Meet Colleen Putnam, L.Ac.
Get to know more about Colleen Putnam, licensed acupuncturist and herbalist.
How did you become an acupuncturist?
As a child, I received both acupuncture and Chinese herbal remedies which led to my understanding and belief that I am nature and a reflection of the cosmos. As above, so below. Through traveling and especially time spent in the countryside of Mongolia I knew that one day I would study medicine so as to have an offering to give to any and all who asked for guidance and help. Shortly after my travels, I was diagnosed with Lyme disease and a variety of other parasitical conditions which at the time led me on the greatest healing and spiritual journey. Through my journey I then found myself stepping forward into what I believe my destiny is; to be a bridge between heaven and earth, doing my best to offer the medicines that brought me back to my harmony to all who are interested and seek healing.
What is your favorite acupuncture point and why?
My dear teacher, Toby Daly, has shared with me that one must not have a favorite ;) I giggle because I hear his voice every time I get to offer SI 3 to patients.
SI 3 - Hou Xi - Back Gully Stream. This point essentially places wood on the fire to allow the fire in us to burn stronger and brighter. For me, this point brings a burst of hope, growth, and curiosity in tending to our Heart Spirit and the courage to step forward in what our true self is longing for. Not only does this point bring a burst of light, but by connecting us to our Heart, it calms the spirit, reduces anxiety, and is phenomenal at treating all types of pains.
Saam acupuncture is a very special system of acupuncture. Tell us a little about it and what you love about it.
Saam comprises the theories of yin and yang and five phases which derive from the Yi Jing, Huangdi Neijing Suwen, Ling Shu, and Nan Jing which are the foundational classical texts of Chinese Medicine that form our practice today. I love that it is a simple and elegant application of classical theory and even though it’s simple I continue to be in awe of the direct message it sends to the body, resulting in very satisfying clinical results. It can be a very new experience for many who have only received TCM acupuncture in which they may be used to receiving anywhere from 8-30 needles and often thinner needles. Saam uses only 4 needles which are inserted on points that accumulate the most qi, therefore, bringing stronger sensations which for some can be a very new experience from other styles they have received. Saam uses SI 3 a lot.
You are from Colorado but settled here in Sonoma County. What made you choose to land here?
For me, I felt I had no choice but to land here. My plan after school was to return to the mountains of Colorado, however, the tugging of my heart and listening to my spirit led me to stay. My practice of medicine, love for the natural world, deep human connection, and the mysteries of love have been the driving forces that have led me to settle here in the beautiful county of Sonoma.
How do you use East Asian medicine in your daily life?
From the moment I wake to the moment I lay my head down for a restful night's sleep, I see the world, others, myself, and the unknown through the lens of East Asian Medicine. We are nature. We are witnessing around and within us the dynamic movement of the elements, the emotions, etc. and I am in awe of the continuous flow of yin and yang, death and birth. And how in times of transition between birth and death, new and old, receiving and letting go, we get to experience the true essence of the situation, the individual, etc., and from there, we establish more of what helps bring the essence to the transition to find more ease and flow. This is outstanding to me!
Tell us about your favorite place to feel grounded.
Get me outside surrounded by trees, mountains, water, and with that sun shining down on me and I sink right into the earth. I feel most grounded when I am moving outside on my bike, skis, rock walls, or hikes; or sitting still, incorporating qi gong in the healing waters of hot springs or sitting quietly near the beehive, listening to the frequency of their music and entering into a sweet sacred meditation. It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.