Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine, single use sterile needles (on average 0.18mm thick) into specific locations on the body called acupoints. Acupuncture points are located along 12 main channels called meridians, which run vertically along the front and back of the body. This meridian system is a network of ‘vessels’ for the flow of the body’s life-force called Qi (pronounced Chee). The acupoints are where Qi can be accessed and influenced. Acupuncture promotes the movement of Qi & Blood, strengthens weakness, reduces excesses & stimulates the body’s own healing response. After conducting a comprehensive Chinese Medicine diagnosis, the practitioner will select acupuncture points on various points of the body to help restore and maintain your body’s natural balance. Acupuncture treatments are generally painless. The sensation associated with needle insertion is a dull ache which lasts for a millisecond, after which you will not feel any needle sensation. Needles are then retained for 10-30 minutes, during which time you will be allowed to relax, close your eyes, meditate or sleep while the acupuncture takes effect.

MOXIBUSTION & CUPPING

Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy which involves the burning of a Chinese herb called mugwort on or near an acupuncture point to warm the area and meridian-organ system. The herb comes pre-rolled as a cigar which is then lit and held close to the skin and then removed before it becomes too hot for the patient. A loose form of the herb is sometimes moulded into cone shapes which are then placed directly on the skin or on top of a slice of ginger or layer of salt. The burning herb is removed before becoming too hot and leaves no burning or scarring on the skin.

Cupping is a process in which a vacuum is created inside a glass cup which is then placed onto the skin. The vacuum then gently draws the skin and caused increased circulation to the area. The purpose is to encourage the flow of Qi & Blood and to eliminate pathogens and toxins from the body. Sometimes cupping can leave marking on the skin that looks similar to a bruise, which usually disappears within a few days depending on the level of discolouration.

Cupping & Moxibustion are often used as part of an acupuncture treatment.