Marathon madness is vast approaching with early registration deadlines around the corner. To help in your marathon training, look no further than to the East. Here are 3 ways Oriental practices and holistic therapies can help you cross the finish line.
Moxibustion- Pump Up the Heat
After an intense gym workout, the first inclination may be to cool down and relax. Instead, raise the dial and get some heat going, it’s time to break out another sweat. Many acupuncturists incorporate moxibustion into their client’s services to increase the body’s healing process. Moxibustion, a form of heat therapy, is a practice where herb mugwort is burned near or on specific acupoints. The results can be a reduction of pain as well as an increase in the body’s recovery.
Reiki- Marathon Meditation
Stress can be as damaging to a marathon runner as a sore ankle. From the deadlines at the office to the last-minute errands at home, stress can be triggered by a number of different catalysts. To keep the mind and body focused, try Reiki therapy leading up to the big run. Reiki is a Japanese form of therapy that promotes relaxation and healing. The practitioner’s hands are placed near specific parts of the body, increasing the area’s recovery and eliminating soreness.
Teishin- Acupuncture without the Puncture
From its ability to decrease lower back pain, help athletes with tendonitis, or increase the body’s natural recovery process, acupuncture has proven to be an intricate part of any athlete’s training regime. If the benefits of acupuncture seem appealing, but the thought of needles is simply too much, Teishin therapy may be the solution. The practitioner manipulates acupuncture points on the body or the ear with a specially designed, slender probe avoiding the need for needle insertion.
Group Acupuncture- Share the Benefits
Having a strong support system is essential for achieving great results. Group acupuncture is a great way for individuals to be introduced to the practice of acupuncture. Whether it’s friends, family, co-workers, or your running buddies, participating in acupuncture together is thought to create a special synergy that increases healing. Group acupuncture can assist people with a wide range of conditions. However, it is best known for helping to relieve pain, stress-related symptoms, anxiety, depression and insomnia.
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Lisa Alvarez has been a licensed and board-certified acupuncturist since 2007. She earned her master’s degree in Oriental medicine at the Midwest College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago, graduating with honors, and her bachelor’s degree in sociology from Beloit College. Along with Rebecca Christy, Lisa established Healing Foundations in Chicago, Illinois, to offer a full range of time-tested traditional Oriental medicine treatments and techniques.
Featured photo by Eneas