acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points to create balance or homeostasis within the body and alleviate symptoms.
How Acupuncture Works
The insertion of an acupuncture needle sends signals to the central and peripheral nervous systems causing the release of natural pain-killing substances and hormones as well as stimulating blood flow, delivering oxygen-rich blood, vital nutrients and immune cells. Its actions are regulatory, encouraging the body to make natural changes from within. By stimulating specific points on the body with heat, acupressure, or very fine needles, acupuncture practitioners are able to restore healthy function, thus resolving symptoms and reversing disease. It not only treats illness, but can also prevent disease and help build the immune system. It can increase energy and improve quality of life. Acupuncture has been demonstrated to regulate and improve the function of all of these components, which are so integral to health.
benefits of acupuncture
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increases circulation & blood flow
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relieves muscle pain
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decreases inflammation
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stimulates endorphins and parasympathetic nervous system
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regulates CNS function
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stimulates immune system
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reduces stress
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Additional Modalities
Cupping
Cupping is a therapy in which heated glass cups are applied to the skin along the meridians of the body, creating suction as a way of stimulating the flow of energy (Qi) and blood. Retention cupping: to help pull toxins from the skin, eliminate pathogens, and stimulate acupuncture points. More often we use sliding cupping: a stronger technique to reduce muscle tension; a bit like an inverse massage. Rather than applying pressure to muscles, the suction uses pressure to pull skin, fascia, tissue and muscle upward, helping to break up adhesive tissue and muscle fibers.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a form of bodywork that has been used in Japan for centuries. A combination of acupressure, and other forms of body manipulation, Shiatsu works by applying pressure to acupuncture points, meridians and groups of muscles or nerves to remove blockages that prevent the free flow of qi and blood. Removing these blockages restores the balance of qi in the body, leading to improved health and vitality.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion, or Moxa, is an Oriental Medicine technique that involves the burning of Artemisia Vulgaris (or mugwort; a small spongy herb) to facilitate healing. Moxa has been used throughout Asia for thousands of years. In fact, the Chinese character for acupuncture, translated literally means: "acupuncture-moxibustion". The purpose of moxibustion, as with most forms of traditional Chinese Medicine, is to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of Qi, and maintain general health. It is used on top of needles or directly on the skin.