What is Moxibustion?

What is Moxibustion?

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Acupuncture

What is Moxibustion?

By: Joe Recsnik L.Ac

HOME

Moxibustion is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy that involves burning dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) on or near the surface of the skin at specific acupuncture points or areas of the body. Here’s how moxibustion works based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles:

  1. Warming and Expelling Cold: In TCM, health is described as a balance between Yin (cold) and Yang (heat). Moxibustion is used to introduce heat into the body, particularly where there is a perceived deficiency or imbalance of Yang energy. This warming effect helps expel cold and dampness from the body, which are considered causes of illness and pain.

  2. Stimulating Qi Flow: Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the vital energy that flows through the body along meridians or pathways. When Qi becomes stagnant or blocked, it can lead to pain or disease. Moxibustion stimulates the flow of Qi and blood in the meridians, promoting healing and restoring balance.

  3. Strengthening Yang Energy: Yang energy is associated with warmth, activity, and metabolic processes in the body. Moxibustion is used to tonify Yang energy in cases where there is Yang deficiency, which can manifest as symptoms such as cold limbs, fatigue, or weak digestion.

  4. Supporting Immune Function: Traditional Chinese medicine views moxibustion as a method to enhance the body’s defensive Qi (Wei Qi) and strengthen the immune system. By bolstering Wei Qi, moxibustion aims to prevent illness and promote overall health.

  5. Local and Systemic Effects: Depending on how moxibustion is applied (directly on the skin or indirectly above the skin), it can have both local effects (e.g., improving circulation, relieving muscle tension) and systemic effects (e.g., regulating organ function, balancing emotions).

  6. Complementary Therapy: Moxibustion is often used in conjunction with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other TCM therapies to enhance their effectiveness. It is tailored to the individual’s specific pattern of disharmony and health condition.

  7. Stimulate blood circulation: The heat from the moxa improves blood flow, which can help with pain relief and overall well-being.

Modern research into moxibustion has explored its effects on pain relief, immune modulation, and even its potential role in treating certain conditions like breech presentation in pregnancy. While much of its mechanism remains rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine theory and empirical evidence, ongoing scientific inquiry continues to investigate and validate its therapeutic benefits.

How is moxibustion therapy done?

There are several methods of applying moxibustion:

  • Direct moxibustion: The moxa is placed directly on the skin.

  • Indirect moxibustion: The moxa is placed on a slice of ginger, salt, or garlic before being applied to the skin.

  • Moxa stick: The burning moxa stick is held close to the skin.

Would you like to know more about the potential benefits of moxibustion?

If you would like to know more about how moxibustion and Traditional Chinese Medicine can help your specific health condition, book an appointment or FREE 15 minute phone consultation to discuss your health situation and treatment options.

As always I am honored serve Greater Los Angeles community, I look forward to the opportunity to share the relieving benefits of moxibustion and TCM with you soon!

Sincerely,

Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM

Licensed Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, lead herbal pharmacist,

& Founder of POPULUSS Classical Eastern Healing

Proudly serving the nearby communities of Venice, Mar Vista, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Palms, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Westchester. LAX and Greater Los Angeles

an image example of direct moxibustion

Image example of indirect moxibustion technique

Image example of stick moxibustion technique

How Does Acupuncture Work?

How Does Acupuncture Work?

by | Jun 7, 2024 | Acupuncture

How Does Acupuncture Work?

By: Joe Recsnik L.Ac.

HOME

One question I get asked all the time is: “How does acupuncture work?” Well, in a word, acupuncture is all about increasing circulation. When an acupuncture needle pierces the skin, A “microtrauma” stimulates blood flow to the insertion site as part of the body’s natural healing response. Everything the body needs to heal is in the blood: oxygen, minerals, immune substances, hormones, and pain blocking chemicals. depending on where the acupuncture pin is placed, this natural response can be utilized to benefit the body’s health in different ways. Some Acupuncture points are focused on muscles to help reduce tightness and tension or reduce pain in the joints. Other points are focused on nerves that control internal organ function or stimulate glands of the endocrine system. Other points are communicating with the central nervous system to promote the release of natural pain blocking chemicals such as endorphins or norepinephrine.

But perhaps most importantly, Acupuncture is helping to reduce the effects of stress on the body. When our bodies come under stress, the sympathetic nervous system, or the “fight or flight response”, is triggered. This natural response to stress causes increase of respiration, increase of heart rate, increased tightness and tension in the muscles, and decreased pain threshold. Further, the “fight or flight” response triggers the release of cortisol, the body’s “stress hormone”. elevated cortisol causes a cascade of effects that disrupts hormone balance and internal organ function. Acupuncture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system via the Vagus nerve to counterbalance the sympathetic nervous system and help promote a sense of relaxation, improved internal organ function, optimal hormone balance, and reduced pain threshold.

If you or someone you know would like to find out more about how acupuncture works and it’s natural health benefits, please click on the link to our website to request a free 15-minute phone consultation today. Thank you and I look forward to speaking with you soon!

Sincerely,

Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM

Licensed Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, lead herbal pharmacist,

& Founder of POPULUSS Classical Eastern Healing

Proudly serving the nearby communities of Venice, Mar Vista, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Palms, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Westchester. LAX and Greater Los Angeles

Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM offers a brief explanation of how acupuncture works.

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Pain Relief

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Pain Relief

by | Apr 16, 2024 | Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Pain Relief

By: Joe Recsnik L.Ac.

HOME

How Does Acupuncture Relieve Pain?

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and promote overall well-being. But how exactly does this ancient practice work?

While the exact mechanisms are still being explored, science is starting to shed light on acupuncture’s effectiveness for pain relief. Here are some of the theories:

Traditional Beliefs

Traditionally, acupuncture is based on the concept of “qi” (pronounced “chee”) – a vital energy that flows along meridians throughout the body. Needles are used to stimulate these points, regulating the flow of qi and restoring balance.

Modern Science’s Take

Modern science offers a different explanation. Acupuncture needles are believed to:

  • The Pain Gate: Acupuncture needles may stimulate nerves under the skin, sending signals to the spinal cord that block incoming pain signals. It’s like turning down the volume on your pain receptors.

  • Endorphin Release: Needles might trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Endorphins work similarly to morphine, binding to opioid receptors in the brain and reducing pain perception.

  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Acupuncture may help regulate the body’s inflammatory response. Inflammation is a natural healing process, but chronic inflammation can contribute to pain. By modulating inflammation, acupuncture could help ease discomfort.

  • Improved Blood Flow: Studies suggest acupuncture may improve blood circulation in the treated areas. This increased blood flow can deliver oxygen and nutrients to promote healing and reduce pain.

Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?

There’s ongoing debate about the placebo effect, where a patient’s belief in a treatment can lead to pain relief. Acupuncture has been shown to be more effective than a placebo in some studies, suggesting a true physiological effect beyond mere belief.

Which Pain Conditions Can Acupuncture Help With:

Acupuncture can be effective for various pain conditions, including:

  • Chronic lower back pain

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Neck pain

  • Tennis elbow

  • Fibromyalgia

  • And much more

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Acupuncture is generally not considered a painful procedure.  Acupuncture needles are very thin, much thinner than needles used for injections or blood draws.  They are also solid, not hollow, which means they don’t pierce your skin as much.

You may feel a slight prick when the needle is inserted, but this is usually very brief. You may also feel some tingling, numbness, or a dull ache at the insertion site. These sensations are normal and usually subside quickly.

If you do experience any pain during acupuncture, let your acupuncturist know right away. They can adjust the needle’s depth or location to make you more comfortable.

How often should I get acupuncture for pain relief?

During acute injury/acute pain stage I recommend treatments 1-2 times per week for 6-8 weeks. Once the condition has stabilized and severity of pain is reduced, following up with regular acupuncture treatments 1-2 times per month can be sufficient to prevent pain from reoccurring over the long term.

Can Chinese herbs help with pain relief?

Chinese herbal medicine is an effective complementary therapy in the treatment of acute and chronic pain conditions which can be used concurrently with acupuncture, or can be employed as a stand-alone treatment option.

Some examples of herbal formulas commonly prescribed for treatment of pain conditions include:

Gui Zhi Tang, Ge Gen Tang, Ma Huang Tang, Gui Zhi Jia Ge Gen Tang, Gui Zhi Jia Gua Lou Tang, Si Ni San, Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang, Da Chai Hu Tang, Xiao Jian Jiong Tang, Fu Zi Tang, Si Ni Tang, Dang Gui Shao Yao San, Gui Zhi Shao Yao Zhi Mu Tang, JIn Gui Shen Qi Wan, Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang

Are Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine right for you?

Acupuncture offers a natural approach to pain management, and with growing scientific evidence, it’s becoming a more mainstream option for pain relief. While needles might seem intimidating, the results could be a welcome relief from chronic pain.

At POPULUSS we incorporate the Classical Chinese Medicine methods of acupuncture, herbs, cupping, gua sha, and moxibustion to reduce and manage pain.

If you would like to know more about how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can help  your specific case, I offer a FREE 15 minute phone consultation to discuss your health situation and treatment options.

If you or someone you know suffers from acute or chronic pain, I look forward to the opportunity to share the relieving benefits of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine with you soon!

Sincerely,

Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM

Licensed Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, lead herbal pharmacist,

& Founder of POPULUSS Classical Eastern Healing

Proudly serving the nearby communities of Venice, Mar Vista, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Palms, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Westchester. LAX and Greater Los Angeles

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Treatment of Digestive Disorders

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Treatment of Digestive Disorders

by | Jul 18, 2023 | Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Treatment of Digestive Disorders

By: Joe Recsnik L.Ac.

HOME

Digestive Disorders are conditions involving the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract includes the esophagus, liver, stomach, small and large intestines, gallbladder, and pancreas.

The most common symptoms of digestive disorders include: bloating, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, pain, nausea and vomiting, bleeding, and swallowing problems.

For over 2,000 years, Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine have been used extensively and effectively to heal a wide variety of digestive disorders.

What digestive diseases do acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treat?

Conditions that are frequently and successfully treated with acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine include:

·         vomiting disorder

·         gastritis

·         delayed digestion (gastroparesis)

·         GERD/heartburn

·         IBS

·         SIBO

·         colitis

·         gastric and duodenal ulcers

·         pancreatitis

·         H pylori infection

·         gallstones

·         cholecystitis

·         anal fissure

·         hemorrhoids

·         proctitis

·         Crohn’s disease

·         ulcerative colitis

·         diverticulitis

How does acupuncture treat digestive problems?

Application of acupuncture at specific points on the body benefits and heals digestive disorders by increasing blood flow to the digestive tract and by stimulating the vagus nerve/ parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).

The PNS heavily influences the body’s ability to “rest & digest”. Stimulating the PNS/vagus nerve with acupuncture treatment increases intestinal motility, relaxes the digestive tract, and supports the function of each of the digestive organs: stomach, pancreas, liver/gallbladder, small and large intestine.

Where are acupuncture needles placed for digestive problems?

According to Chinese medicine theory, acupuncture points are mostly located on body lines called meridians. There are 12 primary acupuncture meridians that flow from the hands and feet to the head, chest, abdomen, and back. In general, any sort of digestive problem is the result of blockage in the flow of qi and blood though a meridian (usually due to pathogenic factors such as wind, cold, dampness, dryness, and heat).

The meridians of Yang Ming (Stomach & Large Intestine), Tai Yin (Spleen and Lung), and Shao Yang (Gallbladder and Triple Warmer) are most frequently treated in digestive disorders. Points on the hands, feet, and abdomen are chosen according to the individual’s specific diagnostic “pattern of disharmony”. In addition, other needles may be placed in the ears or other complementary techniques such as moxibustion or cupping employed according to individual treatment considerations.

Can Chinese herbal medicine help digestion?

Yes! Chinese herbal medicine is extremely effective to restore normal healthy functioning of the entire digestive system. Written during the Han Dynasty (circa 200 B.C.E), the Shanghan Zabing Lun describes dozens of herbal formulas that treat nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, abdominal bloating, stomach and abdominal pain, indigestion, excessive gassiness, stones and obstruction in the Liver and Gallbladder, diarrhea, constipation, GI bleeding, ulcers, autoimmune conditions, bacterial infection, and hemorrhoids.

A few examples of herbal formulas that address digestive problems and related symptoms include:

·         Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang

·         Si Ni San

·         Da Jian Zhong Tang

·         Li Zhong Wan

·         Yi Yi Fu Zi Bai Jiang San

·         Da Cheng Qi Tang

·         Da Chai Hu Tang

·         Huang Tu Tang

·         Huang Lian Tang

·         Zhi Shi Xie Bai Gui Zhi Tang

·         Gui Zhi Ren Shen Tang

·         Da Huang Mu Dan Pi Tang

·         Tao Hua Tang

To name a few…

The key to choosing the correct herbs and herbal formula to effectively treat digestive disorders is establishing a proper classical Chinese medicine diagnosis. Correct diagnosis is essential to writing an effective herbal prescription. Classically trained herbalists form a Chinese medicine herbal formula diagnosis by utilizing thorough medical history and review of symptoms, forming a differential diagnosis, and performing physical examinations including pulse diagnosis, abdominal palpation (hara diagnosis), and inspecting the tongue.

How long do acupuncture and herbs take to work for digestive disorders?

The short answer is, it depends. A course of treatment can be a few days, a few weeks, or a few months depending on the severity and chronicity of one’s condition. Treatment outcomes also depend on how frequently one receives treatment and whether they are using other therapeutic methods such as acupuncture and herbal medicine together, or just a single method.

If you would like to know more about how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can help  your specific case, I offer a FREE 15 minute phone consultation to discuss your health situation and treatment options.

If you or someone you know suffers from digestive problems, I look forward to the opportunity to share the healing benefits of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine with you soon!

Sincerely,

Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM

Licensed Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, lead herbal pharmacist,

& Founder of POPULUSS Classical Eastern Healing

Proudly serving the nearby communities of Venice, Mar Vista, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Palms, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Westchester. LAX and Greater Los Angeles

Utilizing Chinese Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture For The Winter Solstice

Utilizing Chinese Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture For The Winter Solstice

by | Dec 13, 2022 | Acupuncture

Utilizing Chinese Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture For The Winter Solstice

By: Joe Recsnik L.Ac.

HOME

According to the traditional Chinese lunar calendar, the winter solstice marks the height of the taiyin seasonal node of “Major Snow”. During this time, yin energies of cold and darkness are most prominent and water freezes, turning to ice. While yin energy is most abundant, yang energies such as sunlight and heat are are greatly diminished. In nature animals hibernate or spend more time in their dens to save energy and warmth. Trees shed their leaves, storing energy in their roots deep below the ground until the warmer weather of spring returns and it is safe to blossom once again.  In other words, in December at the height of winter, yang is in storage and yin flourishes.

In Classical Chinese Medicine, the taiyin organs are Spleen & Lung. From an internal  health perspective, during winter solstice acupuncture and Herbal medicine treatments emphasize warming and supporting these organs to ensure optimal immunity, circulation, and internal organ function (read: prevent our bodies from overly cooling off or “freezing”, leading to diminished bodily function or worse). Supporting the storage of yang energy (heat) is akin to the squirrel who stashes acorns for winter. We want to increase and store our internal energy reserves as much as possible to support the return of yang and new growth in spring. Winter is about storing with minimal expenditure of resources. While winter in Los Angeles may generally be much milder than many parts of the U.S., the health supporting principles of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine during this season are the same.

For winter solstice, seasonally appropriate herbal formulas focus on warming and drying the Spleen & Lung by storing body heat in the blood layer and reducing accumulation of water. As our body heat (aka “life force”) is most vulnerable to being frittered away during winter season, the herbal formula archetypes for winter typically revolve around Sini Tang and its variations (Sini Jia Renshen Tang, Fuling Sini Tang, Danggui Sini Tang, etc) to warm and dry taiyin.

All this being said, Classical Chinese Medicine greatly emphasizes the adage “treat the patient, not the disease”. In other words, while we may speak in generalities, in practice such treatments are hardly a one size fits all type of approach. If you would like to further explore utilizing Chinese herbal medicine to support you optimal health during winter, please free to call or email to arrange a time for your very own custom herbal formula consultation. Wishing you an abundance of health and goodwill during this holiday season and beyond!

 In Health,

Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM

Licensed Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, lead herbal pharmacist,

& Founder of POPULUSS Classical Eastern Healing

Proudly serving the nearby communities of Venice, Mar Vista, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Palms, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Westchester. LAX and Greater Los Angeles

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Supporting Fertility and Treating Infertility

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Supporting Fertility and Treating Infertility

by | Jun 25, 2022 | Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine for Supporting Fertility and Treating Infertility

By: Joe Recsnik L.Ac.

HOME

How do acupuncture and Chinese herbs increase chances of conceiving?

The holistic diagnosis and treatment methods of classical Chinese medicine support fertility and treat infertility by addressing the total mind-body health condition of the patient. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine treat symptoms affecting reproductive organ function while simultaneously addressing co-occurring imbalances such and digestive, sleep, hormonal, or mental emotional disturbance. Due to its holistic mind-body approach to healing, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are particularly well suited to address both the physical and mental emotional aspects of supporting optimal fertility.

How do acupuncture and Chinese herbs enhance female fertility?

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine promote normal female reproductive cycle physiology and/or treat other conditions that adversely affect the reproductive organs:

·         Regulate the menstrual cycle: Approximately 28 days in length, minimal pain, healthy moderate bleeding

·         Support healthy ovulation: On or about cycle day 14, resolve cysts or PCOS

·         Stimulate ovaries: Support healthy follicle development and hormone balance

·         Improve uterine health: Endometriosis, fibroids, healthy lining

·         Manage stress -> Increased Cortisol interferes with follicular development and can interfere with normal ovulation

·         Support overall body condition -> Regulate endocrine system, promote better sleep, improve digestion/elimination, strengthen immunity

How does acupuncture and Chinese herbs enhance male fertility?

Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine support normal male urogenital physiology and/or treat other conditions that adversely affect the reproductive organs:

·         Support healthy sperm formation: Count, motility, and morphology

·         Support optimal prostate and urogenital health

·         Support pelvic circulation for healthy erectile tissue function

·         Manage stress -> chronic elevated stress hormone adversely affects testosterone (HPA/HPG axis)

·         Support overall body condition -> Regulate endocrine system, promote better sleep, improve digestion/elimination, strengthen immunity

How do Acupuncture and Chinese herbs support fertility and treat infertility?

Classical Chinese Medicine utilizes unique terminology to describe the various physiological functions of the body. According to Classical Chinese Medicine, the following organ systems are most frequently involved with supporting fertility and treating infertility:

·         Kidney/Water element: Governs the reproductive organs (ovaries and testes) to support healthy egg & sperm development; benefits prostate health and erectile dysfunction.

·         Liver/Wood element: Governs the menstrual cycle. Regulates length cycle, healthy ovulation, smooth flow of blood, and emotional ease.

·         Heart/Fire element: Makes blood to benefit circulation, benefits reproductive organ function, and warms the uterus.

·         Spleen/Earth element: Extracts and assimilates nutrients from food used to make blood and provides “lifting energy” to support healthy pregnancy/prevent miscarriage.

Pathological conditions associated with improving fertility and treating infertility are characterized by descriptions such as: “blood stasis”, “blood deficiency”, “cold in the lower burner”, “kidney yang deficiency”, “heart yang deficiency”, “spleen yang deficiency” “dampness in the lower burner”, “heart and kidney not communicating”, “deficiency taxation”

 

Do Chinese herbs work for fertility?

Many Chinese herbal formulas effectively support fertility or treat infertility.

A key strength of Chinese herbal medicine is its history of practice. As the oldest continuously practiced system on medicine on the planet, countless millions of case studies have shown consistent results. When certain diagnostic criteria are present concurrently, a particular “pattern of disharmony”, is present. Specific herbal formulas are prescribed for various patterns of disharmony. When properly prescribed Chinese herbal medicine has consistently shown to be effective for treating the conditions listed above.

Choosing the correct herbs is established by forming a proper classical Chinese medicine diagnosis. Correct diagnosis is essential to writing an effective herbal prescription. Classically trained herbalists form a Chinese medicine herbal formula diagnosis by utilizing thorough medical history and review of symptoms, forming a differential diagnosis, and performing physical examinations including pulse diagnosis, abdominal palpation (hara diagnosis), and inspecting the tongue.

Some examples of herbal formulas that address fertility and reproductive system support include:

·         Guizhi Tang

·         Guizhi Jia Longgu Muli Tang

·         Guizhi Fuling Wan

·         Xiao Chaihu Tang

·         Chaihu Jia Longgu Muli Tang

·         Renshen Tang

·         Xiao Jianzhong Tang

·         Zhen Wu Tang

·         Danggui Sini Tang

·         Danggui Shaoyao San

·         Wenjing Tang

·         Jinggui Sheqi Wan

·         Tianxiong San

·         Jiao Jiang Tang

·         Di Dang Tang

How many acupuncture sessions do you need for fertility?

The short answer is, it depends. A course of treatment can be a few weeks, or a few months depending on the severity and chronicity of one’s condition.

You may need to have regular acupuncture every 1-2 weeks for up to 3 months before attempting to conceive (roughly 10-12 sessions). In additional to regular acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine may be prescribed as well.

During the initial consultation and exam a through medical history and body systems review will be conducted to assess your condition and create a treatment plan.

If you would like to know more about how acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can help your specific case, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation with me to address your specific questions and concerns.

Check out some great success stories on Yelp and the Testimonials page!

Thank you, take care, and I look forward to seeing you in clinic soon.

Sincerely,

Joe Recsnik L.Ac, DCCM

Licensed Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, herbal pharmacist,

& Founder of POPULUSS Classical Eastern Healing

Proudly serving the nearby communities of Venice, Mar Vista, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, Palms, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Culver City, Playa Del Rey, Playa Vista, Westchester. LAX and Greater Los Angeles