Hey future acupuncturists! Welcome to another episode of Study Acupuncture with Me, where I break down complex TCM concepts in a way that’s easy to understand and immediately useful—just like your favorite study group, led by a professor who really wants you to shine. I’m so glad you’re here, whether you’re prepping for board exams or looking to boost your clinic confidence!
In this episode, we’ll tackle one of the most common—and sometimes confusing—clinical presentations: pain in the lower abdomen. We’ll walk through how to differentiate Qi stagnation, blood stasis, and cold accumulation, with practical exam tips and treatment strategies. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to spot these patterns and support your patients (and ace those test questions!).
Episode Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Introduction and Goals
00:01:48 – Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain
00:02:36 – Qi Stagnation Explained
00:05:08 – Blood Stasis Breakdown
00:06:56 – Cold in the Lower Abdomen
00:09:13 – Touching on Dampness
00:09:47 – Quick Differential Diagnosis Recap
00:10:41 – Closing and Resources
I’d love to hear what you think! Drop a comment on my socials and share your favorite takeaway.
Sign up for quick win newsletter: https://www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin
Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new episode—let’s keep studying smarter, not longer!
Happy studying, and see you next time!
Welcome, future acupuncturists and fellow learners! Dr. Richard Lai here, and I’m so excited you’ve joined me for another episode of “Study Acupuncture With Me.” If you’re looking to build clinical confidence, ace board exams, or simply refresh your TCM basics, you’re in the right place—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way, just like your favorite professor who truly wants you to succeed.
In this episode, we’ll dive deep into understanding anxiety from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, focusing on the heart organ’s role, shen disturbances, and the interconnected patterns with the spleen, liver, and kidney. You’ll not only learn how to identify key symptoms and patterns, but also how to approach treatment point selection with clarity and confidence. My goal is to make these concepts easy and practical—so you feel fully supported in clinic and when studying for your exams!
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 – Warm welcome & goals of the podcast
00:27 – Heart functions in TCM & the concept of Shen
01:45 – The heart’s relationship to blood, spirit, tongue, and complexion
02:30 – What is anxiety in TCM? Shen disturbance & clinical signs
03:13 – Deficiency vs. Excess patterns: Heart blood/yin deficiency, Heart fire blazing
04:47 – Interconnected organ patterns: Spleen, Liver, Kidney involvement
07:28 – Diagnostic strategies: Excess vs. deficiency & treatment principles
07:51 – Key acupuncture points for calming Shen and restoring harmony
09:08 – Holistic TCM approach & empowering final encouragement
I’d love to hear how this episode helps you—drop a comment on my socials, subscribe to “Study Acupuncture With Me,” and don’t forget to visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin to join my quickwin newsletter to get an exam question a week right into your inbox (explanation INCLUDED)
Keep shining, happy studying, and remember: I’m cheering for you every step of the way!
Hey there, acupuncture rockstars! Dr. Richard Lai here, and welcome to the "Study Acupuncture With Me" podcast. I’m so glad you’re here—think of this as your safe and encouraging space to unravel tricky TCM topics, gain clarity, and build confidence for both clinic life and board exams.
In today’s episode, we’re diving into the real-world challenge of “mixed patterns” with a special focus on Spleen Qi Deficiency combined with Damp Accumulation—a pattern you’ll see all the time in the clinic! I’ll walk you step-by-step through recognizing key symptoms, understanding the reasoning behind TCM diagnosis, and developing treatment strategies that adapt to your patient’s needs. You’ll also pick up actionable tips, practical analogies, and my personal thoughts on treating root vs. branch—and how to do all this with a patient-centered mindset.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
How to confidently spot the signs of Spleen Qi Deficiency and Damp Accumulation
The logic behind treatment principles for mixed excess/deficiency patterns
Practical point selections and how to tailor them to different patients
Real-life applications to get you ready for clinic and exam day
00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction
00:45 – Case Presentation: Patient Symptoms & Exam Findings
01:56 – Diagnosis Breakdown: Spleen Qi Deficiency & Damp Accumulation
03:02 – Easy-to-Understand Analogies for Patient Education
04:20 – Treating Root vs. Manifestation: When & Why
06:12 – Acupuncture Point Selection & Real-World Application
07:44 – The Art of Personalizing Treatment
08:46 – Closing Thoughts & Next Steps
If this episode helped you, I’d love to hear what pattern you want to break down next! Drop a comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin to join our email list—you’ll get a weekly exam type question every single week! Readable in FIVE MINUTEs
Let’s keep learning and growing together. Until next time, happy studying!
Hey there, future acupuncture all-stars! Dr. Richard Lai here—and I’m so glad you’re joining me for another episode of “Study Acupuncture with Me.” Whether you’re sneaking in some study time between classes or listening on your commute, you’re in the right place to grow your skills and confidence.
In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the differences—and the surprising similarities—between acupuncture evaluation techniques and Western physical examination methods. We’ll walk through each step of the evaluation process together, explore the “four pillars” of Chinese medicine diagnosis, and see how they compare (and blend beautifully!) with Western medical approaches. Plus, I’ll share real-world tips to help you connect all these concepts, not just for your board exams—but for your future clinic, too. Remember, progress is better than perfection, and I’m here to help you use your most precious resource: your time.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:
Timestamps
00:00 – Personal intro & overcoming perfectionism as a student/practitioner
01:20 – Why evaluation is the foundation of effective acupuncture treatment
02:44 – Chinese Medicine: The Four Pillars of Diagnosis (observation, palpation, listening/smelling, asking)
04:02 – Western Physical Examination: Inspection, Palpation, Percussion, Auscultation
07:37 – Real-life examples: How both systems approach patient assessment
10:12 – Clinical workflow: How to weave acu and Western techniques together
11:51 – Decoding symptoms: Sorting info for a clear diagnosis and strong treatment plan
13:31 – Explaining your diagnosis in patient-friendly language for better trust and outcomes
14:15 – Quick recap & encouragement for your journey
If you found this episode helpful, I’d love to hear from you! Comment on my socials, let me know your questions, and don’t forget to subscribe to this podcast so you never miss a new release. For free study resources and to join my email list (so you can snag my Quick Win newsletter and more), visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin
Happy studying, and remember—you’ve got this!
Hey there, future acupuncturists! Dr. Richard Lai here, and I’m so glad you decided to join me for another episode of "Study Acupuncture with Me." Whether you’re a long-time listener or totally new to the show, you’re in the right place if you want to REALLY understand traditional Chinese medicine—not just memorize it for exams!
Today, I’m diving into the fascinating world of Divergent Channels in TCM, inspired by a fantastic question from one of our listeners, Manya (shoutout to Eight Branches College in Toronto!). We’ll cover the WHY, the HOW, and—most importantly—the practical, clinical skills you can use to help your patients when yin and yang just aren’t getting along. You'll come away with a clear view of what divergent channels do, when to use them, and a step-by-step method on how to select acupuncture points for cases where deeper yin-yang harmonization is needed.
Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:
Timestamps
00:00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Why we dig deeper into TCM for clinical practice
00:01:18 – Listener Question: Manya’s request about divergent channels
00:03:11 – Divergent Channel Basics: The who, what, where, when, and why
00:06:50 – Pathways & Functions: How divergent channels connect yin and yang paired organs
00:13:20 – When to Use Divergent Channels: Chronic, complex, and latent conditions
00:14:48 – Case Example: Balancing spleen and stomach with divergent channels
00:17:37 – Heart & Small Intestine Case: Point selection step-by-step
00:22:08 – Building a Clinical Workflow: 4 steps for effective divergent channel treatments
00:24:14 – Key Takeaways & Recap: The big picture and workflow review
00:25:23 – Wrap-Up & Study Tips
I love hearing your questions and seeing this community grow! Drop me a comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin for FREE study resources, step-by-step guides, and to join my Quick Win email list for weekly board-style questions delivered right to your inbox.
Happy studying—and remember, you’ve got this!
Hey future acupuncturists! Welcome back to another “Study Acupuncture with Me” episode—your go-to space for TCM wisdom, board exam prep, and compassionate advice. I’m Dr. Richard Lai, DPT, LAc, and I’m here to help you not just study, but really understand and apply traditional Chinese medicine in a real-world, patient-centered way.
In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most common but least-talked-about topics: low libido and loss of erections, especially in men under 30. We’ll break down how TCM views sexual function holistically—looking at constitution, lifestyle, and emotional wellness. I’ll guide you through the main TCM patterns that may present with these symptoms (like Kidney Yang deficiency, Kidney Yin deficiency, Liver Qi stagnation, and Heart/Spleen Qi deficiency), and share my go-to supportive lifestyle modifications to help your future patients feel seen and empowered. Let’s make this a topic you approach confidently—in the exam room, and in life!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Warm welcome, why we’re talking about low libido and erections, and the importance of destigmatizing the conversation
00:02:26 – TCM constitutional theory: understanding each person’s unique “terrain”
00:04:10 – Kidney Yang Deficiency: Signs, symptoms, and common causes
00:06:00 – Kidney Yin Deficiency: How stress and overstimulation dry out the yin
00:08:36 – Liver Qi Stagnation: The role of emotions and performance anxiety
00:10:03 – Heart and Spleen Qi Deficiency: Overthinking, worry, and caring for others before yourself
00:12:09 – Practical lifestyle modifications and self-care modalities in TCM
00:14:56 – Encouragement to seek care, be open, and the power of personalized TCM
00:15:38 – Board prep resources and community connection
If this episode helped you deepen your understanding, please comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and share it with a friend who'd benefit. And don't forget—sign up for my quickwin newsletter www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin for free study resources and to join my email list, where you’ll get weekly board exam questions, tips, and more, right to your inbox.
Let’s keep learning together—you’re not alone on this journey. Happy studying!
Hey there, future acupuncturists! Welcome back to another episode of “Study Acupuncture with Me.” I’m Dr. Richard Lai, and whether you’re studying for your board exam or already practicing, I’m here to help you learn, retain, and fall in love with Traditional Chinese Medicine—one car ride chat at a time!
In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most commonly asked questions about TCM dampness: What’s the difference between external and internal dampness, how do you spot them in your patients, and can external dampness really turn into internal dampness? Spoiler alert: Yes, it can! I’ll walk you through clinical tips, key signs and symptoms, and handy mnemonics for differential diagnosis so you’ll feel more confident in clinic and ready for your next exam.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
The basics and key differences between external and internal dampness
Real-world examples of dampness in your patients
How external dampness can transform into internal dampness
Clinical pearls: diagnosis, tongue and pulse, and my favorite “OLD FARTS” mnemonic for patient assessment
How to confidently approach differential diagnosis in practice
Timestamps:
00:00 – Warm welcome & episode inspiration
01:11 – Explaining external dampness: causes, symptoms, and diagnosis tips
03:45 – Internal dampness: spleen deficiency, signs, and the role of diet
07:04 – Can external become internal dampness? The progression explained
09:21 – Mnemonics and clinical tools for differential diagnosis
10:55 – Final thoughts: Chronic vs. acute dampness, and the importance of thorough evaluation
If you found this helpful, let me know your thoughts or questions over on my socials! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a clinical pearl, and visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin for free study resources and to join my email list—I send weekly tips to help you pass your exams and become the acupuncturist you’re meant to be.
Keep up the amazing work—happy studying, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way!
Welcome, future acupuncturists! It’s Dr. Richard Lai here, and I’m so glad you’re joining us for another episode of “Study Acupuncture With Me.” You’re in for a real treat today—like sitting down with your favorite professor for a cup of tea and a chat about the real experiences that shape our path as healers.
In this episode, I visit the warm, welcoming space of Lodi Acupuncture and Wellness to talk with my longtime friend and inspiring colleague, Tracy Beagle. Whether you’re still navigating the challenges of acupuncture school, transitioning into your own practice, or even wondering how you’ll find your unique voice as a practitioner, Tracy’s story is full of honest reflections, practical insights, and heartfelt encouragement. We talk about building a practice that’s true to you, handling self-doubt, redefining success, and ways to care for your own well-being—plus, we dive into Tracy’s special workshops designed just for students who may be feeling the weight of stress or overwhelm. If you’ve ever questioned your path or felt the pressure to “do it all,” this conversation will remind you: you’re not alone, and you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Tracy's links:
Timestamps
0:00 – Welcome & Introduction at Lodi Acupuncture and Wellness
1:10 – Tracy’s journey: from front desk to acupuncturist
3:25 – Rethinking credentials and what makes a great practitioner
7:18 – Finding confidence: “You are always safe in service”
10:07 – Running a solo practice vs. working in a busy clinic
14:09 – Balancing mental health, energy, and true patient care
18:30 – Discovering your unique path (and giving yourself permission to change!)
22:35 – Tracy’s biggest challenges and her spiritual journey
35:02 – Student stress, self-awareness, and letting go of comparison
43:01 – Tracy’s new workshop for acupuncture students
48:53 – How to join Tracy’s workshop and connect
51:54 – Final words of support for students
If today’s episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you! Comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin to get practice questions with explanation to your email every week!
Remember, you’re not walking this journey alone—I’m here cheering you on every step of the way.
Let’s keep growing together—subscribe, share, and check out the website for more tools to help you thrive. Keep up the great work, and I can’t wait to connect with you again soon!
Hey future acupuncturists! Dr. Richard Lai here, and welcome back to “Study Acupuncture with Me.” I’m so glad you’re joining me — whether you’re commuting, studying, or just squeezing in a few extra review minutes, I’m here to walk this journey with you.
In today’s episode, we dive deep into TCM Bi Syndrome, also known as Painful Obstruction Syndrome. We’ll break down each of the four main types—wander, fixed, freeze, and fever—using simple analogies and real-world acupuncture point recommendations. My goal is to help you not just memorize board exam facts, but truly understand the “why” behind the patterns, so you can confidently help your future patients. And as always, I’ll sprinkle in some encouragement because I know you have what it takes to succeed!
Here’s what we cover in this episode:
Why I record my episodes in the “mobile office” (my car!) and the beauty of finding learning moments in everyday chaos
What Bi Syndrome is, its causes, and the crucial analogy to traffic jams
The four types of Bi Syndrome (wander, fixed, freeze, fever) explained with symptoms, causes, and key acupuncture points
Study encouragement, board exam prep, and mindset tips to keep you inspired!
Timestamps: 00:00 – Warm welcome and “mobile office” intro
01:30 – Rainy day inspiration: why today’s weather is perfect for talking Bi Syndrome
02:12 – What is Bi (Painful Obstruction) Syndrome? TCM definition and traffic jam analogy
03:26 – The “WFFF” method: Wander, Fixed, Freeze, Fever (overview)
03:49 – Wandering Bi: wind, shifting pain, and recommended points
04:43 – Fixed Bi: dampness, heaviness/swelling, best points for damp
05:24 – Freezing Bi: cold, sharp pain alleviated by warmth, moxa techniques
06:48 – Fever (Hot) Bi: heat, burning pain/redness, cooling point strategies
07:13 – Quick review and encouragement for board prep
07:44 – How to reach out for questions and sneak peek at my upcoming board prep course
08:24 – Heartfelt encouragement: you WILL help people and succeed!
Ready to keep growing?
Drop your questions or thoughts in the comments on my socials—I love hearing from you! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a new episode, and visit www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin join my email list for weekly questions.
You’ve got this, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way!
Hey there, acupuncture students! It’s Dr. Richard Lai here— Welcome back to another episode of “Study Acupuncture with Me,” where we not only tackle the boards together, but also the real-life challenges that come up on this journey.
In this episode, we dive into a deeply important topic: how abusive or toxic relationships can impact your health from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective—specifically, how the liver and qi flow are affected by emotional turmoil. I’ll walk you through the physiological and emotional connections, share personal experiences, and offer actionable TCM tools for healing and moving forward. Plus, you’ll find resources and encouragement if you or someone you know is struggling. Remember, you’re never alone in this—your well-being matters just as much as your studies.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
Timestamps:
00:00 — Warm welcome & personal reflection on why this topic matters
00:58 — Crisis resources for anyone facing abuse or feeling unsafe
02:18 — How abuse affects everyone (not just women) & personal story
05:13 — Key signs of abusive relationships & the strength of seeking help
07:11 — The liver and anger: TCM’s view on emotions and qi stagnation
11:07 — Physical & emotional symptoms of liver qi stagnation
13:53 — Practical TCM strategies for unblocking liver qi & self-healing
17:18 — Claiming space, setting boundaries, and the upward nature of liver energy
18:12 — The most important takeaways—and encouragement just for you
If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment on my socials, subscribe to the podcast, and be sure to visit www.studyacuwithme.com for free study resources and to join our supportive email list. You’ve got this, and I’m rooting for you every step of the way!
Happy studying, and keep taking up space—you deserve it!
Resources mentioned:- In the U.S., call 1-800-799-SAFE — that’s the National Domestic Violence Hotline, or visit thehotline.org - If you’re younger or a student, you can text “LOVEIS” to 22522 through Love is Respect. - And if you're outside the U.S... look up LILA.HELP
Hey there, acupuncture scholars! 👋 Dr. Richard Lai here, and welcome back to Study Acupuncture with Me—your mobile classroom for mastering TCM, no matter where life takes us. I’m so glad you’re joining me, and I promise we’re buckled up for another episode filled with encouragement, practical tips, and heart.
In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most foundational concepts in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Deficiency vs. Excess. I’ll break down what these principles really mean, how to spot them in your patients, and why they’re absolutely essential for acing your board exams and becoming a confident, skillful practitioner. Whether you’re brand new to acupuncture or a seasoned pro, you’ll find actionable insights and motivating advice to supercharge your study routine (yes—even if you’re listening while driving, commuting, or doing the dishes!). Remember, success is all about those small efforts repeated day in and day out. Let’s make today count!
Timestamps:
00:00 — Warm Welcome & Study Motivation
03:01 — The Eight Principles: Why Basics Matter
03:23 — Understanding Deficiency: Qi, Blood, Yin, Yang
09:25 — Flipping to Excess: Signs, Symptoms & Examples
13:51 — Case Studies: Putting Theory into Practice
18:20 — Clinical Tips: Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis
20:35 — Study Hacks: Spaced Repetition & Smart Prep
21:50 — Final Boost & Words of Encouragement
I’d love to hear how this episode helped you! Head over to my socials and drop a comment with what resonated most, your study wins, or any questions you want answered. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more heart-to-heart acupuncture talks, and visit www.studyacuwithme.com to grab your FREE study resources and join our supportive email community.
Keep studying smart, keep showing up, and remember—I’m rooting for you every step of the way! God bless, and happy studying!
So you failed the acupuncture board exam... now what?
Recently I went through a failing moment and making this video was part of my healing process. I took a big risk trying to buy a new home for my family—but it didn’t go as planned. We had to leave the place where we built so many memories… and move back into my childhood home.
This video helped me process the grief, the guilt, and the hope that still remains. One thing is for certain - i'm eternally grateful to have family that we can lean on and help us get through these times.
But having to move back in without being able to buy a home feels like a massive step backward—and that feeling mirrors exactly what it’s like to fail the NCCAOM board exam.You might have failed the boards once... twice, or more - my heart feels for you..
I know what it’s like to feel like you’ve let everyone down. To feel like all your studying, money, and sacrifice just wasn't enough. But I also know what it means to rise—and how to find your strength again.
I hope this video helps you find your strength again too, and I hope this video reminds you that you're not alone - that you have yourself, your friends and your family to lean on through these hard times (and of course you have me too to help as much as I can with your studies)
👉 This video is literally my heart opened up, so if you're an acupuncture student or just someone who feels defeated by something like an exam, a job or even just life in general - I hope you watch this video until the end... and if you'd be so brave and tell me about what's going on with you and how you're rising from it.
======
📚 Want help studying for the NCCAOM boards?
👉 https://www.StudyAcuWithMe.com/quickwin
Episode Description:
In this episode, Dr. Richard Lai dives deep into a must-know topic for every acupuncture student and practitioner: how to differentiate between Wind Cold and Wind Heat patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). If you've ever found these patterns confusing—especially when prepping for board exams—you're not alone! Dr. Lai walks listeners through two exam-style case studies, highlighting the subtle but critical differences between the two. You’ll learn which clinical features, tongue and pulse signs, and classic symptoms set Wind Cold apart from Wind Heat—tips that will help you ace your exams and get better results in clinic.
Show Notes:
Introduction to the Episode
Dr. Lai shares his mission to make TCM concepts easier to understand and retain for students and practitioners.
Quick reminder to sign up for his "Quick Win" newsletter for weekly board exam questions and explanations in under five minutes.
Why Wind Cold vs Wind Heat Matters
This differentiation is a frequent board exam topic and an everyday clinical challenge.
Dr. Lai explains that though symptoms can overlap, recognizing key differences is essential.
Case Study 1: Wind Heat Pattern
25-year-old grad student, Tracy: mild sore throat, mild fever, nasal congestion, slight red tongue tip, thin yellow coating, floating and slightly rapid pulse, spontaneous sweating, scratchy throat.
Classic Wind Heat symptoms identified: yellow tongue coat, red tongue tip, fever, sore throat, floating-rapid pulse and sweating.
Dr. Lai breaks down the pathophysiology—how Wind Heat impairs the lung’s descending and dispersing function, resulting in upper body symptoms.
Case Study 2: Wind Cold Pattern
37-year-old PT, Raffi: body aches, runny nose, congestion, chills, cannot get warm, mild scratchy throat, no sweat, no thirst, pale tongue with thin white coat, floating and tight pulse.
Hallmarks of Wind Cold: tight pulse, strong chills, no sweating, pale tongue, thin white coating.
Discussion on how these findings help rule out interior cold and yang deficiency.
Dr. Lai emphasizes the importance of tongue and pulse in differentiating cases on the exam.
Quick Review & Tips
Key symptoms to distinguish Wind Heat vs Wind Cold
The importance of tongue color/coat, pulse quality, and specific symptom presentations.
How exams may offer tricky answer choices—look for the “most correct” answer based on the case details.
Stay Connected
Sign up for Dr. Lai’s Quick Win Newsletter for more board exam questions and explanations.
Resources Mentioned:
Thank you for listening!
If you enjoyed this episode or found it helpful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review. Until next time—good luck with your studies and clinic, and happy studying!
Episode Summary:
Welcome to another insightful episode of "Study Acupuncture with Me". In this episode, we're diving into the intricacies of Heart Yin Deficiency, a common pattern in both clinical practice and board exams. We're going to talk about Heart Yin Deficiency in terms of Pattern identification and potential causes
Key Topics Discussed:
Introduction to Heart Yin Deficiency:
Overview of heart functions in traditional Chinese medicine, focusing on the heart's role in governing blood and housing the Shen (spirit).
Heart Yin vs. Heart Yang:
Explanation of how Heart Yin and Yang are complementary forces, with Yin nourishing and anchoring the heart, and Yang propelling physiological activity.
Signs and Symptoms:
Common manifestations include palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, and dry mouth, with specific signs such as a tongue without coating and a floating, empty pulse indicating Yin deficiency.
Causes:
Discusses stress, overwork, and external factors like heat as primary causes of Heart Yin Deficiency.
Differential Diagnosis:
Differentiating insomnia from Heart Yin Deficiency and Heart Blood Deficiency based on sleep patterns.
Recommendations:
Importance of consulting an acupuncturist for personalized treatment, with points like Ren 4, Ren 14, and Spleen 6 highlighted for nourishing heart Yin.
Additional Resources:
Sign up for my weekly newsletter featuring a quick win with one multiple-choice practice question and explanation: www.studyacuwithme.com/quickwin
Feel free to reach out with feedback or questions about the topics discussed in this episode. And don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and join the conversation in the comments below! Happy studying!
In this episode, let's takes a deep dive into the often-confusing topic of Lung Yin Deficiency versus Lung Dryness. These two patterns might sound similar, but understanding their nuances is crucial for effective acupuncture treatment and accurate diagnosis.
Episode Highlights:
Introduction to Lung Patterns: Dr. Lai discusses the importance of differentiating between Lung Yin Deficiency and Lung Dryness, especially for board exams and clinical practice.
The Lungs – A Delicate Organ: Learn about why the lungs are considered a delicate organ in Traditional Chinese Medicine and how external factors influence them.
Understanding Lung Dryness: Discover the causes and symptoms associated with lung dryness, from environmental factors like dry climates and air-conditioned spaces to lifestyle influences such as smoking and hydration.
Lung Yin Deficiency Explored: Dr. Lai explains the manifestations of lung yin deficiency and how they differ from lung dryness, including the role of empty heat signs.
Differential Diagnosis Tips: Get practical advice on differentiating between these two patterns using clinical observations and diagnostic techniques.
Acupuncture Treatment Points: Dr. Lai shares effective acupuncture points for treating both lung dryness and lung yin deficiency, with special focus on yin-nourishing points like Spleen 6 and Lung 9.
Practical Tips for Lung Health: Enhance your lung health with simple, everyday tips on hydration, diet, posture, and environment management that Dr. Lai provides for both acupuncture practitioners and the general public.
Engage and Share: Join the conversation! Dr. Lai invites listeners to share their experiences and tips in the comments, and to help spread the knowledge by sharing this episode with fellow students and practitioners.
Tune into this episode to deepen your understanding and appreciation for the complexities of lung health within acupuncture practice. Don't forget to subscribe for more enriching acupuncture content, and if you’re enjoying the podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help us reach more listeners!
Happy studying, and until next time, take care of your lungs! 🌿
Episode Overview:
This is a special episode offering a sneak peek into my upcoming foundations board exam prep course. Dive deep into the general manifestations of lung patterns in acupuncture and learn a fun mnemonic—"BAD COLD"— This can help you remember the clinical manifestations of lung patterns.
Whether you're juggling multiple responsibilities or just starting your journey in acupuncture, I hope this episode gives you great tools and tips to maximize your learning.
Key Takeaways:
Course Development Journey: The episode shares Dr. Lai's reflective journey in creating a comprehensive board prep course that's been four years in the making.
Mnemonic Insight - "BAD COLD":
B: Breathlessness (Lung chi deficiency)
A: Airway issues/dryness (Lung yin deficiency)
D: Dryness (Lung dryness)
C: Cough and Cold (Invasion by exterior factors like wind, cold, and heat)
O: Oedema, aka edema (Invasion of the lung by wind water)
L: Loud barking cough (Phlegm heat in the lungs)
D: Damp phlegm (Various phlegm-related lungs patterns)
Strategies for Success: Discover the importance of having a structured routine and systems to manage multiple priorities effectively as a student or practitioner.
Continued Learning and Resources: Don't miss out on Dr. Lai's planner and video guide for efficient planning. Sign up for the email list for updates on the release of his board exam prep course. https://youtu.be/AyJFt5SiRd0?si=v6Rk6FxHRQZKRj2m Sign up for my email list at www.studyacuwithme.com
How to Apply in Practice: Learn to recognize clinical manifestations in practice and apply these insights during exams and patient interactions.
Resources Mentioned:
Visit studyacuwithme.com to join the email list for course updates.
Planner video https://youtu.be/AyJFt5SiRd0?si=v6Rk6FxHRQZKRj2m
Call to Action:
If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a fellow acupuncture student or practitioner. Your support can help others benefit as well.
Connect with Us:
Stay connected by signing up for the email list on Dr. Lai's website to get the latest episodes and course details directly to your inbox.
Until next time, happy studying!
Welcome to another episode of "Study Acupuncture with Me" with Dr. Richard Lai! 🌿
This week, I’m sharing personal strategies to help you stay positive, manage your time effectively, and balance life while preparing for your acupuncture board exams. Whether you’re juggling school, work, family, or all three, these tips will help make your acupuncture journey smoother and more rewarding.
💡 In this episode, we cover:
✔️ How to maintain a positive mindset in acupuncture school
✔️ Time management tips to balance study, work, and life
✔️ My personal experience juggling acupuncture school and family
✔️ The importance of clinical learning & patient connections
✔️ Why gratitude & positivity are key to success in TCM
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⏳ Timestamps:
0:00 - Welcome to Study Acupuncture with Me
0:35 - Announcing the TCM Board Prep Course
1:09 - Request for Feedback on Weekly Newsletter
1:46 - How to Stay Positive in Acupuncture School
2:53 - Balancing Acupuncture School and Life (My Story)
3:36 - Why I Created Study Acupuncture with Me
4:29 - Building Patient Connections with Acupuncture
5:05 - Subscribe for More TCM Insights!
6:04 - Offering Support via Comments & Emails
6:45 - Managing Family Life & Acupuncture Commitments
8:07 - Positivity & Time Management for Success
8:41 - The Power of Clinical Learning & Conversations
9:11 - Staying Open & Continuously Learning
9:33 - Why Gratitude Matters in Your Journey
10:01 - Closing & Next Episode Preview
🙏 Thank you for tuning in! You’ve got this! We’re all in this together—let’s make studying acupuncture a positive and successful experience.
#Acupuncture #TCM #AcupunctureStudents #BoardExamPrep #StudyAcuWithMe #TraditionalChineseMedicine #Positivity #TimeManagement #HealthCare #Mindset #LifeBalance
Welcome back to another episode of Study Acupuncture with Me! In this case study, we present a 72-year-old female experiencing symptoms such as trouble sleeping, anxiety, depression, night sweating, and more. 👉 In this episode we present a - Clinical Manifestations of this 72 year old patient - Tongue and pulse I'm asking from you again what you think of the clinical manifestations and what you would do for treatment! Please comment ! Next episode I read your comments and together we collaborate on a treatment plan! 📌 Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 0:20 - Overview of the Case Study Format 1:08 - Patient Background and Main Complaint (Trouble Sleeping) 1:32 - Additional Symptoms (Anxiety, Depression, Night Sweating) 1:50 - Detailed Symptom Analysis (Night Sweating, Dryness, Hot Palms/Chest) 2:06 - Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis 2:30 - Call to Action: Share Your Diagnosis and Treatment Plan Connect with us https://www.facebook.com/groups/studyacupuncturewithme Tags: #Acupuncture #TraditionalChineseMedicine #TCM #CaseStudy #AcupunctureStudents #HolisticHealth #IntegrativeMedicine #NaturalHealing #TCMDiagnosis #AcupunctureTraining
🌟 Welcome to "Study Acupuncture with Me"! 🌟 In this episode, Dr. Richard Lai DPT LAc dives deep into a fascinating case of Stomach Heat, reviewing symptoms, diagnosis, and recommended treatment plans. This comprehensive discussion will enhance your understanding of TCM principles and prepare you for your acupuncture exams. If you're an acupuncture student or a practitioner looking to refine your skills, this episode is a must-watch! 📌 Key Topics Covered: Case Presentation Review Symptoms Analysis Pulse and Tongue Diagnosis Point Prescription Recommendations Interactive Audience Comments Spleen and Liver Functions Get the PDF of all slides discussed in this episode for free! Visit: www.studyacuwithme.com/podcast 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insightful episodes! 👥 Join our Private Facebook Group for a supportive community of acupuncturists and students: / studyacupuncturewithme 📧 Contact Dr. Richard Lai directly for more questions: Email: info@studyacuwithme.com Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Episode 00:29 – Review of Last Episode's Case Presentation 00:42 – Symptoms Recap 02:00 – Audience Comments and Suggestions Review 06:00 – Diagnosis and Rationale 11:13 – Deep Dive into Spleen Functions 13:56 – Connection Between Organs and Senses 16:28 – Heart Functions Related to Taste 18:22 – Differentiating Lung and Spleen Root Causes 18:44 – Middle Jowl and Patient's Symptoms Analysis 21:07 – Tongue and Pulse Diagnostics 21:46 – Point Prescriptions and Explanation 28:54 – Thank You and Community Building 29:48 – How to Join the Private Facebook Group 30:22 – Conclusion and Next Steps
🔍 Welcome to "Study Acupuncture with Me" with Dr. Richard Lai DPT LAc! In this episode, we dive into the intricate details of the Dai Mai, also known as the girdling vessel, one of the extraordinary acupuncture vessels. Gain in-depth knowledge on its functions, clinical applications, and anatomical significance. Perfect for acupuncture students and professionals preparing for their board exams! 🚀 📌 Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to Episode 0:16 - Overview of the Dai Mai (Girdling Vessel) 1:21 - Energetic Vortex and Division of the Body 2:38 - Functional Role of the Dai Mai in Harmonizing Above and Below 3:19 - Dai Mai Point Locations (Liver 13, Gallbladder 26-28) 4:10 - Accessing the Dai Mai: Opening and Coupled Points (GB41 & SJ5) 5:00 - Clinical Applications of the Dai Mai: 5:10 - Harmonizing Liver and Gallbladder 5:32 - Resolving Dampness in the Lower Jiao 6:14 - Regulating Qi Circulation to and from the Legs 7:16 - Connections with the Chong Mai and Stomach Channel 8:15 - Treating Abdominal Pain via the Dai Mai 8:51 - Gynecological Applications of the Dai Mai (Leukorrhea and Pregnancy) 10:04 - Supporting Fetal Health 10:49 - Impact of the Dai Mai on Hip and Back Pain 11:35 - Full vs. Empty Conditions of the Dai Mai 12:16 - Addressing Full Conditions (Symptoms and Treatment) 12:55 - Addressing Empty Conditions (Symptoms and Treatment) 13:16 - Closing Remarks and Insider Course Information 📚 Resources: Get all the info ahead of time on the RELEASE of the upcoming course by becoming an insider - sign up at www.studyacuwithme.com/insiders 🔗 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studyacupuncturewithme/ Are you in our private facebook community? https://www.facebook.com/groups/studyacupuncturewithme 👨⚕️ About Dr. Richard Lai DPT LAc: Dr. Lai is a dual-licensed professional in Physical Therapy and Acupuncture, dedicated to guiding acupuncture students toward their academic and professional goals. With his deep understanding of Eastern and Western medicine, he brings a comprehensive approach to TCM 👍 Don't forget to like, share, and comment below! Let's build a community of aspiring and practicing acupuncturists together. #Acupuncture #DaiMai #GirdlingVessel #TCM #TraditionalChineseMedicine #StudyAcupuncture #AcupunctureStudents #BoardExamPrep #DrRichardLai #ClinicalApplications #ExtraordinaryVessels Happy studying! 🌿✨