Chinese Medicine
Energy flows where intention goes
Cupping
Cupping is a technique in which glass, bamboo or plastic cups are used as suction devices placed on the skin. The suction action helps to promote the free flow of healthy blood and Qi to the area by dispersing and breaking up stagnant or congested blood. An old proverb states “Where there is stagnation, there is pain. Remove stagnation, remove pain”.
Cupping is best known for its ability to help loosen the muscles and relieve pain, but it does so much more than just that. Cupping can also relieve anxiety & fatigue, help fight off colds & flus, improves the look of cellulite, helps digestion, and more.
The main side effect of cupping is skin reddening or bruising at the site of application. The intensity and longevity if the bruising varies depending on the person and how much stagnant blood & Qi there is. The more stagnation, the darker the coloring.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion, or Moxa, is the therapeutic use of burning mugwort, a spongy dried herb, to promote healing, add extra warmth to a treatment, and to nourish and promote the free flow of Qi.
There are two types of Moxa: direct and indirect. Direct moxa is when the moxa cone is placed directly on the skin and is removed before it burns the skin. This method is not used as often, but when it is extra precautions are used to protect the skin from burning or scarring.
The most common method is indirect moxa. Indirect moxa is when the moxa cones are added to the top of a needle or is rolled into a stick, which is then hovered over the skin at particular points.
There is smoke and a distinct odor to moxa. If scents are an issue for you, there are smokeless moxa sticks available that are almost scentless or moxa can be avoided all together.
Gua Sha
Gua sha is a technique in which a special blunt tool is used to apply pressure and “scrape” along the skin to promote the circulation of Qi & Blood. Gua Sha helps to relieve pain and tension, regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, break up scar tissue, and regulate the immune system.
Gua sha has started to become more recognizable, as these tools have seen a rise in popularity amongst the beauty world. While definitely benefiting the skin and muscles of the face, it also benefits the whole body!
Like cupping, there is a side effect of skin redness and potential bruising at the site of application.
ASian Medical bodywork
Shiatsu, Tui Na, and Acupressure are all different Asian Medical Massage techniques that work on manipulating muscles and other tissues to relieve pain and tension, as well as promote the smooth flow of Qi through targeting meridians and acupuncture points.
Massage is generally incorporated into an acupuncture appointment (as needed), but it can also be done as a stand alone appointment.
For a small additional cost, we can add CBD oil, calendula or arnica oil, or essential oils to any appointment.
Electro-acupuncture
Electro-acupuncture, or commonly called e-stim, is a method in which a small electric current is applied to the needles to stimulate the points more than manual methods allow. E-stim is used mostly in the treatment of musculoskeletal issues, but it can also be used for stress, chemo-related nausea, and more.
There is no pain with e-stim. You may feel some tingling, vibration or muscle twitching, but overall there is very little sensation.
E-stim can also be applied without needles with the use of electrode pads or tens unit, if needed.
