250-586-5442
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE MODALITIES
ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture is a treatment derived from ancient Chinese medicine. Fine needles are inserted at certain sites in the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. These sites of insertion are used to access something that is called a "Meridian". These Meridians are channels of communication networks that spread through the entire body. Acupuncture is a way that we can tune into these communication networks and influence how they function.
CUPPING AND GUA SHA
Cupping is the act of applying glass, plastic or silicone "cups" to areas of the body to promote blood circulation and tissue repair. Gua Sha is often used to achieve the same result but is done by "scrapping" a smooth tool over well oiled skin to produce what is called "sha". Cupping and Gua Sha have grown to become popular Chinese Medicine modalities in western culture. Often favored in areas of sports medicine and beauty this dynamic duo has far more to offer. Aside from soothing tight muscles and keeping your jawline sculpted, they can be used for clearing excess heat from the body, stimulating digestion, and helping to clear residual phlegm from the lungs.
TUI NA
Tui Na which translates to "Pinch and Pull" refers to a wide range of Traditional Chinese Medicine therapeutic massage and bodywork. Tui Na is not generally used for pleasure and relaxation, but rather as a treatment to address specific patterns of disharmony. It is often incorporated into a treatment as an additional modality, however it can be used for pediatric patients, or those who have a phobia of needles.
HERBAL MEDICINE
Chinese Herbal Formulas are an extremely effective way of targeting a wide range of conditions and syndromes. Many formulas that are commonly prescribed in modern TCM practice stem from thousands of years of use. These formulas were crafted from a deep understanding of the nature and use of each individual herb. Each formula can also be molded to fit each patient's needs; which is what truly makes herbal medicine so practical when addressing patient concerns.
MOXIBUSTION
Moxibustion is the practice of burning Ai Ye (Mugwort) to address specific symptoms or syndromes in Chinese Medicine. There is a multitude of ways to apply Moxibustion to the body and the method will often be determined by the reason for use. There are also more modern forms of moxibustion used in western clinics today such as smokeless moxa, or moxa lamps. Moxibustion may be used in the treatment of things like digestive disturbances, cold exposure, and lower back pain.
