As the school year kicks back into gear so should the healthy habits that you and your children have before practiced. Notice how I said “practiced,” because we all know during the summer-vacation months we tend to indulge a little. Maybe you have had one too many backyard barbecues, or three too many trips to - [Natural Ways to Up Your Game](https://drthomaslee.com/natural-ways-to-up-your-game/) - In addition to using acupuncture and other forms of traditional Chinese medicine, there are other ways athletes seek to up their game. One of the simplest ways to increase performance is by watching what you are consuming. You ever heard the saying you are what you eat? Chances are you have, if not, well I - [Olympians Who Receive Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/olympians-who-receive-acupuncture/) - It has been shown that acupuncture can help the body in many ways. From repairing the digestive system to boosting Qi, enhancing athletic performance to mending strains and sprains, acupuncture has many uses and most of these uses are beneficial for professional athletes. As the Olympics in Rio get closer and closer with each passing - [How to make a natural sunscreen at home](https://drthomaslee.com/how-to-make-a-natural-sunscreen-at-home/) - Although sun protection is extremely important to protect against harmful UV-rays and to prevent skin cancer, next time you pick out your sunscreen, consider what you’re buying. Many common sunscreens actually contain chemicals that can be harmful to your body. Chemicals to avoid in common sunscreens: Oxybenzone Retinol palmitate Methoxycinnamate Octinoxate Padimate O/PABA Nano or - [6 daily habits to lower your risk of cancer](https://drthomaslee.com/6-daily-habits-to-lower-your-risk-of-cancer/) - Quit the tobacco, and don’t start if you haven’t already It should be common sense now that smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to multiple types of cancer. If you are trying to quit, you are not alone. Try joining a support group or making a plan for yourself to set goals for quitting. Facing - [Acupuncture and PTSD](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-ptsd/) - PTSD is a physiological disorder that can result from being exposed to a traumatic event. The disorder results in several different symptoms including anxiety, irritability, insomnia and flashbacks. The effects of post-traumatic stress disorder in someone’s life can be far reaching. Feelings of hopelessness, shame and despair, problems at work or with relationships, serious health - [6 Alternative Treatments to Help with Arthritis](https://drthomaslee.com/6-alternative-treatments-to-help-with-arthritis/) - Exercise For those with arthritis, exercise, no matter how little you do, is one of the best natural treatments. For those with severe arthritis, even the smallest amount of walking can make a difference. Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for those with arthritis because it puts the least amount of impact - [Ways to Keep Your Memory Sharp](https://drthomaslee.com/ways-to-keep-your-memory-sharp/) - Don’t forget about physical exercise Believe it or not, when you’re exercising your body, you’re exercising your mind as well. Aerobic exercise gets your blood pumping, which increases the oxygen going to your brain and lowers your risk of disorders such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease that can lead to memory loss. If you can, - [Acupuncture for Immune Deficiency](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-immune-deficiency/) - There are more than 80 chronic illnesses that are immune related including rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, and celiac disease. Autoimmune diseases result when the immune system mistakenly attacks its own body’s tissues. Immune deficiency is more common than most people think; around 20 percent of the population suffers - [How the NADA protocol helps treat addiction](https://drthomaslee.com/how-the-nada-protocol-helps-treat-addiction/) - NADA, which stands for the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association, was established in 1985 to promote the NADA protocol acupuncture treatment for addiction. The non-profit organization promotes advocacy and the use of a non-verbal, pharmaceutical free approach to behavioral health. The protocol uses five specific acupuncture points on the ear to treat addiction and to be - [Acupuncture and colon cancer](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-colon-cancer/) - Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States with about 60,000 deaths from it every year. Like all cancer, treatment can be long, uncomfortable and come with many side effects. Those getting chemotherapy may experience nausea, vomiting, postoperative pain, cancer related pain, insomnia and anxiety. The chronic pain can significantly impact - [Ways for a healthy brain](https://drthomaslee.com/ways-for-a-healthy-brain/) - The second week of March is Brain Awareness Week. This is a perfect time to explore ways to keep your noggin working and healthy. Below are easy, simple ways to keep your brain in good shape. A healthy diet is a healthy mind There are many reasons to keep a healthy lifestyle and feed your - [Heart Healthy Tips to Reduce Stress](https://drthomaslee.com/heart-healthy-tips-to-reduce-stress/) - In this fast-paced world we find it’s pretty hard to slow down. Everyday stressors are the norm and although some stress is good, too much can hurt the body not only mentally but physically as well. Work, family, finances and everything in between can start to take a toll on your health. Below are tips - [7 ways to make your loved one smile this Valentine’s Day](https://drthomaslee.com/7-ways-to-make-your-loved-one-smile-this-valentines-day/) - Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your loved ones how much you care. Below are some ideas to make this year’s holiday a memorable one. Start the day off right Make a homemade breakfast for your loved one or close family and friends in your life. Everyone can appreciate waking up to something - [5 natural ways to improve women’s health](https://drthomaslee.com/5-natural-ways-to-improve-womens-health/) - Egg health Getting pregnant can be frustrating when it isn’t happening as easily as planned. There are many reasons you could be dealing with a difficult pregnancy including egg health. There are many factors that play into egg health including blood circulation, stress and hormonal balance. For improving blood and oxygen flow, try to get - [Kidney and Bladder Health & TCM](https://drthomaslee.com/kidney-and-bladder-health-tcm/) - The kidney is an especially important organ in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Not only does it flush out the unwanted toxins from our body, but is believed to support the body’s reproductive system as well as regulate the circulation of fluids in the body. In TCM, the kidney is the source of yin and yang, the - [7 Steps to Detox After the Holidays](https://drthomaslee.com/7-steps-to-detox-after-the-holidays/) - Get rid of leftovers The holidays bring delicious homemade food, and along with that come the leftovers. Holiday leftovers can be just as good as when you cook the meal the first time and become a tempting go-to snack. Time to let go. Toss the leftovers, they most likely aren’t the healthiest dishes and it’s - [5 Ways to Eat Without Overeating this Holiday Season](https://drthomaslee.com/5-ways-to-eat-without-overeating-this-holiday-season/) - Moderation We’ve always the heard the saying to enjoy everything in moderation, and that is definitely true when it comes to holiday foods. Don’t try to deprive yourself during the holidays, it most likely won’t go over well. Having an extra holiday treat here and there won’t kill you. You’re allowed to indulge a bit, - [Steps to Stay Smoke-Free](https://drthomaslee.com/steps-to-stay-smoke-free/) - So you’ve quit smoking, or maybe you’re trying and not sure how long you will last. Either way, quitting is not easy, and staying smoke-free in the long term is even harder. You may have periods of time when you’re feeling confident and a cigarette is the last thing on your mind, or you may - [5 Tips to Help Your Diabetes](https://drthomaslee.com/5-tips-to-help-your-diabetes/) - There are about 29 million people in the United States who suffer from type 2 diabetes, an illness that is becoming increasingly common and is also highly preventable. With lifestyle changes, diabetes can be managed and prevented. Aim for a healthy weight When you have extra weight, this can cause an increase in blood sugar. - [7 Steps to Eliminate Depression Naturally](https://drthomaslee.com/7-steps-to-eliminate-depression-naturally/) - Suffering from depression can make you feel hopeless, frustrated and like your quality of life will never get better. Many feel that prescription medications don’t help, and simply mask the problem instead of helping solve it. If you are dealing with depression, it is easy to get discouraged about your treatment options. Below are ways - [Acupuncture for Obsessive Complusive Disorder (OCD)](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-for-obsessive-complusive-disorder-ocd/) - Mental health problems are extremely common, and many times more than people expect. There are a whole host of reasons why some suffer from mental health disorders. Genetics, upbringing and environment can all play a role in a person’s wellbeing and mental health. Prescription medication to deal with these issues are also one of the - [Acupuncture and Prostate Health](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-and-prostate-health/) - Whether you are looking to reduce your risk of prostate disease or treat an existing condition, acupuncture may be able to help. Because of its holistic approach, acupuncture can help relieve symptoms associated with prostate problems like frequent and painful urination. A report titled Traditional Chinese Medicine and Prostate Health published by Pacific College found - [4 Meridian Yoga Poses to go with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/4-meridian-yoga-poses-to-go-with-acupuncture/) - Meridian Yoga is a form of yoga that actively works with the same meridian system as acupuncture. This form of yoga uses poses to activate and balance energy in the 14 meridian paths. These meridian paths are known as the energy pathways in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), they allow your body and energy to flow - [Transitioning to Autumn](https://drthomaslee.com/transitioning-to-autumn/) - With autumn approaching and the beginning of the yin cycle, the energy of plants is moving down into their roots, helping the body become aware of the energy of the season. This season is a time for the body to begin gathering energy for the colder months to come. The lungs and large intestine are - [5 Alternative Treatments and Home Remedies for Psoriasis](https://drthomaslee.com/5-alternative-treatments-and-home-remedies-for-psoriasis/) - For people with psoriasis, suffering from painful symptoms like inflamed, flaking and red skin is not pleasant. The chronic skin condition is due to an overactive immune system that can be triggered by a number of internal and external factors. Many Western treatments include steroid creams and oral medications that come with a slew of - [5 Tips to Help With TMJ](https://drthomaslee.com/5-tips-to-help-with-tmj/) - Commonly known as TMJ, temporomandibular joint pain affects over 10 million Americans and can involve difficulty chewing, jaw muscle stiffness and painful popping or clicking, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Although for some people the pain of TMJ goes away on its own, others develop long-term problems and need treatment - [5 Steps to Improve Your Hearing](https://drthomaslee.com/5-steps-to-improve-your-hearing/) - Many of us have already experienced or will experience some amount of hearing loss. This can be due to aging or noise-induced factors. Exposure to loud sound over time can permanently damage the ears and result in hearing loss. If you find yourself struggling with hearing and feeling the need to turn up the TV - [Fit versus Healthy](https://drthomaslee.com/fit-versus-healthy/) - There is a difference between being in top physical shape and holistically healthy. Some people may be in great athletic shape, but actually neglecting their body’s other internal health needs. There have been numerous cases where professional athletes in the peak of their careers have died of heart attacks and other natural complications. Could these - [5 Oils and Alternative Treatments for Your Skin](https://drthomaslee.com/5-oils-and-alternative-treatments-for-your-skin/) - Skin issues can happen at any age. Whether you have dry, oily or sensitive skin, it can get complicated. Although there are many products on the market that promise to “cure” your skin ailments, natural alternatives have proven to be effective and one of the safest options for skin treatment. Here are just a few - [Relieve Your Arthritis With Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/relieve-your-arthritis-with-acupuncture/) - Arthritis is a painful and oftentimes debilitating condition that's characterized by inflammation within one or more joints. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 2 people will develop osteoarthritis of the knee by the age of 85. It's important to note, however, that there are several different types of arthritis, - [Alternative Treatment Options For Allergies and Asthma](https://drthomaslee.com/alternative-treatment-options-for-allergies-and-asthma/) - Do you suffer from allergies or asthma? It's a little-known fact that these two conditions are directly linked to each other. Asthma, which affects roughly one in 12 people according to the CDC, is characterized by spasms of the small airways and inflammation. Furthermore, about 90% of children under the age of 16 with asthma - [Alternative Treatment for IBS](https://drthomaslee.com/alternative-treatment-for-ibs/) - Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disease suffered by an estimated 25-45 million people in the United States. Symptoms include chronic abdominal pain, bloating, excess gas and irregular bowel movements. Symptoms can be brought on by a number of triggers including anxiety, insomnia and stress. Although there is no known cure to IBS, there - [Alternative Treatments for Fertility](https://drthomaslee.com/alternative-treatments-for-fertility/) - About 10 percent of couples struggle with infertility and an inability to conceive, according to the Centers for Disease Control. For those struggling to have children, fertility treatment can become tiring and expensive very quickly. There are numerous alternative treatments including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that have been thought to improve fertility. Acupuncture By increasing - [The 7 Secrets You Never Knew About Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/the-7-secrets-you-never-knew-about-acupuncture/) - There's a certain level of mysticism surrounding the ancient holistic practice of acupuncture. Those who haven't tried it may view it as some sham practice with no real value or benefit. On the other hand, those who have tried are fully aware of its powerful effects on the human body. #1) There Are Hundreds of - [5 Powerful Health Effects Of Olive Oil](https://drthomaslee.com/5-powerful-health-effects-of-olive-oil/) - Derived from the fatty liquid of pressed olives, olive is a versatile substance that’s loaded in nutritional value. Just a single tablespoon has 10 grams of monosaturated fat, 1.4 grams ofpolysaturated fat, vitamin E, and other other key nutrients. While most people consume it for its delicious flavor and smooth characteristics, olive oil has surprising health benefits when - [Ways To Ring In The Chinese New Year](https://drthomaslee.com/ways-to-ring-in-the-chinese-new-year/) - Cleaning Part of celebrating the Chinese New Year (February 19) involves cleaning. Traditionally, homes are cleaned before the New Year, but sweeping and dusting isn't done until the third day after New Year out of fear that good fortune will be swept away. The floors can be swept, starting by brushing the dust and dirt - [2015: Year of The Goat](https://drthomaslee.com/2015-year-of-the-goat/) - 2015 is the Year of The Goat in Chinese astrology. Ranking eighth in the long list of animals tied to the Chinese zodiac, people who are born under this sign are said to be calm, mild-mannered, good-hearted, sympathetic, dependable and intelligent. They also prefer to avoid being the center of attention – a trait that's - [Acupuncture Erases Pain: Here's How It Works](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-erases-pain-heres-how-it-works/) - The thought of treating pain by sticking yourself with dozens of tiny needles might sound like a misnomer. After all, wouldn't this make the problem worse by creating more pain? The holistic practice of acupuncture is a safe and effective solution for relieving pain. Whether it's chronic or temporary pain, acupuncture has proven effective time - [Can Acupuncture Really Help You Lose Weight?](https://drthomaslee.com/can-acupuncture-really-help-you-lose-weight/) - Obesity remains a top concern among health professionals in the U.S. According to a study published in the Journal of American Medicine (JAMA), more than one third of adults in the U.S. are clinically obese (source). People who fall under this category are more likely to develop heart disease, diabetes, and even certain types of - [Juicing vs Blending: The Great Health Debate](https://drthomaslee.com/juicing-vs-blending-the-great-health-debate/) - Adults who need 2,000 daily calories to maintain a healthy weight should eat 2 cups of fruit and 2½ cups of vegetables per day (a total of nine servings). According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), however, only 14% of adults consume the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables (source). That's - [Acupuncture May Relieve Knee Arthritis](https://drthomaslee.com/acupuncture-may-relieve-knee-arthritis/) - Knee arthritis is a painful condition in which the joints in the knee become inflamed. Depending on the severity of the condition, it may limit an individual's normal range of motion, forcing him or her to keep body weight off the affected knee. While there's no known cure for arthritis of the knee, a recent - [The Inside Scoop on Cholesterol and The One Chinese Herb That Could Crush It](https://drthomaslee.com/the-inside-scoop-on-cholesterol-and-the-one-chinese-herb-that-could-crush-it/) - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who suffer from high LDL cholesterol are twice as likely to develop heart disease – the number one cause of death in both men and women (source). High levels of LDL cholesterol is a serious health condition that affects approximately 71 million adults in - [Tour de France Winner Gains Edge With Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/tour-de-france-winner-gains-edge-with-acupuncture/) - In case you didn't get the memo, 29-year-old Vincenzo Nibali of Sicily, Italy won the 2014 Tour de France last month. Rightfully known as the “Shark of Messina,” he was able to outperform 218 other cyclists to finish first in the world's largest bike race. Nabili finished the race with a lead of more than - [Beat Work Stress: 6 Tips To Feel Better and Work Better](https://drthomaslee.com/beat-work-stress-6-tips-to-feel-better-and-work-better/) - The workplace is one of the top sources of stress in the average person's life. According to a 2009 study conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), a staggering 69% of employees in the U.S. say work is a “significant source of stress,” and 41% say they are tense throughout the workday. If you constantly - [5 Tips To Help Kick Your Sugar Addiction](https://drthomaslee.com/5-tips-to-help-kick-your-sugar-addiction/) - Are you addicted to sugar? If so, you aren't alone. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the average American consumes a whopping 89 teaspoons of sugar per day – about 3-4 times more than the recommended daily allowance. Sugar adversely affects the body in a number of different ways. It increases a person's chance - [7 Things You Should Know About Acupuncture and Pregnancy](https://drthomaslee.com/7-things-you-should-know-about-acupuncture-and-pregnancy/) - Acupuncture involves the placement of thin sterilized needles to stimulate various acupoints throughout the body. The stimulation of these areas is believed to correct imbalances and blockages in the body by promoting the healthy flow of energy (known as qi – pronounced CHEE). The thought of having half a dozen or more tiny needles sticking - [7 Superfoods That Can Change Your Life](https://drthomaslee.com/7-superfoods-that-can-change-your-life/) - You are what you eat is an adage that holds more truth than you may realize. Unfortunately, many people today focus their diet around processed foods that are high in sugar, sodium and fat. Diets such as this can increase a person's risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and more. You can protect your - [3 Ways To Improve Your Posture](https://drthomaslee.com/3-ways-to-improve-your-posture/) - Do you suffer from poor posture? Whether you're sitting down at a desk, standing, walking or running, you should focus on maintaining your body's natural position. This means keeping your head and neck up while avoiding slouching or slumping. The good news is that you can reverse the effects of poor posture by following some - [New Study Reveals Acupuncture Benefits For Women In Menopause](https://drthomaslee.com/new-study-reveals-acupuncture-benefits-for-women-in-menopause/) - Natural menopause – the absence of menstruation for longer than 12 months – often comes with a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, such as insomnia, anxiety, irritability, night sweats, and of course hot flashes. However, a recent study found acupuncture to reduce or even eliminate some of these systems, improving quality life and reducing stress/anxiety - [Can Acupuncture Help Treat Depression?](https://drthomaslee.com/can-acupuncture-help-treat-depression/) - Depression is a serious medical illness that can lower a person's quality of life while contributing to the onset of symptoms such as headache, insomnia, fatigue, and malnutrition. According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. say they are depressed. Depression a growing problem that's ## Pages - [Home](https://drthomaslee.com/) - Description of my practice and my specialties - [What Is Acupuncture?](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-acupuncture/) - Acupuncture is an effective form of medical treatment that has evolved into a complete holistic health care system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive treatment method to help millions of people become well and stay well. Acupuncture promotes natural healing. It can enhance recuperative power and immunity, support physical and emotional - [Contact](https://drthomaslee.com/contact/) - [Modern Research & Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-acupuncture/modern-research/) - Acupuncture has been employed as a health care modality for over 5,000 years. Modern science has begun to understand the secrets of this ancient medicine with the support of new studies conducted by leading scientists, hospitals and medical research facilities from all over the world. Today, acupuncture is receiving wide acceptance as a respected, valid - [Curriculum Vitae for Dr. Thomas G. Lee.](https://drthomaslee.com/curriculum-vitae/) - Read or Download CV for Dr. Thomas G. Lee - [Our Staff](https://drthomaslee.com/our-staff/) - We're here to help. Meet our staff. Thomas G. Lee, L.Ac., Ph.D. Licensed Acupuncturist, Ph.D. in Oriental Medicine President, CEO and Directing Manager Shan Xiao, C.M.T. Certified Massage Technician TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) Massage Therapist, specializing in spinal health care Ming Tong TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) Tuina Massage Therapist, specializing in soft tissue injury care Wendy - [Our Center](https://drthomaslee.com/our-center/) - Far East Holistic Health Care Center Office Team Members of Far East Holistic Health Care Center – June 2015 From left to right: Jackson Dodd, John Cory, Shan Xiao, Ming Tong, Dr. Thomas Lee, Lori Koo, Lorie Cory, Wendy Shen. Office Team Members of Far East Holistic Health Care Center – June 2015 Front row - [About Dr. Thomas G. Lee, L.Ac., Ph.D.](https://drthomaslee.com/thomas-lee/) - Licensed Acupuncturist, Ph.D. in Oriental Medicine Dr. Thomas G. Lee has practiced in California for over 30 years as a State Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.). He holds Ph.D. degrees in Acupuncture Medicine and Oriental Medicine, both from Asian American University in San Diego, California. In 1983 Dr. Lee immigrated to the United States, settled in Los Angeles, California, - [Honors and Recognition](https://drthomaslee.com/honors-and-recognition/) - [Map & Directions](https://drthomaslee.com/contact/map-directions/) - Far East Holistic Health Care Center 2130 Huntington Drive, Suite 214 South Pasadena, CA 91030 (626) 441-6639 - [What to Expect](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-acupuncture/what-to-expect/) - During the initial exam a full health history is taken. Questions are asked regarding health, symptoms and lifestyle. An appropriate physical exam is conducted, including pulse and tongue diagnosis. Gathering this information enables the practitioner to effectively diagnose and detect any specific imbalances of Qi that may have contributed to a persons health problems. The - [What We Treat](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-acupuncture/what-we-treat/) - Below is a list of conditions that we can effectively treat. Click each topic to read more. - [First Visit](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-acupuncture/first-visit/) - "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." – Lao-tzu Initial visits generally last from 30 to 90 minutes. Your acupuncturist will take a detailed health history, perform a physical exam, and provide you with your unique treatment plan. During your first exam, your acupuncturist will spend time getting to know you - [Q & A](https://drthomaslee.com/what-is-acupuncture/q-a/) - Some common questions about acupuncture are answered below. Call us if you have other questions or if you are interested in improving your life through acupuncture treatment. - [Free Report](https://drthomaslee.com/free-report/) - Here's your free report: The Top 10 Reasons to Try Acupuncture (PDF) You may need to right-click and save the file to your computer. - [Health Well News](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/) - [Clinic Forms](https://drthomaslee.com/clinic-forms/) - New Patients: Print and fill out this form to speed up the intake process during your first visit. New Patient Health History Form (PDF, Adobe Reader required) ## Testimonials - [Chronic Back Pain Relief](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/chronic-back-pain-relief/) - "I have suffered from chronic back pain for over twelve years. In time my back condition has steadily gotten worse. It was confirmed through an MRI scan that I was suffering from a degenerative disc disease and that I also had herniated a disc that was pinching my sciatic nerve. The pain of sciatica is - [The Best Decision I've Ever Made!](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/the-best-decision-ive-ever-made/) - "I had a scar start to constrict on my left forearm. As it did so, it began to cause greater and greater pain and discomfort. When it got to the point that I would cry from the pain, I went to see my primary physician. According to my medical plan's structure, he referred me to - [The Gift Of Good Health](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/the-gift-of-good-health/) - "I was experiencing a growing feeling of dizziness and lethargy upon waking during the past year. Normal tasks drained me of my energy and sometimes even my patience. I had complained to a local doctor of the dizziness and he gave me a prescription that left me feeling sleepy, yet did not eliminate the dizziness. Several months - [Success Story](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/success-story/) - "I was suffering from acute asthma. For about two months, I slept an average of one and one half hours per night. As soon as I laid down, my lungs were so constricted that I thought I was going to die. I did not want to take asthma medication because of the serious side effects. - [Joint Pain Relief](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/joint-pain-relief/) - "I had been experiencing pain in the joints of both hands. An orthopedic surgeon sent me to a lab for blood tests and prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs. I was then sent to see a Rheumatologist. I went to see this new doctor who also sent me to a lab for blood and urine tests. He said - [Recovery From Auto Accident Injuries](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/recovery-from-auto-accident-injuries/) - "As you know, I was in an automobile accident. I broke my neck, herniated six discs and had extensive nerve and soft tissue damage. For the first two years following my accident I went to bed almost every night in so much pain, I prayed I would not wake up in the morning. I had - [Torn Meniscus in Right Knee](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/torn-meniscus-in-right-knee-2/) - "Several years ago I started visiting Dr. Lee for a torn meniscus in my right knee. After reading the testimonials in his waiting room, I was eager to begin treatment. Five visits (5 weeks) later I was very frustrated that my results were not as quick as I had hoped. But fortunately, thanks to insurance, - [Shingles](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/shingles-3/) - "Having contracted a severe case of shingles on and around my left waist line, I was informed by my personal physician there was no immediate cure for shingles. However, I was told an epidural spinal block could possibly relieve the pain for a longer interval than the pain pills prescribed, but there was no guarantee. - [Help With Chronic Problems](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/help-with-chronic-problems/) - "Thank you for helping me stop "freezing to death." Your acupuncture sessions straightened out my circulation problem and went a long way to improve all my digestive problems after my surgery. They also improved my energy level greatly. I'm still amazed that you stopped the progress of my bronchitis in only two days. As you - [Severe Back Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/severe-back-pain/) - "If you are an acupuncture skeptic as I was before becoming a patient of Dr. Lee, please take notice of my experience. Two years ago I severely strained my lower back. With traditional medical care and therapy it took nearly a month before I was able to return to work. At work, while bending over - [Shingles](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/shingles-2/) - "Please accept this expression of appreciation for the benefits I received as an acupuncture patient of yours for this "no remedy" affliction. Before seeking your help, I was assured by an examining doctor at a famous Midwestern hospital that treatment was not available for shingles. However, three sessions with you and your needlework reduced the - [The Good that Acupuncture Can Do](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/the-good-that-acupuncture-can-do/) - "I’ve been a patient of Dr. Lee’s since 2004, and I’ve seen first-hand the good that acupuncture can do. For years I had weekly appointments for overall health, and I always made sure to let him know when my acid reflux or an old injury would flare up. A few needles in different places and - [Dramatic Healing Results](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/dramatic-healing-results/) - "I first sought help from Dr. Lee in 1996, when I was suffering from a debilitating energy loss that Western medicine was unable to address. For six months I struggled without relief and was unable to live an ordinary life. After four treatments with Dr. Lee, I experienced the dramatic healing results that I was - [Healing Power of Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/healing-power-of-acupuncture/) - "Having experienced the healing power of acupuncture myself, I highly recommend anyone searching for an acupuncture doctor to see Dr Lee. I have been a patient of Dr. Lee's on and off for the last 15 years, and no matter what my complaint, I've experienced positive results. Presently I am seeing him for some complex, - [Experiencing Great Relief!](https://drthomaslee.com/testimonials/experiencing-great-relief/) - "I had heard about the benefits of acupuncture from many friends before I came to you for treatment. Now that I know how effective it is, I wish I had come to see you much sooner. I could have saved myself a lot of suffering! I had been bothered by leg pain for months and ## What We Treat - [Allergies](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/allergies/) - According to Chinese medical theory, the symptoms and signs that indicate a Western diagnosis of allergies relate to imbalances in the meridian and Organ Systems of the body. These imbalances may stem from a variety of causes, including stress, poor diet, constitutional weakness, pollutants and environmental toxins. Over time, if imbalances remain within the body, - [Arthritis](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/arthritis/) - If you live with arthritis, you know what a challenge it can be to find relief from joint pain and other symptoms. But there are many things you can do to manage and control your arthritis and live a healthy, active life. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be powerful additions to any treatment - [Asthma](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/asthma/) - Asthma is a long-term condition that affects more than 20 million Americans. Caring for a chronic condition such as asthma can sometimes be frustrating, but it's important to remember that it can be controlled. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be powerful allies in the management of asthma, and they work well in conjunction - [Autoimmune Disease](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/autoimmune-disease/) - Lupus, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Crohn's disease...You may have heard of these conditions, but do you know what they have in common? They are all types of autoimmune disease and they are all lifelong conditions. Approximately 50 million Americans are living with an autoimmune disease. If you are facing one of these conditions, you know how crucial - [Back Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/back-pain/) - Back pain is a very common problem--one that will strike four out of five Americans at some time in their lives. In fact, it's one of the top reasons people seek medical care. Unfortunately, back pain isn't always easy to diagnose or relieve. Low back pain in particular can become a chronic or ongoing problem. - [Cancer Care](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/cancer-care/) - Cancer, it's a diagnosis that no one wants to hear. It can leave you feeling frightened, uncertain, and powerless. But if you or a loved one is facing cancer, it's important to have hope. In many cases, cancer can be cured, especially when it's detected early. There are more treatments available now than ever before - [Carpal Tunnel](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/carpal-tunnel/) - Do you experience tingling in your hand or fingers? Pain that radiates from your wrist to your shoulder? Maybe even difficulty holding small objects? If so, you could be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), an uncomfortable and sometimes disabling condition that affects up to five million Americans. The good news is that lifestyle changes - [Colds & Flu](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/colds-flu/) - Each year, more than 100,000 people are hospitalized due to complications from the flu virus. Unfortunately, most of us get the "flu," or "influenza," virus at least once in our lifetime. The associated symptoms and signs are all-too-common: fever, sore throat, congestion, fatigue, muscle and body aches, runny nose, dry cough, sneezing and watery eyes. - [Depression](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/depression/) - Depression affects about 121 million people worldwide and can be debilitating for those who experience it.1 Prolonged feelings of sadness, discouragement and hopelessness greatly affect the quality of life. At one time or another, most of us have experienced some form of depression. It is a healthy response to events in our lives that seem - [Diabetes](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/diabetes/) - Chances are that you or someone you know has been affected by diabetes. It's an increasingly common condition—one that approximately 1.3 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with this year alone. While it is generally a long-term condition, diabetes can be managed through self-care, nutrition, and medication. Another safe, effective approach to managing - [Facial Rejuvenation](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/facial-rejuvenation/) - Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can provide a safe, effective, natural, and drug-free approach to reducing the signs of aging. A facial rejuvenation using this ancient technique can improve muscle tone of the face and neck while addressing underlying imbalances that may have contributed to the aging process. Why does skin sag? According to - [Fertility](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/fertility/) - The treatment of infertility with acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) dates back 2,000 years. These ancient, time-tested techniques improve fertility rates and support a woman's whole body, unlocking unlimited potential for health, healing and childbearing. Studies reported by The American Pregnancy Association suggest that the most effective fertility treatments involve a combination of acupuncture, - [Fibromyalgia](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/fibromyalgia/) - Fibromyalgia affects about 3-6% of the world's population, an estimated 200-400 million people worldwide, with higher numbers among women than men.1 People diagnosed with fibromyalgia experience a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, pain, stiffness, aches and muscle tenderness, along with sleep disorders and intestinal and bowel troubles. The diagnosis of fibromyalgia can be confirmed - [Headaches](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/headaches/) - If you suffer from headaches, you are not alone. Over 50 million of us experience some form of a severe headache at some point in our lives. Whether you experience minor head pain or severe migraines, headaches can take valuable time out of your day and your life, and leave you searching for relief. One - [HIV & AIDS](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/hiv-aids/) - Living with a positive HIV diagnosis means focusing on your health in a whole new way. Caring for your body's needs and your emotional well-being is more important than ever, and is the key to living well with this disease. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be powerful allies in staying as healthy as - [Hypertension](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/hypertension/) - Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects more than one in three Americans, but most people may not even know they have it. Since hypertension can lead to heart attacks and other life-threatening health problems, it's very important to learn all you can and take action to lower your risk. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) - [IBS](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/ibs/) - Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a complex disorder in which the intestines lose their ability to efficiently move their contents. The main symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation. Less common symptoms may include headaches, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Symptoms may be triggered by stress, diet, emotional factors, hormone levels and medications. - [Insomnia](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/insomnia/) - You settle into a warm, comfortable bed, close your eyes and nothing happens, you just can't fall asleep. Hours go by and still you're awake. The next day you feel tired, grouchy, and are unable to focus. Does this sound familiar? Sleepless nights happen to almost everyone at some time, but ongoing insomnia can indicate - [Menopause](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/menopause/) - Why is menopause treated like a disease, when in fact it's a naturally occurring process? Menopause is a natural, physiological cycle that occurs in all women. Conventional medical treatments only address various symptoms and signs associated with menopause. However, symptoms and signs are just one part of the whole picture. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine understand - [Multiple Sclerosis](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/multiple-sclerosis/) - Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex condition that currently affects approximately 400,000 people in the United States—with 200 more people diagnosed every week. This chronic disease causes uncomfortable, sometimes debilitating symptoms that can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks. An unpredictable condition The exact causes of MS are not entirely understood, and there is - [Neck Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/neck-pain/) - At some point in our lives, each of us will most likely experience some type of neck pain and/or whiplash. However, certain people may be predisposed to acute and chronic neck pain due to their occupation. Employees who perform repetitive tasks, sit for prolonged periods of time and use their upper extremities are at a - [Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/pain/) - Most people experience significant pain at some time in their lives—whether from an injury, illness, or an unknown cause. Pain is a warning signal, an alarm that goes off when your body is trying to tell you that something is wrong and out of balance. What can you do? No one should have to live - [PMS](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/pms/) - Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is often viewed as a "problem" or illness. It's not. Instead, PMS is a variety of responses to an ordinary event in women's lives: menstruation. PMS usually occurs monthly, accompanied with specific symptoms and signs that can appear seven to ten days before menstruation and then disappear after the onset of the - [Pregnancy](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/pregnancy/) - Pregnancy is a time of extraordinary physical and emotional change. It's also a time when it's more important than ever to support and care for your well-being. Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help you meet the unique challenges of pregnancy, ensuring optimal health for you and your baby in a safe and natural - [Quit Smoking](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/quit-smoking/) - Congratulations! If you're reading this, you are on your way to kicking the habit and becoming smoke-free and healthier. Every year, more than 3 million Americans try to quit smoking, but only half of them succeed. With the help of acupuncture you have a greater chance of success! Most experts agree that quitting smoking is - [Stress](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/stress/) - Stress is a natural response of the body to the various demands we place upon it. In ancient times, our stress response, also known as our fight or flight response, provided us with energy to preserve life during difficult situations, such as an attack or threat by a wild animal. Unfortunately, modern day stress is - [Weight Loss](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/weight-loss/) - If you struggle with your weight, you're not alone. In fact, more than 30% of all U.S. adults meet the criteria for being obese.1 A Variety of Reasons: Acupuncture works to control weight on various levels. Release Endorphins - With diet changes, many people experience cravings, which can lead to binge eating. Cravings in the - [Anxiety](https://drthomaslee.com/what-we-treat/anxiety/) - According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorder in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults and costing more than $42 billion a year. Feelings of anxiety, worry and fear related to significant and challenging events are justified and very common. Anxiety becomes a problem when emotional ## HealthWellNews - [Here’s How Parents Are Creating Healthier Summers Without Burnout](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/heres-how-parents-are-creating-healthier-summers-without-burnout/) - Summer used to feel simpler. Kids played outside until sunset. Families took road trips with paper maps and snacks packed in coolers. Parents weren’t juggling nonstop notifications, packed activity schedules, or the pressure to make every summer “perfect” for social media. Today, summer can feel strangely exhausting, especially for families. Between camps, sports, childcare logistics, - [Sleep Tourism, Recovery Retreats, and Wellness Travel](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/sleep-tourism-recovery-retreats-and-wellness-travel/) - Summer vacations used to revolve around sightseeing, nightlife, and packed itineraries. But in 2026, travelers are redefining what a successful vacation looks like. Increasingly, people are booking trips with one primary goal: feeling better when they return home. This shift has fueled one of the fastest-growing summer wellness trends: recovery-focused travel. From sleep retreats and - [How Small Daily Habits Are Replacing Extreme Health Trends](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/how-small-daily-habits-are-replacing-extreme-health-trends/) - Summer has always inspired reinvention. People commit to fitness programs, overhaul their diets, and chase ambitious “summer body” goals with enthusiasm that often fades by August, if not before. But in 2026, one of the biggest summer wellness trends is moving in the opposite direction. Instead of dramatic transformations, people are embracing what experts are - [Outdoor Activities Best Enjoyed During Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/outdoor-activities-best-enjoyed-during-spring/) - Move More, Feel Better, and Reconnect with Nature Spring is the ideal bridge between winter’s stillness and summer’s intensity. Temperatures are moderate, daylight extends, and nature returns to life creating the perfect environment for outdoor activity. Exposure to natural environments reduces stress hormones, improves immune response, and enhances mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Here - [The Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-health-benefits-of-spring-cleaning/) - A Seasonal Reset for Your Mind, Body, and Home Every year, as winter fades and longer days return, many people feel an almost instinctive urge to clean, organize, and refresh their living spaces. This phenomenon is commonly known as spring cleaning and it’s more than tradition or habit. It’s deeply connected to psychology, biology, and - [Delicious Recipes Using Spring Fruits and Vegetables](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/delicious-recipes-using-spring-fruits-and-vegetables/) - Eat the Season for Flavor, Nutrition, and Energy Spring produce arrives after months of heavier winter foods, bringing freshness, brightness, and renewed vitality to meals. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are not only more flavorful, but they are also more nutrient-dense because they’re harvested at peak ripeness. Spring foods naturally support detoxification, hydration, and digestion. Their - [Energy-Saving and Safety Tips for Winter Proofing Your Home](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/energy-saving-and-safety-tips-for-winter-proofing-your-home/) - As winter sets in, your home becomes more than a shelter, it’s your sanctuary from freezing winds, icy sidewalks, and long nights. But if it's not properly winterized, your home could end up costing you high heating bills, water damage, or emergency repairs. Winter-proofing is about being proactive. A few upgrades and regular maintenance steps - [Winter Wellness: Mental Health Tips for Beating the Winter Blues](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/winter-wellness-mental-health-tips-for-beating-the-winter-blues/) - As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many people find their mood and energy levels shifting. While cozy sweaters and holiday cheer bring warmth to the season, winter can also cast a shadow over mental well-being. If you’ve ever felt more tired, withdrawn, or emotionally low during this time of year, you're not - [10 Cozy Winter Activities to Enjoy Indoors](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/10-cozy-winter-activities-to-enjoy-indoors/) - When temperatures dip and daylight hours fade, the idea of staying inside becomes more appealing than ever. But hibernating doesn’t have to mean boredom. Winter is an ideal time to slow down and reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and your home. Whether you’re looking to relax, get creative, or entertain, here are ten cozy - [Add These 10 Immune-Boosting Foods to Your Fall Diet](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/add-these-10-immune-boosting-foods-to-your-fall-diet/) - As the leaves change color and temperatures drop, fall brings with it the start of cold and flu season. Supporting your immune system with nutrient-rich foods is one of the best ways to stay healthy during this transitional time. Fortunately, autumn's bounty offers a wide variety of foods that not only taste great but also - [Keep Your Skin Healthy and Glowing with these Fall Skincare Tips](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/keep-your-skin-healthy-and-glowing-with-these-fall-skincare-tips/) - Fall is the beginning of crisp air, cozy sweaters, and holiday cheer on the horizon, but it also brings a host of challenges for your skin. Cold temperatures, dry indoor heat, and harsh winds can strip your skin of moisture, leaving it dry, irritated, and dull. With a few thoughtful changes to your skincare routine, - [Beat End of Year Burnout with these Fall Self-Care Rituals](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/beat-end-of-year-burnout-with-these-fall-self-care-rituals/) - Autumn is a season that brings with it crisp air, colorful leaves, and a renewed sense of energy after the heat of summer. It’s the perfect time to step outside and enjoy all the natural beauty and fun activities that fall has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of heart-pumping adventures or relaxing pastimes, there's - [The Best Ways to Protect Your Skin from the Sun This Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-best-ways-to-protect-your-skin-from-the-sun-this-summer/) - As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s no denying the allure of summer. Whether you're planning beach vacations, poolside hangouts, or outdoor adventures, spending time in the sun can lift your mood, boost vitamin D levels, and create lifelong memories. But with all that fun comes a serious responsibility: protecting your - [Savoring Summer with Recipes Using the Best Summer Ingredients](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/savoring-summer-with-recipes-using-the-best-summer-ingredients/) - Summer is the season of abundance with vibrant colors at the farmer’s market, the sweet smell of fresh herbs, and the juicy crunch of sun-ripened produce. It’s the perfect time to lean into seasonal eating, where ingredients are at their flavorful peak and need little to no fuss to shine. Whether you’re cooking for a - [Top 5 Best Staycation Ideas for Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/top-5-best-staycation-ideas-for-summer/) - With rising travel costs and busy schedules, more people are turning to staycations as the perfect way to unwind without the hassle of long flights, packing stress, or planning logistics. And let’s face it, sometimes the best adventures are right in your own backyard. If you're looking to make the most of Summer, here are - [10 Family-Friendly Activities Perfect for Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/10-family-friendly-activities-perfect-for-spring/) - The first warm breeze of spring invites families to step outside and embrace the beauty of nature. After months of chilly days spent indoors, the world suddenly feels alive with color and the promise of adventure. Children eagerly shed their winter layers, ready to explore, play, and soak up the sunshine. But with so many - [3 Easy Spring Dinner Ideas for a Fresh and Flavorful Season](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/3-easy-spring-dinner-ideas-for-a-fresh-and-flavorful-season/) - The sun lingers a little longer in the evening, casting a golden glow across the dinner table. The air is crisp, carrying the scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass. Springtime invites us to embrace the season’s bounty, swapping out the heavy, slow-cooked meals of winter for light, vibrant dishes bursting with flavor. As - [5 Tips to Boost Your Spring Wellness Routine](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/5-tips-to-boost-your-spring-wellness-routine/) - The first warm breeze of spring carries with it a sense of renewal. After months of bundling up against the cold, you step outside and feel the sun kiss your skin. Birds chirp overhead, flowers begin to bloom, and suddenly, you’re inspired to shake off winter’s sluggishness. It’s the perfect time to revamp your wellness - [Strategies to Stay Calm and Joyful During the Season](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/strategies-to-stay-calm-and-joyful-during-the-season/) - The holiday season is often portrayed as the most wonderful time of the year, filled with joy, family gatherings, gift-giving, and celebration. However, for many people, the holidays can also be a source of significant stress. From financial pressures to juggling family dynamics, the season can bring a wide range of challenges making it difficult - [How to Stay Mentally Resilient in the Colder Months](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/how-to-stay-mentally-resilient-in-the-colder-months/) - As the days grow shorter, temperatures drop, and sunlight becomes scarce, many people find themselves feeling a little down. While winter can bring moments of cozy reflection and rest, it also presents unique challenges to mental health. For some, it’s a time of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), heightened stress, or loneliness. The good news is - [Three Delicious and Healthy Soup Recipes to Keep Warm This Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/three-delicious-and-healthy-soup-recipes-to-keep-warm-this-winter/) - Winter is the season of comfort food, and nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of soup. As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, hearty soups can nourish the body and soothe the soul. And the good news is you don’t have to sacrifice health for comfort. Many soups are packed with nutrients that - [Embracing the Season with Tips for a Healthy Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/embracing-the-season-with-tips-for-a-healthy-fall/) - As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the air takes on a crisp edge, fall invites us to embrace change and renewal. The transition from summer to fall is an ideal time to focus on our well-being. Here are some comprehensive tips to help you maintain mental, physical, and emotional - [Savor the Season: The Best Recipes for Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/savor-the-season-the-best-recipes-for-fall/) - As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, fall beckons us to embrace its flavors and warmth. The bounty of seasonal produce and the desire for cozy meals make fall the perfect time to indulge in hearty, comforting dishes. Here are some of the best recipes to celebrate the flavors of fall, from - [The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the United States](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-best-places-to-see-fall-foliage-in-the-united-states/) - As summer fades into memory and the crisp air of autumn settles in, parts of the United States transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Fall foliage is one of nature's most stunning displays, and there arenumerous destinations across the country where you can experience this seasonal spectacle. Here are some of - [Enjoying Summer’s Bounty](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/enjoying-summers-bounty/) - After the renewal of spring comes the warmer and longer days of summer. As the sun stretches its arms across the sky the bountiful offers of summer’s harvest come into their own. The familiar summer tapestry of colors and flavors comes to life. Farmer’s markets are filled with the scent of ripe fruits and vegetables - [Your Summer Garden Checklist](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/your-summer-garden-checklist/) - Whether you are a seasoned gardening expert, or this is your first attempt, follow these tips to stay on top of your summer gardening. There is a lot to consider when deciding to plant a summer garden. If you are an expert, you begin preparations long before the season is here. However, if this is - [A Guide to Summer Self-Care](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/a-guide-to-summer-self-care/) - As those vibrant summer sunsets paint the sky and the longer days and warmer temperatures beckon us outside to spend more time with friends and family, it’s easy to picture relaxing days filled with laughter and fun. Yet, for many people, this warmer season can lead some to struggle with their mental health. Despite this - [Spring Clean Your Way to Better Health](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/spring-clean-your-way-to-better-health-3/) - With warm temperatures starting to become more common, it’s time to open the windows and doors and let the fresh air and fresh start into your home. Spring is a great time to “Marie Kondo” your closets and drawers and decide what brings you joy and can stay, and what needs to be put in - [5 Healthy Ways to Embrace the Spring Season](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/5-healthy-ways-to-embrace-the-spring-season/) - Before the sweltering temps of summer arrive, it’s time to enjoy the renewal of Spring and all the beauty that it brings. Spring is a great time to shake off the cold and dreariness of Winter and embrace the beauty and warmth that can nourish us from the inside out. While Spring brings a bounty - [Fun Things to do this Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/fun-things-to-do-this-spring/) - The dawn of Spring is a glorious time of year as the air is warmer and the days are longer. Fresh food and fresh flowers are all around us and now that it’s more comfortable to be outside again, there are several fun activities to enjoy both indoors and outdoors this Spring. Which one(s) will - [5 Ways to Stay Fit This Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/5-ways-to-stay-fit-this-winter/) - As the weather worsens and the colder months are upon us, it’s important to make sure we don’t continue the overindulgence of the holidays. While there is nothing better than comfort food when it’s cold outside, we can’t let that lead to gaining winter weight and letting our health slide. With just a little planning - [4 Budget Friendly Family Activities](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/4-budget-friendly-family-activities/) - Depending on where you live and the weather you experience, winter can be a challenging time for families. It can be equally hard for kids and adults to be cooped up inside during the winter. Below are five budget friendly and even kid friendly activities you can do during the winter to keep boredom at - [Staying Healthy This Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/staying-healthy-this-winter/) - The winter months can be a challenge if you just can’t stay healthy. Staying indoors and being near people can allow for the spread of unwanted germs. This can increase your chances of catching a variety of illnesses including flu, colds, or even the dreaded Covid-19 and its variations. Following just a few important steps - [Seven Healthy Fall Habits](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/seven-healthy-fall-habits/) - Fall is a great time to reset after a busy summer season. If you established some healthy habits this summer, you definitely want to keep them going to keep your immunity strong as the season changes. Habit 1: Make sure you moisturize to keep your skin healthy as the weather gets colder and dryer. If - [5 Ways to Stay Fit This Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/5-ways-to-stay-fit-this-fall/) - If you are on a fitness roll this summer, you don’t want to “fall” back into old habits (pardon the pun). As the weather gets colder, you might find it challenging to maintain the same fitness routine. Or maybe you took the summer off, and you are ready to kick off a fall campaign to - [Improve Your Mental Health with Regular Meditation](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/improve-your-mental-health-with-regular-meditation-2/) - Meditation has a reputation for several health benefits but what is it exactly? It is defined as the regular process of training your mind to focus and redirect your thoughts. There are some key reasons you might want to consider establishing a regular meditation routine. The overall improvement in your health and wellbeing just might - [Staying Active and Healthy in the Warm Summer Months](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/staying-active-and-healthy-in-the-warm-summer-months/) - After the cold winter and unpredictable Spring weather we’ve been having, everyone is ready for a warm summer with longer days filled with rest, vacation, and family time. However, the warmer temperatures can often bring unanticipated health risks like seasonal allergies, heat stroke, and bug bites. Read on for a few tips to keep you - [Three Tips to Stay Mentally Strong This Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/three-tips-to-stay-mentally-strong-this-summer/) - While many look forward to the summer months filled with vacations, time outside, and less structure, others can feel overwhelmed and out of control. For those struggling with anxiety or depression, the care-free days of summer can feel anything but. Read on for three simple tips to help keep your mental health in check this - [Planning the Perfect Summer Vacation](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/planning-the-perfect-summer-vacation/) - It’s that time of year when the perfect summer getaway is within reach. Whether you are looking for a beach vacation or a mountain retreat, it’s never too early to begin researching the perfect summer vacation. Here are a few suggestions to get you started and ensure a successful and relaxing trip! Book Early vs. - [Healthy Choices for a Healthy Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/healthy-choices-for-a-healthy-spring/) - After a long cold winter, Spring is a time for renewal and growth. The flowers and trees begin to bloom once again and the grayness of winter transitions to the brightness and warmth of Spring. If you have struggled to keep those New Year’s resolutions going, Spring is a great time for a fresh start - [Tips and Tricks for a Sparkling Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/tips-and-tricks-for-a-sparkling-spring/) - For some, Spring cleaning is a productive and anticipated right of passage each year. It’s a time to stock up on essential cleaning and organizational supplies and deep clean the house. For others, it’s a dreaded time to confront the messiness and chaos that can come with a long cold winter. Here are a few - [Fitness Routine Spring Cleaning](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/fitness-routine-spring-cleaning/) - With warmer temperatures and longer days, it’s time to evaluate your fitness routine and give it a Spring overhaul. While we might find comfort in being creatures of habit, it’s important to frequently switch up your fitness routine for a few different reasons. One reason is to avoid hitting a fitness plateau. But how do - [Three Steps to Keep Winter Allergies at Bay](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/three-steps-to-keep-winter-allergies-at-bay/) - You might think that the cold winter season would bring relief for seasonal allergy sufferers, however, it just brings about a different set of indoor allergens. As those colder temperatures become the norm, people tend to spend more time indoors which brings them into contact with indoor allergens. Inside Allergy Triggers These indoor allergy triggers - [Healthy and Hearty Winter Recipes](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/healthy-and-hearty-winter-recipes/) - When the weather gets colder there is nothing better than a warm and comforting bowl of goodness to keep the chill away. But sometimes the challenge is to keep things healthy as the temperatures drop. We often tend to drift away from our fresh vegetable dishes of summer into carb heavy dishes of pasta and - [Three Tips for Maintaining Your Mental Health in Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/three-tips-for-maintaining-your-mental-health-in-winter/) - Many people struggle during the winter months with their mental health. It could be the shorter days and darker nights, or it could be related to family issues and the holiday season. People deal with this in different ways, but it can lead to avoidance of social interactions, overeating or emotional eating, as well as - [Tips to Manage Fall Allergy Season](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/tips-to-manage-fall-allergy-season/) - After such a scorching summer in much of the country, Fall is a welcome season bringing cooler temperatures, comforting food, and a gentle lead into winter. However, for many people, Fall also brings with it some severe allergies. While most people may associate severe allergies with the Spring and Summer months when everything is in - [Fall’s Best Comfort Food](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/falls-best-comfort-food/) - One of the best things about the approach of Fall is the cooler temperatures that bring family recipes filled with warm comfort food. It’s no wonder Fall is often described as soup season. Hearty and warm soups filled with fall produce and rich broth bring warmth and comfort to family tables no matter where you - [3 Tips to Keep Mentally Healthy in Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/3-tips-to-keep-mentally-healthy-in-fall/) - While many people embrace the approach of Fall, with its vibrant colors, cooler temperatures, and shorter days, others notice a dangerous shift in their mental health. For some, the decrease in temperature means more time indoors and that can have a negative impact on our physical and mental health. Here are three tips to maintain - [Cultivating Defensive Qi to Fight Summer Allergies](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/cultivating-defensive-qi-to-fight-summer-allergies/) - As the rebirth of Spring gives way to the long, hot days of summer, seasonal allergies may not go away with the change of season but might just shift to a new or more intense set of symptoms. These warmer temperatures can lead to even more pollen production which can lead to even harsher symptoms - [3 Tips for Healthy Summer Fun](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/3-tips-for-healthy-summer-fun/) - Summer is here and it’s time to get out and enjoy the warm weather. But it’s also important to stay safe and healthy so here are three tips to help you stay healthy while enjoying these longer days. The first tip is to get up and move! Now that it stays lighter into the evening - [A Taste of Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/a-taste-of-summer/) - Summer brings with it a variety of vegetables and fruits that aren’t available during the rest of the year. Two of the most abundant ingredients are tomatoes and zucchini. Here’s a great recipe that combines both for a dish you can make at home or share at a summer BBQ. This zucchini and tomato bake - [Spring Cleaning the Mind: Meditation in this New Season](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/spring-cleaning-the-mind-meditation-in-this-new-season/) - Many people have issues “turning off their brain” to go to sleep or even just to relax. And for others this inability to “quiet the mind” can bring its own set of stress and anxiety. It might seem like an impossible task for some, but the steps to begin a regular meditation habit are simple - [Enjoying a Taste of Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/enjoying-a-taste-of-spring/) - After the soups and comfort foods of fall and winter, it’s time to enjoy the harvest of Spring vegetables. Nothing heralds the arrival of Spring and warmer temperatures like a nice Spring Harvest Salad. Depending on where you live, these vegetables may vary a bit in their arrival time but adjust the ingredients and ratios - [Clearing the Wind: Dealing with the Seasonal Allergies of Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/clearing-the-wind-dealing-with-the-seasonal-allergies-of-spring/) - Spring is a beautiful rebirth after a sometimes long, cold, and harsh winter. However, if you suffer from seasonal allergies, you know that this rebirth of Spring brings with it a release of pollen that can trigger hay fever. As plants, trees, grasses, and weeds begin to release their pollen, millions of people begin to - [Change your diet, change your blood](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/change-your-diet-change-your-blood/) - What is diabetes? Type 2 diabetes is an epidemic in the west and is usually caused by the production of too much insulin. Why is there too much insulin? Simply put, the insulin is there to combat the amount of glucose in the blood. And carbohydrate foods are quickly turned into glucose in the bloodstream. - [Balance Your Sleep Cycle](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/balance-your-sleep-cycle/) - Insomnia is a growing problem in the Western world. Recent polls show approximately 60 million Americans suffer from some sort of insomnia and nearly nine million of those take a prescription sleep aid. Wow. These numbers are far too high and even though there are lots of alternative and natural methods to fight insomnia, more - [Foods for the Winter Season](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/foods-for-the-winter-season/) - Everybody knows that food is what gives our bodies the energy we need to survive. But not everybody is aware that certain foods should be consumed during specific times of the year. In areas like the Midwest, where fruits and vegetables are harder to keep on hand when the weather becomes colder, this principle is - [Autumn Immunity](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/autumn-immunity/) - ARMED & READY Autumn is the season for strengthening our immune system! According to the 5 Element theory of Chinese Medicine, Autumn is the season of the metal element. The metal element is all about structure and boundaries and this is why it is the perfect time to reinforce our defenses when it comes to - [Healthy Breakfast Ideas for Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/healthy-breakfast-ideas-for-fall/) - Better Breakfast Month Originating during the first 2 world wars, September was promoted as ‘National Breakfast month’ to encourage citizens to eat a healthy meal before work or school to help concentration throughout the day. Better Breakfast Month, was again encouraged by the Cereal Institute in 1951, but we’ve come a long way since corn - [Breathwork in Lung Season](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/breathwork-in-lung-season/) - Breath is the link between the universal life force and our physical existence. It is thought of in ancient traditions as our link to the divine. The rhythm of the breath mimics the primal rhythm of the universe, the natural ebb and flow, the yin and yang. It is one of the most important tools - [The Joy Of Healing: How Summer Fun Heals the Heart](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-joy-of-healing-how-summer-fun-heals-the-heart/) - What comes to mind when you think of summer? For me, it stirs up nostalgia of childhood feelings of freedom, knowing that those endless days were all mine to fill with family and friends as we shared the sunshine. While “adulting” doesn’t always leave room for that kind of freedom, the promise of summer still - [Summer’s Bounty](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/summers-bounty/) - Diet Tips for Staying Balanced in the ‘Great Yang’ Season The Great Yang season is upon us. Yang energy is bright, fiery and hot like the midday sun. Yang is the counterbalance to Yin. Yin is expressed in the cooling, calming energies of life. Together, Yin & Yang, like night & day, represent the dynamic - [Easing Transitions with the Earth Element](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/easing-transitions-with-the-earth-element/) - We all are very familiar with Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter but why does Chinese Medicine include a fifth season and where does it fit on the calendar? According to TCM theory, the fifth season is actually that important time between the seasons, where we ‘return to center’ so we can ‘pivot’. About 2-3 weeks - [Traditional Tips for Insomnia](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/traditional-tips-for-insomnia/) - When you consider that Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM) dates back over 3,000 years, it is easy to see the vastness of theory and history involved. This fascinating complementary medicine arms practitioners with a plethora of unique diagnostic tools. These tools include an ability to detect Qi imbalances, define the underlying problems and correct them. - [Spring TCM Life Tips](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/spring-tcm-life-tips/) - This transition allows for the ability to get more done and spend more time outdoors, possibly shedding those extra pounds gained over the holidays and reconnecting with nature. But as with any seasonal change, there are organ systems that need specific attention. This is where Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) excels in helping make a smooth - [Self-Care and Preventative Medicines](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/self-care-and-preventative-medicines/) - Should I get acupuncture even when I’m not sick? This is a question I get often. For thousands of years practitioners of acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM) have emphasized the importance of preventing illness and disease. So the answer is yes, by definition acupuncture and TCM work to keep the body in balance, - [Five Facts You Might Not Know About Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/five-facts-you-might-not-know-about-acupuncture/) - Acupuncture is just one facet of a more inclusive medical system known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This medical system has been around for about 3,000 years and it has helped thousands of people live long, happy, healthy lives. Acupuncture uses tiny, solid, stainless steel needles that are inserted into the body, which stimulates the - [Family Exercise in the Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/family-exercise-in-the-winter/) - You’re not imagining it. As the days grow shorter and the air cooler, the kids are getting restless and you may be too. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), kids need at least 1 hour of physical activity...every day. Adults should be partaking in either 2.5 hours of exercise at a moderate level - [Immune System Health and TCM](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/immune-system-health-and-tcm/) - Viruses, germs and bacteria are everywhere. They are in the food we eat, the air we breathe, and the water we drink. According to Chinese medicine, they do not cause disease. When a certain organ system is already weak and unable to resist outside invasion, it is therefore prone to attack by germs, such as - [Season of the Lungs](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/season-of-the-lungs/) - The theories of Chinese medicine suggest that each season relates to a different organ system. The Fall is the season of the Lungs. It’s the time of year when people are easily affected by environmental influences. Great changes are taking place in the weather and plant life around us. Some people refer to it as - [Staying Healthy and Happy this Autumn](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/staying-healthy-and-happy-this-autumn/) - The cooler days and longer nights of autumn have transitioned from the bright, busy days of summer. The natural world is getting ready for the cold months ahead and our bodies are adapting to the changing seasons. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tells us that we are all part of the natural world and its rhythms. - [Acupuncture to Stop Smoking](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-to-stop-smoking/) - Smoking is a strong and complicated addiction. Quitting smoking is no small task and you will likely need lots of support in order to be successful. You need the best tools to help with the physical and emotional symptoms, and acupuncture is a great resource to help you succeed. HERE ARE THE 6 THINGS YOU - [Acupuncture and the Small Intestine](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-and-the-small-intestine/) - The small intestine is part of the gastrointestinal tract and up to 90 percent of the digestion and absorption of food occurs here. The small intestine’s main function is the absorption of minerals and nutrients from the food we ingest. It consists of three separate parts; the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum. The small - [TCM for Summer Heat](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/tcm-for-summer-heat/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine or TCM, is a medical system that dates back nearly 3,500 years. This system uses modalities like acupuncture and botanical formulas to treat ailments and keep the body balanced. TCM acknowledges not four, but five seasons. The fifth season that differentiates from the other seasons that many go by is called Indian - [In Summer, Nourish Your Heart](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/in-summer-nourish-your-heart/) - Summer is a time of abundant energy, long sunshine-filled days, and warmth. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer has many different associations that help define it and therefore help us understand how to stay in balance with the season. To shed some light on the context of summer, its element is fire, the color is - [Healthy Eating for Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/healthy-eating-for-spring/) - According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, spring is the season of the liver and the gallbladder. These organs regulate a smooth flow of energy throughout the whole body. However, they are prone to stagnation if we do not take proper care of ourselves. This can manifest as anger, irritability, depression, insomnia and even pain. Stagnation - [Six Reasons to Try Acupuncture this Year](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/six-reasons-to-try-acupuncture-this-year/) - Do you ever feel that you’re on a roller coaster ride that never ends? Do you have aches and pains almost daily? How many nights a week do you stare at the clock waiting for sleep to arrive? Are medications ruling your life? When was the last time you actually felt at peace? If any - [Does Your Liver Need a Spring Tune-Up?](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/does-your-liver-need-a-spring-tune-up-2/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season is ruled by a particular organ system and spring is connected to the liver. What does this mean? Well, you probably notice changes in the way you feel, both physically and mentally, as the seasons change. I know I tend to feel a bit more contemplative and introspective during - [Acupuncture for Treating Depression](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-for-treating-depression/) - Depression has a tendency to rear its head when we feel overwhelmed or out of balance. Hopefully, we can pull ourselves out of the depressed state and continue on with everyday life. But, that is not always the case. Clinical depression affects upwards of 16 million adults in the United States. Typically, doctors prescribe antidepressants, - [The Benefits of Moxibustion](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-benefits-of-moxibustion/) - Traditional Chinese medicine is a medical system that incorporates numerous methods for treating disease and illness. One of the tools found in the toolbox of the Traditional Chinese medicine practitioner is known as moxibustion. Moxibustion is a technique that involves the burning of mugwort, known as moxa, which is an herb that facilitates - [Secrets Acupuncturists Use to Stay Healthy](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/secrets-acupuncturists-use-to-stay-healthy/) - Staying healthy means something different for everybody. For most, it means getting proper rest, eating a balanced healthy diet and exercising regularly. Here are some secrets many acupuncturists incorporate into their regimen. Wearing Scarves Most people wear scarves during the fall and winter months, but acupuncturists will wear scarves almost year round to protect - [Auricular Acupuncture: What it is and why is everyone talking about it?](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/auricular-acupuncture-what-it-is-and-why-is-everyone-talking-about-it/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical system that dates back nearly 3,000 years. Auricular acupuncture was first mentioned around 500 B.C. in the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, which is the equivalent of the Bible for TCM practitioners. However, the method in which auricular acupuncture is practiced today is actually based upon discoveries - [7 Ways Acupuncture Can Help With Running Injuries](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/7-ways-acupuncture-can-help-with-running-injuries/) - Running is something that people do to keep their bodies healthy. But as with any physical activity, there can be pitfalls to avoid. When it comes to runners, things like sprains, strains, aches and pains are all too common. And they usually involve the ankles, knees or legs because those are the tools that runners - [Acupuncture and Fatigue](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-and-fatigue/) - Fatigue is defined as extreme tiredness, usually resulting from physical or mental exertion or illness. For most people, their bodies are programmed to be tired at night and alert during the day. However, work, family and other responsibilities frequently require that we ignore these innate programs and interrupt our natural sleep patterns. Statistics show that - [Lose It: Weight Loss And Traditional Chinese Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/lose-it-weight-loss-and-traditional-chinese-medicine/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help with weight loss by evaluating the root of the problem. Acupuncture and herbs, along with changes in diet and an exercise plan, can help curb appetite, assist the digestive system, transform and transport food throughout the body and encourage regular elimination. Here are three main contributors to weight gain - [Gua Sha for Healthy Skin](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/gua-sha-for-healthy-skin/) - There are many elements to keeping our skin healthy and vibrant. For instance, are we giving our bodies enough water each day? Are we eating healthy, organic, whole foods? Are we getting enough sleep? Are we dealing with our daily stressors? All of these things can affect how we feel on the inside and how - [Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-for-carpal-tunnel/) - As the weather warms, so too does the desire to be more active and spend time outside with friends and family. If you’re someone who spends a lot of the day on the computer, or in a job that requires other repetitive motions in your wrists and hands, you might be walking into summer in - [Cupping in Chinese Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/cupping-in-chinese-medicine/) - Have you seen those dark purple cup marks on the upper back of your favorite celebrity lately and wondered what that was all about? That is from an ancient Chinese medicine technique called cupping, which is a wonderful and effective supplement to an acupuncture treatment. Cupping describes the practice of Chinese medical practitioners using thick - [The Liver: Mental & Emotional Aspects](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-liver-mental-emotional-aspects/) - According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the organ connected to springtime is the liver. The liver is connected to the wood element, which refers to living and growing things like plants, trees and humans. In TCM, practitioners use the mental and emotional characteristics of the liver to diagnose and treat imbalances in their patients as - [What’s Inside Your Medicine Cabinet?](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/whats-inside-your-medicine-cabinet/) - Springtime is a natural time for cleansing, whether in terms of cleansing the diet or clearing out the garage. In this article, we’ll offer some spring cleaning for your medicine cabinet: natural remedies to allow you to literally clear out old bottles and internally cleanse your body of synthetic medications. We all have a medicine - [How Weather Affects Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/how-weather-affects-pain/) - Almost everybody has heard one of their relatives complain about how painful their joints become when the weather changes, especially when it gets cold or rainy. But is there any validity to this claim? And what about people who live live in consistently cold, rainy or damp climates? Do they have the same complaints about - [5 Reasons to Try Acupuncture This Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/5-reasons-to-try-acupuncture-this-winter/) - Winter is one of the five seasons acknowledged by Traditional Chinese Medicine. The ancient Chinese followed the belief humans should live in harmony with the cycles of nature. During the winter months, darkness and cold indicate we should slow down, take care of our health, conserve our strength and replenish our energy for the upcoming - [5 Ways to Help You Wake Up and Get Active](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/5-ways-to-help-you-wake-up-and-get-active/) - Everybody experiences times where they have no motivation. Lack of motivation can be caused by many things: the weather, depression, nutritional deficiencies, rejection and even not exercising. For many, this seems contradictory. If I have no motivation, how am I supposed to go exercise? Well, it all comes down to choices and doing what is - [5 Reasons to get Acupuncture this Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/5-reasons-to-get-acupuncture-this-fall/) - Fall is a favorite season for many people. The weather starts to get a little cooler, things begin to slow down and preparations for the holidays are in full swing. For many others, fall is not so festive. Many people get sick during the fall months, allergies can flare up and many don’t like that - [Herbal Tonics for Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/herbal-tonics-for-fall/) - Fall is a time of transition for nature, as well as our own bodies. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is associated with specific organ systems. During the autumn months, the lung and large intestine energetic meridians are in control. It is extremely important to improve lung function during the fall months to allow - [Acupuncture and Hay Fever](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-and-hay-fever/) - Hay fever, which is medically termed allergic rhinitis, is an ailment that affects nearly 20 million people in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Hay fever is actually an allergy caused by pollen or dust, which causes the mucous membranes of the eyes and nose to become itchy and inflamed, resulting - [Acupuncture and Maintaining Healthy Skin](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-and-maintaining-healthy-skin/) - Health is something most people strive for every single day. Our skin is the outward expression of how healthy or unhealthy we are. And while many people believe makeup is the ultimate way to enhance your appearance, many times it is only hiding underlying health issues. Vanity is a virtue that can be quite unbecoming, - [Three Ways to Alleviate Stress in Under 10 Minutes](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/three-ways-to-alleviate-stress-in-under-10-minutes/) - We all have stress. Stress at work, stress at home, stress, stress, stress. And most of us know how harmful chronic stress can be to our bodies and minds. Stress can cause us to become fatigued, irritable, sad, restless, anxious and unmotivated. It can also lead to detrimental habits like smoking, drinking, drug usage and - [Five Reasons to Try Acupuncture This Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/five-reasons-to-try-acupuncture-this-summer/) - Summer is a time of abundant energy, sunshine-filled days and warmth. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer has many different associations that help define it. The element of summer is fire, the color of summer is red, the emotion of summer is joy and the governing organs are the heart and the small intestine. The - [Traditional Chinese Medicine and Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/traditional-chinese-medicine-and-spring-2/) - Spring is generally regarded as a happy season, especially for those that live in areas where winter is cold and dark. Spring brings with it longer days, more sunshine, the rebirth of plants and more activity. But for many, the months of spring can also bring irritability, anxiety, sinus issues, allergy flare-ups and even colds. - [Does Your Liver Need a Spring Tune-Up?](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/does-your-liver-need-a-spring-tune-up/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season is ruled by a particular organ system and spring is connected to the liver. What does this mean? Well, you probably notice changes in the way you feel, both physically and mentally, as the seasons change. We tend to feel a bit more contemplative and introspective during the winter - [Acupuncture: The Liver and Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-the-liver-and-spring/) - There is a lot of history and theory behind Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) when you consider it is a medical system about 3,000 years old. There are five elements and five seasons in TCM. Each element has numerous associations that relate it to the theory of TCM. The elements and their associations provide one way - [Five Acupuncture Points for Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/five-acupuncture-points-winter/) - Winter is a word that conjures up many different images, including snowmen, sleigh rides and holidays. During the winter months, nature is resting and replenishing itself for the upcoming spring. And as we are part of nature, we should also be focusing on rest and relaxation. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) teaches that we should live - [Acupuncture and the Season of Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-season-winter/) - Winter is just one of the five seasons acknowledged by Traditional Chinese Medicine. The ancient Chinese followed the belief humans should live in harmony with the cycles of nature. During the winter months, the darkness and cold indicate we should slow down, take care of our health, conserve our strength and replenish our energy for - [Fight Holiday Stress with Acupuncture](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/fight-holiday-stress-with-acupuncture/) - The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, celebration and love. But for many, the holidays mean added stress, anxiety and lack of sleep. Some polls show Americans spend an average of 42 hours annually on holiday activities. This could be anything from shopping to traveling to preparing food. And all of that - [Traditional Chinese Medicine And Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/traditional-chinese-medicine-fall/) - As the seasons shift from summer to fall, so does the Qi (or energy) in the universe as well as within our bodies. Autumn is represented by the metal element, which includes the lung and large intestine meridians. The emotion often associated with the lung meridian is sadness and grief. This is the time of - [The Metal Element](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-metal-element/) - Traditional Chinese Medicine dates back thousands of years and has helped people all over the world remain and regain health and well-being. Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM, most likely predates written history. But the first writings of this medical system appear in China during the Shang Dynasty in 1766 B.C. The theory behind TCM however, - [How to Fight the Common Cold with TCM](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/fight-common-cold-tcm/) - Cold and flu season usually occurs during the winter months. But the common cold doesn’t follow a schedule. The common cold can happen at any time of the year. It affects nearly three million people in the United States every year. Symptoms can include a runny nose, sneezing, congestion, coughing, sinus pressure, watery eyes, fatigue - [Acupuncture for Weight Loss](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-weight-loss/) - An article published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, substantiates the usage of acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal formulations can help in the treatment of obesity and weight loss. The article reviewed four clinical studies and 16 animal studies on the effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for treating obesity. There were different - [The Many Dimensions of the Heart](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/many-dimensions-heart/) - The heart is an energetic system we often treat in Traditional Chinese Medicine. According to Chinese Medicine theory, there are many systems of energy within the body. Each of these systems corresponds to certain physiological and psychological functions. So when we talk about the heart, the lungs, the liver. However, when we are speaking about - [Seven Ways to Protect Against Skin Cancer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/seven-ways-protect-skin-cancer/) - Skin cancer can be deadly if you let it manifest. The leading cause of skin cancer is overexposure to the sun. Fortunately, there are a lot of ways we can prevent against skin cancer. Check out these tips that you should be practicing to avoid getting skin cancer. Sunscreen. Sunscreen is integral to preventing skin - [Traditional Chinese Medicine and Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/traditional-chinese-medicine-and-spring/) - Spring is generally regarded as a happy season, especially for those that live in areas where winter is cold and dark. Spring brings with it longer days, more sunshine, the rebirth of plants and more activity. But for many, the months of spring can also bring irritability, anxiety, sinus issues, allergy flare-ups and even colds. - [Ways for a Healthy Brain](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/ways-for-a-healthy-brain-2/) - The second week of March is Brain Awareness Week. This is a perfect time to explore ways to keep your noggin working and healthy. Below are easy, simple ways to keep your brain in good shape. A healthy diet is a healthy mind There are many reasons to keep a healthy lifestyle and feed your - [Spring Acupuncture Tips to Keep You Healthy, Happy and Flexible](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/spring-acupuncture-tips-to-keep-you-healthy-happy-and-flexible/) - Spring is a happy time. Bunnies hop about. Flowers emerge in long forgotten corners of your garden. The birds return and sing so loudly they wake you in the morning. This is not a time to be angry. But according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, being angry is exactly what you can expect if you don’t - [Strengthen Your Immune System with TCM](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/strengthen-your-immune-system-with-tcm/) - It’s that time of year again...the weather is getting colder, the leaves have fallen off the trees and people are beginning to trickle into the office with autumn colds and allergies. As an acupuncturist, I have to say I rarely get sick. I have lots of tools and tricks in my bag to stay healthy - [Exploring the 24 Hour Qi Clock](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/exploring-the-24-hour-qi-clock/) - Most people are familiar with the terms diurnal and nocturnal. Diurnal means active during the daytime, while nocturnal means active during the nighttime. Together the two make up a 24-hour cycle known as a day. But, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, this 24-hour cycle is viewed as much more than just a day in the life. - [Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Season of Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/traditional-chinese-medicine-and-the-season-of-winter/) - The ancient Chinese developed a system of medicine thousands of years ago and that system is still used around the world today. This system incorporates more than just medicine though. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners also educate their patients on how the seasons affect the body and ways to stay healthy. This will ultimately lead to - [3 Simple Ways to Alleviate the Common Cold](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/3-simple-ways-to-alleviate-the-common-cold/) - The common cold is something that everybody deals with throughout the year. For some, it’s just a quick two to three day speed bump on the road of life. For others, it can become an ordeal that may last for weeks. Regardless of the amount of time, the common cold has been wreaking havoc on - [Seasonal Change and Back Pain](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/seasonal-change-and-back-pain/) - As the air starts to cool and the sun begins to fade with entrance of autumn, many people begin to experience a flare up in back pain symptoms. Back pain is a very common problem; one that will strike four out of five Americans at some time in their lives. In fact, it’s one of - [Goji Berries – The Little Red Superfruit](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/goji-berries-the-little-red-superfruit/) - The shriveled red Goji berry doesn’t look like much at first, but this Himalayan fruit, otherwise known in Tibet as the “key to eternal youth”, is a superfood packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. You can add it to almost any meal, it tastes delicious, and it may add some pep to your step. - [3 Quick Allergy Cures for Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/3-quick-allergy-cures-for-summer/) - Summer. School is out, vacations with the family are planned, good times are on the horizon, but you’re face to face with an old friend, allergies. You’ve tried Zyrtec, Claritin-D and even Allegra. If it is an allergy medicine on the market, you’ve bought it. But, unfortunately none of the medications seem to be doing - [3 Ways to Alleviate Stress in Under 10 Minutes](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/3-ways-to-alleviate-stress-in-under-10-minutes/) - We all have stress. Stress at work, stress at home, stress, stress, stress. And most of us know how harmful chronic stress can be to our bodies and minds. Stress can cause us to be fatigued, irritable, sad, restless, anxious and unmotivated. It can also lead to detrimental habits like smoking, drinking, drug usage and - [Acupuncture – the Original Bio-hack for... Seasonal Allergies!](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-the-original-bio-hack-for-seasonal-allergies/) - Many of us struggle with unpredictable seasonal-allergy symptoms. How does one create a plan of action to reduce the incidence and severity of an illness with such an unpredictable temperament? Luckily, acupuncture is like the duct tape of medical interventions, patching dysfunction and boosting the body’s natural resilience with the creative tenacity of MacGyver. Acupuncture - [Ten Tips for Spring Self-Cleaning](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/ten-tips-for-spring-self-cleaning/) - Spring is a season of awakening and of new beginnings. Making healthy choices that will carry you through the seasons is important this time of year. Here are a few ideas to get you started. 1. Embrace yourself honestly. Assess the various aspects of your life, see where the stressors and weaknesses exist. Are they - [Your Liver in Spring](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/your-liver-in-spring/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Spring represents the season of the Wood element, the Liver and Gallbladder. TCM believes that eye diseases are related to deficiencies in the liver and kidney organs and result from an imbalance in the body. Spring is a great time to focus on eye health for the new season. There are - [Put Springtime Allergies to Rest](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/put-springtime-allergies-to-rest/) - Allergies, seasonal or year round, are an ongoing problem for many individuals. Seasonal allergies typically affect people during a particular season or time of year, most commonly in the spring. They are also referred to as outdoor allergies and are generally triggered by tree, grass and weed pollens or outdoor mold spores. Year round allergies - [The Pessimist’s Guide to Gratitude](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-pessimists-guide-to-gratitude/) - Your mother was right--say thank you. Scientists have now proven what your mother always knew--it’s good to be grateful. Being grateful is more than just politeness; it’s actually good for your health and well-being. In a study by Robert A. Emmons, of the University of California, and Davis and Michael E. McCullough, of the University - [7 Tips to be Stress-Free During the Holidays](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/7-tips-to-be-stress-free-during-the-holidays/) - Keep a routine It is especially easy to lose your normal routine during the holidays due to festivities and the special occasions that tend to happen this time of year. Don’t abandon your healthy habits, keep your usual routine of diet and exercise, which is especially important when holiday foods and drinks come around. Try - [Getting Exercise in the Winter](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/getting-exercise-in-the-winter/) - Interesting Ways to Help Your Kids Exercise in Winter It’s cold and dark outside. You come home with the kids and all you want to do is snuggle on the couch. Snuggling in winter may be fun (and I’m not going to say you shouldn’t snuggle) but your kids need something more. In fact, according - [Germ Warfare](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/germ-warfare/) - You never have to wonder when the cold and flu season is around the corner. The pharmaceutical industry will be sure that you are reminded of its arrival. The pharmaceutical industry and the medical community at large are depending on you to leave the fate of your health and well being up to the workings - [3 Ways to Prepare For Seasonal Changes](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/3-ways-to-prepare-for-seasonal-changes/) - As the transition from summer to autumn begins, changes start to happen externally as well as internally. The days become shorter and the air gets cooler; our bodies change to adapt as well. Here are three ways to prepare for the fall season ahead along with the beginning of the yin cycle. Let go of - [Fall - Season of the Lungs](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/fall-season-of-the-lungs/) - The theories of Chinese medicine suggest that each season relates to a different organ system. The Fall is the season of the Lungs. It’s the time of year when people are easily affected by environmental influences. Great changes are taking place in the weather and plant life around us. Some people refer to it as - [Headaches - How Acupuncture Helps](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/headaches-how-acupuncture-helps/) - If you suffer from headaches, you are not alone. Over 50 million of us experience some form of a severe headache at some point in our lives. Whether you experience minor head pain or severe migraines, headaches can take valuable time out of your day and your life, and leave you searching for relief. Many - [All Revved Up and Can’t Slow Down](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/all-revved-up-and-cant-slow-down/) - What do you think would happen if you kept your car in park and the engine revving at 65 miles per hour? You guessed it—after a short time your car would break down. If you were lucky, a simple tune-up would fix the problem. If not, the engine might need to be replaced entirely. Stress - [Save Your Summertime Skin](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/save-your-summertime-skin/) - Now is the time of year when the sun becomes irresistible. As tempting as it is to spend as much time as possible in the warmth of the sun, there are a few precautions to take to protect your skin from harmful rays. Our skin is the largest organ in the body. It reflects our - [Spring, the Liver and Traditional Chinese Medicine](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/spring-the-liver-and-traditional-chinese-medicine/) - Spring is not just a time to clean and refresh your home, but also a great opportunity to rejuvenate and cleanse your body. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is associated with the Wood element, which refers to growth and nourishment in the human body. Spring represents a new beginning and a time to refresh - [Spring Recipes and Cleanses](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/spring-recipes-and-cleanses/) - Spring is the time for your body to start anew and rid yourself of harmful toxins that may be affecting your daily life. Everything from overeating, not resting enough and eating processed and refined foods can be putting your body out of balance. Spring is the season to focus on your liver and gall bladder - [How To Celebrate Earth Day](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/how-to-celebrate-earth-day/) - Held annually on April 22nd, the world’s first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970. Today, it’s a massive event orchestrated by the Earth Day Network and observed by more than 192 countries. To learn more about Earth Day and how you can show support for the environment on April 22nd. Turn Off The Lights Who - [The Key to the Golden Palace](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/the-key-to-the-golden-palace/) - There is a beautiful legend about a Golden Palace that would please the heart of any person, but, that person must earn the key to the palace through his or her good deeds. One day, Hung Di approached the Golden Palace and asked the door keeper “What shall I do to earn the key to - [Take the Stress Out of the Holidays](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/take-the-stress-out-of-the-holidays/) - The holidays are a big part of the fall and winter months. This is often a time to reconnect with family and loved ones, to attend social events, and celebrate your beliefs. ­Unfortunately, it can also be a time of extra commitments, nonstop activity, and pressure to get it all done. This can result in - [Seasonal Health: Winter and your Kidneys](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/seasonal-health-winter-and-your-kidneys/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine, health is achieved by living in balance with nature and the seasons. Winter, the season of the Water Element, is the season for slowing down, reflecting, and conserving our resources. We all feel this tendency, but we don’t always listen to our bodies. In the Western culture, being active is rewarded - [6 Tips To Keep You Strong and Healthy This Fall](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/6-tips-to-keep-you-strong-and-healthy-this-fall/) - According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 5-20% of people in the U.S. will catch the flu virus, 200,000 of whom will be hospitalized due to the complications (source). Although you can catch the flu virus at any time of the year, it's far more prevalent during the fall and winter - [Boost Your Immune System Using These Two Points](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/boost-your-immune-system-using-these-two-points/) - Lu 7 and St 36 Although they are invisible to the naked eye, we are exposed to millions upon millions of germs. Bacteria, viruses , fungi and protozoa are found on nearly every surface, including doorknobs, furniture, office supplies, phones, remote controls, and even the food we eat. Thankfully, most of these germs are harmless - [Acupuncture and Fall Foods](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-and-fall-foods/) - The dropping temperatures and colorful landscape can only mean one thing: fall is right around the corner. Also known as the Autumnal Equinox, the fall season begins on September 23 and lasts until December 21. During this time many people will succumb to illness, such as the common cold, flu virus (influenza) or infections, but - [Walk Your Way to Better Health](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/walk-way-better-health/) - Starting a new fitness routine can be a little daunting, but improving your health doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it can be as simple as putting one foot in front of the other! Why walk? Walking is an effective, easy, and low-impact way to improve your health. In fact, regular physical activity such - [The Season of Summer](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/season-summer/) - Ahh, summer... time for long, sunny days, warm weather, and brightly-blooming gardens. But the season is also significant in another way. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body’s Organ systems are most accessible during specific times of year. During the late summer, the Spleen and Stomach are most active and most open to influence - [Summertime Foods](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/summertime-foods/) - As the weather grows warmer we often become more active and participate in a variety of outdoor activities. An ideal summer diet is light and filled with fresh foods with high water content, and brightly colored with summer fruits and vegetables. Foods for a Summer Diet BEANS Adzuki Garbanzo Green Kidney Sprouted FRUIT Apricot Avocado - [Acu 101: The Eight Principles](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acu-101-eight-principles/) - When you go to an acupuncturist, have you noticed that the way they describe your illness is different than the way your doctor describes it? Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) looks for patterns of imbalance. Identifying these patterns allows your acupuncturist to form a TCM diagnosis and leads to your treatment. Because of this, illnesses that - [What You Need to Know about Food Allergies](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/need-know-food-allergies/) - Food allergies are common these days. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that food allergies among children increased approximately 50% between 1997 and 2011.[1] No one knows why food allergies are increasing, although several theories exist. This leaves doctors and scientists unsure about what to recommend in order to prevent them. - [Speedy Spring Cleaning Tips](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/speedy-spring-cleaning-tips/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), all of life is influenced by seasonal cycles. You are probably Most people love a clean house but few people have time to do a deep clean. The days of spending a week thoroughly cleaning your home are gone. It’s unfortunate. Spring is a great time for cleaning. Feng Shui - [Winter Feng Shui for a Healthy Home](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/winter-feng-shui-healthy-home/) - In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), all of life is influenced by seasonal cycles. You are probably familiar with this in acupuncture, but did you know that these cycles also affect your home? The practice of making a home “healthy” is called Feng Shui. By directing the flow of Qi through your home in a balanced - [A Simple 4 Step Plan to Find the Time to Relax](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/simple-4-step-plan-find-time-relax/) - Winter is a time to stop, pause and reflect. Your body and soul need a break from to-do lists, urgent priorities and busyness. It’s important. But finding time is difficult. The whole reason you need a break from busyness is because you are so busy. Making time to relax doesn’t have to be hard. Follow - [Acupuncture 101: Kidneys](https://drthomaslee.com/health-well-news/acupuncture-101-kidneys/) - Winter is the season for the kidneys & bladder. In Western medicine, kidneys are the organs that filter and purify blood. They maintain pH, mineral and electrolyte balance by removing excess water and salts to create urine. The urine is then stored in the bladder until you pee. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the kidneys ## Questions & Answers - [What is Acupuncture?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/what-is-acupuncture/) - Acupuncture is an effective form of health care that has evolved into a complete and holistic medical system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive medical system to diagnose and help millions of people get well and stay healthy. An acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints on the body. - [What will my acupuncturist do?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/what-will-my-acupuncturist-do/) - During the initial exam a full health history will be taken. Questions will be asked regarding symptoms, health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist also may check pulses and your tongue and may conduct a physical exam. This information is then organized to create a complete, accurate and comprehensive diagnosis of where Qi has become blocked or - [Why do they want to feel my pulse?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/why-do-they-want-to-feel-my-pulse/) - There are twelve pulse positions on each wrist that your acupuncturist will palpate. Each position corresponds to a specific meridian and organ. Your acupuncturist will be looking for twenty-seven individual qualities that reflect overall health. If there are any problems, they may appear in the pulse. - [Why do they want to look at my tongue?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/why-do-they-want-to-look-at-my-tongue/) - The tongue is a map of the body. It reflects the general health of the organs and meridians. Your acupuncturist will look at the color, shape, cracks and coating on your tongue. - [Why did my acupuncturist recommend herbs?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/why-did-my-acupuncturist-recommend-herbs/) - Herbs can be a powerful adjunct to acupuncture care. They are used to strengthen, build and support the body or to clear it of excess problems like a cold, fever or acute pain. Your practitioner may suggest starting with herbs and then adding acupuncture to your treatment in the future. This is suggested to build - [Is acupuncture safe for children?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/is-acupuncture-safe-for-children/) - Yes. In some instances children actually respond more quickly than adults. If your child has an aversion to needles, your acupuncturist may massage the acupuncture points. This is called acupressure or tuina. - [How many treatments will I need?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/how-many-treatments-will-i-need/) - The number of treatments will vary from person to person. Some people experience immediate relief; others may take months or even years to achieve results. Chronic conditions usually take longer to resolve than acute ones. Plan on a minimum of a month to see significant changes. Treatment frequency depends on a variety of factors: your - [How much does it cost?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/how-much-does-it-cost/) - Rates vary and depend upon what procedures are performed. It is best to consult with your acupuncturist about costs. - [Will my insurance cover acupuncture?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/will-my-insurance-cover-acupuncture/) - Insurance coverage varies from state to state. Contact your insurance provider to learn what kind of care is covered. Here are a few questions to ask: Will my plan cover acupuncture? How many visits per calendar year? Do I need a referral? Do I have a co-pay? Do I have a deductible? If yes, has - [How should I prepare?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/how-should-i-prepare/) - Write down and bring any questions you have. We are here to help you. Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to acupuncture points. Do not eat large meals just before or after your visit. Refrain from overexertion, working out, drugs or alcohol for up to six hours after the visit. Avoid stressful situations. Make - [How safe is acupuncture?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/how-safe-is-acupuncture/) - Acupuncture is extremely safe. It is an all-natural, drug-free therapy, yielding no side effects just feelings of relaxation and well-being. There is little danger of infection from acupuncture needles because they are sterile, used once, and then discarded. - [How are acupuncturists educated?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/how-are-acupuncturists-educated/) - Today, acupuncturists undertake three to four years of extensive and comprehensive graduate training at nationally certified schools. All acupuncturists must pass a national exam and meet strict guidelines to practice in every state. - [What can acupuncturists treat?](https://drthomaslee.com/questions/what-can-acupuncturists-treat/) - Acupuncture is recognized by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of medical problems. 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