May Musings: Healthy Heads, Happy Hearts & Honoring Moms
Spring is officially here—even if this week’s chilly rain begs to differ! The trees are blooming, the sun is peeking through, and with all this new life… come the head complaints. Lately in the clinic, I’ve been seeing a lot of head issues: allergy congestion, headaches, high blood pressure, itchy eyes, neck stiffness, and even folks just trying to feel clearer, lighter, and more connected despite the stress of the world.
So this month, we’re focusing on one simple theme: Healthy Heads.
Allergy Season: Survive & Thrive
If you live in the Boston area, odds are you or someone you love is battling seasonal allergies right now. It’s real, it’s relentless, and it’s absolutely a thing.
How can you stay symptom-free and still enjoy this gorgeous season?
Acupuncture and Chinese herbs are my go-to answer. They not only ease symptoms like itchy eyes and nasal congestion, but they also help regulate your body’s response to pollen, mold, and other allergens.
Here are a few at-home allergy care tips you can start today:
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Neti Pot twice daily to flush out pollen after outdoor time.
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Nettles Tea to help manage histamine levels and reduce inflammation.
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Cut Sugar & Dairy during peak allergy weeks—these foods create more phlegm in the body, which can worsen congestion.
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ALLER-EASE: A Chinese herbal formula that’s been a game-changer for many of my patients. Message me if you’d like to try it.
Headaches: There’s More Than One Kind
A headache isn’t just a headache. In Chinese Medicine, there are many types—and the root cause matters.
One of the most common I treat? Tension headaches. Tight shoulders, stiff necks, jaw clenching—it all adds up. Acupuncture paired with cupping works wonders here, easing tight muscles and improving blood flow.
To keep relief going at home, try these simple qi gong routines:
Remember: frequent headaches can also signal other imbalances—stress, hormones, blood pressure. If someone you care about is suffering, feel free to share this post. I’d love to help.
Happiness: The Power of Tiny Habits
Lately I’ve been reading about happiness—and one theme keeps popping up: consistency. Small things done daily have the biggest impact.
Here are three powerful, doable habits to boost your mood:
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25 Deep Breaths in the Morning
Before you check your phone or get out of bed, take a few minutes to breathe deeply into your belly. Count each inhale and exhale as one breath, all the way to 25. It’s grounding and sets a calm tone for the day. -
Gratitude Practice
Write down 3–5 things you’re grateful for daily. It could be as simple as sunshine, a good cup of coffee, or a quick line at the post office. Gratitude shifts your mental narrative in a powerful way. -
Move for 15 Minutes a Day
Walk. Stretch. Dance. Whatever gets your body moving and blood flowing. Just aim to do something every day—your body and brain will thank you.Mother’s Day: A Little Love Goes a Long Way
Whether you’re a mom, have a mom, love a mom, or are mothering in your own way—I see you. And I want to celebrate you.
This week only (until Friday, May 9), I’m offering FREE mini ear acupuncture stress-relief sessions in honor of Mother’s Day. Come in, relax, and leave with a little gift from me.
Gift cards are also available—perfect if someone you love has been curious about trying acupuncture.
And if you’re cooking this Mother’s Day, here’s a little bonus treat:
8 Vibrant Spring Veggie Recipes
from one of my favorite chefs, Jenn Segal at Once Upon a Chef.
Thanks for being here—whether we’ve worked together recently or are connected through seasons past. I appreciate you, your wellness, and your beautiful, very human head.
In lovingkindness,
Lisa
About the Author
Hi, I’m Lisa Jensen, a Licensed Acupuncturist in Winchester, MA with a passion for helping people find balance and healing through traditional Chinese medicine. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in pain management and women’s health—fertility, pregnancy, and peri/menopause care, and believe in the power of natural healing to enhance overall well-being. When I’m not in the clinic, you can find me with my husband and 2 kids, enjoying hikes with my dog Ernie, or practicing meditation and yoga. I created this blog to share tips, insights, and the latest in holistic health practices to support your wellness journey.
Feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect and answer any questions you may have!