Rachel Redmond, Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Holistic Women's Health Coach

11/29/2024

11/14/2024

It’s not glamorous but it is delicious!

If you’ve been a client of mine, you’ve probably heard me say this: prioritize eating lunch! It’s time to trade in the cold sandwiches and salads for a warm, cooked, nourishing meal.

I know—it’s not always easy to shift habits, especially if you’re used to skipping lunch entirely or grabbing whatever’s convenient (hello, handful of pretzels or a granola bar).

And let’s be real—sometimes making healthy changes can feel like swimming upstream in a culture that doesn’t always support them.

But I encourage you to stick with it.

Eating a proper lunch doesn’t just support your digestion; it helps maintain a healthy metabolism, keeps blood sugar levels stable, and gives you the fuel you need to power through your day.

In both Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), lunch isn’t just another meal—it’s the most important meal of the day.

Why?

According to Ayurveda, your digestive fire (agni) is strongest at midday, making it the ideal time to fuel your body with nourishing, wholesome food.

Similarly, in TCM, this is when the energy of the Stomach and Spleen channels is at its peak, ensuring your body can efficiently process and absorb nutrients.

Skipping lunch or grabbing something quick and processed can leave you feeling sluggish, out of balance, or even hangry later (anyone been there?).

That’s why I always remind my patients: Lunch is non-negotiable!

Here’s a simple example of what I had for lunch today:

🥣 Crockpot Thai Peanut Chicken
🥦 Sautéed Brussels Sprouts & Carrots
🍚 Basmati Rice

It’s easy, nourishing, and balanced with protein, veggies, healthy fats, and fiber to support digestion and keep energy levels steady. Bonus: it’s also delicious!

Remember: it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Leftovers work wonders or a quick veggie sautéed with protein can be cooked in under 10 minutes.

If you’re one of the ones I’ve encouraged to eat lunch over the years, I’m curious to hear how the change has impacted your life.

Please share in the comments!

05/21/2024

I'm rarely on FB these days, but wanted to share a helpful free guide I created in case you're interested.

I incorporate spices into my food every single day and have done so for the past 20 years! I know it's one of the things that has helped me to stay healthy while enjoying the taste of my food.

I'll link to the guide in the comments. I have other helpful resources on my website at www.rachel-redmond.

Hope this inspires you in the kitchen!

04/30/2024

Heavy bleeding during the period is very common, but it doesn’t have to be!

Symptoms are signs that the body is out of balance.

Heavy bleeding, often accompanied by painful cramps (though not always), is a definite symptom that points to an imbalance in your body.

I know many women struggle silently with these challenges. Part of that silence may stem from a lack of awareness of the options available for resolving these issues.

But here’s a reality check: you don’t have to continue suffering silently - there are options and I want you to be aware of ALL of your options.

Whether you’re dealing with heavy bleeding, debilitating cramps, or any other period-related woes, knowledge is power, and there are many effective and options in addition to what your gynecologist has to offer you.

Medical interventions are often limited to birth control, uterine ablation, and even hysterectomy.

It’s essential to know that there are other avenues for finding relief and reclaiming your well-being.

No need to lose a few days out of every month due to pain or heavy bleeding that disrupts your quality of life, work, or family. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Reach out, speak up, and know that there’s a community of people who understand what you’re going through and are here to offer support every step of the way.

Together, we can break the stigma surrounding menstrual health and empower each other to live our lives to the fullest, no matter what time of the month it is. 💪💖

P.S. I LOVE my gynecologist and I highly recommend finding one that’s open to exploring this with you.

04/24/2024

“Why do I feel like s**t when my doctor says my labs are normal?” 🤔💉

I hear this all the time!

As a functional medicine provider specializing in women’s health, I’ve witnessed patients coming to me after exhaustive rounds of visits to conventional doctors and specialists, often hearing that their lab results appear normal.

While it’s a relief to rule out serious medical conditions– it’s frustrating when symptoms persist without explanation or a clear path to recovery.

While standard blood work is invaluable for assessing overall health (and a prerequisite for functional medicine consultations with me), it’s crucial to recognize its limitations in capturing the entirety of our well-being.

Even with “normal” lab results, you might find yourself grappling with a range of symptoms – from fatigue to hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, and stubborn weight struggles. 😫🔄

So, where do we turn when conventional medicine leaves us scratching our heads? 🤷‍♀️

Here’s the beauty: Western medicine excels in identifying and treating acute conditions, while functional medicine offers a complementary approach by diving deeper into the root causes of chronic health issues.

Conventional medicine lays the groundwork, helping us address immediate concerns and ensuring our safety.

Meanwhile, functional medicine shines a light on the interconnectedness of our bodily systems, uncovering imbalances and providing tailored solutions for long-term wellness.

It’s not about choosing one over the other; it’s about recognizing the synergy between the two. 🌱💡

In this harmonious blend, patients benefit from the strengths of both modalities, receiving comprehensive care that addresses their immediate needs while addressing the underlying factors contributing to their health challenges.

If you’re ready to explore this integrative approach and reclaim your vitality, I’m here to guide you every step of the way! 💪💕

Let’s collaborate to unlock the mysteries of your health and pave the path to lasting well-being. 🌟

Drop me a DM to schedule your consultation and embark on this journey to optimal health together!

04/15/2024

🌷Spring is doing its springy there and I’m HERE. FOR. IT. 👏👏👏

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there’s a fascinating connection between Spring, your hormones, and your Liver.

Ever notice you get extra irritable right before your period?

🌷This is a tell-tale sign your liver needs some extra support.

Ever notice that you sigh a lot?
Have tender breasts?
Easily angered, reactive, or prone to headaches?

🌷All signs that you’re Liver Qi is stagnant and needs some attention.

According to TCM, the Liver is the conductor of the body, orchestrating the smooth flow of Qi (vital life force) and influencing our emotional experience.

The Liver governs emotions like anger and frustration.

This means that by nurturing the health of our Liver, we can foster more emotional balance during Spring, the season of renewal and rebirth.

🌱 TCM views the Liver as a key player in hormone regulation and detoxification, impacting menstrual health and even fertility. 🌱

So basically, the Liver which is associated with Spring, plays a significant role in your hormone health and emotional well-being!

If you think your Liver needs some love, I invite you to book a free consultation with me!

I have a variety of ways I can support you and your lovely liver:

🌷Acupuncture
🌷Functional Medicine
🌷Custom Herbal Formulas and Supplements
🌷Lifestyle Modifications
🌷Simple Self-Care Tips and more!

Now is a perfect time to invest in your health, your hormones, and overall well-being!

DM to connect or book a free call through my website.

✨✨✨

03/11/2024

Hello! I’d to take a moment to share a bit about who I am and what I do.

Over the past 10+ years, I’ve dedicated myself to empowering women to overcome digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, and improve their overall well-being.

As a licensed acupuncturist and functional medicine provider specializing in women’s health, hormones, and fertility, I draw upon my personal journey of healing to guide others.

My own struggles with digestive issues and food sensitivities during the first 20 years of my life led me to explore Eastern Medicine and holistic modalities.

Through these practices, I completely healed my digestive issues, sparking my passion for holistic medicine.

For the past two decades, I’ve immersed myself in learning, studying, and practicing various holistic approaches to health.

In my practice, I integrate ancient principles of Eastern Medicine with functional medicine lab testing to uncover the root causes of my clients’ health issues.

Utilizing cutting-edge laboratory diagnostics and lifestyle interventions, I address not just symptoms but the underlying imbalances in the body and mind.

My approach encompasses treating the whole system, with a focus on restoring stress responses, gut health, hormonal balance, and detoxification.

Specializing in women’s holistic health, I have a particular interest in fertility, postpartum recovery, and supporting hormonal health throughout various life stages, including perimenopause and menopause.

My unique blend of functional medicine, Chinese Medicine, and Ayurveda sets me apart, offering clients the best of both Eastern and Western approaches to wellness.

Additionally, I’ve developed The Yin Way, a women’s wellness online program aimed at fostering balance, peace, and ease in today’s chaotic world, with profound impacts on health and hormones.

Whether in-person or virtually, I’m dedicated to providing comprehensive support and guidance to women on their journey to optimal health and well-being.

Do you want to explore working together? Simply book a free consultation on my website (link in bio).

02/12/2024

Hormones themselves generally don’t cause hormone imbalances.

Hormones respond to their environment, which is influenced by emotional stress, inflammation, inadequate nutrition, and other factors.

This is why it’s important to target the underlying root cause of these hormone imbalances, rather than the hormones themselves.

In my practice, I use functional lab testing to identify the root cause of hormone imbalances.

Then I create a therapeutic nutrition, lifestyle, and supplement program that addresses all aspects of the underlying imbalance.

When we address the root cause and the context of our lives, the hormones will shift in response.

If you’re struggling with any variety of hormonal imbalances, from PMS, painful periods, heavy bleeding, short/long/irregular cycles, weight gain, exhaustion, infertility, and so much more, I’d love to be of service.

Whether it’s for in person acupuncture, virtual functional med appointments, or a combination of the two, I’ve got your back.

Reach out for more info or book a free consultation on my website (link in bio).

Experiencing excellent health is easier than you think.

01/15/2024

Unlocking the Healing Power of Moxibustion!

🔥 What is Moxibustion?🔥

Moxibustion involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) to promote healing.

I absolutely love using moxibustion (moxa) in my acupuncture practice and my patients are loving it, too.

If you’ve been to my office lately, you might have caught a whiff of that delightful smokey, incense aroma that comes from the burning of moxa.

This morning my low back was really aching and after a quick moxa treatment, my pain is gone!

I’m reminded by just how powerful and effective this treatment can be and wanted to shine a spotlight on this ancient practice.

Here are some benefits of moxa:

1. 🔥 Balancing Your Energy:
Moxibustion works hand-in-hand with acupuncture, enhancing the flow of Qi (life force energy) through your body’s meridians. It’s like a dance of harmony, restoring balance to your physical and energetic systems.

2. 🌬️ Soothing Therapeutic Heat:
The magic of Moxa lies in its therapeutic warmth. As we burn dried mugwort, the heat penetrates deep into your tissues, promoting relaxation, easing tension, and inviting a profound sense of calm.

3. 💆‍♀️ Stress Reduction and Relaxation:
In our fast-paced world, stress is a common companion. Moxibustion is your relaxation oasis. The soothing heat helps melt away stress, leaving you with a serene mind and rejuvenated spirit.

4. 🌸 Enhancing Fertility and Hormonal Balance:
For those on the fertility journey or seeking hormonal harmony, Moxibustion is a gentle ally. By improving blood flow to reproductive organs, it supports fertility and brings balance to hormonal fluctuations.

5. 🌈 Holistic Wellness Journey:
Moxibustion isn’t just a treatment; it’s a holistic experience. The subtle aroma, the comforting warmth, and the restoration of balance – it’s a symphony of well-being for your

Ready to give the healing power of moxa a try? Schedule an acupuncture session by visiting my website. www.rachel-redmond.com.

✨I’m here for your healing✨

01/14/2024

Functional medicine, in tandem with principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine
(TCM), presents a comprehensive and individualized strategy for navigating perimenopause by viewing the body as an interconnected system.

Rather than solely addressing symptoms, this combined approach aims to identify and rectify the root causes of imbalances, recognizing the uniqueness of each individual’s health profile.

Integrating TCM into the framework, which centers on balancing the body’s energy systems, particularly the Liver and Kidney systems, adds a holistic layer to the approach. The emphasis on hormonal balance, nutritional support, stress management, gut health optimization, detoxification support, lifestyle modifications, and targeted supplementation aligns with both functional medicine and TCM principles.

This synergistic approach not only seeks to alleviate perimenopausal symptoms but also promotes overall well-being, acknowledging the interconnected nature of the body’s systems and offering a comprehensive strategy for navigating this natural life transition.

My patients are reporitng so many wonderful improvmeents and often in a very short amount of time.
Benefits include:
More energy, mental focus, and clarity
Sound sleep
Better digestion, relief from bloating and constipation
Weight Loss
Relief from period pain, PMS, and menstrual headaches

I’m seeing the most improvement when my patients combine the functional medicine approach with acupuncture and other TCM modalities.

To learn more about working with me, book a free 15 minute consultation or DM for more info.

01/01/2024

As we step into the new year, I want to share a different perspective on setting resolutions—one that's more attainable and impactful. Rather than hastily jotting down resolutions, let's approach this with deliberate planning and realistic strategies.
Ready to make meaningful changes this year? Here are actionable tips to make it happen:

🍏 Eating Healthier: Dive into your favorite food blogs or recipe sites. Curate a list of tasty yet doable recipes matching your palate and cooking skills. Start your meal planning journey here for a delicious kick-off to a healthier diet. 🥗🍴
💪 Exercising More: Get moving in ways you love! Jot down your preferred exercises and lock in specific workout times. If you're in Lansing, my favorite places to work out and stretch are and 🧘‍♀️🏋️‍♂️
💤 Prioritizing Sleep: Revamp your sleep routine! Create a sleep schedule and transform your sleep space into a cozy sanctuary. Minimize screen time pre-bed and embrace the comfort for quality sleep and overall wellness. 😴✨
👫 Making Space for Social Connections: Friends and family are vital! Schedule regular hangouts and bond over shared activities or hobbies. It's about creating memories and fostering connections that last a lifetime. 🤗❤️
🌟 Let's take steps toward achievable and fulfilling goals together! Small changes pave the way for big transformations. Here's to a year filled with wellness, connections, and joy! 🌟🎉

12/29/2023

What truly determines our longevity, health, and overall happiness?

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not genetics, wealth, or fame; it’s our social relationships. Our friendships, our bonds with neighbors, and the individuals we consider our “chosen family” hold a profound impact on our well-being.

Numerous scientific studies support this, indicating that strong connections correlate with better health outcomes.

As we move into the new year, I am reflecting on this past one. I was listing what I’m grateful for and the things I’m proud of - both personal and professional, but what I realized has been most rewarding and most soul-nourishing are the friendships that have bloomed for me over the past 12 months.

I cherish the friends who’ve been by my side for the past 30+ years and I cherish the new friendships that have lifted me up, reminded me that I can laugh easily and freely, and provided plenty of smiles as we make the morning pilgrimage through the neighborhood for school drop off.

These small moments mean so much to me and I love knowing that these happy interactions benefit our collective health!

I’m always on a health kick of some kind or another. Sometimes it’s meditating twice a day and other times it’s cooking everything from scratch.

However, the health kick I’m going to continue on with in 2024 is that of nurturing the wonderful relationships and friendships I’m lucky to have.

I love this quote from a new favorite author, podcast host, and calming story teller, Kathryn Nicolai. In her book, Nothing Much Happens, she writes,

“I had a sneaking suspicion, one that grew stronger as I grew older, that the point of everything is just to make friends, just to share moments, to be there with whoever was there and to pay attention to all of it.”

I’m not one for New Years resolutions but if I were, I would borrow Kathryn’s words: to make friends, to share moments, and to pay attention to all of it.

Wishing you all a happy, healthy New Year!