Healthy Aging: 3 Ways TCM Can Slow the Hands of Time

Senior woman outside, smiling, is vibrant and healthy, thanks to Traditional Chinese Medicine in Playa Vista
Contents

Aging remains an inescapable aspect of the human experience — and while we cannot halt the passage of time, recent scientific inquiries have shed light on potential methods to mitigate the effects of aging on both our external appearance and internal well-being. Studies show promising benefits of using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) — a holistic approach to health practiced for thousands of years — for increasing longevity, improving overall health, and reducing the risk of certain age-related diseases.

Read on to discover how blending time-tested traditions with modern scientific understanding unlocks new possibilities for enhancing our quality of life as we age — and where to find the best acupuncturist near Playa Vista specializing in healthy aging treatments. 

The Connection Between Longevity and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine has long been associated with longevity and overall well-being. This ancient healing system emphasizes the balance of qi, also known as life energy, and Jing energy, considered one of the Three Treasures and the body's most vital energy reserve. 

Jing is directly responsible for vitality and lifespan — essentially, how long and how well you will live. As we age, Jing energy naturally wanes, causing the effects of aging to appear in various forms, including joint pain, wrinkles, grey hair, and more. 

TCM approaches longevity through various practices such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, dietary therapy, and mind-body exercises like tai chi and qigong. These methods are believed to nourish vital organs, boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular health. 

Many of TCM's principles, including stress reduction, nutrition, and regular physical activity, align with modern understandings of healthy aging. As a result, elements of TCM continue to be explored in contemporary research on longevity and age-related diseases.

Three Treatments for Healthy Aging 

Whether you're looking to maintain youthful energy, ward off age-related diseases, or simply improve your overall quality of life as you grow older, these treatments offer potential pathways to slower, healthier aging: 

1. Acupuncture

This ancient practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and trigger natural healing processes. Acupuncture may help slow aging by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and boosting the immune system. Some people find acupuncture also helps relieve pain in different parts of the body from many kinds of health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis. Research shows that there is even a link between acupuncture and improving cardiovascular disease.  

Acupuncture may also alleviate chronic pain, reduce stress, and enhance sleep quality — contributing to better health and longevity. 

2. Microneedling 

Microneedling involves using a device with fine needles to create tiny punctures on the skin's surface — triggering the body's natural healing response. This process stimulates collagen and elastin production, two proteins that are crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. As a result, microneedling can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars while improving skin texture and tone. 

Beyond its cosmetic benefits, microneedling may also enhance the skin's ability to absorb topical treatments and potentially boost their effectiveness. By promoting skin regeneration and increasing blood flow to the treated areas, microneedling contributes to a healthier, more youthful appearance — effectively slowing visible signs of aging and supporting overall skin health. 

3. LED Light Therapy 

LED light therapy uses varying wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin at different depths — triggering biological processes within cells. Red light, for instance, stimulates collagen production, which can reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. Blue light targets and eliminates acne-causing bacteria, while near-infrared light penetrates deeper to promote cellular repair and reduce inflammation. 

LED therapy is a non-invasive treatment that also enhances blood circulation, accelerates wound healing, and boosts the skin's natural defenses against environmental stressors. Beyond skin health, LED light therapy can also alleviate muscle and joint pain, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. Ultimately, LED light therapy offers a holistic approach to maintaining vitality and youthful appearance by addressing multiple aspects of aging and health.

Using ancient natural remedies for aging, like those found in Chinese medicine, to complement an active and healthy lifestyle can have significant benefits for the human body. You can also support healthy aging by raising your heart rate with regular exercise for at least 150 minutes a week and eating a diet full of fruits and vegetables. 

Where to Find the Best Acupuncturist to Reduce Signs of Aging Near Playa Vista

By incorporating natural treatments like acupuncture, microneedling, and LED light therapy into your wellness routine, you're not just addressing surface-level signs of aging — you're nurturing your body's innate healing abilities and promoting balance from within. These therapies can complement your existing health regimen, potentially reducing reliance on medications and minimizing side effects.

Jennifer Ryan, LAc, a Board-licensed and nationally certified acupuncturist with a master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, specializes in helping seniors maintain their health and well-being in the Silicon Beach area. Her practice focuses on addressing common age-related issues such as joint pain, decreased mobility, and sleep disturbances.

With her extensive experience and dedication to building trust with older patients, Jennifer is renowned for assisting seniors seeking natural alternatives to conventional treatments or minimizing their reliance on medications. Her holistic approach aims to enhance overall quality of life, boost energy levels, and support healthy aging processes.

Ready to age gracefully with healthy aging treatments from the best acupuncturist near Playa Vista?

Book an Appointment
LOCATION & HOURS

Jennifer Ryan, LAc

12061A Jefferson Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90230
(424) 280-6730
Monday
8:00am - 2:00pm
Tuesday
2:00pm - 8:00pm
Wednesday
8:00am - 2:00pm
Thursday
2:00pm - 8:00pm
Friday
11:00am - 4:00pm
directions
appointment
call