Mind/Body Balance

Resources on Traditional Chinese Medicine

Welcome to our Mind-Body Balance Blog, where ancient wisdom meets insightful wellness guidance to nourish your whole being. Explore topics ranging from the foundational principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (such as the Five Elements, Yin and Yang, and Qi) to practical self-care tools such as Gua Sha for skin health, San Fu immune-boosting techniques, and rituals aligned with nature’s rhythms. Deepen your understanding of holistic health and integrate time-tested practices into your daily life. Let this space be your sanctuary for learning, balance, and mindful transformation.

Norman Plotkin Norman Plotkin

Cosmetic Acupuncture vs. Botox: The Natural Path to Radiance at Violet Wellness Spa

The choice between a quick injectable fix like Botox and a holistic, natural approach is a common,

modern skincare dilemma we encounter daily at Violet Wellness Spa. While Botox has long been the

primary solution for smoothing wrinkles, a growing number of our patients are now choosing, and being

pleasantly surprised by the remarkable power and beauty of, cosmetic acupuncture to achieve lifted, firm,

and youthful skin.

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Norman Plotkin Norman Plotkin

Eight Golden Rules to Fortify Immune System Naturally

In a world filled with quick fixes and constant health concerns, Dr. Tian shares a powerful reminder: true immunity starts from within. Instead of waiting for illness to strike, Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches us how to build strong, resilient Wei Qi — our body’s natural protective shield.

In her latest article, Dr. Tian breaks down Eight Golden Rules rooted in thousands of years of TCM wisdom. From nourishing the Spleen and Lungs with seasonal foods, to massaging key acupoints, protecting your Yang from the cold, supporting your emotional balance, and aligning with nature’s rhythms — each rule helps your body stay grounded, energized, and naturally defended.

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Norman Plotkin Norman Plotkin

Western Medical Principles of Cosmetic Acupuncture

Microtrauma and the Skin’s Healing Response

From a biomedical perspective, cosmetic acupuncture works primarily by creating controlled micro-injuries at specific points on the face. When fine acupuncture needles are inserted into the dermis or subdermal layers, they cause microtrauma that is too mild to cause scarring but strong enough to trigger the body’s natural wound-healing cascade.

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Norman Plotkin Norman Plotkin

Preparing for Pregnancy A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective

In modern times, many couples hope to conceive naturally, yet few truly understand the importance of preparing their bodies beforehand. From the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, preconception care is like cultivating fertile soil—only when the body’s qi and blood are harmonized can new life take root and thrive.

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Norman Plotkin Norman Plotkin

The Science of Pain Relief: Endorphins, Circulation, and Your Nervous System

Why does acupuncture work for pain?
 If you’ve ever wondered how such fine needles can make a real difference for something as big as chronic back pain, headaches, or joint stiffness, the answer lies in your body’s own healing system.

Modern research shows that acupuncture activates three key pathways that already exist within you — the release of endorphins, improved circulation, and a nervous system reset. Together, these create powerful, natural pain relief.

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Norman Plotkin Norman Plotkin

Forward Head Posture

We’ve been seeing more and more patients with forward head posture – what we often call “anterior carriage.”
This happens when the head shifts forward compared to the shoulders. Even just one inch forward adds about 10 extra pounds of load on your neck and upper back muscles. Imagine holding a bowling ball out in front of you all day – that’s what your neck is doing!

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Norman Plotkin Norman Plotkin

The Five Elements in TCM: How They Influence Your Body and Mind

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is built on the principle that nature and the human body are deeply interconnected. One of its core theories is the Five Elements Theory, which explains how different aspects of the body, emotions, and even personality traits are influenced by the elements Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Understanding these elements can help you achieve better health, emotional balance, and overall well-being.

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