halcyon house

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Category: Wellness

  • Reflexology

    Reflexology

    Our understanding and exploration of the physical world around us is most often interpreted with our sense of touch through our hands and our feet. I have been interested in Reflexology for a while, but it wasn’t until this last month that I really started to dive into treating and understanding the whole body through the lens of the feet. If the feet are in distress the body follows suit, as the feet are the shock absorbers and terrain explorers of the whole body. They tell your body how it is connecting with the world, if the ground is stable enough to support you, and they move to disperse the stress of impact with every step.

    My understanding of the fascial meridians and common disfunction patterns has made me feel ready to dive a little deeper into the nuances of the feet and explore different ways to treat them while keeping the whole body system in perspective. Piecing together and learning new tools to develop my understanding of the incredible human body is fun and keeps me on my toes!

    A reflexology session focuses on your feet

    Come in for an Evil Bone Water Reflexology Only session to de-evil your feet!

  • Autumn

    Autumn

    In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Autumn is viewed as a profound season of reflection, contraction, and release. As the vibrant, outward energy of Summer fades, nature begins to pull its energy inward. Just as the trees effortlessly let go of their leaves without resistance, this season serves as a powerful reminder for us to surrender what no longer serves us. By aligning with the seasonal shift, we learn to trust the natural cycles of life, knowing that this period of clearing makes vital space for future growth and renewal.

    The Metal Element: Understanding the Lungs and Large Intestine

    In the foundational framework of TCM, every season corresponds to a specific elemental energy. Autumn is associated with the Metal element, which governs our ability to set boundaries, process grief, and find inspiration.

    Within the human body, the Metal element rules two primary organs:

    • The Lungs (Yin): Responsible for breathing in fresh Qi (energy), protecting the immune system, and distributing moisture throughout the skin and body.
    • The Large Intestine (Yang): Responsible for the physical elimination of waste, perfectly mirroring the emotional act of letting go.

    During the fall months, these organs are highly vulnerable to the climate factor of dryness. Environmental dryness can quickly lead to a lack of moisture in the body. This manifests as a dry cough, itchy skin, a scratchy throat, or seasonal constipation.

    Why TCM Practitioners Recommend Pears in Autumn

    To counteract the drying effects of the season, a certified TCM practitioner will frequently recommend incorporating specific seasonal foods into your daily diet. Chief among these therapeutic foods is the humble pear.

    In dietary therapy, pears are highly celebrated for their specific medicinal properties. Eating pears during the fall helps to:

    • Regenerate body fluids and deeply hydrate the cells.
    • Quench thirst and soothe systemic heat.
    • Moisten the lungs and calm a dry, ticklish throat.
    • Calm restlessness by grounding a frazzled nervous system.
    • Promote healthy urination to gently flush out toxins.

    How to Eat for Autumn: The Power of Cooked Foods

    While raw pears are refreshing, TCM practice strongly advises against consuming cold, raw foods during cooler weather. Raw foods require a massive amount of metabolic energy for your body to break down. This can weaken your digestive fire (known as Spleen Qi).

    Instead, optimize your digestion and maintain overall balance by enjoying steamed or baked pears. Cooking the fruit makes the nutrients highly bioavailable and gentle on your gut. You can elevate this seasonal remedy by poaching your pears with warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, or a drizzle of raw honey. Choosing warm, cooked meals during this transitional season preserves your internal warmth, strengthens your immune defense, and keeps your body perfectly balanced all winter long.

    Here is a fun Traditional Chinese Medicine Autumn Bucket List:

    • Cook Warming Foods – Thick soups, roasted root vegetables, and use a lot of garlic and ginger to help build Qi.
    • Deepen your Breath – Try out a breathwork exercise, attend a Qigong class, or go for a simple walk to generate Lung Qi.
    • Practice Letting Go – Declutter a space in your home, clear out your closet and organize, and try a journaling session reflecting on what you’d like to drop with the leaves during this seasonal shift.
    • Support you Lungs – Make a pear and honey tea. Steam/bake some pears to moisten your lungs and regenerate your bodily fluids.
    • Create Rituals – Light candles, read poetry upon waking, set seasonal intentions, honor cycles and change.
    • Gather and Reflect – Share a meal with a friend or loved one, give gratitude for the warmth and nourishment.
  • MCCD

    MCCD

    Embracing Workplace Democracy: Our Journey to a Worker-Owned Cooperative Model

    A different kind of wellness we are hoping to spread is one of shared ownership, cooperation, and democracy in the workplace. A worker-owned cooperative embodies all of these principles. By shifting the focus from the top-down corporate structures to community-centric business models, we can foster a healthier, more equitable economy right here in Duluth, Minnesota.

    When we first set out to form Halcyon House, we wanted to implement the progressive ideas we had been discussing for years. Did we know exactly how to set up a worker-owned cooperative from scratch? No. We needed guidance, and we were incredibly lucky to find dedicated local resources and mentors to light the path. On organization that has been infinitely patient in answering our countless questions is the Minnesota Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD). Their expertise in cooperative development and community wealth building has been foundational to our growth.

    Members Consortium of Community Devolopers supports cooperatives

    Why Workplace Democracy Matters to Wellness

    True holistic wellness extends beyond individual self-care; it includes economic health and workplace well-being. In a traditional business, decisions are made by a select few. In a cooperative, every worker-owner has an equal voice and a literal stake in the company’s success. This democratic model:

    • reduces burnout
    • aligns our business practices with our ethical values
    • ensures that the wealth generated stays directly within our Northland community.

    Moving forward, we will be sharing regular updates on our cooperative development journey. We will include insights into democratic governance, and spotlights on fellow cooperators in the Twin Ports area. If you want to support a resilient local economy, join our movement, or learn how to bring cooperative values into your own professional life, subscribe to our newsletter and stay connected!

  • Pursed Lips Breathing

    Pursed Lips Breathing

    When we are relaxed and comfortable (parasympathetic), we optimally use diaphragmatic breathing (see previous post). However, there are important breathing practices that we can use to calm a heightened nervous system. You might experience a heightened (sympathetic) nervous system with any of the following: anxiety, agitation, racing heart rate, rapid/shallow breathing, distracted mind, tense muscles, digestive issues, and many more.

    Try pursed lip or extended exhale breathing.

    This involves breathing comfortably in through the nose then slowly breathing out through pursed lips. You might imagine that you are blowing a candle flame but not blowing it out. Another option is to blow out through a straw. The long slow exhale calms your nervous system. Do this until you feel a shift in the area that you noticed. Also, discontinue this practice if you notice light headedness or increase in symptoms.

    More about Robin
  • Breath

    Breath

    How Diaphragm Dysfunction Triggers Chronic Stress and Pain

    Well-being begins and ends with your breath. While this concept may sound esoteric, it represents the exact driving force behind your parasympathetic nervous system. This system actively relaxes your mind and body after a period of intense stress. By practicing relaxed, deep breathing with a soft, extended exhalation, you can consciously regain control of your Deep Front Myofascial Meridian. I also call this crucial pathway the “fight-or-flight line,” the “pregnancy line,” or the “skeleton stabilizer line”.

    The Role of the Diaphragm in Core Stability

    Your diaphragm plays a major role in regulating this deep structural network. When diaphragm dysfunction interrupts this foundation, your body forces secondary breathing muscles in your neck to take over. This unnatural shift creates a dangerous cycle that can cause—or worsen—a wide range of health issues, including:

    • Chronic pain and chronic stress
    • Severe anxiety and PTSD
    • Traumatic head and neck injuries
    • Debilitating migraines and tension headaches
    • Digestive issues and carpal tunnel syndrome

    How Your Brain Responds to Restricted Breathing

    When your diaphragm gets stuck, your brain immediately senses danger. It interprets restricted breathing as a threat to your survival. To win this real or perceived battle, the brain floods your bloodstream with stress hormones and warning signals. By mastering your breath, you flip the switch from panic to peace, unlocking true physical and mental resilience.

    Try this breathing exercise to help regain control of your natural breathing cycle.

    • Lay on the floor with your knees bent and hip width apart. Tuck the tail bone slightly moving it away from your head to flatten the lower back then send it up toward you to arch the low back. Now find the middle space and relax into that position.
    • Next imagine, but don’t actually move, that someone has placed a flower on both shoulders from behind and to smell them you would need to turn your head to the side with your inhale, and return to center on the exhale. Imagine “smelling” the flower on each shoulder with your inhale, returning to center on your exhale.  Don’t try to change anything, just focus on the visualization of smelling the flower, first on one side, then on the other side, resting in the center after each exhale brings your awareness back to neutral.
    • After a few breaths stop the visualization and just follow your natural breath in and out, not forcing anything just breathing in to the first natural stopping point, pausing briefly and letting the breath fall back out as your diaphragm relaxes and pushes the air out. If you are able to get here and it feels good, revel it the simplistic beauty of your breath and enjoy this practice to help recenter yourself, physically, spiritually, and emotionally.
    • If this practice is hard, makes you uncomfortable, you notice that one side isn’t working no matter how hard you try, or causes nausea, pain, or panic then you might need some help to restore balance and return the breath to its natural rhythm. Robin and/or Jennifer can help with bodywork techniques at Halcyon House or schedule an acupuncture session with Jakkie for a Traditional Chinese Medicine approach to rebalance the lungs and breath.

  • Cupping

    Cupping

    What is Cupping Therapy?

    Cupping is often described as the inverse of massage. Instead of pressing downward into the muscle, specialized cups use gentle suction to lift tissue upward.

    This technique creates negative pressure that acts as a deep-tissue therapy, helping to:

    • Loosen tight, stubborn muscles
    • Improve local blood flow and circulation
    • Release toxins and blockages
    • Calm and regulate the nervous system

    Sessions can stand alone as a dedicated treatment or be combined directly with acupuncture.

    Common Conditions Addressed by Cupping

    Practitioners use cupping therapy to help relieve a wide range of physical and structural concerns including:

    • Musculoskeletal pain: Back pain, neck pain, and stiff muscles
    • Headaches and migraines
    • General wellness: Fatigue, theumatism, and anxiety
    • Targeted aesthetics: The appearance of cellulite
    • Respiratory support: Congestion from a common cold or management for asthma symptoms

    The Use of Fire

    The use of fire to heat the inside of a specialized cup creates a gentle suction. The cup is sometimes left in place or pushed and pulled.

    Licensed Acupuncturist Jakki Overby slides cups along the back during a cupping portion of an acupuncture session
    cupping along the back during an acupuncture session
    More about Acupuncture
  • Vagus Nerve

    Vagus Nerve

    The vagus nerve is the longest and most complex of the cranial nerves, acting as a critical communication highway between your brain and your internal organs. It serves as the primary component of your parasympathetic nervous system, which controls your body’s ability to relax, rest, and digest.

    Here is a breakdown of how it functions and how you can actively engage it to reduce stress.

    Anatomy of the Vagus Nerve

    The word “vagus” means wandering in Latin, which perfectly describes its path.

    • Origin: It begins at the brainstem, right at the base of the skull.
    • Pathway: It travels down both sides of the neck.
    • Reach: It branches out into the chest and abdomen, connecting directly to the heart, lungs, and digestive tract.

    The Brain-Body Connection

    The vagus nerve provides a continuous loop of information between your mind and your body. It acts as the “brake pedal” for your nervous system. When you experience stress, your sympathetic nervous system triggers a “fight-or-flight” response, raising your heart rate and blood pressure. The vagus nerve counteracts this by releasing chemicals that lower your heart rate and signal to your brain that you are safe.

    Activating the Vagus Nerve: Diaphragmatic Breathing

    You can consciously stimulate your vagus nerve to trigger a relaxation response. The most effective way to do this is through diaphragmatic breathing (belly breathing).

    You can practice this by following these steps:

    • Hand Placement: Place one hand on your chest and the other hand on your abdomen.
    • Inhalation: Breathe in deeply through your nose. Feel the hand on your abdomen rise and expand, while keeping the hand on your chest as still as possible.
    • Exhalation: Exhale slowly. Feel your abdomen release and move inward.

    Deep, slow breaths—especially when the exhalation is longer than the inhalation—instantly stimulate the vagus nerve, sending a powerful signal to your brain to calm the entire nervous system.

  • Drink and eat your electrolytes!

    Drink and eat your electrolytes!

    How to Rehydrate Fast: Natural Electrolytes for Summer

    When summer weather heats up, we sweat more. Most people reach for plain water to stay hydrated. While drinking water is a great habit, it is only half the battle.

    Sweating drains your body of essential minerals. Drinking large amounts of plain water can flush out the remaining nutrients. To prevent muscle cramps and give your kidneys a break, you must replace these lost minerals.

    Choosing electrolyte-rich foods is the best way to restore your balance. Here are a few delicious, quick ways to get natural electrolytes without heating up your kitchen.

    Quick Savory Miso Broth

    A warm bowl of miso ramen or soba is a fantastic recovery meal. It is packed with sodium and vital nutrients.

    • The Base: Start with homemade bone broth or vegetable broth.
    • The Mix-ins: Grate in fresh ginger. Add one finely sliced Brussels sprout and two sliced shiitake mushrooms.
    • The Flavor: Pour in a dash of soy sauce and rice vinegar.
    • The Finish: Stir in one tablespoon of miso paste at the very end.

    This comforting bowl is nourishing, savory, and ready in minutes.

    Refreshing Summer Snacks

    If you prefer something cool, try these easy alternatives:

    • Salted Watermelon: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on fresh watermelon slices. Watermelon is packed with potassium and water.
    • Mint Limeade: Muddle fresh mint into a cold lemonade or limeade. Add a tiny pinch of sea salt.
    • Pickles: Eat a crunchy, cold whole pickle for an instant sodium boost.

    Summer hydration does not have to be boring. Use fresh summer fruits and simple pantry staples to keep your energy high. Skip the sugary sports drinks and eat your electrolytes today!

  • Acupuncture at Halcyon House

    Acupuncture at Halcyon House

    Licensed Acupuncturist Jakki Overby

    Whether you’re new to acupuncture or a longtime believer in its benefits, we’re excited to have you here. If you are looking for professional acupuncture in Duluth, MN, you’ve found the right place.

    Jakki Overby with her dog, Wylie, are inside a car.

    Acupuncture, an essential component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been used for thousands of years to restore balance, reduce pain, and support overall health – naturally and holistically.

    Primarily, acupuncture is widely used for pain relief. People often turn to it for chronic back and neck pain, arthritis, headaches, migraines, and even post-surgical discomfort. Its ability to reduce inflammation and improve circulation can offer lasting relief where other treatments fall short.

    If you’re interested but not sure if acupuncture is right for you, schedule a free consultation.

    Acupuncture FAQ
    More about Acupuncture

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