

The Apricot Grove
Dr. Edward Neal
Welcome to the Apricot Grove! Join us in retelling our human story through weekly conversations about Chinese medicine, nature, and creativity.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 13, 2025 • 1h 1min
Episode 18: Homecoming
Kanisha Tiedeman, an Alaska Native birth worker, artist, and nature-based medicine practitioner from Cordova, reflects on place, memory, and ancestral practice. She describes Cordova’s coastal light and communal traditions. The conversation explores body-centered practices, reconnecting with land amid screens, and simple rituals like touch, humming, and listening to reclaim belonging.

Jun 17, 2025 • 57min
Episode 17: Let's Talk About Qi
What is Qi?? In the relatively short time that Chinese Medicine has been part of the mainstream conversation in the West, the term Qihas remained a slippery and often misunderstood concept—even among seasoned practitioners.In this episode, Dr. Neil and Mel explore what the Neijing says about Qi, how modern technology might be disrupting natural rhythms, and how ideas from modern physics could intersect with ancient wisdom.....As Dr. Neil likes to say: “It’s all about breath!” . Hope you enjoy the episode! Join us at www.neijingstudies.com to learn more.

May 6, 2025 • 1h 7min
Episode 16: Klamath River Restoration
Danielle Mericle, a University of Oregon curator and artist who works on Klamath River restoration with Indigenous communities, reflects on dam removals and river recovery. She discusses the politics and partnerships that made restoration possible. Conversations touch on cultural resurgence, place-based care, and how nature and storytelling help communities heal.

Mar 9, 2025 • 57min
Episode 15: Neijing Brain Balancing
Join us as we discuss brain laterality, balancing the left and right hemispheres, and how these dynamics influence our lives. We talk about the historical understanding of brain functions, share personal anecdotes, and explore practical ways to achieve neurological harmony. Discover the fascinating connections between the Neijing and modern science, and learn how balanced neural dynamics can lead to a harmonious and more profound existence.

Jan 25, 2025 • 59min
Episode 14: Breathing With AI
Join Dr. Neal and Mel as they discuss the rapidly evolving world of AI, its philosophical implications, and its comparison to human and animal consciousness. They delve into the significance of traditional knowledge, the essence of human consciousness, and the potential effects of AI and technology on the human experience. How can AI serve humanity, and what does it mean to be human in an increasingly virtual world? Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation.

Jan 11, 2025 • 58min
Episode 13: The Vestibular System
Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of the vestibular system! In this episode, Dr Neal and Mel unravel the complexities of this crucial part of our neurology, explaining its development, function, and its impact on our balance and movement. Discover how modern neurology and ancient Chinese medicine converge in understanding vertigo and other related disorders. Explore the potential for bringing joy back to movement in our daily lives.
https://neijingstudies.com

Nov 16, 2024 • 1h 6min
Episode 12: The Arrow of Time
In today's conversation, Dr. Neal and Mel delve into the concept of 'time sickness,' discussing how the irregularities in natural and technological rhythms have impacted human health. They explore how seasonal cycles, technological disruptions, and the rise of screen dependency contribute to new and unrecognizable illnesses. Their conversation touches on the philosophical and practical aspects of time, highlighting the necessity of time as an ingredient in healing and learning. Enjoy The Arrow of Time!
Learn more at http://www.neijingstudies.com

Oct 12, 2024 • 59min
Episode 11: Menopause and Aging

Sep 28, 2024 • 1h 1min
Episode 10: Primitive Brain Reflexes
Primitive brain reflexes play a vital, yet often overlooked role in our health, from childhood development to adulthood. Understanding these early-life reflexes is key to improving overall health. Could this knowledge bridge the gap between Chinese medicine and modern neurology? Join our hosts as they delve into how addressing primitive reflexes could revolutionize healthcare and enhance physical and mental well-being.
http://www.neijingstudies.com

Sep 21, 2024 • 56min
Episode 9: School's Closed: The Future of Acupuncture Education
In recent years, acupuncture schools have been closing at an alarming rate. With rising tuition fees and increasing student debt, the future of many acupuncture students seems uncertain. Are we witnessing the end of the traditional model and the emergence of something new? Join Dr. Edward Neal and Mel Hopper Koppelman as they explore the challenges facing acupuncture education in America and discuss potential new directions for the field.
Learn more at http://www.neijingstudies.com
Enroll in our two year mentorship program https://neijingstudies.com/foundations-training/


