Ch. 4...Sex Again: " I'm too tired for sex"

Now, that's totally me. And now that I've read this chapter, I'm feeling like maybe I'm more yang-deficient than yin deficient. Hmmmm...

• low metablolism/weight gain
• need a lot of sleep, but don't feel refreshed - even when you get it
• dark circles under eyes
• no physical, mental, or emotional energy for sexual activity
• stressed out
• fatigue 
• low thyroid is common (my results came back normal...) and issues with adrenal or pituitary glands (all of these mess with metabolism and circulation)
• aches and pains (esp. knees and low back)
• poor circulation (can reduce sexual sensation)
• hormonal imbalance
• digestive disturbances
• low immune function
• gloomy, shut down, passive

"Boosting yang will restore balance and in so doing improve general energy levels - and revive libido."

My doctor put me on estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone therapies. But, in both of these chapters, it seems that one is usually not deficient in all three. Maybe using all three is an attempt to boost whichever one is the culprit without having to wait so long, since none of these are terribly fast-acting.

Based on Blakeway's description, it would seem I have both deficient AND elevated estrogen levels, both low AND high progesterone, and low testosterone. Hmmm....I will be bring this book to my next doctor's visit, for sure. AND I'll be bringing to the acupuncurist to discuss the herbal remedies.

This chapter also suggests some particular "exercises" to boost yang energy: "Buddha Belly," "The Loop," and "The Squeeze." Blakeway suggests eating whole grains (other than wheat), aerobic exercise, animal proteins, yogurt (but little dairy, otherwise), several small meals vs. few large meals, lowering alcohol/caffeine/salt intake, managing stress (ha!), taking chromium supplements, acupuncture, and several herbal/tea supplements.

A lot to think about here...so I'm off...I might get around to beginning part two of the book today, but among all the chores, errands, and a sick kid, it's unlikely...

So, until next time...