What is Acupuncture?

Chinese Medicine is a profoundly sophisticated system that has been practiced for over 3000 years. It sets out to understand the human experience and to fully release pathology, not to numb or repress it. It involves the insertion of very fine, single use, stainless-steel needles into specific points on the body affecting the electromagnetic energy that exist with it. According to traditional Chinese philosophy, to maintain good health and wellbeing our qi or chi energy that flows through the body must be balanced and flowing freely.

If you are interested in reading about how acupuncture can assist in healing visit www.cochrane.com (an organisation that has a partnership with The World Health Organisation and is known for their unbiased systematic reviews of medical research).

Are the needles reused?

No. All the needles used are sterile, single-use, disposable needles.

What does it feel like? Does it hurt?

We use the finest of needles so that there is usually little or no discomfort upon insertion. Some people experience a tingling or a dull sensation upon insertion, which quickly dissipate and is followed by feeling relaxed and at ease for the duration of treatment.

How does Acupuncture & Chinese medicine work?

Energy flows in the body in pathways and when these are not open and free, there is imbalance ranging from mild discomfort to serious diseases. The blockages, or “stagnation,” can take many forms. Some are physical such as pain, arthritis, and inflammatory conditions. Others are emotional like depression, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Acupuncture works by releasing these energetic blockages within the person that prevents Qi/energy from moving optimally.

Acupuncturists use thin sterile needles, bleeding lancets, cupping, physical therapy and more to release muscular tension, inflammation, emotional suffering, and suppressed trauma. It asks the practitioner to look at the patient’s posture, movements, life choices, and daily challenges, all of which can contribute to blockages as it affects our vital energy. This can cause the person to become ill and prevent healing. Once the energy can freely circulate throughout the body, providing adequate nourishment to cells, organs, glands, tissues and muscles pain can be eliminated and balance and harmony can restore. Thus, enabling the body to heal itself—ultimately leading to optimal health and well-being.

What happens in a treatment?

An acupuncture session will commence with an in-depth medical history which will provide a better understanding of past and current health issues. We will then discuss an optimal treatment plan for you which may include Cupping, Tuina (Chinese medical massage), Moxibustion or Gua sha. We will talk you through the process chosen before any treatment commences. We will also work with you as to what steps you can make to optimise your own healing between treatments though lifestyle choices.