TREATMENTS

ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is one of the most well-known tenets of traditional Chinese medicine.  Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points at prescribed locations along the body.  These needles help regulate the flow of qi ("chee"), or vital energy, throughout the body.  When we experience pain, for example, there is often a lack of movement or circulation of qi and blood in the tissues and/or meridians (channels through with qi flows) associated to the area of pain.  Once we restore flow, we restore function, and pain subsides.  Acupuncture alone can elicit a healing process, however it may be used concomitantly with the following therapies. 

MOXIBUSTION

Moxibustion involves the warming of specific acupuncture points or areas on the body with a stick of moxa, a pressed herbal cigar of mugwort (artemisia vulgaris).  The moxa stick is set alight and burned to a warm smolder.  The skin is gently warmed with the indirect heat.  Moxa can be pressed onto the end of acupuncture needles as well, warming the needle gently.

CUPPING and GUA SHA

Cupping and gua sha are used to increase circulation in specific areas of the body to induce healing as well as draw xie qi (pernicious influences) to the surface of the body to be eliminated.  Cups may be made of plastic and use a vacuum pump to adhere to the skin, or they may be made of glass and an open flame is used to create a vacuum for suction.  The most common place to receive cupping is on the back, often along the spine, however cupping can be used on various areas of the body. 

Gua sha utilises a smooth-edged implement that is scraped along the surface of the skin.  It is most often done along the back and back of the neck.  Both cupping and gua sha treatments can leave sub-cutaneous reddening of varying hues under the skin.  This is a normal consequence of the treatment and to be expected.  It is not painful and does not leave any lasting marks.  The reddening usually disappears within two to five days. 

TUINA

Tuina is a traditional Chinese form of therapeutic body work.  It's a hands-on therapy that addresses blockage of qi and blood in the muscles and joints, often along the affected meridians and/or fascial lines. It is used to increase circulation, improve range of movement and relieve pain. 

HERBAL MEDICINE

One of the oldest forms of medicine, herbs are used holistically in well-balanced formulas to address individual imbalances, taking into consideration a person's constitution, environmental factors and existing health challenge.  Used primarily to treat internal imbalances, easy to prepare decoctions, similar to taking tea, are common, as well as capsules, tablets and liquid extracts.  External applications may also be used. 

DIET THERAPY

The foundation to your well-being starts with a healthy digestive system.  Your digestion, absorption and elimination is part of the routine evaluation taken into consideration for your treatment protocol.  It is necessary your body is provided with the nutrients it needs not only to heal, but to thrive.  Eating the right foods is paramount, and also only part of the equation.  Your body needs to effectively break down and absorb nutrients in the food you eat as well as effectively eliminate waste.  Traditional Chinese medicine has a sound approach to diet and diet therapy for specific conditions, taking the individual's constitution, environment and condition into account.       

MEDITATION

An age-old practice with scientifically-proven results, meditation can benefit any one in search of greater well-being.  Meditation can help decrease stress, improve clarity of mind and increase mental-emotion resilience.  Easy to learn and implement in your life, a meditation practice may instigate a significant leap towards healing. 

QI GONG

Qi Gong and other movement therapies, such as yoga and taiji, are essential in helping your body recover from illness and thrive towards well-being.  Mindful movement helps one remain grounded and balanced in life.  These exercises improve circulation and muscle tone, increase flexibility and adaptability, build strength, and benefit the nervous system.