Dear Acupuncture Ohana,

As we move a few weeks past the Lunar New Year, the natural rhythms invite us to pause and renew our energies. This is a wonderful time to schedule self-care with acupuncture—a practice that can help you align with the seasonal Qi and nurture your inner balance. Schedule now at  www.leeacupuncture.biz

Embracing the Qi of the Wood Snake

In traditional Chinese medicine, the energy of the Wood Snake represents renewal, growth, and resilience. This vibrant Qi encourages us to cultivate mindful living and stability, so that we can pursue our life’s purpose with clarity and confidence. Just as the wood element nurtures our liver and supports creativity, embracing this energy can help you feel balanced, empowered, and ready to thrive.

A Nourishing Recipe for Spring Renewal

To honor this season, I’d like to share a simple, nourishing recipe that aligns with the energy of renewal. This Spring Renewal Congee is designed with basic, healing ingredients to support digestion and gently harmonize your body’s Qi.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine or short-grain rice (rinsed)
• 8 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup leafy greens (such as bok choy, spinach, or kale), roughly chopped
• ½ cup goji berries (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes)
• A pinch of salt (to taste)
• A drizzle of sesame oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice with water or broth, ginger, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally to help the rice break down into a creamy consistency—this should take about 45–60 minutes.
3. In the final 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the leafy greens so they wilt just right.
4. Season with a pinch of salt, add a drizzle of sesame oil if desired, and top with the softened goji berries.
5. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of congee as a mindful start to your day.

In addition to this meal, consider a soothing herbal tea blend—perhaps chrysanthemum paired with a hint of mint—to further support liver Qi and clear your mind.

An Affirmation for the Season

As you embrace this time of change and renewal, carry this affirmation with you:

“I welcome the nurturing energy of the Wood Snake. I am resilient, balanced, and open to growth. Every breath empowers me to create the life I desire.”

This affirmation can serve as a gentle reminder of your strength and the potential for renewal within you.

A Gentle Reminder

I invite you to schedule your next acupuncture session to help harmonize your body’s energy during this transformative season. Together, we can work to foster a sense of balance, mindful living, and resilience that will carry you confidently into the months ahead.

Look forward to seeing you. Here is the link for scheduling: www.leeacupuncture.biz

Wishing you health, harmony, vibrant energy, and the best of all things,