Coping with Psychological and Emotional Effects of Cancer on Patients and Their Families – The Mind-Body Connection

WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share For thousands of years, traditional healing systems such as those in Chinese medicine have embraced the role of the mind in the treatment and healing of diseases. Fast forward to the last century, we are now witnessing the same paradigm shift in western medicine along with a growing body of empirical science that is in support of this holistic approach towards healthcare. The attention to the mind-body connection is especially relevant in the treatment of cancer because the disease creates intense physical, psychological, and emotional pressure for the patient and their loved ones. Although less often talked about, the psychological and emotional effects of cancer can oftentimes be as overwhelming and debilitating as its physical toll. Emotional Effects of Cancer on Patients Before, during and after treatment, cancer patients are likely to experience a wide range of emotions that are foreign to them; feelings such as being out of control, anger, denial, sadness, fear, guilt, and helplessness. While these feelings are all normal, they can be unpleasant to experience. They can also be intense, and emotions can change rapidly by the day, the hour, or even minute to minute, possibly causing the patient to feel overwhelmed. Emotional Effects of Cancer on Families Family and friends of cancer patients may also experience these intense and complex emotional effects of cancer, depending on the closeness of each relationship. Sudden changes in roles, responsibilities, physical and emotional needs, as well as future plans, can cause feelings of isolation, insecurity, sadness, frustration, anger, and even resentment. For some families, facing the challenges of cancer together can strengthen their relationship. For others, the struggle to cope with the complicated emotions and lifestyle changes can lead them to experience intense and chronic psychological stress, which in turn, may create new problems and worsen existing ones. How do Our Minds and Body React to Stress? Psychological stress, or simply stress, is what we feel when we are under physical, mental, or emotional pressure. When we are under stress, our brain releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol in the body. These hormones help us get ready to respond to stress, whether it is to run, fight, or even freeze. While small amounts of stress can be beneficial and healthy to us, excessive and long-term stress keeps the body trapped in a constant state of tension, also known as “fight or flight” mode. This often develops into physical and mental health problems. Image 1. Physical effects of long-term stress include a weaker immune system, and a greater risk of heart attacks, diabetes, and mental health disorders like depressive or anxiety disorders. In cancer patients, long-term psychological stress may influence a cancerous tumour’s ability to grow and spread, and may even affect cancer outcomes [2][3] In contrast, cancer patients who are able to manage their stressors are less at risk of developing depressive disorders, neurotic and adjustment disorders, and substance use disorders, which in turn significantly reduces their risk of premature death. [4][5] The same goes for families and caregivers of cancer patients. Partners of cancer patients, in particular, are expected to bear a large proportion of the stressors and burdens that follow in the course of cancer and are often at greater risk of these negative health outcomes. [6] Specifically, cancer caregiving has been related to increased blood pressure, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, hypothalamic-pituitary–axis dysregulation, immune changes, and poor health-related behaviours. Those who are able to use effective coping strategies to manage their stressors, such as relaxation and stress management techniques, are more likely to experience decreased caregiver burden, decreased depression, and better adjustment. What You Can Do to Cope with Stress To quote Nido Qubein, “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” If you identify as part of this vulnerable population, then it is important to note that self-care and adequate coping and emotion regulation skills are necessary for the preservation of your health and well-being. Moving forward, the following coping strategies may serve to provide some desired relief. 1) Training in relaxation techniques, and stress management Cancer and its treatment put your body under constant stress and inflammation. Likewise, excessive stress from caregiving duties can result in compassion fatigue and poorer quality of living for caregivers and families of cancer patients. In such instances, mind-body relaxation techniques such as the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT; Image 2) and Tension Release Exercise (TRE; Image 3) can be beneficial in maintaining mental health. By releasing excess stress and tension through EFT and/or TRE you can help support your body’s proper physiological and psychological function. Image 2. EFT relies on fingertip tapping to apply pressure on 9 meridian points to reduce the stress or negative emotion you feel from your stressor, ultimately restoring balance to your disrupted energy. [7] Image 3. Tension and Trauma Release Exercise (TRE) is a somatic-based approach comprised of a series of exercises that safely stimulates your psoas muscles – these muscles are where we often store physical, emotional, and psychological stress in our bodies over the course of our lives. The shaking, or neurogenic tremors, can result in a release of deep tension, stress, and trauma, which helps the body to return back to a state of balance. [8] EFT and TRE interventions are especially good for when You are stressed and anxious You don’t feel like talking about your stress Have difficulty sleeping Would like a way to support mind-body-spirit wellness 2) Talk therapy Negative thoughts and emotions can create stress in our lives by affecting the way we feel, and colouring our experiences so that many other things that we experience seem more overwhelming. Talk therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy have been consistently found to be effective in the treatment of severe stress. [9][10] However, you don’t need to be experiencing severe stress

Top 30 Foods You Should Eat To Boost Your Fertility

WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Optimise your diet for better fertility In general, a myriad of reasons can affect fertility, ranging from age to other reproductive issues. While many of these factors are out of our control, one key factor that we can control is our diet and lifestyle. In a study conducted in the United States of America (USA), participants who have followed a combination of five or more low-risk lifestyle factors, including diet, physical activity and weight management have shown to significantly reduce ovulatory disorder infertility [1]. While there is no specific food or fertility diet that can miraculously guarantee conception, eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet will definitely improve your overall well-being and in turn, boost your reproductive health. In this article, we will list the top 30 foods that you can incorporate into your fertility diet. Everyday food that can boost fertility for both male and female Walnuts Walnuts are a great source of alpha-linolenic acid, a type of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) in plants. For males, Omega-3 PUFAs are crucial for sperm maturation and membrane function, while for females, they have been shown to have a positive impact on fertility, potentially via improving oocyte quality and embryo implantation. Walnuts are also rich in magnesium, which is necessary for the production of progesterone and maintaining a good blood supply to the womb, both of which helps prepare the womb for pregnancy. How to eat: You can choose to take a handful of walnuts as a snack or add them to your salads, chicken, or oatmeal as a nutritional crunch. Eggs Eggs, especially the egg yolks, are loaded with many essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, zinc, Vitamin B6, folate, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin A. Eggs from pasture-raised chickens are also packed with fertility-boosting Omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which studies have shown to potentially prolong certain reproductive functions into advanced maternal age [2]. How to eat: You can choose to eat eggs in many different ways: hard-boiled, soft-boiled, scrambled, poached etc., but remember to eat the whole egg with the yolk included. Pomegranates Rich in antioxidants, pomegranates have shown to be beneficial to both female and male fertility. For females, antioxidants can stimulate the uterus by improving blood flow to the womb as well as promote healthy uterine lining for implantation. As for males, antioxidants can improve sperm quality. Pomegranates are also rich in important vitamins such as Vitamin C and E, and folic acid, all of which are beneficial when trying to conceive. How to eat: You can eat the pomegranate seeds as a healthy snack, or even drink pomegranate juice. Ideally, take ½ to 1 cup of pomegranate juice occasionally. Take note that pomegranates may interact with certain medications, like blood thinners, so consult your doctor or physician first before incorporating it into your diet. Citrus fruits (Oranges, Grapefruits) Citrus fruits are a great source of Vitamin C, which can help boost fertility and hormone levels in females, as well as improve males’ sperm count and quality. Grapefruits and oranges also contain polyamine putrescine, which has been associated with the potential to improve egg and semen health. How to eat: Enjoy orange slices on their own, or you can incorporate citrus fruit juices into your smoothies. Take caution that grapefruit juice can interact with certain medications, so speak to your doctor to check whether grapefruit juice is suitable for you. Pomelo Pomelos are rich in Vitamin C, which not only helps boost the immune system but also helps in boosting fertility and hormone levels. Vitamin C also enhances sperm count, sperm motility and sperm quality, which in turn ensures higher chances of conception. Pomelos are also packed with other fertility-boosting nutrients such as potassium, calcium and Vitamin B, which can help regulate ovulation and create a favourable environment for the ovulating eggs. How to eat: You can simply enjoy pomelos as a fruit snack. Pineapple Pineapples are a great source of Vitamin C. A 1 cup serving of pineapples will provide 46% of your daily recommended Vitamin C levels. Low Vitamin C levels have been associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and so it is vital to reach your daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. Pineapples also contain the natural enzyme bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation may impede fertility, and chronic inflammation can even encourage the body to suppress ovulation. Taking bromelain can encourage the immune system to deviate from an inflammatory state. How to eat: Opt for fresh pineapples whenever possible, as most of the bromelain is destroyed in canned pineapples due to the heat in the canning process. You can choose to eat it fresh or even grilled. Take note not to over-consume pineapples, as they can lead to increased uterine contractions. Blueberries Blueberries are not only high in Vitamin C and folic acid, both of which are essential fertility boosting nutrients, they are also packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants help in reducing damage to reproductive cells that are caused by environmental toxins and “free radicals”, thereby ensuring reproductive cells are healthy and functioning normally to boost fertility. How to eat: You can just take a handful of blueberries to enjoy as a snack, or add them to your salads, smoothies, or yoghurt. Sunflower seeds Roasted, unsalted sunflower seeds are packed with Vitamin E, which have been shown to help boost sperm count and motility. Sunflower seeds are also loaded with Omega-6 fatty acids and a small amount of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to impact fertility positively. Additionally, they are packed with other fertility-boosting nutrients such as zinc, folate and selenium. How to eat: You can take sunflower seeds as a snack, or add them to your food for additional flavour and crunch. Mature cheeses Mature cheeses, such as aged cheddar and parmesan are high in polyamines, which play an important role in our reproductive system.

So you’ve booked your first Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) appointment. What next?

WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share First of all, congratulations! You’ve just secured your first step towards taking charge of your wellness and to help yourself #feelbetterfaster. As this is your first experience with Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) and you may not be sure what to expect, so we are here to help! Read on to find out more about lymphatic health, how ELT can benefit you and what to expect in your first ELT session. Why did your Physician recommend ELT to you? Having a healthy smooth-flowing lymphatic system is an important building block to optimal wellness! Hence, ELT is recommended whether you are looking to improve your general wellness or you have a serious chronic condition. To grow strong and healthy like a big tree, a smooth lymphatic system helps you to build strong roots, to detoxify effectively and to improve your immune function. What is the lymphatic system and what does it do? The lymphatic system is a huge network of tissues and organs that help the body get rid of unwanted materials. Its main function is the transport of lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells which help the body fight infections. The lymphatic system works with the circulatory system to help the body get rid of toxins in a process more commonly known as detoxification. The main functions of the lymphatic system can be summarized into three big aspects: Maintain a healthy immune system to detect health issues (important for all of us in this current global situation but particularly important for patients with cancer and auto-immune conditions) Clear toxins from the body Maintain balance of body fluids by facilitating the return of fluids to the heart Our lymphatic system is closely tied to detoxification and the maintenance of a healthy cellular environment. When there is congestion in the lymph system, cellular detox tends to decrease, leading to waste accumulation and less optimal nutritional absorption by cells. Over time, this can result in cell malnourishment and poor health. This phenomenon is like having a “choked or congested sink” at the cellular level. Over time, the body becomes prone to sickness as toxins accumulate and cells become less able to fight diseases. What causes lymphatic congestion? Lymphatic congestion occurs as a result of various reasons, including lifestyle and non-lifestyle factors such as the below: These factors result in poor lymphatic drainage which could lead to dire consequences like poor health, compromised immunity or even lymphedema (swelling due to excess fluids in tissues). How does ELT help? Electro-Lymphatic DrainageTherapy (ELT) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive technology that helps to stimulate proper flow and drainage of the Lymphatic System. It makes use of a combination of vibrational, light, and electrical waves to stimulate the lymphatic flow via the dissociation of proteins that have been trapped in the interstitium. While the surface technique is patterned after Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, ELT can promote lymphatic drainage at a deeper level and in a less amount of time. The relaxing and pain-free therapy makes it an excellent choice for individuals looking to improve their health without compromising on comfort. How does ELT work? ELT machines are equipped with glass probes that contain inert gases Argon, Krypton and Xenon. The ionization of these gases produces energy and ions which penetrate the lymph system to break down protein and wastes. This process is what contributes to detoxification and helps promote lymphatic drainage at the lymph nodes. During the therapy, the therapist will glide the probes in line with the body’s natural lymphatic flow to promote the movement of lymph fluid towards lymph nodes for drainage. The ELT machine operates at 10 levels: 0 to 9. The lower the level, the deeper the inert gases are able to penetrate, which allows congestion in deeper parts of the body to be cleared. During the first session, therapists will usually start around level 6 – 9 in order to start clearing from the more superficial levels of the lymphatic system. Once congestion is deemed to be cleared at a level, the therapist will move down to the next level in the following session. There are 3 ways to tell when the lymph system is congested: Resistance when the probe moves along the skin surface Lack of sound Presence of ‘detox’ smell (we let you experience this when you come!) When one or more of the above is present, the area is deemed to be congested. The therapist will likely spend more time attempting to decongest the area, which usually coincides with the area of concern. In general, it takes about 1 – 2 sessions to move down a level, but depending on the patient’s condition and body constitution, it may take more than 20 sessions to reach level 0. As such, patients are recommended to do ELT sessions once per week to ensure continuity of progress until the lymphatic health is restored to its peak (i.e. level 0). The Process Before starting your first ELT session, you would have to undergo a consultation process with our Physicians for assessment of condition. The physician will then advise on the suitability of ELT treatment before handing you over to our friendly therapist who has been pre-briefed regarding your condition. As every patient’s concerns are different, this process will ensure that ELT is suitable for you and that you are able to reap maximum health benefits from the treatment. Then, your therapist will lead you to a private ELT room for a briefing on the procedure and what to expect during the treatment. As ELT requires direct contact between the electro-lymphatic probes and the skin, you will be asked to remove your clothes (except for their underwear) and jewellery (if any). Female and male patients will be served by our female and male therapists respectively. As the ELT treatment lasts at least 60 minutes, you are encouraged to visit the washroom before the

Effectively Counter Ageing And Chronic Diseases With TCM

Effectively Counter Ageing And Chronic Diseases With TCM WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Ageing is a natural, yet complex process that occurs in everyone. In the latest biomedical research, it is revealed that telomere length can be used as an indicator of a person’s biological age (which is different from chronological age). Research has shown that many factors – including exercise, sleep, emotional dysregulation and certain gene mutations – can reduce telomere length and result in premature biological ageing. An example would be a recent study which demonstrated that children who had lost their fathers had significantly shorter telomeres. According to ‘Shen Nong’, who is venerated as the Father of Chinese Medicine, the process of ageing typically begins after 35 years old and is characterized by a decline in bodily functions. From a TCM perspective, ageing is the process of losing kidney ‘qi’ and essence along the kidney meridian. The meridians are energy channels that allow qi to flow throughout the body. Similar to the concept of shortening telomeres, we believe that both internal and external factors contribute to ageing in TCM. What will I expect during the process of ageing and why is this a concern? Typically, once we reach the peak of our lives at the age of 28 and 32 years old respectively for females and males, our bodily functions gradually start to decline. Many people do not see this as a problem since everyone has to go through this phase. However, chronic diseases and conditions are on a rise worldwide and we now see an increasing trend of younger people having such conditions. This means that people are ageing ahead of their chronological age, due to a variety of reasons. There is a need to have preventive measures in place before the onset of such conditions and TCM treatments are getting more popular in the prevention and slowing down of disease progression. Some of the signs and symptoms that accompany the process of ageing include high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, decreased appetite, poor sleep, fatigue, incontinence, dizziness, gray hair, hair loss, fragile bones, etc. Although this is a natural process, the symptoms that accompany the ageing process can sometimes be very uncomfortable and at times, pose danger to our lives. If these signs and symptoms are not controlled well, they often develop into chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and stroke. The tendency to succumb to illnesses increases as age progresses due to a decrease in bodily functions, which in turn lowers immunity. A decline in mental ability during the process of ageing could potentially result in dementia or psychiatric disorders such as depression. What causes the development of ‘ageing’ diseases from a TCM perspective? From a TCM perspective, age-related changes are mainly due to organ degeneration and exhaustion of fundamental substances (from a functional aspect). [1] When there is an imbalance of the fundamental substances, pathological changes take place and disease progression occurs. 1) Exhaustion of fundamental substances The human body is made up of a continuous, dynamic system of fundamental substances such as qi, essence (jing), blood, body fluids and spirit (shen), that interact together to create the activities making up life. In the natural process of ageing, these substances gradually weaken and becomes depleted, slowing down bodily activities. This is reflected in the common signs of ageing, such as loss of hair, fragile bones, and gray hair. 2) Organ degeneration The kidneys store the essence of life and have the most important role in the process of ageing. With depletion in the essence, the kidneys main function of propelling life and maintaining physiological balances fails and hence leads to a decline in vitality. Another major organ that contributes to the process of ageing is the spleen, which is a manufacturer of qi, as well as a good storage place for qi. As we age, the function of the spleen in metabolizing nutrients decreases, and it is no longer able to ensure proper nourishment and replenishment of the body. The organs in our body become under-nourished and this contributes to various conditions such as fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite and poor sleep. 3) Accumulation of metabolic wastes Environmental influences or lifestyle habits such as overeating, straining, inadequate exercise and stress contribute to the accumulation of metabolic wastes. As we age, the function of internal organs slow down and they can no longer remove metabolic wastes as effectively. In TCM, the San Jiao works to help remove metabolic waste and it is important to maintain its optimal function as we age. How do we help patients with chronic diseases here at Oriental Remedies Group? Fret not, as there is hope. Your biological age can be much younger than your chronological age with proper and timely intervention. Herbal Medication Herbal medication helps in countering chronic diseases by replenishing the fundamental substances. The active ingredients of herbs play a great part in the replenishment process. Herbs such as ginseng contains bio-active metabolites which help to increase lifespan and regulate the function of multiple organ systems, including the cardiovascular and nervous systems, through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Another common herb, gouqi, has been reported to mediate significant anti-ageing effects through anti-oxidant, immunoregulative,  and anti-apoptotic activities and reducing DNA damage. Acupuncture Acupuncture is the insertion of fine, thin needles through the skin at particular acupoints to help stimulate specific functions. Acupuncture typically increases blood circulation to the area, promotes elasticity of muscle fibers and improves muscular contractility. As such, it helps to stimulate collagen production, clear blockages, correct imbalances of Yin and Yang energy and promote self-healing of the body. Massaging certain acupoints also helps in removal of toxins to improve conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Electro-Lymphatic Therapy(ELT) Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) is a gentle and non-invasive therapy that helps to stimulate proper flow and drainage of the lymphatic system, simulating the effects of a lymphatic drainage massage or tuina without the pain and pressure. ELT is performed using an FDA-registered wellness device

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine help with Cancer Support?

How does Traditional Chinese Medicine help with Cancer Support? WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share We understand that a cancer diagnosis for you or your loved one can be a distressing and emotional time for you and your family. In this article, we will explain how Oriental Remedies Group can help improve the quality of life for the patient during this tumultuous period, by providing cancer support via Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Technology-Enhanced Therapies, along your route to recovery. In recent years, more cancer patients are turning to TCM as a form of cancer support. In our clinic, we see an increasing number of patients who suffer from side effects of chemotherapy drugs or radiation therapy and are seeking complementary TCM therapies to reduce the side effects and alleviate symptoms such as pain. Why use TCM for cancer support? Many clinical studies have shown that TCM is effective in supporting treatments against breast, gastric and lung cancer. An example from one of the researches shows that when TCM is used as a complementary therapy combined with conventional chemotherapy, patients increased the survival rate, had a better response to chemotherapy and experienced reduced side effects, including vomiting and the decline of red blood cells.[1] On top of that, TCM also improves the effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in fighting cancer, guided by therapeutic principles of tonifying Qi and producing Blood[1], strengthening the Spleen and Stomach, nourishing the Liver and Kidney and removing Heat or inflammation from Blood and toxic materials from the body. TCM also plays a strong role in helping patients with advanced cancer diagnosis or patients, especially elderly ones, where radiotherapy and chemotherapy are deemed as unsuitable treatment therapies. Research shows that TCM can stabilise tumour lesions, improve symptoms, enhance the quality of life and prolong survival time.[1] If you’re getting a little lost above, fret not. In this article, we hope to demystify TCM and help you gain better knowledge and awareness so that you can make an informed decision with the use of TCM treatments in your recovery. The efficacy of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in cancer treatment. Source: NCBI What exactly is cancer? According to the Singapore Cancer Society, cancer is a term that refers to a group of diseases, all of which are characterised by abnormal cell growth.[2] When the normal regulated process of cell division and growth malfunctions, the cells will grow and divide uncontrollably. As they continue to grow and multiply, they may amass to form tumours. There are two kinds of tumours; benign and malignant. The former is a tumour that continues to grow and divide in the same place, without spreading to other parts of the body. On the other hand, when the tumour spreads and invades into other parts of the body via metastasis, it is a life-threatening tumour known as malignant tumours. What causes cancer from a TCM perspective? 1) Weak immunity Qi has a defensive mechanism that protects the body, thus weakened Qi formed from poor digestive function results in weakened immunity Coldness restricts the flow of Qi and Blood resulting in stagnation Stress and emotions stagnate Qi flow 2) Poor Blood circulation It can result from coldness accumulated in the body. This could be from external environment or frequent ingestion of food of cold nature Weak Qi (energy) is unable to encourage Blood flow. Hence, many cancer patients tend to feel cold and have cold extremities Blood is thick and turbid thus stagnated 3) Phlegm Dampness accumulation Weakened digestive function Excessive intake of food of cold nature or oily/greasy food Exposure to cold environments weakens Spleen’s ability to transform food into nutritive essence, thereby reducing the formation of Qi and Blood Poor bowel movement results in the accumulation of toxins 4) Exposure to Dampness from the environment Environmental toxins Exposure of damp and cold environment Patient trying Electro-Lymphatic Therapy at Oriental Remedies Group How does Oriental Remedies Group support cancer recovery? TCM views the treatment of cancer holistically, with a systematic approach being taken to treat and improve the overall condition of the body. Physicians customise a treatment plan suited to the patient, based on the identified root cause(s). At Oriental Remedies Group, a combination of Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatments and Technology-Enhanced Therapies are prescribed to boost the patients’ immune system and to strengthen and nourish the body. Even when you are undergoing conventional cancer treatments, you can still work on improving your quality of life! Find out some of the key therapies prescribed for cancer warriors below: Acupuncture Acupuncture utilises very fine needles placed at different parts of the body to help regulate, realign and improve the condition of the body and its organs Acupuncture treatments are focused on improving the patients’ quality of life Cancer patients report the below benefits: Strengthened immune system More energy and reduced lethargy Reduced cancer treatment side effects Reduced anxiety Herbal Medication Helps to recuperate the body, replenish the Qi and energy, nourishing the body so that it can fight the cancer cells Some herbal medication are supported by research to help suppress the growth and spread of cancer in the body Electro-Lymphatic Therapy Improves the function of the lymphatic system which is closely linked to ‘San Jiao’ in TCM Cancer patients report better well-being: Strengthened immunity Reduced pain, aches and inflammation Reduce water retention and lymphedema (especially for cancer patients who have gone through lymph node removals) Better sleep and mobility Aside from TCMxTech-Enhanced Therapies recommended by your physicians, it is equally important for cancer patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet for their body system to function optimally while/after undergoing treatments. Here are some strategies on How To Eat Right During and After Chemotherapy/ Radiotherapy. Is TCM suitable for every cancer patient? Yes! TCM Physicians work alongside major hospitals in Singapore like Tan Tock Seng Hospital to provide care to patients with all sorts of conditions, not just cancer. However, it is important to seek professional consultation from certified physicians as some patients may be allergic to certain herbs, or certain herbs are not suitable when patients

Understanding Paediatric Massage

Understanding Paediatric Massage WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Have you heard of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Paediatric Massage? Paediatric Massage was developed 2300 years ago and has survived the test of time, helping many adorable children get better. As we know, children do not fancy bitter TCM concoction nor painful injections, Paediatric Massage is a gentle way to help children regain their health. With the increasing recognition of preventive health by parents, like yourself, this relaxing and therapeutic approach has gained popularity and is widely accepted by children of all ages. Let’s explore what it is and how it works! We will also be sharing with you simple techniques that you can perform on your child. What is TCM Paediatric Massage? Since ancient times, this traditional treatment method has played an important role in both disease prevention and treatment of ailments. TCM Paediatric Massage relies on principles of TCM, and techniques performed are in strict compliance with clinical diagnosis. As a child has delicate and soft skin, different massage techniques are used compared to adult Tuina Massages. Children also have unique acupoints that consist of areas and linear points. We will be sharing some straightforward techniques that can be easily picked up by you to help with your child’s general wellness as well. Why is TCM Paediatric Massage more popular now? Not only does it bring about great benefits, it is also a safe and efficient treatment. Paediatric Massage is not painful or harsh like Tuina massages usually done on adults – the techniques used are different due to differences in the physiology of children and adults. More importantly, physical touch plays a vital role in healing1 and this gentle form of treatment will be able to keep children free from medical-related stress they would otherwise experience in hospitals or with taking medications. Now let us explain your children’s physiology and the basis of how this massage works in treating your child’s issues. Understanding Children Physiology from TCM perspective The physiology of a child is different from that of an adult in the following aspects: Firstly, their internal Zang-Fu organs are delicate, especially their Lung, Spleen and Kidney, and their physiological functions have yet to fully mature. Therefore it is easier for external pathogens to enter their body and easier for their digestive system to be affected by the food they take in. Secondly, due to the incomplete development of Yin and Yang in their body, there is a higher tendency to see Yin and Yang imbalances in children. Their body’s self-defenses and self-regulation mechanisms are therefore weaker. Disease progression is also fast in children, and may easily progress into more complicated forms within a short period of time. As such, a quick response is vital. While the balance between Yin and Yang in children is delicate and easily upset, it has a tendency to tilt towards Yang. Children have vibrant and rapid growth and physicians in ancient times have pointed out that the body constitution of a child is full of Yang energy, like a rising sun in the morning. Hence, it is common to see “excess Yang, insufficient Yin” body constitution in a child. The advantage of the children’s body is that due to the highly pure and clean state of the body, children are able to heal at a much faster rate, as long as immediate action is taken to combat the problem. What are the benefits of TCM Paediatric Massage? Understanding the children’s physiology, we know that children are more prone to falling sick, and once sick, the disease progresses and worsens rapidly. If the child has strong immunity, the recovery is similarly quick. Essentially, this means fast response is vital and also reflects the importance of preventive measures to strengthen the child’s immunity. TCM Paediatric Massage elicits fast response by directly stimulating related organ systems to correct the issue at hand and is also a safe long term preventive measure for your kids. TCM Paediatric Massage can be used to treat a wide range of diseases in children. In particular, the effects of Pediatric Massage for common pediatric diseases of the respiratory system and digestive system are pronounced, making this a go-to treatment for such problems2. When a child has a disease, it is usually due to disturbance in normal Qi of certain internal Zang-Fu or due to imbalances in Yin and Yang. By massaging a certain part of the child’s body, the corresponding Zang-Fu in the body will be regulated through meridians to help restore the normal flow, thereby achieving healing. Similarly, through correct massage actions, Yin and Yang imbalances can be corrected. With proper diagnosis, this massage treatment is able to target the root of the issues and capable of treating chronic conditions. In addition to the treatment of diseases, Paediatric Massage can also be used to strengthen the health and immunity of the child, improving their body constitution and increasing the child’s resistance against diseases. Modern research has shown that Paediatric Massage has a positive effect on not only the physiological functions of the body but also the psychological functions as well, with a very strong effect on reducing anxiety in children3. Learning simple paediatric massage techniques As mentioned, there are 3 internal organs in the children where Qi deficiency is more prominent, with Spleen being one of the aforementioned organs. The Spleen is responsible for the intake, processing and distribution of nutrients from food, in the form of Essence, that is essential to our body’s function. Deficiency of Spleen-qi in children can result in weaker digestion, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, poor appetite, indigestion and bloated stomach. As mentioned, there are 3 internal organs in the children where Qi deficiency is more prominent, with Spleen being one of the aforementioned organs. The Spleen is responsible for the intake, processing and distribution of nutrients from food, in the form of Essence, that is essential to our body’s function. Deficiency of Spleen-qi in children can result in weaker digestion, causing symptoms such as diarrhoea, poor appetite, indigestion and bloated stomach. 1) 补脾经 Nourishing the Spleen Meridian Location: On the side of thumb away from the other fingers Action: Brush downwards from the tip of the thumb towards the root of the thumb Frequency: