By Chia Chia Cheng, Dip. NACCOM, CNFM, L.Ac.
When Gov. Brown issued an executive order on March 16, 2020 requiring nonessential workers to stay home, I was left breathless. That day I learned the following fact–unlike chiropractors, acupuncturists hadn’t successfully lobbied legislators to move us onto the essential providers list.
When my uncle first approached me about studying Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and making a career out of TCM, I was a sophomore in high school. He reassured me, “You’ll be able to take your practice anywhere. Acupuncture travels well. As long as you can hold a needle between your fingers, you’ll be able to work.”
It never crossed my mind that one day the government would tell me to not go to work because of coronavirus. That’s when people need TCM to support the immune system and reduce stress. In the case of chiropractic care that’s when people need adjustments for the same reasons. To support the immune system by keeping everything in alignment and flow.
Last year I completed a training for natural functional medicine. I learned to use nutritional and herbal supplements to support the body in recovery and in building resilience. I took the training because I wanted to be really good at natural medicine, beyond acupuncture and TCM, so I can help you in other natural ways.
I’ve been applying what I’ve learned to my own health for the past 6 years. I’ve seen fantastic results in several areas of my body. Even my teeth are doing better. I used to have a cavity 1-2 times a year. I hated going to the dentist because of this. I’m happy to report that I haven’t had a cavity in the time I’ve been combining herbal medicine with nutritional support.
So for 10 weeks I’ve been offering phone consultations using natural functional medicine. I ship an individualized program of nutritional and herbal supplements to their home. We check in after two weeks to clarify questions and any concerns. We reassess after two months to see if the program requires any updates.
I’m doing this for people with chronic pain, high blood sugar that wasn’t responding to medication, upper respiratory infections, even fatigue. During SIP I am glad I can still offer support and relief in this way.
When you think of me, remember that I practice more than acupuncture. I help you get out of pain and back into life by using natural, drug free options.
After nearly 3 months of SIP one thing remains certain. You and your immune system are still the first line of defense against any pathogen. May you continue to support your body so that it can put up its best fight against all viruses.
Give someone hope. Forward this to at least 3 people you know who are in chronic pain.
Be well. Stay connected.
