The crane … a Japanese symbol of longevity and balance. Also the symbol for wisdom and fidelity (China), vigilance and loyalty (Europe) and language and thought (Africa), to name just a few. But those latter three don't matter for our purposes because this week's freebie comes from The White Crane Clinic, which is in the longevity and balance business. The clinic, a resource center for alternative and preventive health care, offers care based on the eight classical limbs of Oriental medicine, along with Korean constitutional diagnosis. For the last 12 years, the center has treated thousands of Bay area residents for everything from colds to cancer. No surprise, really, since everyone's going Eastern these days, but if you've been missing out, the health conscious and curious alike can learn all about what goes on behind clinic doors during an open house on Saturday, April 21.
If you've never seen the inside of an acupuncture clinic, it's worth a look-see. No, you won't be in danger of passing out from glimpsing a body stuck full of needles. Instead, acupuncturist Patrick Sullivan, guest presenters and staff explain how they work with patients to bring the body, mind and spirit into an integrated state of balance. Throughout the afternoon, visitors can get a mini-massage, information about Feng Shui, participate in Tai Chi and QiGong demonstrations, gather insight into Jin Shin Do acupressure, even learn about acupuncture and herbs for your pets. Guests can also learn about those mysterious eight limbs — meditation, exercise, food, geomancy (influences of the seasons, climate, directions, etc.), Oriental astrology (astrology? this is where we get suspicious), massage, herbs and acupuncture — and how they may benefit your personal health profile. Oh yeah … be sure to ask clinic workers about the tongue diagnosis, by far one of the clinic's most intriguing practices.
The White Crane Clinic is at 9 Hibiscus St., Tarpon Springs. The open house runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 727-942-4249.
This article appears in Apr 19-26, 2001.