What do stomach cramps and nausea have in common? They can often be relieved by pressing the Acupuncture point CV-12 (Zhong Wan). The translation of the point means “Central Venter.” It is the front mu point of the stomach meridian which helps to sedate or “vent” the overactive stomach. This point is located four cun (proportional measurements) or four inches above the navel (midway between the navel and the bottom of the xyphoid process/sternum). See the picture above to help you find the point. Press and hold the tender point firmly for 10 to 30 seconds to reduce the symptoms. I often like to pair points with herbs.
What is the herbal equivalent of the Acupuncture point CV-12? I’d say Gan Jiang commonly known as dried Ginger. Drink a strong tea of ginger, ginger ale, eat a ginger candy, or simply chew on ginger root to relieve symptoms. Ginger may also be used to reduce menstrual cramps depending, of course, on the cause of the menstrual cramps. Let us know how the CV-12 point and Ginger work for you!
The classical techniques of Yoga date back more than 5,000 years. In ancient times, the desire for greater personal freedom, health and long life, and heightened self-understanding gave birth to this system of physical and mental exercise which has since spread throughout the world. The word Yoga means “to join or yoke together,” and it brings the body and mind together into one harmonious experience.
The whole system of Yoga is built on three main structures: exercise, breathing, and meditation. The exercises of Yoga are designed to put pressure on the glandular systems of the body, thereby increasing its efficiency and total health. The body is looked upon as the primary instrument that enables us to work and evolve in the world, and so a Yoga student treats it with great care and respect. Breathing techniques are based on the concept that breath is the source of life in the body. The Yoga student gently increases breath control to improve the health and function of both body and mind. These two systems of exercise and breathing then prepare the body and mind for meditation, and the student finds an easy approach to a quiet mind that allows silence and healing from everyday stress. Regular daily practice of all three parts of this structure of Yoga produce a clear, bright mind and a strong, capable body.
The whole system of Yoga is built on three main structures: exercise, breathing, and meditation. The exercises of Yoga are designed to put pressure on the glandular systems of the body, thereby increasing its efficiency and total health. The body is looked upon as the primary instrument that enables us to work and evolve in the world, and so a Yoga student treats it with great care and respect. Breathing techniques are based on the concept that breath is the source of life in the body. The Yoga student gently increases breath control to improve the health and function of both body and mind. These two systems of exercise and breathing then prepare the body and mind for meditation, and the student finds an easy approach to a quiet mind that allows silence and healing from everyday stress. Regular daily practice of all three parts of this structure of Yoga produce a clear, bright mind and a strong, capable body.
