by Steven Sonmore, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM)
Did you know Chinese medicine actually has five seasons instead of our typical four? Summer is divided into 2 
parts…summer and late summer. Late summer or “Indian summer” is that special time at the end of summer and before autumn when there is often a hot spell.
The Spleen and Stomach rule the late summer season. What that means is these organs are now more active and more vulnerable to problems at this time of year. These two organs are related to the “Earth element.” Our earth provides support and nourishment for all life. And your Spleen and Stomach provides nourishment for your body. Your food is ingested, digested, transformed, transported and assimilated into your physical body creating muscle, bone, blood and energy. You are what you eat.
“The Spleen and Stomach are sentries guarding the governmental storage rooms.”
Chinese Medicine
The health of these two organs is critical to your total well-being….when your Spleen is out of whack your entire body is not up to par. So many people suffer from digestive problems today. A staggering 38 million Americans suffer from digestive disorders, including food allergies, IBS, constipation, diarrhea, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, celiac disease, GERD, and Candida. IBS is the most common.
The economic impact of digestive disorders is $123 billion per year, compared to only $17 billion for cancer.
Just walk down to your local drugstore and look at how many products are for sale to suppress various symptoms of poor digestion. The only problem is they don’t address the root cause of the problem. They just sedate the ill feelings and sensations. This is like sweeping dirt under the carpet. Because the problem will only resurface again.
The ancient founders of Chinese medicine taught that those who follow the laws of nature and use proper diet will be free of disease and their spirit of life will not be easily exhausted.
As a Licensed Acupuncturist in Minneapolis, practitioner of Chinese medicine I have been able to help many people with many kinds of digestive problems.
Digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, IBS, acid reflux, nausea, constipation and diarrhea can all be easily treated with acupuncture and Chinese medicine.
Over time, eating a poor diet together with irregular eating habits, eating late at night, over concentration, worry, or sitting too long can injure your Spleen and Stomach. By adjusting your lifestyle, adopting new eating habits your digestion will function better. As a result, your entire health will improve. You can enjoy more energy, better concentration and more fun! Caring for your health naturally with acupuncture and Chinese medicine will help get to the root of digestive problems.
If you suffer from digestive problems call our Minneapolis Acupuncture clinic today at 612-866-4000 or go to our contact page.
Bon Appetite and enjoy the summer!
