Rejuvenate Thyroid Function: Protocol of Vital Chi Skin Brushing System and Alternate Hot and Cold Shower

Bruce Berkowsky, N.M.D., M.H., NCTMB

The thyroid gland, a small structure normally weighing only one ounce, has a disproportionately immense influence on the human organism. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is so prevalent in this era that symptoms of nearly every chronic disease are, to varying degrees, linked to abnormal thyroid activity.

Located in front of the trachea, just below the larynx on either side, the thyroid gland produces several hormones, including thyroxin (T3) and triiodothryonine (T4) which help to regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, mobilization of fats and synthesis of proteins. Calcitonin, another hormone secreted by the thyroid gland, helps to regulate calcium and phosphate levels and is required for uptake of calcium by the bones. Hypothyroid women are frequently found to have inadequate levels of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): a thyroid-modulated hormone that initiates maturation of the egg cells in the ovaries. The developing egg cells, in turn, produce estrogen. Hypothyroidism often plays a role in infertility, menstrual disorders and in some cases may be the cause of menopausal hot flashes.

Hypothyroidism and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) are closely related disorders. Notably, hypothyroidism may also play a significant role in diabetes (high blood sugar). Also, over time hypothyroidism may cause the adrenal glands to shrink.

Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include: anxiety; nervousness; depression (including post-partum depression); irritability; suspiciousness; anger; introversion; low energy levels; chronic fatigue; hypersensitivity; chilliness; cold hands and/or feet; fluid retention; slow wound healing; mental dullness and failing memory; insomnia; weakened immune system; puffy face and eyelids; devitalized hair, skin and nails; heart palpitations; digestive weakness; poor appetite; constipation; inability to tan; loss of bone mass; muscle soreness; neuralgia; joint pain.

Supporting the Thyroid Gland Using Vital Chi Skin-Brushing System

and Alternate Hot and Cold Shower

The Vital Chi Skin-Brushing System

Vital Chi Skin-Brushing can sustain or reestablish the skin’s functional integrity and youthful glow. The skin is as major an organ as the heart, lungs and kidneys. Its primary functions include: respiration, excretion, blood and lymph circulation, immunity and the conduction of chi. Thus, Vital Chi Skin-Brushing is a particularly powerful therapy which can positively impact the entire body.

Variations of skin-brushing have been practiced for thousands of years. My Vital Chi Skin-Brushing System, which required hundreds of hours of research and experimentation to develop, evolved from my training and teaching experience in anatomy and physiology and various bodywork disciplines as well as the Oriental healing arts. I designed this system to support blood- and lymph circulation, the immune system, the movement of chi along the acupuncture channels, all the major physiological functions of the skin as well as to enhance skin beauty

and encourage the breakdown of cellulite. Yet, my system is quick, concise and user-friendly.