In Virginia, late February to summer tends to be the worst for allergy sufferers. According to an article from VirginiaENT.com: “Tree pollens such as oak, maple, and river birch are blooming during this time. The dry wind we see in early spring will spread allergens and raise the pollen count.” To make matters worse, there is evidence that pollen season is getting longer thanks to climate change.

Moxibustion involves burning the herb mugwort near specific acupuncture points to stimulate and warm the area. For breech presentations, the focus is on the acupuncture point UB67, located at the outer corner of the pinky toe. The heat generated by moxibustion is believed to stimulate prostaglandin receptors, leading to mild uterine contractions that can encourage the baby to move into a head-down position.

To help resolve stagnant Liver energy, I typically recommend a combination of acupuncture, physical activity, de-stressing activities such as meditation, and foods known for their “moving” energetic properties. Foods that fall into this category are often pungent, sour and/or sweet by nature.

Labor preparation (prebirth) and induction acupuncture are two methods toward the same end — a labor and delivery with positive outcomes for birthing person and baby. However, the energy and intention behind each technique is quite different, as is the body of evidence to support their efficacy.

Pregnancy affects each person differently, and subsequent pregnancies often affect the same body in different ways. Fluctuations in hormones can cause disruption physically and emotionally throughout pregnancy, causing symptoms such as nausea, depression, and gastrointestinal issues, and a growing baby often causes discomfort in the low back and pelvis especially during the third trimester.