Acupuncture
This is an ancient healing modality that is effective treating both chronic and acute medical conditions. The body is equipped with a network of channels, comparable to a watershed, that circulate Qi and blood throughout. When these channels are obstructed, the delivery of proper nourishment is impeded, giving rise to physical and mental symptoms such as pain and irritability. Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely thin needles into specific points along channels of the body. Stimulation of these points helps the body remove obstruction and promote free flow, ultimately providing relief from physical and mental symptoms. Treatment plans will vary depending on the nature of the illness, but one can expect to feel some degree of relief after one treatment. Chronic illness that has developed over a long period of time will take time to treat. Receiving acupuncture treatments on a regular basis is preventative and aims to eliminate further imbalance leading to disease.
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese Herbal Medicine is a vast field, going back 3000 years. It is a complex system of formulation, that combines single herbs in a sophisticated way in order to address imbalance in the body. Herbs are combined based on their flavor, temperature and nature, inducing a physiological response. Herbal formulas alleviate symptoms and discomfort through the correction of disrupted physiology. Herbal medicine can be incredibly effective for both acute and chronic illness. Formulas are usually taken as a tea, and require regular consumption in order to see results. High quality, sustainably sourced herbs that are free of pollutants do come at expense, and unfortunately are not covered by insurance plans. Perhaps some day we will have that luxury, as nearly 150 formulas are covered by Japan’s national insurance plan.
MOXA
The use of moxibustion (moxa) has an extensive history in China and Japan, as well as countries that established early trading routes with China. Moxibustion is a therapeutic technique in which a processed form of Mugwort (artemesia species) is burned directly over or on top of the skin. There are several different methods used to perform moxibustion, depending on the desired outcome and needs of the individual patient. Mugwort is woven into a wool-like fiber and charred on or above specific acupuncture points.
The list of medical conditions in which moxa is useful is extensive to say the least. Perhaps the most mysterious and compelling use of moxa is in breech pregnancy. In order to turn an infant into proper position in the womb, Moxa can be burned on or over the acupuncture point Bladder 67, on the outer edge of the pinky toe. The effects of Moxa on a breech presentation is perhaps the most recognized and celebrated aspect of Chinese Medicine in the west. This method requires specific training and should not be attempted otherwise. Aside from this protocol, Moxa is used to treat medical conditions such as fatigue, tuberculosis, pain, digestive problems, warts, irregular menstruation, urinary disorders, infertility, neurological disorders, asthma, and acute illness. It is also useful in scar treatment.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy is an ancient practice, historically used in Egypt, Greece and throughout Asia. Cupping can be incorporated into any acupuncture treatment, or used as a stand alone therapy for those who don’t want to receive acupuncture.
Fire cupping uses an ignited cotton ball to create a strong suction beneath a glass cup placed on the skin. The suction gently pulls the skin and musculture to obtain therapeutic movement and effect. The practitioner may slide the cups along the muscles of the back, leave them stationary, or use flash cupping.
Cupping is therapeutically used for many conditions. It creates flow of blood and lymphatic fluids, stimulates sensory nerves, and opens the pores. It can be used for conditions like colds/flus, frozen shoulder, body pain, cellulite, respiratory conditions, and digestive disorders. Cupping usually leaves marks on the cup site called sha, which varies in color depending on the degree of stagnation present. If you want to try cupping, use the booking tab for acupuncture.
Nutritional Counseling
If you want to obtain a more optimal state of health, having the right diet for your body type can make all the difference. With so much information available, it can be overwhelming and difficult to decipher what is best for you. Meghan can work with you to identify what dietary changes are needed in order to increase energy and improve your mood. Usually we start by adding foods, rather than taking things away. Some supplements can be helpful, depending on your needs. If you are interested in getting some dietary advice, just ask during your acupuncture or herbal medicine appointment.