 by Joseph Odom Students of Oriental Medicine are taught the concept that as human beings we stand between the earth and sky. This means, on a practical level, that the time of the year has a profound impact on our lives. It is with this as basis, that I hope share some of how the seasons affect our lives and how we might best use the seasons to our advantage month by month. In November, in the Northern Hemisphere, we have clearly entered the "dark time," the night hours are longer then the light and the dark continues to lengthen until winter solstice. This is the time when we can most easily access the innermost places on many levels, including our personal being. November and December is the perfect time for us to heal at the deepest level. Old psychic woundings that we still carry around can be accessed most easily now. I know these pains are never easy to deal with, but the key to open the door to our inner dark places is in our hands now. So much of our physical stress has root in these old pains. Meditation, counseling, conversing with the ancestors are appropriate for this time. November is the time to heal ourselves on the deepest level physically as well. This means herbs and supplements can go to the core of our beings now more than other times of the year. The Chinese teach us that "original Qi" is best tonified now. Herbs like Dang Qui (Angelica), ginseng, and licorice may be useful now. It is always a good idea to get help from somebody knowledgeable about herbs and supplements before taking things. Take time this November to work on the deep places in yourself and the reward will be felt all year. Dr. Joseph Odom, O.M.D., L.Ac., Dip. NCCA has been practicing acupuncture and herbal medicine since 1986. |
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