What is Acupuncture?
It cannot be be answered with one word nor one sentence. Acupuncture uses needles to "short circuit" the body so that movement of blood and what we call "Qi" can move free and smoothly through the body. Imagine the body as if it were comprised of many rivers and streams. If the flow is constant and unobstructed, there will be no pond scum (disease of any sort, mild or major) developing. Acupuncture can maintain and create a smooth and even current of blood and Qi and thus health.
What is Qi?
Chinese words are often too broad to translate, but essentially Qi means Energy. Blood is said to not be able to move without Qi, so Qi is the Movement or kinetic energy and friction of substances of the body.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
The needles used are very thin; as thin as a single strand of hair. Many people who are not fond of needles or even scared, find that they do not even feel the needles. If you are scared of needles, please let me know and I can work with you. It is also helpful to avoid coffee prior to your acupuncture visit.
What is the First Visit Like?
Your first visit will start with a complete interview of your health history and current health. Questions will include physical and emotional health presentations. I will feel your pulse on both left and right wrists, and look at your tongue. With the information gathered, I will then select a treatment to address your main complaint. Points will be needles; needle retention is 20-50 minutes, in which time I will check in and see how you are feeling. After needles are taken out, we will discuss a treatment plan and possible "homework".
CUPPING
What is Cupping?
Cupping is an ancient method which dates back to 300 A.D. Using fire and alcohol, we create a vacuum with the glass cups, which is a negative pressure; whereas massage is a positive pressure. We never touch the skin with a flame. Once a suction has occurred, cups can be moved, called gliding cups, or they can be stationary. Dark marks can be the result. This is called "sha". These can go away within 3-10 days. It is best to keep areas that have been cupping covered 24 hours after the treatment.
What is Cupping Good For?
Cupping loosens the muscles, encourages blood flow, activates the lymph system, and sedates the nervous system (and thus it can be effective for treatment of high blood pressure). It helps with neck pain, back pain, digestion, menstrual imbalances, respiratory issues (i.e. congestion in the lungs due to common cold and asthma), muscle stiffness, anxiety, migraines, fatigue, and cellulite. Cupping is often compared to feeling like massage, and is quite relaxing.
MOXA
Moxa (also called Moxibustion) is the use of Mugwort. When burned above or on certain acupuncture points, it can add several benefits to treatment. Many People feel a sensation of warmth. Moxa works by stimulating the flow of blood and energy.
GUA SHA
What is Gua Sha?
Gua Sha is a method of using a "scraping tool", like a ceramic spoon or other smooth surfaced stone, on the skin. It helps to improve the blood circulation to the tissues scraped. Red spots are the result, called petechiae. The darker the area, the more it shows stagnation.
What Does Gua Sha Do?
Gua Sha aides the healing process an array of dis-eases. Neck, shoulder, and back pain; sciatica, and others nerve pain; migraines; and even colds and the flu. It works on the fascial tissues.
NUTRITION & CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE
Although people may be eating the very best diet, many times we are deficient in vitamins and minerals. This all affects our well-being. Body systems are evaluated to see where the body needs additional support and whether that be a Chinese Herbal Formula or supplement.
Muscle testing is another modality that has proven to be a valuable tool because it is non-invasive and effective. It helps patients see what "stresses" they have in their life and environment, and how to alleviate them.
I use Standard Process, MediHerb, and SolleNaturals products.
AROMA ACUPOINT THERAPY
Aroma Acupoint Therapy (AAT) is a great way to help people who do not like needles or are very sensitive to needles. It is a safe and effective use of essential oils to complement acupuncture or can be used in place of. A treatment involves placing specific oils on corresponding acupuncture points to create a shift in the body to attain balance. More information can be found at www.aromaacupointtherapy.com