← acupuncture
The Chinese term, 針灸 “chen chiu”, means acupuncture and moxibustion.
The scope of an acupuncturist encompasses many modalities. Some of them include: needling, cupping, gua sha, tui na, e-stem, taishin, and moxibustion.
Acupuncture is based on maintaining balance of yin and yang through the twelve meridians, which link to their corresponding internal organs. There are many acupuncture points depending on the system. Some say there can be as many as 1000+ acupuncture points on the body. Acupuncture points can be described as holes and spaces, like a divot or a cenote.
Originally, needles were made from stones, iron, silver, gold, bamboo, and even fishbones were used in early times. Silver and gold needles are still available, however the most common needles are now stainless steel, some containing a silicone coat. Currently, needles must be sterile and single use only.
There are many methods of inserting a needle and can change the function depending on direction, force and stimulation. This is dependent on the desired outcome and the style that is being practiced. When needles are inserted a person may feel a heaviness, a dull achy sensation, and slight numbness around the needle.
Acupuncture is generally not advised to people who are under the influence and have not eaten. It is best to come with a clear mind and with something of substance in your belly.
Japanese style acupuncture is typically less painful as the goal of needling is to bring Qi from the outside into the body, whereas some Chinese techniques can be a bit more intense with the goal of stimulating the Qi within the body.
If you feel apprehensive to try acupuncture because needles sound scary, know that acupuncture needles are very thin, sometimes the gauge of a horse's hair.
01. Moxa addresses conditions that are cold in nature. Burning moxa over the lower back is indicated in cases where there is lower back pain, urinary, and reproductive issues.
02. Moxa burned over the belly button, Ren 8, with salt and ginger is extra warming and can be indicated in cases where there is abdominal pain and constipation due to cold, as well as menstrual cramping.
03. Burning poll moxa over the sole of the foot can be very grounding and also bring warmth throughout the body for those with cold feet.
*When burning moxa over the skin, always be careful not to cause burns. Burn cream is kept on hand just in case!
headaches and toothaches
LI 4 / he gu / joining valley
this is the command point of the head and face, therefore helps with headaches and toothaches
acupressure - get comfortable, relax your shoulders, while you massage this point take 10 - 15 deep breaths
anxiety and nausea
PC 6 / nei guan / inner pass
this point calms the spirit, unbinds the chest, and alleviates nausea
acupressure - get comfortable, relax your body, think about directing your thoughts and your stomach qi downward, while you massage this point take 10 - 15 deep breaths