Summer time means car time for a lot of people. Car travel for camping trips, weddings, vacations, visits with family, sightseeing....really the list goes on and it means that many of you are spending extra time in the car this summer. So this month's tip is going to help you combat motion sickness...especially if you or your little ones end up in the back seat. Motion sickness can manifest with nausea, cold sweats, headache and dizziness and may make you tired or irritable. Here are 3 TCM ways to help reduce nausea and queasiness from summer car trips.
1. Acupressure - one of my favorite ways to bring acupuncture everywhere is with acupressure. Apply firm consistent pressure on the acu point Pericardium 6 (PC 6, Inner Gate). This point is located on the inner aspect of the wrist, three finger widths above the crease and is THE point for reducing nausea and vomiting. It is also a relaxation point for stress, palpitations, and insomnia and it's the go to point for morning sickness.
2. Ginger and Mint - Sip on some mint and ginger tea. Both mint and ginger are used in Chinese medicine to help settle the stomach, reduce nausea and regulate digestion. Because it's summer, and ginger has such a warm nature, adding mint helps to keep this tea refreshing and cool things down during a hot summer trip. Brew it ahead of time and drink it warm or chilled, not iced, to help settle the stomach and keep you hydrated.
3. Preparation - Get 2-4 acupuncture treatments in the weeks leading up to travel. Acupuncture will help balance the body to reduce the likelihood of motion sickness developing. With acupuncture, points are used to help regulate the nervous system, enhance digestive status, ensure the smooth flow of energy in the body and relax the mind all of which will help prepare you for travel this summer.
**All information and resources found on balancedstonewellness.com are based on the opinions, experience and research of the author unless otherwise noted. All information is intended to motivate readers to make their own nutrition and health decisions after consulting with their health care provider...even if that provider may be the author ;)