Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice that involves inserting sterile, single-use, hair-thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and treat various conditions. Acupuncture isn’t painful and most patients experience deep relaxation due to acupuncture’s ability to stimulate the parasympathetic (“Rest & Digest”) nervous system. Traditionally, acupuncture is said to restore balancing Yin & Yang and by unblocking and restoring the flow the of Qi & Blood. Modern research has shown acupuncture can release neurotransmitters, modulates hormones, stimulates nerves & connective tissues, release muscle tension, improve circulation, and regulate immune function. Simply put, acupuncture relieves pain and helps restore homeostasis.

Chinese herbal medicines have been carefully cultivated and combined for thousands of years to help treat a wide variety of health issues including reproductive, gynecological, and digestive issues, as well as headaches, insomnia, nausea, allergies, fatigue, pain, and much more. Modern research has demonstrated that herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) display a variety of medicinal properties such as being anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, adaptogenic, neuro-protective, immune-modulating, and more. Instead of using a single herb, TCM combines several herbs into formulas to achieve a synergistic and balancing effect. There are a variety of ways to consume herbal formulas but the easiest is typically in the form of granules (i.e. powder).

Acupressure massage (known as Shiatsu in Japan and Tuina in China) uses thumbs, fingers, palms, elbows, and sometimes knees to massage the body’s acu-points and channels, which are derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is a holistic system used to help restore homeostasis, induce relaxation, and relieve pain. Pressure is adjusted to the needs of the receiver, covering the full spectrum from satisfying deep-tissue to a gentle, relaxing, energy balancing treatment. Stretches are also incorporated to help open and relax the body.

Disrobing and oil are usually unnecessary since the massage can be preformed over a thin layer of clothing. In the case of cupping or Guasha, only the required area need be uncovered (e.g. neck, back, shoulders). Please come with, or change into loose comfortable clothing before your appointment.