Articles by

Shoshanna Katzman, M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. & CH

Creating a better relationship to food comes from a place within, not outside of your self. Eating issues are an external symptom that stem from a deeper underlying cause. It is essential to learn how to deal with them from a deep, profound level to ensure improved nourishment to your body.
Unhealthy eating patterns can be changed and healed over time by discovering what is “eating at you” on a fundamental, deep, no-nonsense level. These issues can be best eliminated through uncovering and releasing them, rather than the usual cover-up tactics of useless dieting. Periodic starving or following strict, regimented diet is a temporary fix that can have deleterious effects on the body.
According to ancient Chinese medicine principles, disease and illness come from the body’s vital energy (Qi) being out of balance. When Qi is strong, it flows better and results in a positive state of health. When Qi is weak, it creates stagnancy within the organs and, in turn, results in disharmony, illness and disease.
The Chinese have developed ancient Qi cultivation techniques as a way of creating and maintaining balance within the body. These include the simple practices of Qigong (pronounced chee-GUNG), Tai Chi, acupuncture, acupressure and Chinese massage They are “tried and true” methods for healing of the body, mind and spirit, ones people all over the world are embracing simply because they work. Some of these techniques you can do for yourself and others need to be providing to you. They are basically done to open and restore the flow of Qi throughout meridian (energy) pathways that run throughout the body. Qigong and Tai Chi accomplish this through exercise, Acupuncture through needle insertion into acupoints, Acupressure through finger pressure onto acupoints, and Chinese massage through a vigorous effleurage type of massage.
Qi cultivation techniques connect the practitioner with themselves in such a profound way to balance and connect the particular aspect that needs healing. This is based on the basic premise that the body heals itself naturally. This happens on its own, without the need for one to understand how or why. Everything just falls into place as one learns to take charge of and direct their healing.

These same ancient Chinese healing principles and resulting Qi cultivation techniques can also be applied to problems with food that lead to poor nutrition and weight issues. Extra weight held onto the body is an example of stuck Qi, but when Qi is flowing freely and effervescently weight issues and emotional attachment to food is resolved. When organs are operating harmoniously and Qi is abundant it results in healthier food choices in the right amount and at the appropriate time. Additionally, when the Qi of the internal organs is strong, the body works efficiently to naturally shed body unnecessary, extra water, toxins and thus pounds. This is especially true when it comes to balancing energy of the Spleen meridian that according to Chinese medicine is responsible for the transportation and transformation of food within the body.
The human body works efficiently and maintains balance on its own. A re-established and renewed flow of Qi gives your organ systems the fuel they need to carry out daily life activities with optimal efficiency creating the experience of a new and improved bodily felt sense of power and connection. In this state, you look at life differently, manifest what you want, awaken each day feeling vibrant, move through each day effortlessly, speak your mind gently and honestly, and reveal your real self without regrets, and effortlessly make the right choices around food.
Our bodies are absolutely meant to be in a perfect state of health. This happens through listening and honoring the true needs and desires of one’s inner voice to create, establish and maintain positive patterns of eating. This brings back memories of treating yourself with love and respect combined with the joy of nourishing and being good to oneself through food.