Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a complete health care system developed over 3000 years ago that is both preventative and curative in nature. Based upon the principles of Yin and Yang (two equal and opposite forces), TCM recognizes the importance that balance and harmony play in the role of health.

According to TCM theory, there is a network of channels or meridians throughout the body that serve as passageways for energy, known as Qi (pronounced “chee”). A disruption to the smooth flow of Qi, due to trauma, stress, poor nutrition or emotional upset among other factors, can lead to an imbalance in health resulting in pain or illness. Chinese Medicine Practitioners use a variety of healthcare therapies to restore normal Qi circulation and bring the body, mind and spirit back into balance.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the art and science of inserting filiform needles into specific and carefully selected points on the body to influence the flow of Qi and restore health. The needles used are extremely fine, pre-sterilized, single-use and disposable. Unlike hollow hypodermic needles, acupuncture needles are very gentle and are tapped into the body quickly for painless insertion. Once the needles are in place, you may feel a sensation of tingling, warmth or heaviness at the insertion site which indicates the arrival of Qi at that point.

Acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system to normalize physiological function, reduce pain and enhance the immune system. Most people find acupuncture treatments very relaxing and experience a sense of well-being after a session.

General benefits include:

  • Decreased anxiety

  • Improved sleep quality

  • Increased energy and circulation

  • Greater concentration

Herbal Medicine

Herbal Medicine is an important healing therapy of Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been in use for over 3,000 years in China and throughout the world. Like acupuncture, Chinese herbs help bring the body back to a balanced state of health and are an effective way to address many common complaints. Unlike western herbs, Chinese herbs are used in specific combinations, or formulas, as opposed to using them singularly. An herbal formula may be comprised of as many as 15 herbs, all having specific functions and working synergistically to unblock the Qi, nourish the body and restore balance.


Cupping

Cupping is a centuries-old technique found around the world and used to regulate Qi and increase blood flow in the body. Glass cups are used to create a vacuum, either by combustion or a suction pump, and applied to the skin over the affected area. The action of the vacuum created with this technique works to pull the skin up into the cup drawing fresh blood and nutrients to the area, relaxing muscles and removing toxins. 

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a therapy in which the herb Artemesia Argyi (or the common substitute species Artemesia Vulgaris) is burned over specific acupuncture points, warming the skin, relaxing the muscles and improving the flow of Qi and blood to the area. The leaves of the herb are most often tightly rolled into a cigar-like incense stick to be held over the chosen points, but can also be applied directly to the top of an acupuncture needle to direct the warmth more deeply into the body. 

Dietary and lifestyle recommendations

Our daily habits have enormous influence over how we feel today, as well as tomorrow. Proper nutrition is considered one of the most important foundations to health and disease prevention, while a healthy lifestyle with a balance of rest and activity supports the body’s ability to handle stress.

Recommendations for improved nutrition and lifestyle choices are gently given and supported during treatment. Acupuncture can also be used as an adjunct therapy to improve lifestyle habits with protocols for smoking cessation, reduced caffeine and refined sugar consumption and weight loss.