Relax your Chi with Tea!

So, last week I went to my very 1st acupuncture appointment.  My knees had been killing me for too long and despite the continued exercise/stretches and occasional ibuprofen (which I hate to take), they just weren't getting better. In my opinion, if you're going to have oriental medicine, you should have someone who is from China.  Even better if they have a heavy accent and are difficult to understand:)  I found someone nearby and booked an appointment.  I wasn't really nervous as my grandmother did acupuncture at 80 for her arthritis, my mom goes regularly, and my husband has had success with his back in the past.  The doc checked my pulse, looked at my tongue, felt around my joints a bit and says - "You have bad chi - your energy is very bad - very stressed".  I laughed - didn't surprise me!  In fact the entire family laughed as none were shocked that I was stressed (I did just spend $1500 on the car the day before!).  Needles went in - some hurt more than others.  "Why?"  I asked - (the one in my forehead especially hurt).  Dr's response - "You think too much!".  Too funny!  She had me pegged.  I desperately tried to relax for the hour - couldn't do it.  But, after the needles came out and I got home, I was exhausted.  Really exhausted.  I slept great.  And you won't believe this - my knees... they felt 80% better after 2 days.  I went again today - actually relaxed this time (though my chi is still bad per the doc).  I might have even slept for 5 minutes.  

I am hooked - feels so good!  I want to go all the time.  But, mainly I know I need to make time to relax every day.  Therefore, my new mantra - Relax your Chi with Tea.  This past week I have taken 20 minutes with a cup of tea and sat down quietly (kids aren't supposed to talk to me).  Honestly, I am really bad at taking time (other than exercising) for myself and don't usually sit down until later at night.  So - moms give yourself the gift of "chi" time for Mother's Day (and every day) - get some tea, sit down, and relax:)