The Golden Needle Sūtra

Acupuncture and Insurance-it's possible, but tricky.

2009-09-22T13:58:00.008-04:00

I admit that I have not been as involved in the healthcare debate as I would like to be. People are unsatisfied and I'm not surprised. I'm not going to complain and expect that writing about it will make any changes for the better. My views would probably be simply stated, without much research to validate my arguments. Being new to the profession as a Licensed Acupuncturist, all I know is I've lost money this year to the insurance game, for many reasons. Most people don't know what their plan entails. This is a problem, and I'd like to help you solve it.

One FAQ is "Do you accept insurance?" and this is not directly a yes or no question, with the potential to make one feel foolish if it's followed up with "What kind?" and you stutter to say "I don't know." If you are a patient who wants to find out if it's possible to receive benefits for acupuncture or any alternative healthcare services, a better question would be phrased as "Do you accept [insert insurance company name here]?" You pay hundreds of dollars on your premium yearly so at least try to know who the money is going to. I personally think you should carry your insurance card at all times for these instances, but that's just me.

So, you've asked the doctor if they take your insurance. They say they are In-Network. This is good, but not a done deal. The next step is to call your insurance company to see if you are eligible for this type of benefit. This is the patient's responsibility but if you ask nicely, I'm sure with enough information (Date of birth, ID #, Group #, Customer Service phone # found on the back of the card) the office staff will call for you. The downside is that if you wait until your appointment to check, there's the chance it's not covered or you need an MD's referral and you drove down there for nothing. Frustrating situation #1.

Just because a provider is In-Network and can perform the service does not mean you have verified eligibility. Every insurance plan is different and you get what you pay for. If you have insurance through your employer, they may have certain restrictions that you cannot change, noted in the policy. Many companies don't cover alternative therapies but if the customer calls to inquire about this, they may realize that several affinity programs are available to you and can give you a significant discount (10-25% off the regular rates). If you mention this to a participating In-Network Provider, they are required in their contract with the company to offer this and no paperwork needs to be done. I offer the same discount to senior citizens and students in my practice at East West Medicine.

If you know that you can receive acupuncture benefits, the next step is to ask the insurance company how much your copay is per office visit and acupuncture treatment. These are two different procedures, with two different codes that the office uses on the claim. During the initial intake, a physical exam and health history can take up to 1.5 hours, which is categorized as an office visit, whereas the acupuncture treatment is separate. Even if it occurs on the same day, some insurance companies want you to pay two copays. Frustrating situation #2.

It's also important to know if there is a limit on the number of acupuncture treatments you can receive per calendar year. Sometimes the magic number is 12, which is generally one treatment plan in my office (once a week for three months). Other plans may allow you to get acupuncture as long as you don't go over a certain amount of $ out-of-pocket over the course of the year (i.e. $1000). Some plans only cover specific diagnosis codes like pain or nausea from chemotherapy or pregnancy. If your insurance plan expires, it's always wise to let the office copy the card of the current plan you are using.

If your practitioner is Out-of-Network but you know that your insurance covers the procedure, there is the option to be reimbursed after you have paid for the services. Keep in mind that they most likely will not cover the full amount paid, but it definitely helps. In most cases, your provider can file this claim for you with your signature on file.

Claims may take up to a month to process and in some instances need to be appealed...it's quite inconvenient to stop treatment when you are 1/3 of the way through because of some confusion about paying for the services. As a practitioner, this may cause tension with the patient, which I try to resolve by offering my discount in the meantime. There are times when the patient is committed to getting results and they take advantage of the opportunity. Other times, they sacrifice receiving proper care because they have chosen to stick within the limits of their insurance. I can understand this, but I also find that the suffering is prolonged, which is unfortunate. It's best to prevent this situation by having knowledge about your insurance before starting treatment.

I hope this information has been helpful for you to understand the relationship between the healthcare provider, patient and insurance company. I have encountered many flaws in the system such as patients and providers speaking to different departments with false information, insurance companies unable to find my contract or fee schedule on file, a patient neglecting to check their benefits, and failure to receive a referral from their primary care physician before the office visit. Save yourself time and a headache and inquire about your options. You might think they don't cover alternative medicine but you may be surprised!

For all of those who do not have health insurance and/or cannot commit to a full treatment session, I offer affordable ($15) acupuncture treatments in a community setting during my Wellness Wednesdays from 5-7pm every week (including refreshments). An acupuncture happy hour! To learn more about this, please contact me by email or call (703) 237-1114.

From A to B

2009-06-21T10:15:00.010-04:00

I've been on a bike more this year than any other, and I've thought a lot about our modes of transportation (thanks, SMG). Since my trip to China, I've stepped back into this side of the world, where everyone is dependent on cars to get around. I wish I could walk outside the door and see people, not vehicles. It's strange not to know your neighbors, and how much emphasis is placed on manners in the first stages of meeting someone. I don't think this is such an issue in Asia. People may have invaded some personal space and stated things I would consider rude during my travels abroad, but there was always unpredictable human interaction to observe. Sometimes it's just too quiet around here and I need to find that excitement myself.

Traffic in China is absolutely ridiculous. It's not gridlock, it's a collective consciousness of flowing harmony. Whereas everyone here stays in their lane, signals when changing lanes and then waves to excuse themselves, drivers in China can sense the presence of others, yielding instead of using aggression (like Tai Chi vs. Kickboxing). This resembles chaos, but it is rare to see accidents, which is hard to say about the Capital Beltway. People are not alert to their surroundings here, much like they are not aware of the dynamics of interdependence. Also, I never witnessed road rage in China.

When I explain the concept of pain to my patients, I often use traffic to illustrate the blockage of qi in our pathways. Maybe there was an accident (trauma), a construction zone (excess), or everyone is going under the speed limit (deficiency). All of these things will affect the flow of qi, the energy that helps to nourish our body, and stimulating certain points will help to unblock the stagnation while relieving pain.

After looking for videos on driving and biking in China, I started feeling a bit carsick. I remember having to close my eyes sitting in the back of a taxi in the beginning, or constantly ringing my bell on my bike to let people know I was approaching. Think about being a pedestrian in this. In most taxis in Hangzhou, a clear divider between driver and passenger is standard. This is to protect the driver so no one can strangle him from behind or attempt to assault him. I never really thought about how dangerous of a job it was for them until I took cabs every day for $1.50/ride. I also had to get used to being rejected a ride (in the pouring rain) if I wasn't going in the same direction as the driver. Eventually I gave up and walked home. If you have some time, watch this video and pay attention to the bike ponchos in the rain, people holding their umbrellas on bike, the pedestrians, the cargo on foot and bicycle, and how there is no such thing as "too close."

Keep it Simple

2009-05-26T19:46:00.012-04:00

Each year I donate items to charities or organize a yard sale to simplify my home. Yet somehow, my surroundings don't seem to be less cluttered, and I have stacks of paper I can't bring myself to toss, especially if it's related to my education. If I know they are not necessary for survival, why am I holding onto them?

One of the hardest lessons for a person is learning to let go. Of objects, a loved one, your identity, ego, false notions, an argument, or any idea that is not improving your life. There are different motivations for holding on, and perhaps I can't get rid of the stacks of paper because they symbolize the years and money I spent learning valuable information. Or maybe it will be useful in the next decades so they should follow me wherever I go. But I'm just not ready.

We all have our own methods and pace for coping and dealing with stresses. I find it extremely courageous to admit that one's habit (i.e. smoking) comes from a pathway of self-destruction and a victimized life, to the extent that the possibility of health is beyond reach. In my opinion, this admission is a giant leap, a cry for help, and a moment of honesty. The fear exists that if we put things behind us, we may begin to lose ourselves. The focus remains less about loss and more about moving on, to make room for better chances in our lives, and to become our fullest potential. When patients come to me for addictions, I see in their eyes the readiness to change their lives in a positive way, the desperation in their voice to connect heart and mind, and to relieve the emotional and physical pain they endure. That is why I believe this medicine can work for anyone.

If you want to become whole,

let yourself be partial.

If you want to become straight,

let yourself be crooked.

If you want to become full,

let yourself be empty.

If you want to be reborn,

let yourself die.

If you want to be given everything,

give everything up.

-Tao Te Ching

The Art of Medicine

2009-04-10T23:06:00.006-04:00

It wasn't until my third week of the program that I was able to see an acupuncture needle. Here in Hangzhou, the students have concentrations either in acupuncture or herbal medicine (although they learn both in their undergraduate education, a total of 7 years). The first two weeks I sat every morning on an uncomfortable wooden stool in various clinics, listening to the translator dictate herbal dosages and writing them in my notebook. The doctor sat across from her post-graduate assistant and talked with the patient for several minutes in a room full of people waiting to be seen and in the presence of extended family members. I was able to observe the interdependency of families in China and how the illness of one person affects many. At times during my cancer shift, it was the son or daughter of the patient that came in with X-rays, explaining the condition of their loved one in tears. When I visited the gynecology clinic, the doctor would recommend an ultrasound and the patient returned in the same hour with the results, since the hospitals were integrated. I am in awe of this concept.

When I finally got the chance to see acupuncture in China, I was a little intimidated by the quickness of the procedure. It was aggressive. It was effective. People had been coming frequently over the course of months. I have to admit it wasn't my style, but I learned to have courage. When Dr. Wang asked me to cup his patient, it was the first time I would really be participating hands on. With the fire in one hand and the bamboo cup in the other, I tried rapidly to create a vacuum to bring all the blood stasis to the surface. The darker the bruise, the better the treatment. The force was strong enough to draw blood. After receiving Chinese massage (Tuina), I knew these people could handle anything!

At another site, I watched catgut embedding therapy. The doctor injected very fine catgut proteins to be absorbed by the body into acupuncture points for weight loss, fatty liver and irregular menstruation. At the equivalent of $85, a patient could go home with them for 15 days and then come back for more. This therapy was in high demand and the acupuncturist was gifted with needles, also injecting doses of Angelica Sinensis into the necks of patients with cervical spondylosis.

These are only a few moments of what I absorbed during my time in Hangzhou. The variety at each clinic reiterated what I already knew-that TCM is an art to be appreciated and practiced safely without limitations. Every practitioner had their own style and their own relationship with their patients. My opportunities to make the medicine my own are endless.

Living Abroad

2009-03-30T05:53:00.016-04:00

I am blogging from BLOG INN. It is situated on the eastern side of the city of Hangzhou, surrounded by fruit stands, steamed buns, tea eggs and doughnut omelettes. There are random noises of construction, chanting, children wailing and men whistling. I am regularly sleeping with earplugs and an eyemask, realizing that city life just aint for me. Living in a hotel and eating out every meal (or substituting meals for junk food/fruit on my shelf) isn't as exciting as I had imagined. At least the food is dirt cheap-$1 fresh Muslim noodle soup-score!

There are always inconveniences to traveling but seeing how drastic my life has changed in China during these few weeks is definitely surprising. I miss my family but I can skype with them on a regular basis, which makes it all so much easier. Having a cousin to visit in Shanghai automatically makes me feel close and comfortable too. I'm putting a lot of energy forth into making the most of each day and my time here. There are the awesome moments when I see a man towing 50 wicker chairs by bicycle as I dodge multiple people crossing my path, people carrying soup to-go in a bag, the whiff of herbs in the air, the sincerity of Hangzhou locals, and the 30m tall golden buddhas at Lingyin Temple.
Shopping has been a challenge. Clothes are made so cheap here, and it shows. Luckily I was able to go to the Silk District today to find a few special items. Most of my Mandarin conversations with the salespeople go something like this:

They say something about me liking what they have in store, would you like to try on?...

Me: I'm sorry, I don't understand. I'm American.
X: What? You don't understand? You look Chinese! (Americans are blonde!)
Me: I'm not Chinese. I'm from Washington. My mom and dad are Vietnamese.
X: Vietnam?! Your eyes are very big! Beautiful.
Me: Thank you :) How much does this cost?
X: (An amount that is absurdly cheap for the garment in American standards)
Me: Too expensive!

and if I really like it, the bargaining begins...

It may not be smart to admit I'm American since they will automatically jack up the price, but I can only pretend I'm deaf for so long. If I'm not into it, there is awkward staring, sizing me up, telling their coworkers...I walk away slowly, they follow closely behind, handing me the most distasteful attire and I question whether I look like I would wear that. I should probably dress up more to go shopping but my theory is if they think I can't afford it I'll get a better price! I find it hilarious that this happens at every shop I set foot inside. I don't bother explaining that I'm not from Washington state, because I'm sure they only know of CA, NY and DC, just like I only knew of Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. I never had a clue that this city of 6 million people was the hometown of TCM and had so much history as the capital of Zhejiang province.

Are you Negative about being Positive?

2009-03-04T16:09:00.007-05:00

Today was one of those days where things didn't work out perfectly for me. I thought I had a lot to complain about but then I was inspired by a Wall Street Journal article called "From Attitude to Gratitude...". It reminded me that I can wake up sometimes in disbelief that this is my life. It's nothing glamorous, or deserving of an ounce of envy, but I took a step outside of myself to realize that things are not so bad. I think it helps that I'm in a caring business where people are expected to be honest about the state of their health and environmental dynamics. Listening to others in grief or pain provides me with compassion, sympathy and gratitude, not to mention the reward of attempting to make things better.

In these rough times, my patients are stressing out. They are losing ways to cope and insomnia is on the rise. Whatever state they are in, they desperately want to have hope. Sometimes all we need is a reminder that things will be alright. My coping mechanism is to check my pulse and see if I'm still alive. If I am, then I'll say some sort of mantra or motto like "Each moment is a once in a lifetime opportunity." It's simple and free, even if it sounds cheesy. I don't watch romcoms for nothing!

If you don't feel like persuading yourself to be content, the exercise of writing three good things might be useful to you. When I'm feeling irritable, I think this helps.

1. The ice is melting, which means the odds of me falling on my butt are back to normal.

2. I'm going to do 90 minutes of power yoga tonight, which is guaranteed good feelings.

3. I'm leaving for China in a week! (I have something big to look forward to)

Care to share one thing that makes you smile?

The Company You Keep

2009-02-04T17:49:00.018-05:00

Have you ever noticed how your life has similar patterns as your peers? There are studies showing obese people have friends who struggle with the same weight issues (if you're a man!). In my social circle, a lot of people are getting married, and moving on to have children a couple years later. eHarmony.com stated on a morning show that we look for mates with similar values, ideals, views and interests. One woman had been rejected three times from eHarmony and the only time she passed was after taking Percocet. When asking if it had to do with the "Do you find life meaningless at times" question, she received the explanation that it isn't how you respond to one question-she was a complex thinker, and the tests are not geared for those types of people. (In case you're wondering, she answered that she was a woman which made life meaningless about once a month...) Furthermore, the representative added that this is not to say that people who use dating websites are simple-minded. Perhaps complex minds are just less compatible with others?

I haven't been on these sites myself but do you imagine there are diverse options presented? They say opposites attract. Other people find that similar is better in the long-haul. There are times where I can admire a couple who is thought of as one unit because they are so alike. On the other hand, I think that dating someone with differences may be more rewarding because of the various challenges that arise as lessons in compromise and communication. Would you rather find someone to complement you, or someone who understands? I guess they are not mutually exclusive.

I think I have a wide variety of friends, in all colors, shapes, sizes, ages, educational background and classes. Those are seemingly very superficial things to me. Those who are closest to me can express what's on the inside in terms that I can relate with (like an open mind). I surround myself these days with a lot of family, and I think it identifies me as a person dedicated to long-term growth in my relationships. It's neat how a family can continue to grow and multiply. As for work, the only people I interact with daily are my patients, who on the surface are nothing like me and sometimes don't even speak the same language. But I love that I never know what to expect. I like different people because I would rather learn from thousands of experiences than the only one I have been given for this journey.

Live with a Purpose

2009-01-15T23:00:00.004-05:00

Today I woke up, struggling to remember my dreams, wrestling with myself to get out of bed, afraid that my toes will begin to resemble popsicles in the 20 degree weather. I sat listening to my yoga station on Pandora, trying to find peace of mind but it was hiding today. Deep breaths. Mantras. I begin with yoga, and I start to feel warmer, so I switch to Qigong Sword Fingers. As my focus centers on my fingertips I begin to emit energy through my human handguns (like Clint Eastwood in 'Gran Torino', which I never would've guessed as #1 in the box office).

Following this, I received a rather profound experience at work. This probably happens to acupuncturists and healers all over the world frequently, but today was a first for me (in my own practice). The connection I had with my patient reminded me why I chose this field. I worked with her for two and a half hours, giving full body acupuncture, ear acupuncture, and moxibustion for her pain. Without needling locally, we saw immediate results. She was in disbelief and her eyes were watering as she thanked me incessantly. I, in turn, thanked the medicine and everything in the universe that made it possible for me to study this and have the wisdom to help others. I listened, she listened, and the result was balance instead of a tug of war.

It made me even more enthusiastic about the possibility of studying in Hangzhou, China in mid-March. If you are a practitioner of Chinese Medicine and would like to go for one month to study at the Zhejiang College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, please email me!!

This Little Piggy Had None

2009-01-11T21:44:00.005-05:00

I am currently on the quest to save as much money as I can, as I'm sure millions of others are attempting as well. There are so many important things in my life that I am not financially prepared for, and I'm not willing to risk losing them for material possessions. I live my life through the joys of experience, so I'm glad that at the age of 27 I am not attached to many things. However, my interest in the Real Simple blogs have led me to ask myself what 10 things can't I live without? I was surprised to see 'iphone' and 'tivo' in a couple entries, but that's probably because I own neither. Lately, my wardrobe has been neglected so there isn't even a piece of clothing I'd have to take with me if my house was on fire. And that's the whole point. Everything I have today will eventually be gone. I am resisting buying any big pieces like furniture or art, in the hopes that one day my life will merge with another and we will buy things we cherish and adore so neither of us will have any objects to sacrifice. But as an exercise, I will try to come up with a few things that make my life better:

1. Dove SPF15 Face Lotion-a tight face in the morning is never good
2. Yogi Tea Tension Tamer-drinking some right now
3. Glide Dental Floss-no other brand will do
4. Pen & Paper-so I can write lying down, anywhere, with a personal touch
5. Yoga Mat-every swan, cobra, dog, cat, cow, fish, camel, happy baby and child's pose I can do

I am a girl of daily simple pleasures. It took me a while to realize I don't need anything else but love from my family and friends. Buddhism classes were a large influence. Losing things I thought I couldn't live without was a big part as well. But I am alive. I will always have wants and desires. They make me get out of bed in the morning. They drive my interests. I try not to let temptation distract me, nor can I allow negative thoughts to invade my consciousness. There is always another way to look at it. In today's crossword puzzle, a clever clue was "Who to trust in spy stories"...The answer? No one. Always trust your instincts and you'll be just fine.

So how can we live without spending too much cash? A few of my tips can help the planet and/or help you save $.

Take your own bags to Giant-you'll save 5 cents for the bags you bring. If you shop at Trader Joe's and BYOBag you can enter to win free groceries! (if you like wine, they also have a very inexpensive and tasteful collection)
Always make a list before you shop, so you know exactly what you need and don't buy on impulse. This will also help you avoid going to the store more than once a week.
Plan your route for errands so you can save gas and avoid backtracking or making multiple trips. Living in the 'burbs can add up! (Try taking public transportation or bike to work once a week/month/year)
Turn off electricity and water when not in use. When boiling water, just take as much as you need. Take showers instead of baths. Turn the temperature down when you go to bed. ..Reduce is the first of the R's.
Reuse is the second-bring your own mug to the coffee shop (or better yet brew your own for way cheaper) and they'll most likely discount or charge you for a small-& you're not wasting!

What are some tips that may help you to be conscious about spending or doing your part for our planet?

Hello 2009

2009-01-05T11:04:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year to all! I apologize for not blogging in December but I felt the need to end 2008 with personal reflection distant from the glare of a computer screen. I hope your holidays included lots of peace and love, a few treats, and a sense of renewal. A new year can be celebrated by all, regardless of religious or political views, relationship status, or background. It recalls memories of the past and hopes for the future. 2008 will be a year that I won't forget, particularly because it is the year I took the California State Board examinations on my birthday, said goodbye to the beautiful people I met in San Francisco and picked up where I left off with my loved ones at home as I started my own practice. This has been a year of change (or challenges) and being in DC as the Obama's move into the White House is going to be sensational! I am excited for all that is to come in 2009, the year of the Ox.

I know it's difficult for me to have resolutions because I always forget about them. I do enjoy, however, seeing those around me motivated to start anew; making plans for the gym three times a week, eating healthy, setting financial goals, meditating or practicing yoga daily, or quitting smoking. It's quite alright if your resolution is the same as last year, because it takes time to change habits, maybe even years. There is always room for improvement, and I myself would like to enjoy more volunteering or creative projects. Is there anyone out there who would like to join me? Is there anyone that may need a volunteer for a good cause?

I would like to write more for my readers in the new year but I need some topic suggestions. Ask me anything and you'll hear the truth!

Health and Happiness,
Kim

You Have Been Poked!

2008-11-19T20:50:00.006-05:00

We are all familiar with the symbol of Yin and Yang representing balance, where opposites attract to complete a whole picture. It is my belief that anything in the universe can be explained by the theory of yin and yang, which makes the concept difficult to explain in words. Yin can be the moon, earth, female, cold or stillness. Yang respectively is the sun, heavens, male, heat or activity. Take any pair and it has a yin nature and a yang nature. This is because one cannot exist without the other. Everything is relative and interdependency becomes the basis of Chinese Medicine. As the seasons change and the days pass, yin (midnight) transforms into yang (early morning), reaches the utmost yang (noon), and becomes yin again (evening). Like the cycle of life, they are continually changing; as one decreases, the other increases, and too much of one can eventually weaken the other. When we realize that we are not made of parts, and we are the whole, harmony can be attained. A lot of the work involved in Eastern medicine relies on adjusting the scales of health to become balanced and harmonized.

Qi ("chee") is the universal life energy. It flows through everything, sustaining the life of our cells, tissues, organs and blood. Qi is not visible to the human eye but it is responsible for moving, warming, nourishing and protecting the body and other living things. The roots of our heavenly connection are in the breath. Many cultures across the world identify this powerful energy with names like prana (Hindu), pneuma (Greek), or ki (Japanese). Indeed, most religious practices place a high value on correct breathing. From the kahuna in Hawaii, to the early Christian mystics in the deserts of Arabia, the strength of the breath has long been recognized as the most important indicator of one's connection to the divine. Learning to control one's energy by breathing properly (through the belly, one inch below the navel) may result in lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and increased focus and concentration. The gift of breath can be realized when you think about the world's largest animal, the whale. Unlike humans, they breathe voluntarily, and since they cannot breathe underwater they must decide when to come up for air. Their controlled breathing may help explain why some blue whales live to be 80 years old. Many healing practitioners work with the energy through breathing exercises and meditation, such as Yoga, Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong.

Acupuncture can manipulate Qi, by tapping into channels, or meridians of our body. By inserting very fine needles into specific points, acupuncture adjusts the flow of Qi, Blood and Body Fluids. The body releases endorphins (natural painkillers) and toxins to heal and cleanse your overall system. This in turn allows the body's immune defenses to deal with stress and illness immediately, and reverses the the threat that stress puts on your health. In a country where people are overworked and the disease rate is on the rise, Chinese Medicine can provide an approach with minimal side effects and lasting results. In my opinion, healthcare should not be about managing your illness, but maintaining your health. That is why Chinese doctors for the past 5,000 years have believed that prevention is the best cure.

Although it is typically known and proven that acupuncture can treat acute and chronic pain, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help a variety of issues since its theory is fundamentally holistic. The symptom is only a manifestation of a deeper condition, therefore focus is on the root and not the branch. This is what sets it apart from allopathic, or Western medicine, which generally masks the symptoms for temporary relief. Results from using TCM may differ from person to person, some treatments taking weeks or months to correct, and others relieved in fewer sessions. It is important to note that one's lifestyle factors are crucial to recovery. During a visit with your acupuncturist, S/he may ask you questions about your appetite, habits, exercise, sleep patterns, and bodily functions, while recommending nutritional advice or specific exercises.

During my four years of training, I had experience treating a plethora of pain, Sciatica, Gout, Multiple Sclerosis, Diabetes, Hepatitis, Depression, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Anxiety, Stress, Hiccups, GI (Gastrointestinal) Disorders, Acne, Eczema, Insomnia, Smoking Cessation, Palpitations, Cold/Flus, Health Maintenance and many other conditions during my clinic internship at ACTCM (The American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine). I worked at St. James Infirmary, a peer-led occupational health and safety clinic for sex workers since 1999. From this experience in San Francisco, I realized that few things could truly surprise me and I respected the non-judgmental approach to health as I gained more compassion for others. I also worked at the ACTCM Auricular Community Clinic where I learned to treat all diseases by needling the ear, a contribution of acupuncturists from the Western hemisphere. My experience at Dr. Lifang Liang's Infertility and Gynecology Clinic for 3 years gave me a conduit to learn more about Herbology. TCM has so much to offer the world and that has made me committed to its awareness. I hope I will be able to help thousands of people in my lifetime as I continue to study everything it has to offer.

Please visit my website if you would like more information or feel free to email me. I am always interested in talking about Chinese Medicine with those who are curious to learn more.

They Call Me Auntie Kim

2008-11-06T22:35:00.009-05:00

What a joyous week-first Obama, & now this! I would like to express how happy I am that I am not 3,000 miles away.
My sister gave the gift of life to my darling little nephew today. She did it au naturale (us Nguyens are hardcore) and out he came-the cool, calm and collected newborn that I met an hour after birth. The joy of having a new person in our family, the first to continue a lineage of Vietnamese/Italian/English/German heritage, the first grandson on either side, the first great-grandchild for Ba Ngoai...what a special being he is, without any clue of it. Undoubtedly, with four aunties and three uncles he will gain lots of attention, but I think his mother and father are completely enamored by his presence and I cannot imagine the emotions or thoughts running through their body and mind.
Looking into his eyes, hearing his sounds while he sleeps, no picture could ever do justice to life and how precious it is (although I will be taking plenty of pics)!

Flying Faster than Time

2008-10-09T21:40:00.006-04:00

We are on a race with the clock...Do you know where the finish line is?

Life is going to pass you by if you rush through it. No matter your age, you probably feel younger, even if you have an old soul. It's all the counting that bothers you. It's those aches and pains that are telling us to "slow down, take it easy," which makes you feel like your body has betrayed you. But have you been treating it with the love and respect it deserves? Just like a woman, if you do, it might stop nagging you.

In terms of diet, everybody has a say. There is no right way to eat for everyone. The only tip I can give you is to not consume too much of one thing. Whatever you choose to indulge-beer, sweets, junk food, meat, etc. make it a treat for yourself. With this attitude, you may start to see certain eating habits as controllable rather than a reflex.

When you exercise, remember that pushing your body to its limits is rewarding, but it can also penalize you. It's just as important to pay attention to your breath during rest as it is during a workout. Try stretching those muscles you forgot about, so they don't go into shock when you're trying to lift an object and something goes wrong. (Here's a common injury that I treat in my clinic) That's what I love about yoga. After a new routine, I'll feel soreness the following day because I'm elongating muscles that are severely shortened by hunching over a desk and detoxifying my entire body in the process using breathing exercises. When my body begins to adapt to the flow, I switch it up. In this way, I'm not focusing on one section of the physical body, but I can pay attention to the flexibility of my breath and mind during the challenging postures of the entire body, from Bubbling Spring to Hundred Meetings, which connect man to earth and heaven. Starting or ending the day this way is a gift to my life and practice. It reminds me that in times of difficulties I need only will to move on, that everything passes and this moment is precious.

My patients ask me what type of yoga they should practice. I say do one that you enjoy. I'm not a yogi, but I think a lot of people could benefit their lives by becoming centered. If I am without peace, then it must be within.

What you see is what you get? What you get is what you got.

2008-09-04T21:01:00.005-04:00

Here it is people, my workplace. It's a humble building (and beginning) but I have imagined working here as a "doctor" since I was a little girl. I remember when is was Frames By You and my parents bought it. I would wait in the filing room to go to PM kindergarten. I'd sing on the front steps and watch the cars drive by, I mowed the lawn and when I got older, I worked as a receptionist. Becoming a sole proprietor is intimidating but I understand that everything in life is a learning experience. No regrets. Just do it. And don't look back.

Speaking of doctors, I was on Hotmail's 'Spaces' and came upon a blog that quoted Sun Simiao, one of the most admirable physicians of Chinese Medicine. I felt lucky to find it by chance in the week my doors opened to the public, and want to share the oath he wrote 1500 years ago:

The Oath of Sun Si Miao for Physicians of Traditional Chinese Medicine

As a Physician of Traditional Chinese Medicine:

I shall look upon those who are in grief, as if I myself have been struck and I shall sympathize with them deep in my heart.
I will not give way to wishes and desires but develop first a marked attitude of compassion.
I shall not ponder over my own fortune or misfortune and thus preserve life and have compassion for it.
Whoever suffers from disease and illness will be looked upon with contempt by people. I shall maintain an attitude of compassion, of sympathy and of care. In no way shall arise an attitude of rejection.
I shall treat all patients alike, whether powerful or humble, rich or poor, old or young, beautiful or ugly, resentful relatives or kind friends, Chinese nationals or foreigners, fools or wise men.
I shall not emphasize my own reputation and belittle the rest of physicians while praising my own virtue.
Neither dangerous mountain passes, nor time of day, neither weather conditions nor hunger, thirst nor fatigue shall keep me from helping wholeheartedly.

With this oath, I shall fulfill my responsibilities and my destiny as a physician to each and every patient who seeks help from me, until I am no longer capable of fulfilling my obligations, or until the end of this lifetime.

I sit here thinking of all the overwhelming possibilities I could encounter as patients walk into my office. I want to make it better, relieve their pain, make them smile...but this is not a simple task. I'm already facing differences by practicing on this coast, and number one is providing a conversation about what acupuncture is. I also have to look the part-whereas I could wear casual outfits covered by a labcoat in San Francisco and my age was rarely an issue because I was a student, now I must buy a new wardrobe, wear makeup, get manicures etc. Business is your image. The only problem I have with this prejudice is that this is a fairly recent profession in the US. I attended school with people that were decades older than me and in their third career. That doesn't mean either of us are more knowledgeable based upon age, but you see a man like my father who has been practicing medicine for 30+ years and you trust his experience. You hear a woman on the phone that sounds young and people try to negotiate prices. But, who said life was fair? I knew going into Eastern Medicine that my Asian genes couldn't hurt my passion, my roots, my blood (my great-grandfather was an herbalist). Except those genes, combined with my desire for a youthful spirit, is why people are so curious to know just how old I am.

If people could remind themselves not to judge every so often, perhaps the boxes and pigeon-holes we build to fit an image for ourselves could go away and be gone! I am constantly asked whether I am full-Vietnamese (Yes), and I am proud of it. But I often wonder why people ask--what compels them, and if they are satisfied with the answer or just surprised that their assumptions are pointless. I don't look Vietnamese? I have my father's eyes and my mother's skin, my grandmother's love for poetry and horoscopes, my sisters' mix of pragmatism and rebelliousness, but everything else is mine. Maybe I don't look 100% because we can't trace history and bloodlines, or because I am very Americanized (and proud of that too).

No matter where you come from, don't forget those that came before you. I may not speak the language but it is singing within my soul. SAT NAM.

My Fourth Noble Truth

2008-07-07T19:51:00.001-04:00

Nobu: [to Sayuri, during the sumo match] Three things matter in life: sumo, business, and war. Understand one, you know them all.But why should a geisha care? You spend your time plucking strings and dancing.
Sayuri Nitta: [to Nobu] What is sumo but a dance between giants? What is business but a dance between companies? I would like to know about every kind of dance.
~Memoirs of a Geisha

Sumo, business and war are not just about winning and losing. The dance occurs to manipulate the opponent and employ offense and defense when deemed necessary. It is not so much about physical force, the size of the army, or the weight of the wrestler than it is about how one uses his/her mind. The former are merely instruments for intimidation. The body and mind work together to create something that takes a life of its own, adjusting so quickly and in sync that the consequences you see are the culmination of practices and determination. Just as Nobu assumed she had no interest in the matter, Sayuri remarked that no one should be judged by appearances alone.

I'm not an expert on any of the three topics, but I will be starting my business soon, with the help of my parents. I've danced with them my entire life, sometimes yielding, other times pushing, stepping on each other's toes, but somehow it seems like we end up on the same side and we're not opponents at all. We go in circles and draw lines that are difficult to stay inside of, but the next step is always exciting.

This book/movie reminded me of people that spend a lifetime wishing on their own destiny, and if granted enough patience with time, your dreams are powerful enough to become a reality. Patience takes practice everyday. Listening to Thich Nhat Hanh on youtube recently, he spoke about mindfulness. I liked his reminder to take a deep inhale and exhale when you hear the phone ring, or use signals like red lights to engage yourself in breathing, not to wish upon a green light so you could travel faster. My favorite passage of his has to do with the act of washing dishes...his words are so simple yet profound in "Bathing a Newborn Buddha".

My two main tasks today were swiffering and constructing a file cabinet. Not things I enjoy doing, but I tried to remind myself to find joy in what I am doing right at that moment. With other things trickling into my mind, I can easily get frustrated when the pieces don't fit correctly, or my schedule is behind. When I breathe or do a few stretches, I can calm myself much faster than before. I believe theses little challenges add balance to our lives because when life is too easy, it becomes boring. The more challenges I face, the more time I have to practice patience.

My Third Noble Truth

2008-06-04T22:24:00.001-04:00

If you find yourself in the Washington, DC area one day, you should stop by the Smithsonian's National Zoological Park located near the Woodley Park metro stop. With the recent earthquake in China, hundreds of pandas had to be rescued at the Wolong Nature Reserve and the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center. It made me wonder whether or not animals could sense the disaster approaching, and how they choose to communicate with each other in times of panic and fright.

The other night I dreamt of a talking panda holding a group of people hostage, myself included. He chased me but eventually I got away. After looking it up in a dream dictionary, I discovered that giant pandas are a "sure sign" I'm worrying too much and my troubles are in my head. I believe this is true. Not only have I been studying for the last year, but I've been taking board exams for the past six months and I'm scheduled to take the final one in two weeks. I have stressors I never knew existed, I'm not as "chill" as I once was, and student loans are hanging over my head. I start the day with yoga and it helps to ease some constraint, but in the end I still worry about the future. I don't know when it all began, or why I can't train myself to live in this moment without a reminder. ("Don't worry, be happy") I worry that I worry too much. How terrible is that?

My Second Noble Truth

2008-05-19T02:00:00.002-04:00

I used to be afraid of butterflies when I was a kid. Their large wings and captivating beauty intimidated me. I could admire them from a distance, but if they wanted to flutter around me, my heart raced nearly as fast and I ran. Until one day my sister sent me a magnet that said, "Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly."~Anonymous

This picture was taken in Mendocino, CA on a windy day while walking to a gray pebble beach. I didn't think that the butterfly would rest for my picture, but her true love came along to pose as well, assuring her that everything would be okay. Appreciating the cycle of life and the idea of metamorphosis, I knew I had nothing to fear. One day I would become my own butterfly, face adulthood and find true love. I was reminded that no matter what suffering I may be experiencing, things happen for a reason that may be unknown for many years to come. This too shall pass; I suffer because I'm human and I'm alive. To be capable and aware of your emotions prepares you with the tools for happiness. When you are finally happy, you know it because you also know what it feels like to think the world is over. In a similar way, many take their health for granted up until the moment they begin to feel sick.

Several times this week, I thought about the Four Noble Truths in Buddhism; life is suffering and its cause is desire. Every negative has a positive. Within dualism, two opposites cannot exist without the other because they are part of the same. Desire makes us believe we would be better if we had something extra in our lives, but when we receive it, we still have so much that we want and we often spend our entire lives working (to most people this means suffering). But for what? We all want different things, yet all we need is love. Why don't we spend 8 hour days working towards that? Somehow money has tricked us into thinking we can buy love when McDreamy aka Patrick Dempsey surely told me at the ripe age of 5 that we cannot.

I know $ brings opportunity for happiness, but I would rather barter my services (I'm trading a massage for golf lessons), exchange favors for meals, volunteer, live within walking distance of friends and parks, meditate, exercise outside of a gym, borrow library books, use freecycle.org and pick/plant my own food. It's not realistic for society, but I am only beginning to understand the layers of economics so please excuse my ignorance. I wouldn't want to be on a list of the richest people where your worth is described in numbers. I think I would be happier and healthier if I were free from the constant stress of not having it all or comparing myself to others. There is always someone better (or worse) than me, so I learn to take me as I am.

A friend brought it to my attention that I have achieved happiness and that the next 20 years of my life are going to be "Awesome!" which he followed with a high five. The information was startling and profound. I believe it, and from my experience, that's why I feel my life in particular is a lucky consequence of hope and faith. Our enthusiasm showed me that this is what I've been waiting for, that my life will unravel before my very eyes because I've laid the groundwork for it with the help of so many people. Now instead of fearing it, I welcome it with a warm embrace.

My First Noble Truth

2008-05-14T23:00:00.000-04:00

It is my hope to create a dialogue about health, nutrition, mindfulness, love, relationships, patience, listening and understanding. Please feel free to contact me by email for any comments or questions you may find along the way.
This poster spoke to me during college, when I was just beginning to "find myself." Each year when I moved, I would hang this print as a reminder that if I practiced moderation and balance I would succeed at life without rushing through it. If I worried less, living for the present moment, I could enjoy myself more. The more I enjoyed myself, & some nights the more I worried, the less I slept, and that in turn led to what we call the freshman 15. It was my desire for balance that I made the commitment to have a healthier lifestyle and I realized that using an hour of sleep could make all the difference. See a related article in the Washington Post.

In a single line it says, "Those who slept the least were the biggest drinkers." This wasn't a shock to me, since I sleep very lightly after a night of drinks, waking dehydrated and sluggish. In the theory of Chinese Medicine these are symptoms of dampness and heat. Out of the six pathogenic factors to invade your body (the other four being wind, cold, dryness and summerheat), the combination of these two is the most difficult to clear from one's system. It may affect digestion, energy, clarity of thought, emotions, and the skin, among other disorders.

I don't believe there are any true benefits to drinking either. I've considered how alcohol enhances my life but at the same time I can't help but feel like it does more harm, especially long term. Not only can excessive consumption lead to addiction, impaired judgement, vomiting, weight gain, cirrhosis, brain damage, cancer and accidental death, but it has been shown to affect menstrual issues and cause infertility-in women and men. Maybe it's the lack of social interaction I've experienced lately but it surprises me that intelligent, respectful, active and beautiful people frequently choose to participate in this self-destructive behavior. It surprises me more that I feel obligated to do it with them to the point of excess.

If you're reading this and thinking about how we drank together before and I seemed to enjoy myself wholeheartedly, it's true that this is somewhat of a new epiphany for me (as recently as this morning). It won't be an easy change but I like the challenge. I believe alcohol plays a different role for everyone and it is of considerable value to explore your own habits and goals to be proactive. I'd like to be someone that can still maintain relationships without having to justify my choice or give an excuse like "I'm driving." I think I'll just start telling people I'm pregnant. I'll enjoy champagne or wine on special occasions like weddings, birthdays and celebrations with loved ones but I won't let it control my weekends anymore.

There is a reason it's called an inTOXICant and another reason we call the largest and heaviest internal organ in our body the LIVEr. Life is truth~why would I lie to myself and spend my free time drunk in a transient reality that has given me one chance to do it right?

Achieving balance is not an easy task. It's about avoiding the extremes and working on your strengths when you encounter weaknesses, or pulling back when you realize something is unnecessary. We are not often in a state of balance but we can strive for it. It is the relationship of yin and yang, which can be found anywhere, as in the thread of life and death that the author of the Tao Te Ching describes.