“If you do not change direction, you might end up where you are heading”
Lao Tzu
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an oriental medical therapy that dates back 5000 years to use the body’s natural energy (qi) to restore the health from symptoms of illness, injury and give a positive feeling of well being.
Fine needles are inserted into the skin at specific acupuncture points, there are over 365 points around the body, each one valuable in different circumstances. Heat (moxibustion), friction (Tui Na) or suction (Cupping) may also be used to stimulate the acupuncture points.
The stimulation of these acupuncture points frees any blocked energy (qi) within the body, and helps balance your yin and yang, thus restoring the individual back to true health.
Modern medicine believes that acupuncture stimulates the nervous system which in turn release certain hormones and biochemicals that regulate our bodily functions, immune system and reduction of pain.
It is used widely throughout the world as a substitute to and an add-on to western medicine. It is safe, natural and healthy.
What does acupuncture feel like?
Often, a person can be unaware of the treatment and not feel any sensation as the needles are very thin.
Sometimes a person may notice a slight sensation such as a mild tingle or a mementary dull ache as the energy flow is stimulated.
There are a couple of points known as ‘reflex’ points, which as their name suggests can cause a momentary reflex, but these can be avoided for particularly sensitive patients.
Acupuncture can be a pleasurable experience as most people feel relaxed during the treatment.
Good acupuncture is an invigorating and relaxing experience. Come and try it!
What happens in a treatment?
Initially, we will begin with a complete consultation in order for me to best understand your condition. I will ask you questions about your presenting symptoms as well as questions relating to your lifestyle, work life, past medical history and so forth.
From here, I will use various diagnostic procedures to further understand your condition and determine the best treatment strategy for you. I may only use acupuncture or combine it with other treatment methods used in Chinese medicine such as moxibustion, cupping, Tui Na and Gua Sha.
I will then carry out the treatment in the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere of my treatment room.
How long is a treatment?
Acupuncture:
The first treatment is 1hr 15mins. This gives us extra time for the consultation process
Follow-up treatments for acupuncture are 50mins.
Reiki:
Reiki sessions is 1hr per session.
What is Tui Na
Tui Na is soothing acu-pressure massage. It uses a number of traditional hand movements to massage the soft tissue and some gentle manipulations to realign the flow of energy round the body. It focuses on specific acupuncture meridian points combining many of the benefits of acupuncture with the relaxing and therapeutic effects of massage.
Functions of Tui Na:
- Deep relaxation
- Reduction of stress and anxiety
- Musculoskeletal complaints
- & many more
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion treats and prevents diseases by applying gentle heat to points, meridians or certain locations on the human body. The material used is mainly “moxa wool” made from the Artermisia herb and shaped into a cone or a stick. For centuries, moxibustion and acupuncture have been combined in clinical practice.
Functions of moxibustion:
- To warm meridians and expel cold
- To induce the smooth flow of Qi and blood
- To strengthen Yang
- To prevent diseases and keep healthy
What is Cupping?
Cupping is an ancient and effective therapeutic approach, which involves attaching small glass or bamboo suction jars to the skin, which are held on by creating a vacuum. This eases local congestion, helps qi flow and can reduce stiffness in muscles. It leaves a circular mark on the skin which fades after a day or so. Cupping is often used in combination with acupuncture.
Functions of cupping:
- Warming and promoting the free flow of Qi and blood in the meridians
- Dispel cold, dampness
- Diminishing swelling and pains
What is Gua Sha
Gua Sha is an ancient Chinese and Vietnamese treatment is a ‘scraping of the skin’. It is repeated pressure strokes over a lubricated area with a smooth edge. It leaves marks on the skin, which fades after a few days. It is designed to stimulate the flow of qi and blood and to stimulate healing.
Functions of Gua Sha:
- It produces Petechiae which helps to detoxify the body and relieve pain
- It is commonly used to treat fever
- Daily aches and pains head aches
How do I make an Appointment?
Contact me via email through our contact page here
Or
Phone directly for an appointment 0790 99 77 448
A Personal Treatment for you
In a treatment with me, I will use one or a combination of the techniques mentioned above, depending on what is best for you. I diagnose the constitution and needs of each patient to formulate the most effective treatment strategy for your condition.
