Overindulgence may be a holiday tradition… but so are the consequences: bloating, heartburn, sluggishness, irritability, and poor sleep. Instead of merely recovering after the fact, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) encourages strengthening your digestive system before holiday feasting begins.

 

This preventive approach can make a dramatic difference – helping your stomach stay strong, your energy stay steady, and your comfort stay intact.

 

1. Acupuncture: Your Holiday Digestion Power-Up
Acupuncture sessions leading up to holiday events can “activate” your digestive system, improve circulation, and regulate the gut-brain connection – the pathway responsible for cravings, stress eating, and fullness signals.

 

What Acupuncture Can Do for You This Season:

• Boost digestive fire (Spleen Qi) for smoother processing of fats and sugars
• Reduce stress-induced stomach tension (big help before social events)
• Improve peristalsis – the movement that helps food pass through
• Minimize bloating and heaviness
• Regulate appetite to prevent overeating
• Support restful sleep, which is essential for metabolism

VIP Digestive Points (Great Before Big Meals)

• ST36 – Zu San Li: “The Longevity Point”
  Improves overall energy, strengthens digestion, and is especially helpful if you’re eating heavier foods than usual.
• CV12 – Zhongwan: The Stomach Control Center
  Reduces fullness, harmonizes the middle abdomen, and keeps your digestive rhythm smooth.
• LI10 – Shousanli
  Perfect for boosting digestive Qi and reducing after-meal sluggishness.
• PC6 – Neiguan
  A calming point for stress, anxiety, and nausea. Ideal before social gatherings or late-night meals.
• Bonus Point: SP4 – Gongsun
  Helps with bloating, food stagnation, and sluggish digestion – especially useful when sweets or rich foods are involved.

 

2. Herbal Helpers: Prime Your Body Before the Feast
Herbs are one of the easiest ways to support digestion – gently, naturally, and effectively.

• Ginger (Sheng Jiang)
  Helps warm “cold stomachs,” improves circulation, and activates enzymes.
• Hawthorn Berry (Shan Zha)
  A TCM classic for breaking down greasy, heavy meals. Especially effective before or after big feasts.
• Licorice Root (Gan Cao)
  Smooths the digestive process and helps soothe acid reflux or discomfort.
• Orange Peel (Chen Pi)
  Reduces bloating and gas, supports the Spleen, and awakens stagnant digestion.
• Peppermint
  Relaxes the gut and refreshes the mind – great after dense meals.

 

Herbal “Holiday Feast” Tea Recipe
Steep for 10 minutes:

• 3 slices fresh ginger
• 1 tsp hawthorn berries
• ½ tsp dried orange peel
• 1–2 mint leaves
• A pinch of cinnamon
• Optional: raw honey

Drink before meals for better digestion, or after to ease bloating.

 

3. Pre-Event Tips for a Happy, Comfortable Holiday Season
Make these easy habits part of your festive routine:

• The “20-Minute Rule” Before Events
  Eat a small snack with protein + fiber (a handful of nuts, yogurt, or a banana). Prevents overeating later.
• Apple Cider Vinegar Water Before Dinner
  1 tsp ACV in warm water can help stomach acid and digestion.
• Movement is Medicine
  A quick 5–10 minute walk after meals:
  • Reduces bloating
  • Improves circulation
  • Stabilizes blood sugar
• Holiday Hydration Technique
  Drink water between meals – not during – to avoid diluting digestive enzymes.
• Balance Every Plate
  If your plate has something rich, add something fresh or warm alongside it.
• Mindful Eating Trick
  Use your non-dominant hand for appetizers – it naturally slows you down and prevents unconscious overeating.

 

Bonus Section: Stress, Emotions & Your Stomach
The holidays aren’t just about food – they’re also emotionally intense.

 

Stress can:

• Slow digestion
• Increase bloating
• Trigger heartburn
• Cause cravings
• Reduce appetite-awareness signals

 

Quick Stress-Soothers Before Meals:

• Hold PC6 and take 3 slow breaths
• Sip warm tea before eating
• Place hands on your abdomen and breathe deeply (stimulates the vagus nerve)
• Stretch your spine gently to release tension around the stomach area

Just 1–2 minutes of relaxation can make a noticeable difference in digestion.

You deserve a holiday season full of comfort, joy, and delicious food – without the digestive drama. With pre-event acupuncture, targeted digestion-friendly herbs, and simple holistic habits, you can set your body up for success and enjoy every celebration with ease.

 

Kokin Healing Center is here to support your wellness through the busiest, most indulgent month of the year. A quick “holiday prep” acupuncture session can help you feel lighter, healthier, and happier all season long.