Services
Medical Acupuncture
Originating in China more than 2,500 years ago, acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used forms of medicine in the world. The practice of acupuncture is based on the concept of energy, known as Qi (pronounced "chee"), flowing through channels in the body called meridians. According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, imbalances or blockages in the flow of Qi can lead to health problems.
During an acupuncture session, very fine sterile needles are inserted into specific points on the body. These points are located along the meridians and are chosen based on the individual's symptoms and the desired therapeutic effect. The needles are typically left in place for 20 to 30 minutes. Sometimes, the needles may be gently manipulated by hand, or stimulated with heat or electrical current.
Some of the benefits of acupuncture include:
- Pain reduction
- Stress and tension relief
- Increased energy levels
- Stronger digestion
- Relief from bad habits and addictions
- Greater sense of overall health and well-being
- Recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to treat over 100 health conditions!
Cupping
Cupping is an ancient therapy that involves placing cups on the skin to create a suction effect. It has been used for thousands of years in various cultures, including traditional Chinese medicine, Egyptian medicine, and Middle Eastern medicine. Cupping can be used in combination with acupuncture or as a stand alone treatment to relieve pain, improve blood circulation, promote relaxation, speed up healing, and improve overall well-being.
During a cupping session, cups made of glass or silicon are placed on the skin and the air inside the cups is heated or squeezed out to create a vacuum which draws the skin and underlying tissues into the cup. This suction stretches the underlying muscle tissue and dilates capillaries to bring fresh blood into the area. Dynamic cupping, in which flexible silicon cups are moved in a gliding motion over the treatment area, decompresses tension and adhesions in the fascia. Due to it's efficacy cupping has also adopted by many Physical Therapists and Massage Therapists to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and sports injuries.
If cupping suction is sufficiently strong enough to break open small capillaries it can cause temporary skin discoloration which typically lasts 4 to 7 days as immune system cells work to break down the accumulated blood cells. Clinical research has revealed that this macrophage "clean up process" has a beneficial anti-inflammatory effect. In recent years, cupping has gained popularity among athletes and celebrities, often seen as circular marks on the skin of athletes during major sporting events. These markings can be avoided or minimized if you prefer and let me know before the treatment.
A lighter form of cupping therapy can also be used to smooth scar tissue and rejuvenate facial skin. Benefits of facial cupping include improved circulation and moisture, increased collagen production, decreased puffiness, and reduced lines and wrinkles, all without leaving marks or bruises.
Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage therapy. The word Shiatsu comes from two Japanese words — "shi" (finger) and "atsu" (pressure). In addition to the direct stimulation of pressure points along the energy pathways of your body, gentle stretching techniques are applied over a wider area of the body to integrate the point work and encourage the flow of Chi (energy) throughout the body. Shiatsu aims to treat the whole person, using a holistic approach to address the physical, emotional and energetic aspects of well-being. Your shiatsu session will be performed while you are lying fully clothed on a massage table (therefore wearing loose and comfortable clothing is recommended). Your shiatsu appointment can also include cupping, moxibustion, and gua sha depending on your needs and preferences.