Get ahead of cold & flu season and upcoming event!

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is linked to a specific organ system, and autumn is closely connected to the lungs and large intestine. The lungs play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin, a strong immune system, and easy, comfortable breathing. As the weather shifts to cooler, drier air, the lungs become more susceptible to dryness, making it easier for external pathogens to compromise the body’s natural defenses. Fall is also a time of emotional release, and unresolved grief or emotional stagnation can further weaken lung health and reduce immune function. By incorporating acupuncture, herbal teas, mindfulness practices, and nourishing foods into your routine, you can strengthen your immunity and stay balanced throughout this transitional season.

I'm excited to announce a special collaboration with Centre Yoga Studio (my office neighbor!) and From the Ground Up Healing. Together, we are hosting an incredible evening of restorative yoga, acupuncture, meditation, and herbal tea. Spots are limited to 12 people, so be sure to sign up online today to secure your spot!

As always, I’m deeply grateful for your loyalty and trust. I look forward to continuing to support you on your healing journey.

With gratitude,
Brittany Smith

Lung Health and Immunity

The lung meridian consists of 11 acupuncture points which traverse the inner arm, on both sides, starting just below the clavicle on the chest to the lateral edge of the thumb. This is one of the smallest channels in the body as some channels have over 60 points! With just 11 points on this channel, it makes each and every one of the points extremely helpful and useful. For example, LU7 (lung 7) is a great point to clear phlegm, congestion, and colds when the body is sick. However, LU9 (lung 9) is more often used preventatively to help tonify the lung qi to strengthen the immunity. Please note this is extremely generalized and every patient’s case may need a different set of points. There are points outside of the meridian that can assist with lung function and immunity too! For example CV17 (conception vessel 17) is used to help descend rebellious qi (aka coughing/asthma) while ST36 (Stomach 36) can be used to boost overall immunity. Wei qi is the defensive qi in the body that helps protect that body from external invasions that causes sickness. When the wei qi is deficient, the body is more likely to catch a cold. Have you ever noticed that your loved one has a stronger immune system than you? But then when they get sick, their body has a crazy reaction to the cold? This is because their wei qi is innately stronger, but when the pathogen breaks through the protective layer, the body’s response system attacks the pathogen much stronger than someone with a weaker wei qi would. Their colds probably don’t last as long, but when they get them it’s really intense!

Skin health

Often times, the Fall season can bring about skin changes too. That’s because the Lung organ system controls the skin. The skin is the first layer of the immune system (protective layer against the external environment) which makes sense why the lung also controls the skin. With the dry, cold air, skin issues like to arise. Acupuncture can help enhance circulation to the skin and deliver nutrients to the skin! LU5 (lung 5) is an effective point for skin issues that are due to heat and toxins from the body that can cause skin flare-ups such as some forms of psoriasis and eczema. However, please consult an expert as not all cases of eczema and psoriasis are due to this.

Unwind your body and mind with a soothing restorative yoga flow, followed by a relaxing acupuncture and meditation session. Whether you're new to yoga or experienced, this gentle practice will help you release tension and stress. After the session, enjoy a calming cup of herbal tea as we gather for a time of quiet reflection, allowing the benefits of both yoga and acupuncture to fully settle in.

November 6th 6:30pm-8pm

$50

191 S Main St Middleton (right next door to my office in the yoga studio!)

Limited to 12 participants only!

Click here to sign up!

Pear and White Radish Soup with Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 large pear (Asian or Bartlett), peeled, cored, and cubed

• 1 medium white radish (daikon), peeled and sliced

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken thighs (or a whole chicken, depending on preference)

• 4-5 slices of fresh ginger

• 6-8 dried goji berries (optional, for added yin-nourishing properties)

• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or vegetable broth (homemade or low-sodium)

• 2 green onions, chopped

• 1 tablespoon rice wine or cooking wine (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash and peel the pear and radish, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces if necessary.

2. Blanch the chicken: In a pot of boiling water, quickly blanch the chicken thighs for about 2-3 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the soup: In a large pot, add the chicken, broth, ginger slices, and pear cubes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook on low heat for about 30 minutes.

4. Add radish and goji berries: After 30 minutes, add the white radish slices and goji berries (if using). Continue simmering for another 20 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the radish is soft.

5. Season the soup: Add the rice wine (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine.

6. Finish and serve: Turn off the heat, garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions. Serve the soup warm.

TCM Benefits:

• Pear: Moistens the Lungs, helps clear dryness, and is excellent for respiratory health.

• White radish (Daikon): Helps clear phlegm and promote digestion, which indirectly benefits the Lungs.

• Chicken: Strengthens qi (energy) and supports overall vitality.

• Ginger: Warms the body, helps boost circulation, and supports Lung qi.

This soup is nourishing, warming, and helps protect the lungs from dryness in the fall season.