December and the holiday season is upon us. Family and friends gather. One feels the bustling of activity and festivity.  So much to do! Winter in Punta Gorda is often favored with warm sunny days and cool breezy evenings. This time of year offers many opportunities to keep busy and extend ourselves – taking a toll on our health. Yet in winter, the world of nature is slowing down, quieting and finding stillness. Yes, even in Florida.

In Traditional Acupuncture, each season connects with an element in nature.  The Season of Winter corresponds with the Element of Water. Think about water and its fluidity and flow.  Water can shape; shift from stone cold ice to a warm foggy mist. Water crystallizes to uniquely formed snowflakes. Drops of water fall to form our reservoirs, streams, river and oceans. A gift of immense energy and life.

As in nature, that fluidity and flow of water is within us.  It is in the circulation of our blood and bodily fluids. Is there dryness in my skin, nails, or in my lungs? Am I thirsty? When I move, is there brittleness in the joints? Or is there stagnate fluid like swelling/edema?  Is there a lack of flow in my life – am I feeling overwhelmed? These are a few of the symptoms that can point to an imbalance in the Water Element. Acupuncture treats the underlying imbalances and promotes harmony of the body, mind and spirit.

As an acupuncturist, I have the honor to choose which points best serve each person. There are about 365 meridian points. Each point on the body has a name, responsibility, and connection with an “organ official”. One of the points that can be wonderfully beneficial in this season is Kidney Point, “Greater Mountain Stream”. The essence of this point brings a renewed source of life. Visualize the power and vitality of the mountain stream flowing with energy, strength and direction. This point can help with back pain, breathing issues, fatigue and insomnia. It can help ease anxiety and fear.

Winter is an excellent time to seek the healing support of Acupuncture for:  reducing stress, fatigue and headaches, building immunity, relieving strains and injuries and seasonal allergies. Vitamin B12 shots are also available. Please feel free to call with any questions you might have.

I look forward to partnering with you to support your health and wellBeing.

May you have a Peace filled Christmas and may this season be abundantly full of Joy and Love.
Kathleen J. Koch

This article was published in Isles Magazine.