The Truth Behind 10 Beauty Myths
We've all heard them – the beauty myths passed down through generations, and more recently, spread through our social media circles. But how much of it is true?
When it comes to beauty myths, there are more than we can count, but we get a lot of questions about the ones below, so we wanted to set the record straight.
Let's dive in!
Myth: Facial Product Application Order Doesn't Matter
Truth: The order in which you apply your skincare products is essential. You want to start with the lightest consistency and work toward the thickest product. Many lightweight products are water-based (like our Root & Stem hyaluronic acid-based Chinese herbal serum). If you apply water-based products after applying oil-based products, they'll have a tough time getting through because oils act like a barrier on your skin. This can drastically reduce the efficacy of some serums, so it's a good idea to think your application order through.
We recommend starting with a gentle cleanser, then applying your toner or serums, and adding moisturizers, oils, or creams.
Myth: You Need Lots of Expensive and Complicated Skincare Products to Look Your Best
Truth: Nope. You don't need a 20-step routine to have glowing skin. Sure, investing in high-quality products is essential, but high quality and expense sometimes go hand in hand. Also, you don't need to buy every product on the market or apply countless layers of serum and creams daily to have great-looking skin.
Some brands make a fortune capitalizing on this myth.
How do we know? We've been formulating skincare products for years, so we have a decent idea of how much ingredients cost, which active ingredients have the most significant impact, and which are mostly hype.
That's why we keep our facial products pure and simple. We use extremely high-quality, organic ingredients, but only a carefully curated select few. This keeps our cost per product reasonable without compromising efficacy.
The most important thing is finding the right products for your skin type and getting into a routine that's simple enough to stick with day after day.
Myth: You Should Wash Your Face Morning and Night
Truth: Have you heard the term "microbiome"? It's the collection of bacteria and microorganisms living on your skin. Your microbiome has a purpose: it protects your skin from environmental aggressors and encourages homeostasis (a state of balance). Overwashing can disrupt your microbiome, so it's essential not to overdo it.
If you wear makeup, consider using a gentle cleanser in the evening and simply rinsing your face with warm water in the morning. If you're a heavy makeup wearer or an avid gym-goer, twice-a-day facial cleansing might make sense. Remember to use a gentle product that doesn't strip away your natural oils and hydration.
Myth: Oily Skin Doesn't Require Moisturizer
Truth: Contrary to popular belief, the opposite is often the case! One cause of oily skin that we see a lot is dry skin. When your skin lacks hydration, it triggers the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. So, adding a moisturizer to your skincare routine helps regulate oil production and restore balance.
Myth: Daily Exfoliation is Good for Your Skin
Truth: Exfoliation is integral to a healthy skincare routine, but you don't need to do it every day. In fact, over-exfoliation can cause micro-tears in the skin and lead to dryness, irritation, and even acne.
We recommend using a gentle exfoliator no more than twice a week to remove dead skin cells and residue from your pores. In addition, you should opt for gentile physical exfoliants that don't contain plastic microbeads. While microbeads work fine, they contribute to plastic pollution in our oceans and waterways, so please avoid them at all costs.
Myth: Microneedling Can Damage Your Skin
Truth: Microneedling (or collagen induction therapy) is safe for your skin when performed by a licensed professional. While it does make holes in your skin, they are too small to see with the naked eye. In addition, your body's natural response seals them closed again within hours of treatment, and collagen production improves so that you benefit from firmer and more elastic skin in the long run.
The procedure is gaining popularity as a safe and effective treatment for acne scars, age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Myth: Microneedling is Painful
Truth: Microneedling is virtually painless. At Root & Stem, we use a topical numbing cream and have patients relax on the table while it kicks in. In addition, the single-use micro needling heads we use are incredibly fine, and some describe the sensation as a "tingling" feeling. Your skin may feel tender for a few hours, but not painful.
Myth: Microneedling Requires a Recovery Period
Truth: Just the opposite! Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure, so you can expect to return to your regular activities right away. Your skin may have some minor redness or sensitivity during the 24 hours right after your treatment, but that usually fades quickly. Some people even experience a "glow" that develops over the next few days.
Myth: Microneedling at Home is the Same Microneedling from Your Acupuncturist or Med Spa
Truth: Not even close. Professional microneedling devices are medical-grade oscillating mechanical pens that can penetrate the skin far more deeply than at-home tools (like derma rollers). As a result, the effects of professional microneedling are far more dramatic and do much more to stimulate your skin's natural collagen and elastin production and improve skin texture and tone.
Professional microneedling can even reduce scarring from acne or injury, stimulate new capillaries for improved blood supply, and stimulate and restore hair growth when used on the scalp.
Myth: Professional Microneedling With Your Acupuncturist is the Same as Microneedling at a Med Spa
Truth: Not all microneedling is the same. Acupuncturists are highly skilled professionals with extensive training in facial anatomy and physiology. Unlike Med Spa professionals, we look at your body as a whole because we know that facial aesthetic concerns often have roots in internal imbalances that can lead to stagnant qi.
Our Radiant Aging Cosmetic Acupuncture Program combines microneedling with facial acupuncture techniques used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to support aging, restore balance, and improve the overall health of your body, mind, and spirit.
Final Thoughts
There's plenty of chatter about beauty, especially regarding microneedling, and it can be a challenge sorting fact from fiction. We hope this post helped you better understand the truth behind some popular myths so that you can make well-informed decisions about your skincare.
Healthy, glowing complexion results from cultivating balance and harmony in the body, and a holistic approach yields the best results.
We've got you covered if you're looking for a natural, long-lasting alternative to Botox and fillers. Our 12-Week Radiant Aging Program is the perfect way to support your natural beauty and create a beautiful complexion without resorting to invasive or chemical procedures.
Looking For “Microneedling Near Me?”
We're here for you. Get in touch with us today and start your journey to a radiant complexion. Microneedling combined with cosmetic acupuncture is a true skincare game changer, and we would love to help you achieve your natural beauty goals.
Ready to get started? Book cosmetic acupuncture and microneedling in Nevada City or Oakland today!
The Root & Stem Radiant Aging Program
What You Need to Know About This Game-Changing Skin Rejuvenation Treatment
Are you looking to restore your skin's natural glow and reverse the signs of aging? Maybe you've tried Botox and fillers in the past but want a more holistic approach or have been put off by the side effects and downtime. If any of the above sounds like you, our Radiant Aging Program is the perfect solution!
At Root & Stem, we seek to embrace, enhance, and beautify the natural aging process. We're here to help you shine brighter, no matter your age, by stimulating and supporting your skin's inherent ability to look and feel its best.
When it comes to natural skin enhancement, the Root & Stem Radiant Aging program is in a class of its own. For example, if you Google "microneedling facial near me" or “Oakland microneedling,” you'll see that our community has countless med spas offering the service. But here's what makes Radiant Aging unique: our program combines the latest microneedling techniques with holistic facial rejuvenation acupuncture treatments embraced by Eastern medicine for millennia.
The result? A dramatically improved overall skin appearance and reduced facial lines, wrinkles, age spots, acne, and scarring. But with Radiant Aging, your skin doesn't just appear healthier; it truly is healthier. Why? Because the treatments stimulate and restore your body's own collagen and elastin production while increasing circulation and facial muscle tone.
Unlike other skin treatments, Root & Stem Radiant Aging addresses the mind and body as a whole. This is critical because cosmetic issues that manifest in the face (like wrinkles, sagging skin, acne, and rosacea) are often related to internal imbalances affecting the organs, blood, and qi. By addressing these internal imbalances, we manage and improve many age-related cosmetic complaints and boost the efficacy of microneedling treatments.
So What Does The Program Look Like?
During a 12-week period, you'll visit one of our clinics for 3 microneedling treatments (each 4 weeks apart) interspersed with 7 cosmetic acupuncture and nanoneedling facial rejuvenation treatments. You'll also get a 12-week supply of our custom-formulated hyaluronic acid-based Chinese herbal serum and follow-up skin oil. The pair will nourish and support your skin daily during your treatment period.
On your first visit, we begin with the traditional eastern medicine diagnostic process to evaluate your health and create a treatment plan, especially for you.
Facial Rejuvenation (or Cosmetic Acupuncture)
During facial rejuvenation treatments, we apply special ultra-fine acupuncture needles designed for facial use to specific points on your face. We may also apply needles to other areas of your body according to your treatment plan to address underlying physical imbalances discovered during diagnosis.
While Microneedling addresses skin tone, glow, and the appearance of wrinkles, facial rejuvenation treatments are ideal for lifting the face and toning facial muscles. They also work wonders in addressing bags or darkness under the eyes because the under-eye area is too sensitive for direct microneedling treatments.
We follow each facial rejuvenation treatment with a nanoneedling session. First, we apply our Root & Stem organic hyaluronic acid-based Chinese herbal serum. Next, we go over your entire face and neck with a special nanoneedling attachment affixed to the same oscillating medical pen we use for microneedling treatments. The nanoneedling head does not penetrate the skin but dramatically improves the absorption of our serum and stimulates your dermal tissue.
We complete each facial rejuvenation session with Celluma Light Therapy for maximum results. Our FDA-approved device uses specific light wavelengths to stimulate cellular regeneration and improve skin health. Check out the science here!
Microneedling
During microneedling treatments, we use a specialized oscillating microneedling pen on the entire face and neck. The single-use head of the pen contains 12 extremely tiny needles. The treatment results in microtrauma to the skin, awakening and improving your natural collagen and elastin production by stimulating keratinocytes in your skin. The two proteins work to reduce wrinkle depth and skin dryness naturally resulting in a glowing complexion and firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
Synergistic Treatments Build Momentum
The combination of our treatments is more than just the sum of its parts. Each treatment builds on prior sessions creating the synergy necessary for tangible, long-term results. With each session, you'll feel your skin getting softer and firmer and notice reduced fine lines, improved skin tone, and increased facial contour.
In addition to the treatments, We also provide dietary and lifestyle guidance. Our recommendations for supplements and herbal formulas add an extra layer of support for your skin and overall health.
The best part? The treatments are painless and require no downtime or recovery period. Most of our patients come to look forward to their sessions as a relaxing and meditative moment of peace, self-reflection, and self-care.
An Investment in Your Health and Well-Being
We've carefully designed our Radiant Aging Program to help you restore balance, turn back the clock, and experience glowing skin that radiates health and vitality. It's an investment in your own health and well-being that will pay dividends far beyond what you see in the mirror!
After taking ample R&D time, we finally rolled out Radiant Aging in 2022, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Patients report seeing visible improvements in their skin, including increased tone and elasticity, reduction in wrinkles and pore size, plus improved overall complexion.
So if you're looking for Oakland Microneedling, consider going above and beyond with our Radiant Aging Program. In addition to microneedling, it goes way beyond the surface. It also includes a 3 month supply of our high-end all-natural skincare line to nourish and support your skin every step of the way.
Let's start your journey to radiant aging today! We look forward to helping you feel confident in your skin and equipping you with the tools and techniques to age gracefully and beautifully.
If you'd like to learn more about our facial rejuvenation services, give us a call any time at either of our clinics (Oakland: 510.519.3413, Nevada City: 530.900.4304) or email hello@rootandstemclinic.com.
Ready to grab your spot and get glowing? Book your first session in Oakland or Nevada City today!
How Can Acupuncture Help with Pain?
We all will experience varying pain levels at some point in our lives. Pain is our body’s way of alerting us to internal issues.
Depending on the cause, pain can be dull or sharp. Some more extreme pain levels can affect one’s mobility and, consequently, quality of life.
Physical activity can trigger pain flare-ups, and those suffering from this type of pain may be unable to perform daily tasks.
In a desperate attempt to avoid pain triggers, many people stop attending social events leading to social isolation that can wreak havoc on one’s physical and mental health. It increases a person’s risk of dementia by 50%. Pain can also affect productivity by forcing us to miss workdays.
If you are regularly experiencing pain that is beginning to affect your daily life, then it is time to seek treatment. The team at Root & Stem Integrative Chinese Medicine provides a wide variety of acupuncture and wellness services to ensure the highest level of support to those experiencing pain. If you are interested in learning more about how acupuncture can help with pain, call our acupuncture clinic in Oakland at (510) 463-4304 or continue reading.
Types of Pain
Pain can range in levels of intensity. When defining your pain, there are five types: chronic, acute, neuropathic, nociceptive, and functional.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain lasts for more than three months. Studies show that around 100 million Americans struggle with chronic pain. Depending on the root cause, chronic pain sometimes lasts years.
This type of pain results from chronic health conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic migraine, and chronic temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Additionally, nerve changes due to cancer treatment can cause chronic pain for cancer patients.
Chronic pain can be consistent or intermittent, sharp, or dull and it can affect any part of the body. Untreated chronic pain affects a person’s ability to navigate everyday life.
Chronic pain often comes on after an injury or surgery. Some risk factors for chronic pain include age, being overweight, and sex – statistically speaking, females are more likely to experience chronic pain than males.
Acute Pain
Acute pain occurs suddenly. A specific event usually causes it. Acute pain is sharp or intense and goes away once the underlying problem is addressed or resolved. It often serves as a warning sign of an underlying health problem or other threat to the body.
Some common causes of acute pain include injuries, illnesses, and procedures such as surgery and dental work. Some signs of acute pain include loss of appetite, mobility problems, tight, tense muscles, and low energy. Depending on the cause, acute pain can last from a few days to several months.
Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic pain is caused by damage or injury to the nerves that facilitate communication between the brain and spinal cord. It is often described as a burning, shooting, or stabbing sensation. People with neuropathic pain are extremely sensitive to touch.
Neuropathic pain can be unrelenting or come and go. Some common health conditions that can cause neuropathic pain include herniated discs, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, HIV infection or AIDS, syphilis, shingles, and thyroid problems.
Nociceptive Pain
Nociceptive pain stems from injuries or health conditions that cause tissue damage. Some health conditions and injuries that can provoke nociceptive pain include inflammatory bowel disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, burns, cuts, fractures, and bruises.
People with nociceptive pain describe it as throbbing, sharp, or achy. It usually develops in parts of the musculoskeletal system. Typical examples include joints, bones, muscles, and tendons.
Functional Pain
Functional pain can be either chronic or acute. Researchers have yet to determine the exact cause of functional pain. Many health experts believe it can stem from a chronic condition requiring long-term care and monitoring. Functional pain syndromes affect more than 15% of the global population.
Some common functional pain syndromes include chronic fibromyalgia, cardiac chest pain, and irritable bowel syndrome.
How Can Acupuncture Alleviate Pain?
People worldwide use acupuncture as a standalone treatment or an adjunct to conventional care to manage different types of pain. The ancient Chinese practice stimulates qi and instigates the production of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin. These hormones promote body-wide health and well-being. Acupuncture also flushes out toxins from the body and suppresses stress hormones.
Studies show that acupuncture can relieve pain and discomfort caused by diseases and health conditions such as fibromyalgia, cancer, and osteoarthritis. It supports women’s health by treating common menstrual problems such as painful periods, irregular periods, and heavy periods. Acupuncture during pregnancy can help with common pregnancy complaints and prepare the body for childbirth. It can also ease troublesome menopause symptoms.
Stress is a common cause of pain. Acupuncture relieves stress by stimulating the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to release endorphins and other feel-good hormones.
In many cases, pain results from an injury. Acupuncture fast-tracks injury recovery by increasing blood flow to the injured area and reducing inflammation. Pain caused by an injury or health condition can force you to change your gait, resulting in posture problems. Poor posture stresses the already tense muscles, exacerbating your symptoms. Acupuncture treats the root cause of pain and can help address posture problems resulting from it.
Pain can be debilitating, but there is hope. If you or a loved one is looking for a holistic approach to treating pain at any level, then it is time to turn to pain management with acupuncture.
Root & Stem Integrative Chinese Medicine is a trusted acupuncture clinic in Oakland and Nevada City. Our practitioners are dedicated to providing top-notch pain relief treatments for our patients. Their specialized skills and knowledge enable them to develop customized healthcare plans for each client. To consult with our team,call (510) 463-4304.
Acupuncture: The Key to Maximizing Athletic Performance
Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique. It originated almost 3,000 years ago in China. TCM experts believe that an illness occurs when Qi, the life force that circulates within the body of every living being, stagnates.
Studies show that acupuncture can help alleviate many health problems, such as chronic pain, headaches, and digestive issues. It also reduces the symptoms of enervating mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. It is 100% safe and drug-free and can help reduce chonic pain-related medication dependence.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Many people shudder at the thought of needles and automatically assume that acupuncture will hurt. What many do not know is that acupuncturist uses paper-thin needles instead of what you might think of as traditional hypodermic needles. Insertion usually doesn’t cause discomfort or pain. Some clients report finding the experience so relaxing they fell asleep on the table.
Benefits of Sports Acupuncture
Professional athletes and amateurs use acupuncture to improve athletic performance. Sports acupuncture near Oakland can treat different sports-related injuries, including traumatic and overuse injuries. Acupuncture can fast-track injury recovery, allowing you to return to the field sooner after an injury. Unlike many other therapies that mask the symptoms of performance problems, sports acupuncture treats the root of the cause.
At Root & Stem Integrative Chinese Medicine, our team helps athletes get back in the game with therapeutic sports acupuncture treatments. Here are some of the most compelling reasons we receive athletes being seen for sports acupuncture services.
It Reduces Pain
Pain from an injury can affect an athlete’s balance, stamina, and flexibility. As a result, their athletic performance may decline. Acupuncture has been recognized as an effective treatment for acute and chronic pain. It reduces pain by stimulating the brain to produce feel-good hormones such as endorphins, oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine.
These hormones reduce pain perception and affect one’s physical and emotional well-being. Acupuncture also helps reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body. Research suggests that acupuncture can help with acute inflammation from sports injuries by inducing the production of anti-inflammatory hormones that prevent the widespread tissue and nerve damage associated with inflammation.
It Helps Recover Faster from Injuries
Acupuncture can fast-track injury recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting blood flow to the affected body. Feel-good hormones the brain produces during acupuncture treatment relieve muscle aches and pains. As circulation improves, tensed, tight and stiff muscles relax.
Sports injuries can cause sleep problems. Poor sleep is linked to impeded recovery. Acupuncture can help calm the mind and body and decrease stress, allowing you to sleep better. When you sleep a whole night, your damaged tissues get enough time to repair and rebuild themselves.
At the end of a study that carried out 46 random trials on 3,811 patients, the researchers found that acupuncture increased the sleep duration of the subjects by three hours.
A sports injury can affect your immune system by disrupting immune system homeostasis. A weakened immune system needs more time to repair the affected part of the body after an injury. Acupuncture can strengthen a weakened immune system by increasing the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and T-cells.
It Helps with Injury Prevention
Why wait for a sports injury to occur and then treat it when you can prevent it in the first place? Acupuncture can help improve flexibility, and stability, increase your range of motion and decrease muscle tension to prevent injuries.
During the initial consultation, your sports acupuncturist will perform a physical examination to identify problem areas that you may be unaware of.
Once your acupuncturist acquires an in-depth understanding of the issues such as posture problems, chronic muscle overuse, and poor exercise form that increase your risk of sports injury, they will come up with an action plan to address them before they snowball into major problems. Your sports acupuncturist can release trigger points, helping ensure that your muscles remain loose and flexible during workouts, thereby reducing the risk of injury.
It Increases Awareness & Improves Response Times
Acupuncture can help improve situational awareness, allowing athletes of different skill levels to assess their environment to know what’s happening around them.
Many athletes use acupuncture to improve their cognitive function. When your cognitive functions, such as attention, decision-making, and problem-solving, improve, you can perform optimally in stressful and demanding environments.
Many athletes have difficulty coping with pre-competition nervousness and performance anxiety. Acupuncture can help reduce stress levels and help with anxiety by increasing the production of feel-good hormones and lowering stress hormone levels.
It Boosts Energy Levels
Lack of energy is a barrier to athletic performance. Athletes with low energy levels get tired quickly and cannot achieve peak performance. Acupuncture heals energy blocks, allowing Qi to flow freely throughout the body. This boosts circulation, leading to an overall increase in energy and vitality.
What to Expect When Seeing an Acupuncturist for the First Time?
During the initial consultation, your acupuncturist will ask about your health history. Your acupuncturist may order imaging tests to understand better the health problem you are experiencing.
Root & Stem Integrative Chinese Medicine is a trusted acupuncture clinic in Oakland. Our acupuncturists have spent years mastering TCM techniques. They bring specialized skills and years of experience treating acute and chronic conditions to the table. To schedule an appointment with one of our sports acupuncture specialists, call (510) 463-4304.
What is Sports Medicine?
Sports injuries are caused by chronic muscle, joint, or ligament wear and tear, muscle overuse and the application of more force than the body can withstand.
Some common sports injuries include bruises, dislocations, rotator cuff injuries, and fractures. Athletes who play contact sports are more prone to sports injuries than others.
Ignoring a sports injury can prove to be a dangerous mistake, as an untreated injury can impact the affected body part’s ability to stay stable when performing certain actions. A serious injury can lead to complications that can overall not only affect a person’s physical but also mental health.
Sports medicine is an area of practice that focuses on treating and preventing injuries resulting from sports and exercise. Some goals of sports medicine include helping athletes and non-athletes who regularly participate in sports:
➢ Take measures to prevent injuries
➢ Achieve, maintain, sustain and regain peak physical fitness
➢ Speed up recovery from sports injuries and improve athletic performance
At Root & Stem Integrative Chinese Medicine, we take a holistic approach to wellness and sports injury prevention. Our sports medicine practitioner Michelle Binzak is trained to make accurate diagnoses and develop treatment plans that address the underlying causes (for example, balance problems or structural problems of the upper or lower body) of sports injuries.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to preventing or treating sports injuries. No one understands this better than our sports medicine practitioner. To learn more about Michelle's services, reach out to our Oakland office by calling (510) 519-3413.
Sports Injury Prevention
Whether you are a professional athlete or an amateur who participates in sports for enjoyment and exercise, you are at risk of sports injuries. Sports can be physically demanding. Repetitive motions in some sports can put a lot of pressure on your upper or lower body, causing overuse injuries. They say prevention is better than cure. Instead of waiting for sports injuries to occur and then treating them, why not prevent them in the first place?
We help athletes and non-athletes develop a better understanding of their bodies so they can take steps to assess and reduce injury risk. If you have a weak core, our sports medicine practitioners can recommend exercises to strengthen it. A strong core improves balance and stability, helping prevent injuries. Studies show that athletes with tight muscles are more susceptible to muscle strains and other injuries. We help our clients identify and perform the most effective dynamic stretches to improve flexibility.
Poor technique is a common cause of sports injuries. Knowing how to play a sport is essential to playing it well and preventing injuries. We educate athletes and amateurs on the right techniques such as:
➢ Using proper footwork to avoid injuries to the Achilles tendon and the ankle
➢ Balancing their body weight without over-extending their legs, arms, or backs, and
➢ Choosing the right equipment according to their size and ability
Playing any sport for too long without a break is an injury risk factor. We teach our clients to recognize signs of fatigue, so they can take a rest day or rest week to maximize recovery. If you were injured, and believe that your injury has healed, we recommend that you consult one of our sports injury practitioners before starting to play your favorite sports again.
If you are prone to sports injuries, we can develop a customized injury treatment plan for you. Our sports medicine practitioners can help you exercise safely and effectively to prevent injuries and improve athletic performance.
Sports Injury Treatment
We specialize in treating different types of sports injuries including hip injuries, hand and wrist injuries, knee injuries, foot injuries, and shoulder injuries. Our practitioners use physical examinations and imaging tests such as CT scans, X-rays, or MRIs to accurately diagnose sports injuries.
If you are recovering from an injury, we can design a sports injury recovery program. Our sports medicine practitioners can recommend gentle exercises to get the injured part moving and improve your range of motion.
Fast-Tracking Injury Recovery
We aim to help injured athletes and non-athletes better understand their sports injuries. When injured person acquires a better understanding of their injuries, they are mentally prepared to deal with injury rehabilitation challenges. Our rehabilitative strategies enable faster recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
Pain from a sports injury can affect one’s posture, resulting in an abnormal walking pattern which puts more pressure on the joints and muscles. This prolongs recovery. We help our clients train their muscles properly (without risking injury) to improve endurance, reflex control, and balance so they can maintain good walking posture without overexerting their muscles.
Nutrition plays an important role in injury recovery. High-protein foods such as different types of meat and foods rich in Omega-3 fats, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin D can help the body produce collagen, a protein that rebuilds tissues and reduces inflammation. We can prepare a customized diet chart and recommend beneficial foods for sports injury recovery.
Looking for a sports medicine practitioner in the Oakland area? Call our team at Root & Stem. Let our team help you get back to the activities you love and schedule an appointment today. To learn more about our services and speak with one of our sports injury practitioners, click here to fill out our online form or call our Oakland office at (510) 519-3413.
How Fertility Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice where professional clinicians insert paper-thin needles through the skin at strategic points on the body. The Chinese have been using acupuncture for several centuries to help treat various health conditions ranging from general body pain to infertility.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners believe that illnesses occur due to energy blocks. The goal of acupuncture is to heal energy blocks so Qi (or life force energy) can circulate freely through the body, and restore balance to the mind, body, and soul.
Studies have shown that acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system to produce feel-good hormones such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. These hormones improve mood and promote happiness and pleasure.
Acupuncture is 100% drug-free, and unlike many over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications, acupuncture does not have any significant side effects and is 100% safe when performed by an experienced, licensed acupuncturist. Acupuncture treats the illness at the root cause instead of masking its symptoms like traditional medications.
At Root and Stem, we believe in sharing the science behind acupuncture to promote whole-body wellness. Our practitioners have years of experience studying wellness techniques to help those suffering from a wide range of health conditions.
Our Approach
When getting a feel for what to expect during your fertility acupuncture treatment, know that every case is different. Our acupuncturists interview every new client. They ask them questions about their health history, take their vital signs for health assessment, and may also order imaging tests to acquire an in-depth understanding of their health problem.
Once we have a deeper understanding of the client’s wellness goals, we craft a customized treatment plan to fit their needs. Nothing is written in stone, and our acupuncturists review and revise treatment plans as needed. A flexible, customized treatment plan is what produces successful wellness outcomes.
Acupuncture For Fertility
Infertility is a growing concern. Around 10% of women of reproductive age in the country cannot conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. We use acupuncture for fertility to treat fertility problems such as endometriosis, hormonal imbalance, diminished ovarian reserve, and amenorrhea.
Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve blood circulation to reproductive organs such as the ovaries and uterus. Acupuncture can also increase the chances of getting pregnant for women undergoing fertility treatment.
Stress is a common cause of chronic illnesses and fertility problems. We use acupuncture to treat chronic stress. Acupuncture stimulates the body to release endorphins, natural pain-killing chemicals in the brain, and improves blood circulation throughout the body, cycling out cortisol and other stress hormones.
Call us at our Nevada City or Oakland location for more information about our fertility acupuncture services. Root & Stem Integrative Chinese Medicine is your one-stop wellness shop where our practitioners offer a wide range of services to ensure our clients can meet their goals. To learn more about our holistic fertility program, contact our office at (510) 463-4304.
Cupping Vs Acupuncture Therapy
Pain conditions are becoming increasingly common. Chronic pain can affect a person’s mobility and overall quality of life. There are several pain medications that promise instant and long-term pain relief, but unfortunately, many over-the-counter and prescription pain medicines can have debilitating side effects. People who want to avoid common drug side effects, turn to different forms of alternative medicine such as acupuncture and cupping therapy to manage their condition.
Root and Stem Clinic offers a wide range of therapeutic services to help patients relieve pain and stress to promote whole-body wellness. Of our services, many clients choose acupuncture therapy or cupping therapy, to aid with chronic pain. A common question often asked when deciding between these two pain management services is, “what’s the difference?”
Our licensed practitioners have spent years differentiating the two services for our clients, and so they have compiled their answers to help you as a reader define and direct your decision as to what is the best therapy for your wellness.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a 3,000-year-old Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy. Qi-pronounced (chi), is the life force present in every living being. When Qi becomes blocked, illnesses occur. Acupuncture involves inserting needles through the skin at strategic points, known as acupoints, to heal energy blocks.
TCM experts use acupuncture to treat everything from headaches to chronic pain and infertility. There are several benefits of acupuncture. It is drug-free, and can hence reduce dependence on pain medications. When performed by an expert, acupuncture is quite safe.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture for pain relief works by stimulating the brain to produce endorphins and other feel-good hormones that improve mood and reduce pain perception. It helps lower cortisol levels, removes toxins from the body, and promotes blood flow to the affected area. The blood flow to the area contains nutrients and oxygen. As a result, nutrient-rich blood helps with tissue repair.
What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy involves placing special cups on the skin to create suction for pain relief. It is a part of several ancient healing systems. TCM proponents believe that cupping restores the flow of qi. It gets the blood moving to the area where cups are placed and can also help reduce pain.
Studies show that cupping may relieve muscle tension, improve overall blood flow and facilitate cell repair. Many healthcare experts are of the opinion that cupping can help build new connective tissues and create new blood vessels in tissues.
How Does Cupping Work?
Suction from cupping draws blood into the area where cups are placed. The suction force expands, breaking open tiny blood vessels or capillaries. The body treats these microtraumas as injuries and sends more blood to the area being treated. This speeds up the healing process.
Should I use Cupping Therapy or Acupuncture?
Both cupping and acupuncture can improve skin health, treat digestion problems, and relieve pain caused by an injury or a health condition. Cupping and acupuncture can also help improve the effects of mental illnesses like anxiety, and depression.
Both acupuncture and cupping can be used as standalone therapies. Many healthcare experts combine acupuncture with cupping in one treatment. Such treatment plans combine the benefits of both therapies.
Root & Stem is the best acupuncture clinic near you in Oakland. We use the healing power of acupuncture to treat different health conditions. To make an appointment, book your session online today.
Acupuncture For Neck Tension
Neck tension refers to the pain that occurs when neck muscles cannot relax. Neck muscle tension is a common complaint. It is estimated that about 71% of adults around the world will experience neck pain due to neck muscle tension at some point in their lifetime.
The neck contains several flexible muscles that support the weight of the head. Overuse injuries and postural problems can injure these muscles, causing excruciating pain. Neck pain can affect a person’s ability to do daily activities and consequently, their quality of life. Many people with neck pain skip social events and stop participating in the activities they enjoy, to avoid painful triggers.
Prolonged neck tension that goes untreated and ignored can cause even more damage. Untreated muscle strains can lead to frequent neck pain and even permanent damage, affecting one’s range of motion and flexibility in the neck.
Root & Stem Integrative Chinese Medicine is a group of leading acupuncture specialists in Oakland that offer clients a wide range of acupuncture services. Our team of licensed practitioners knows that each client’s wellness needs and goals are different, treating each client with services to support their specific needs.
Our team of practitioners knows what a pain in the neck, and neck tension can be. That is why our team compiled some information about how acupuncture can help in alleviating the pain of neck tension.
Symptoms
Some common symptoms of neck muscle tension include muscle spasms, soreness, stiffness, sharp or intense pain that worsens with movement or when you hold your head in one position for a long time and decreased range of motion. Pain caused by a stiff neck can vary in intensity, ranging from mild to extremely sharp.
Causes
Some common causes of neck tension include:
➢ Poor Posture: Poor posture that results from hunching over a laptop or smartphone or slouching in a chair can trigger neck muscle strains. A 2016 study found a correlation between a forward head position and increased neck pain. Poor posture can cause the weight of the head to shift forward. As a result, the neck muscles are forced to work harder to support the head. In addition to moving the head forward, hunching forces the neck to bend with it, overextending the muscles in the back of the neck. Repeated overextension of muscles leads to pain and inflammation
➢ Teeth Grinding: Bruxism is a condition in which the affected person grinds, clenches, or gnashes their teeth while they sleep. Teeth grinding increases pressure on the jaw and neck muscles, which causes neck tension and pain
➢ Sleeping in the Wrong Position: Many people sleep on their stomachs, not realizing that resting in this posture can overextend the neck muscles. People who stay in this position throughout the night often wake up with a stiff neck the following morning
➢ Stress: When a person is stressed, their brain signals the pituitary gland to release different hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine. These hormones tighten muscles. If a person experiences stress regularly, their neck, shoulder, and other muscles remain tense and contracted for longer periods. As a result, neck or shoulder tension occurs
➢ Repetitive Neck Movements: People who perform repetitive neck movements can develop repetitive motion disorders. Though these disorders usually affect the hands, shoulders, and wrists, they can also occur in the neck. If ignored, a repetitive motion disorder can lead to pain, inflammation, and even permanent tissue damage
➢ Injuries: If you lift heavy weights, play impact sports, or experienced whiplash in a car crash, a neck muscle strain can occur
How Can Acupuncture Help?
Acupuncture is an ancient medical technique that originated in China more than 3,000 years ago. The Chinese have been using acupuncture to treat everything from headaches to labor pain for centuries.
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners believe that all illnesses result from energy blocks. Acupuncture specialists in Oakland insert paper-thin needles through the skin at specific points on the body, known as acupoints, to clear energy blocks.
Many people may shudder at the thought of having needles inserted through their skin. Acupuncture needles are very thin. An expert knows the proper way to insert them without causing pain or discomfort.
When performed by an expert, acupuncture is 100% safe. It does not have any side effects, is drug-free, and minimally invasive. Unlike many other treatment modalities that focus on the symptoms of health problems, acupuncture treats their root causes.
Many people with neck muscle tension turn to acupuncture to manage their condition. Various studies have shown that acupuncture can relieve discomfort associated with neck muscle tension.
Neck pain is one of the most common symptoms of neck muscle tension. Acupuncture relieves pain by stimulating the body to release endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers. It affects the part of the brain that regulates the level of serotonin, a chemical that transmits messages between nerve cells. Serotonin is responsible for regulating sleep, digestion, and mood.
Acupuncture does not just treat neck muscle tension, it can also prevent it. Stress is a risk factor for neck muscle tension. Research suggests that acupuncture can treat stress by increasing the production of feel-good hormones in the body. It also improves the circulation of blood throughout the body, which oxygenates the tissues and lowers cortisol levels.
Poor posture is another common cause of neck muscle tension. Acupuncture can restore balance to the body, helping the person maintain good posture.
What Happens During An Initial Consultation?
During the initial consultation session, your acupuncturist will ask you several questions about your health history. They may ask you to describe your symptoms. Your acupuncturist may perform a physical examination to evaluate neck mobility.
The purpose of the initial consultation session is to help the acupuncturist better understand the factors that cause neck muscle tension and the nature of pain resulting from tension. Your acupuncturist will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs based on the results of their analysis.
Root & Stem is a leading acupuncture clinic serving Oakland. We use acupuncture to help clients treat different types of pain including neck tension. Contact us today to make an appointment, or visit our online scheduling tool based on your location.
Acupuncture vs. Med Spa: Why Combining Acupuncture With Your Microneedling Treatment Matters
If you're interested in cosmetic skincare, there's a good chance you've heard about microneedling.
Thanks to the treatment's rising popularity and availability, invasive treatments like plastic surgery, lasers, botox, and fillers are no longer your only option for significantly improving a variety of aesthetic concerns, like wrinkles, scars, large pores, and stretch marks.
While med spas commonly offer the procedure, many people choose to get their microneedling done by their microneedling trained acupuncturist instead. We'll explain exactly why later in the post.
First, what exactly is microneedling, and why is it so effective?
Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a minimally invasive and painless cosmetic procedure. It uses ultra-fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in your skin.
The process stimulates and improves your body's natural wound healing response, resulting in cell turnover and increased collagen and elastin production, providing noticeable and long-lasting results.
In addition to being incredibly effective, microneedling has very few side effects.
While microneedling can treat any area of the body, it's most commonly used to improve the appearance of facial skin concerns.
So, now that we know a little more about microneedling, let's take a closer look at why getting the treatment from an acupuncturist may be your best option.
When it comes to med spa vs. acupuncture for microneedling treatment, the underlying differences in how the two approach the therapy can lead to notably different results.
So what are the primary differences?
Medspas look at your skin from a western medical perspective that isolates individual body parts and systems.
Acupuncture is an ancient holistic medicine rooted in thousands of years of wisdom. Your acupuncturist looks at your body as a whole and understands how its interconnected systems affect one another.
Why is this important?
Because, it means that your acupuncturist will take a more comprehensive and holistic approach to your microneedling treatment and design a plan specifically for you and your individual needs.
Your acupuncturist will base your plan on a holistic traditional Eastern medical examination of your body and overall health.
Acupuncturists know that facial aesthetic concerns often have roots in internal imbalances that can lead to stagnant qi.
If these imbalances are not addressed and treated in conjunction with microneedling, the efficacy and effective duration of the treatment's results may be diminished. For this reason, acupuncturists often apply needles to other areas of the body during microneedling treatments, addressing multiple issues simultaneously and significantly increasing the chances of optimal and enduring results.
Another reason acupuncturists are a better choice than med spas is they offer you the option of alternating between microneedling and facial rejuvenation acupuncture treatments. Facial rejuvenation acupuncture has been used for over 3000 years to support facial skin during aging. Combined, the two treatments often lead to dramatic improvements in skin tone, wrinkle appearance, and sagging.
In addition, acupuncturists often combine microneedling with other modalities like LED light therapy. This combination can provide even better results than microneedling alone by increasing the collagen-boosting and cellular regnative effects of the treatment.
The bottom line is that no matter where you get your microneedling done, it's a powerful and effective facial rejuvenation treatment with few risks or side effects.
But, at the end of the day, your microneedling results are only as good as the practitioner performing the procedure. So, if you want to ensure optimal, long-lasting results, your best bet is to visit your acupuncturist trained in microneedling.
All of our practitioners offer microneedling as well as facial acupuncture as a stand-alone service or in addition to your holistic treatment plan.
Book now at our Oakland or Nevada City clinic or reach out to Dr. Jessica Parker at hello@rootandstemclinic.com.
How Long Does It Take to See Results From Microneedling?
If you're looking for a facial treatment that can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars without surgery, Botox, fillers, or downtime, microneedling is an excellent option.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using a medical-grade oscillating device to create micro-injuries in the skin using tiny single-use needles. This triggers your body’s natural healing processes to produce collagen and elastin, which helps improve texture and tone.
But how long does it take before you start seeing results from microneedling? It’s a question we get a lot, so let's take a look at some of the factors that determine how quickly you'll notice skin improvements after getting a microneedling facial treatment in Nevada City or Oakland.
How Long Does It Take to See Results From MicroNeedling?
You may notice some results after about a week, but most patients report noticeable results after three treatments and continued improvement with each treatment thereafter. This is because it takes some time for your body's natural healing processes to kick in and begin stimulating collagen production. Depending on your skin type and condition, you may need several treatments before seeing significant results. In general, most people begin with 3-6 microneedling treatments spaced 4 weeks apart, with occasional follow-ups to achieve and maintain optimal results.
How To Help Improve Your Microneedling Results
First and foremost, it’s important to find a reputable microneedling provider near you in Nevada City. In the state of California, the procedure must be performed by a licensed acupuncturist or other medical professional. Do some research on local providers and make sure they have the necessary qualifications and experience performing microneedling facial treatments. It is also essential to follow your provider’s instructions carefully before and after the treatment. This includes avoiding sun exposure, using a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and applying sunscreen every day.
Additionally, make sure to give yourself enough time between treatments. As mentioned earlier, it usually takes 3-6 microneedling treatments spaced 4 weeks apart for your body’s natural healing processes to kick in. Trying to rush the process will damage your skin, so make sure to take enough time to rest and rejuvenate between treatments.
Finally, it’s critical to take a holistic approach when it comes to microneedling. While microneedling can help improve the texture and tone of your skin, it’s important to also take care of your skin from the inside out. This includes eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting enough sleep every night. These lifestyle modifications will help boost your microneedling results and give you healthier-looking skin in the long run.
To sum up, microneedling is an excellent skin treatment option for those looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars without surgery, Botox, or fillers. But in order to get the best results from microneedling, it’s important to find a reputable provider near you in Nevada, follow their instructions carefully before and after the treatment, and give yourself enough time to see the results.
If you are looking for a reliable and professional microneedling facial near me in Nevada City, then contact us today to learn more.
Calm Yourself With Acupuncture Points For Anxiety
Do you often feel overwhelmed and anxious? Do you want to find a natural way to combat stress and anxiety? Acupuncture therapy may be the answer. Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese medical practice, has been used for thousands of years to treat various health conditions, including anxiety. It involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to release tension and promote relaxation. Root & Stem in Nevada City and Oakland specializes in treating anxiety with acupuncture therapy. In this blog post, we'll explore how acupuncture can calm your nerves and reduce feelings of stress or unease. Read on for more information about how acupuncture can benefit those dealing with anxiety!
What are Acupuncture Points?
Acupuncture points are specific locations on the body acupuncturists apply thin needles during acupuncture treatments. The points are located along your body's meridians, or energy channels, through which qi, or life energy, flows. The concept is to stimulate these points to unblock the flow of qi and restore balance in the body. It's a safe, natural way to reduce stress and anxiety symptoms.
How Does Acupuncture Help Those Struggling With Anxiety?
The goal of acupuncture is to help restore balance in the body by regulating the flow of Qi (energy) throughout the body. By stimulating specific points, it calms both physical and emotional tension. For example, acupuncture has been used to treat anxiety-related symptoms such as panic attacks, insomnia, fatigue, excessive worrying, and more. It affects the production of the stress hormone cortisol, which has a calming and soothing effect. With regular acupuncture treatments, you can experience lasting relief from anxiety symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes to Enhance Acupuncture Results
Lifestyle changes can further enhance the effects of acupuncture for anxiety relief. Here are a few ways to get started:
● Get Enough Sleep: Lack of sleep can increase stress and worsen anxiety symptoms.
Aim to get at least seven hours of restful sleep each night by establishing a regular bedtime routine and avoiding screen time before bed.
● Reduce Stress: Finding ways to reduce stress can help you better manage anxiety. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualization, calming music, or taking a warm bath.
● Eat Healthily: Eating nutritious organic foods can have a positive effect on mood and reduce anxious feelings. For a balanced diet, incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals.
If you want to reduce anxiety symptoms and achieve a greater sense of calm, contact us today to learn more about how acupuncture therapy in Nevada City can help. We look forward to helping you on your journey to greater well-being.
What Are the Benefits of Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture?
Are you looking to do something special for your skin? Facial rejuvenation treatments at Root and Stem will make your skin look and feel its best!
An Ancient Remedy
Eastern medicine has embraced acupuncture for facial rejuvenation for millennia. The treatments address the body and mind as a whole. Cosmetic issues that manifest in the face such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and skin problems in general like acne and rosacea are often related to internal imbalances affecting the organs, blood, and qi. By addressing these internal imbalances we can address and improve many age-related cosmetic complaints.
Results People Will Notice
Facial rejuvenation is better for lifting the face and toning facial muscles than microneedling. This is important to note for patients with sensitive skin that does not respond well to micronedllng. It’s also ideal for patients looking to rejuvenate or improve dark skin or bags under the eyes because the under-eye area is too sensitive for direct microneedling treatments. Nanoneedling has amazing results as a stand-alone treatment; but the two treatments in tandem have the most noticeable results.
What to Expect During Your Facial Rejuvenation Treatment
Facial rejuvenation acupuncture uses smaller needles on the face than are used elsewhere on the body. At your treatment, your acupuncturist will apply these needles to specific points on the face according to the treatment plan, while applying further needles to other areas of your body to address underlying physical imbalances.
Nanoneedling Included for Optimal Product Absorption and Best Results
All facial rejuvenation treatments at Root and Stem include nanoneedling. After the initial needles have been removed from your face your acupuncturist will apply an organic hyaluronic acid-based Chinese herbal serum formulated in our office for your specific skin needs. Then, your acupuncturist will go over your entire face with a special nanoneedling attachment affixed to the same oscillating medical pen that is used for microneedling treatments. The nanoneedling head does not penetrate the skin but dramatically improves the absorption of our serum and stimulates your dermal tissue. After the treatment, you will take the 2 oz serum home so you can continue to enjoy its benefits
How Often Should I Book Facial Rejuvenation Treatments?
We suggest weekly treatments or treatments interspersed with microneedling treatments. For the most noticeable results, 12 weeks of consecutive treatment are recommended.
If you’re looking for Oakland-based Facial Rejuvenation, book a visit to our Grand Lake office today. If you’d like to discuss treatment options or have any questions, reach out to jessica@oaklandrootandstem.com or call 510-463-4304.
Combining Microneedling and Facial Acupuncture for Optimal Results
Our cosmetic acupuncture treatments absolutely reduce the cumulative effects of aging. At Root and Stem Oakland we want our patients to look and feel their best naturally. This is why we seek to embrace and support the beauty of the aging process, not circumvent it. Cosmetic acupuncture sessions at Root and Stem are not limited to the face. Facial sessions include full-body holistic acupuncture treatments to identify and address underlying health issues like hormonal imbalance, digestion, and chronic pain. Why? Because feeling our best is directly correlated with looking our best.
Cosmetic acupuncture at Root and Stem falls into two distinct treatment categories: mircroneedling, and facial acupuncture. Like humans, no two treatments are exactly alike. Treatments in each modality are personalized and modified to address the specific needs of each patient. Best results are achieved by a combination of both treatment types because each addresses different areas of facial rejuvenation.
Microneedling- This treatment naturally rejuvenates facial and neck skin on a cellular level by stimulating an immune response that increases collagen and elastin production. The result is a glowing complexion and firmer more youthful-looking skin.
Microneedling Benefits:
Reduction in facial lines and wrinkles especially crows feet and mouth and forehead areas by decreasing wrinkle depth naturally
Reduction of acne scarring
Reduction of facial scarring from surgery or injury
Reduction of pore size
Clearing up sunspots and sun damage
Improvement in skin texture
General improvement of complexion
Facial Acupuncture- Although this treatment has a shorter list of positive effects it serves as the foundation of facial rejuvenation acupuncture because it actually strengthens facial muscles by stimulating qi and blood flow which visibly lifts face and neck areas.
Facial Acupuncture Benefits:
Visual lift to the face and neck
Improved facial and neck tone
Increased chi and blood flow to the face
Reduction of dark circles under the eye
Reduction in sagging facial areas
Microneedling and facial acupuncture are a powerful combination that achieves natural-looking, long-lasting facial rejuvenation. They support and stimulate the body’s natural functions and help patients look and feel their best. If you’re looking for Oakland microneedling, facial acupuncture, wholistic acupuncture treatment, or functional medicine book a visit to our Grand Lake office today. If you wish to discuss treatment options or have any questions, reach out to jessica@oaklandrootandstem.com or call 510-463-4304.
Cosmetic Acupuncture with Microneedling vs. Botox
Cosmetic acupuncture vs Botox is a common search term online but the comparison is misleading. While both have been shown to reduce facial lines and wrinkles, they are radically different procedures with very different effects on the body.
Botox is an injection-delivered pharmaceutical-grade toxin made from the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum. While Botox has multiple important medical uses, it’s best known as a cosmetic treatment for reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The toxin partially paralyzes muscles at the injection site which relaxes the surrounding skin. The effect, a temporary reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and lines, reduces blood and qi flow to the treated area.
Additionally, it’s important to understand that Botox does not fill in lines, rather, it weakens facial muscles making certain facial expressions that accentuate wrinkles more difficult. For this reason, many people accompany their Botox treatments with additional filler treatments. Botox can lead to unnatural-looking effects such as a lopsided look if applied unevenly or facial drooping if overdone. It also carries a risk of allergic reaction.
Cosmetic acupuncture in contrast to Botox actually restores blood and qi flow to the treated area and does not restrict the face in any way. Generally, there are two different types of treatments. Facial acupuncture for lifting and toning and microneedling for wrinkle and line reduction. The combination of the two leads to the most noticeable and long-lasting results.
During Facial Acupuncture, fine needles are inserted into key areas of the face to stimulate and focus qi and blood flow toning facial muscles and resulting in a lifting effect. During microneedling treatments, a specialized oscillating microneedling pen is used on the entire face. The single-use head of the pen contains 12 extremely tiny needles. The treatment is painless and results in microtrauma to the skin that stimulates your body's natural healing response. The immune response increases collagen and elastin production by stimulating keratinocytes in your skin. The two proteins work to reduce wrinkle depth and skin dryness naturally resulting in a glowing complexion and firmer more youthful-looking skin.
The benefits of microneedling go well beyond wrinkle reduction. Facial scarring, including acne scarring, pore size, sun spots, and skin texture can be dramatically improved by the treatment.
For Oakland microneedling and facial acupuncture, look no further than Root and Stem Oakland. We offer full-service acupuncture healthcare. All of our practitioners offer facial acupuncture and microneeding as a stand-alone service or in addition to your holistic treatment plan. Book online today or reach out to jessica@oaklandrootandstem.com or call 510-463-4304.
Eye Strengthening – Eyesight points for Fatigue
A portion of us rely on our eyes for navigation, communication, entertainment and other daily activities. Eye health contributes to a sense of well-being and holistic at-home eye care is a necessary resource. When we take a moment to step away from the screen and get into a darker environment, we start to feel less stimulated. Taking the eyes away from stimuli for moments of day can help to prevent eye fatigue.
Eye fatigue is common with our modern lifestyle from strain caused by screens, reading, driving and overuse. Straining can cause symptoms of blurred vision, floaters, broken blood vessels, eye pain and headaches. Combining ocular exercises and acupuncture points we can help to strengthen our eyes, prevent unwanted symptoms and changes in vision.
In Eastern medicine, observation of the eyes is an important tool for showing the health of our internal systems and how to treat these. Often an acupuncturist will focus on the treatment of the liver channel, blood and Yin when focusing on strengthening the eyes. Also, points around the eyes can help facilitate better motor function and clarity. Taking time each day to nurture the eyes, can be a simple self-care practice that leads to a more comfortable work-life through less eye strain.
Morning Recipe for Eye Health
1. Take 5 mins for ocular yoga: try near window if possible
a. Rub palms together put over closed eyes and breath
b. Keeping eyes closed & press the inner part of eyebrow (acupuncture point Bladder2)
c. Remove palms, look up to the ceiling, then look down to the floor. Repeat 6x
d. Rub palms and put over closed eyes again.
e. Open eyes, to look left then right 6x
f. Now find something close to focus on in front of you. Then look out window and pick something to focus on far away. Keep doing this. Repeat this 6x
g. Rub palms and put over closed eyes again. Breath.
2. Breakfast food for ocular health
o ½ cup your favorite hot breakfast grain: cook as directed
o Add your favorite milk or non-dairy seed/nut milk
o Handful of Goji Berries: helps to nourish blood and Yin
o 1-2 Dates cut and cooked together: nourishes blood and Spleen
o Tablespoon of Pumpkin Seeds: rich in zinc, important for Vitamin A transportation- for eye health
3. Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum flower) and Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berries) tea
Steep 1 tsp each together in cup of water for 15-20 mins and strain.
Eastern medicine uses Ju Hua for irritated, red eyes that need cooling and calming.
These items can be found at most health food stores, online herbal stores and Asian markets
Acupressure Points for Anxiety and Stress by Dr. Katy Peter
During this time, fear can become a theme in our lives through the unknown and uncertainty of this pandemic. More at home self-care practices are needed right now to ensure better health and well-being. The practice of Metta translated as “loving kindness towards all” is a meditation practice that cultivates positive awareness directed towards oneself and the world around you. To practice Metta for self care and to destress, a person quiets the mind by focusing on a specific phrase about compassion, friendship and loving kindness. Jack Kornfield’s phrase below with link to his website is useful for lovingkindness meditation practice. Metta is a practice of deep self-love and empathy towards others to further our ability to both evolve inward and outward. This act of conscious goodwill breaks down any fear we have with our environment and ourselves. The outcome of this meditation practice brings more joy and ease to our body and mind.
In Eastern medicine the emotion of joy is associated with the heart and the heart meridian goes from the heart to our hands. Another practice that can be utilized at home is acupressure. Acupressure like acupuncture stimulates specific areas of the body to encourage healing. In Korean hand therapy the hand forms a microsystem of the body and by applying acupressure to specific areas of the hand we evoke healing mechanisms. The Korean hand map shows different parts of the hand relate to organs and their functions. Today, we combine acupressure points and meditation to encourage self-love and compassion for all beings.
Jack Kornfield’s Metta Phrase: Buddhist practitioner and teacher
May I be filled with loving kindness.
May I be safe from inner and outer dangers.
May I be well in body and mind.
May I be at ease and happy.
This is then repeated but with the
May YOU be filled with loving kindness.
May YOU be safe from inner and outer dangers.
May YOU be well in body and mind.
May YOU be at ease and happy.
Finally, we bless all beings:
May all beings be filled with loving kindness
May all beings be happy
May all beings awaken and be free
May all beings be happy
Immune Support with Chinese Herbs by Brooke McClelland, LAC
In Chinese Medicine, one way that pathogens enter the body is through an invasion of wind. Wind is thought to be “the carrier of a thousand evils”—what Western medicine would identify as microbes like viruses and bacteria—and it brings in these bugs through the wind gates or immune system—areas of the body like the low back and back of the neck that are considered entry points for invaders.
This past weekend, I started feeling some of the tell-tale signs of a wind invasion—a scratchy, uncomfortable throat, chills, a low-grade fever, tight shoulders and neck, an achy body, slight headache and fatigue. I had felt fine earlier in the day, but then I recalled my mistake! I had taken a shower and I tied up my wet hair and gone about my day, forgetting to blow-dry or air-dry my hair. This is a no-no in Chinese medicine as the cold and damp sitting on my head for hours made me more susceptible to a cold or damp pathogen coming into the body. I was also dressed for warm weather in shorts and t-shirt, but it was a bit breezy and I had the doors of the house open, letting in the wind.
When I started feeling sick, I sprang into action with the tenets I learned in Chinese medicine school for staving off a wind invasion. Read on to find out what I did and what you can do in the very early stages of a cold or flu to kick the pathogen out. I’m happy to say that just two days later, I feel right as rain!
1.Take a hot shower or bath
Even though I had already taken a shower that day, I got back in the shower to warm myself up. I wanted to warm the channels and evoke a bit of a sweat if possible. In Chinese medicine, sweating is one way to expel an invading pathogen when it has only recently come in. I made sure to blow dry my hair and even spent some time with the hair dryer aimed on my upper back and shoulders to warm the wind gates. You can do this anytime you feel like you’ve gotten a chill.
2.Bundle up
I changed out of my summery clothes into warmer layers including a wooly hat and scarf! I was feeling chilled at that point, so this felt good. When I drank some hot tea, it also helped to induce a light sweat which is what we want. When your throat feels scratchy, it’s important to keep it warm with a scarf and drink lots of fluids.
3.Gargle
The throat is where many pathogens incubate and proliferate once they come into the respiratory tract. It’s a good idea to gargle with something antibacterial and antiviral (not bleach!) I use very salty, warm water as salt is both of those things and also pulls excess fluid from tissue that may be swollen. My favorite trick is to brew a strong cup of black tea and add plenty of salt, let it cool, and gargle with that. It sounds gross, but you won’t taste it. Send it down the hatch for a gargle in the back of your throat, then spit out. The black tea is astringent and pulls out any phlegm that has accumulated there. The bitterness of black tea also clears heat if your throat is feeling hot and painful.
4.Take herbs
It’s handy to have some go-to Chinese herbal formulas for cold or flu on hand for times like these. Consult with your practitioner about which formulas would be right for you. I started Chinese herbs right away when I noticed symptoms and took them frequently for 48 hours until I felt better. If you don’t have any herbal formulas with you, one home remedy you can make in the very early stages of a cold or flu is a tea of boiled fresh ginger and scallions.
5.Get plenty of rest
After all the previous steps, I took a long nap as I was feeling weary. I bundled myself up and slept for 1-2 hours and when I woke, I felt a bit better. It takes energy for the body to mount an immune system response, so it’s smart to give the body extra rest and allow this process to happen.
6.Get acupuncture
Just as we have Chinese herbs that are great at expelling wind invasions, there are acupuncture points for that too! In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we ask that you not come in to the clinic if you have active symptoms, but a telemedicine consult would be perfect to get you the ideal herbal formula and to direct you to some acupressure points you can use on yourself. Acupressure uses the same points as acupuncture, but with pressure from your fingers instead of needles.
I hope this Chinese medicine wisdom helps you when the time comes to nip a cold or flu in the bud!
A RECIPE TO SUPPORT YIN BLOOD DEFICIENCY
One of my favorite squashes is the Spaghetti Squash! What I love about it even more is that it is considered a Qi tonic and benefits the Spleen/Stomach in Chinese Medicine. This means that it can be helpful for building energy if your digestive system is struggling to function properly. Spaghetti Squash helps build Qi circulation, improves energy and promotes blood circulation.
In combination with other the following, you can create the perfect Qi and Yin Tonic to maximize digestion and increase your body's ability to absorb nutrients.
Spaghetti Squash with Kale, Chorizo, and Preserved Lemon
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
Spaghetti Squash 3 Cups – Qi tonic, medicinal to the spleen and stomach, improves energy and blood circulation
Chorizo 1 link – Tonifies Yin, blood and Qi
Olive Oil 1 Tablespoon - Neutral
Garlic 2 Cloves – Warming, promotes Qi circulation, removes toxins
Smoked Paprika 1/4-1/2 Teaspoon – Warming, support blood circulation
Lacinato Kale 5 Ounces – Slightly bitter, benefits the stomach and immune system
Preserved Lemon ¼ large or about 1/8 Cup – Sour, resolves stagnation and cleanses the blood
Lemon Juice 1 Tablespoon – Cooling and sour, promotes blood circulation, tonifies Qi and removes toxins
Sour Cream 1/8 Cup (optional) – Strengthens Yin, blood and Qi while nourishing deficiency
Water 2 Ounces
Sea Salt - Cooling
Black Pepper – Warming and promotes Qi circulation
Directions
Cut Spaghetti squash in half lengthwise, remove seeds and place cut side down on a baking sheet and place in a 400 degree oven for approximately 30 minutes. Allow to cool slightly and pull the squash apart with a fork so it resembles spaghetti. Remove the casing from the chorizo link and cook the chorizo over medium high heat until it is in crumbles and cooked through. Add the chopped garlic and paprika and continue cooking a couple of minutes. Remove the chorizo and garlic and set aside. Add the chopped kale to the oil and allow to cook down, season with salt and pepper to taste and add the water, continue cooking until the water is gone and kale is tender. Return the chorizo and garlic to the pan along with the preserved lemon and lemon juice, stir and remove from heat. Add the sour cream and stir to combine. Mix the kale and chorizo with the spaghetti squash and serve.
The Beauty of Functional & Eastern Medicine
I can't tell you how many times I hear this in my office. It is frustrating to me that many people and doctors have been trained to think that symptoms stop at "normal labs". Allopathic medicine looks at the body in divided systems and how to treat the disease for those individual dysfunctional parts. I'm super duper generalizing here but if you really think about it, allopathic and conventional medicine is great for Disease Management, but not great for Health Care.
Eastern Medicine has always had an approach to health care that looks at checks and balances between the systems. If one system is dysfunctioning, we look to the other systems that are functioning and use them for support. It is a system that really looks at the body as a whole and how each part works together. ☯️
Functional Medicine is a way at looking at the very small details in our blood work to see where the body is functioning and where it needs focused attention. There is SO much that we can decipher in labs about where the body needs support even when they come back "normal". 💗
What I love most is blending these two Health Care systems into a comprehensive approach to care. By combining the very important information that our pulse 💓 and tongue 👅 provide us in the Eastern medicine diagnosis and then using labs work we can to really bring it all home and get to the root cause of your symptoms. 🌟✨
Email Dr. Parker to get started on this comprehensive approach!
6 Weeks to Glow: Fall Reset!
One of the most effective ways to take charge of your health and immunity is to support your diet. A robust Spleen and Stomach is essential to one’s long term health. That's why Fall is the perfect time to start the ✨SIX WEEKS TO GLOW✨
Since this is NOT a detox, you will learn so many tools to help navigate the holiday season and end the year feeling your best rather than over stuffed!
This Fall Program combines Eastern Medicine, Acupuncture, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine.
This 🌱reset 🌱will empower you to take the control back around your health. We believe in an empowered model for health, and the more tools and knowledge we have to make decisions, the better.
We will address: optimizing digestion, balancing your hormones and minimizing and/or eliminating peri-menopausal and menopausal symptoms (e.g. appetite fluctuations, night sweats, mood swings, etc.), improving sleep habits, improving the health and glow of your skin, and reducing inflammation.
Develop a better understanding of your body and what feels balanced for you. It can be that simple with just a little guidance to get you started. Don't fear food or your body, they are your allies to abundance, wisdom, understanding, it just takes a little listening
Early Bird ends this Saturday, November 3rd. Share this with your friends & family. ♥️ Email for more information. ⠀⠀