Wellness Acupuncture Ancient Medicine for Modern Health

Tui Na

Tui Na means "pushing grasping,". It is a powerful form of Chinese medical bodywork and manipulation. Based on the same Oriental medical principles as acupuncture, tui na seeks to improve the flow of Qi through the meridian channels. Tui na is particularly effective for conditions involving muscles, tendons and joints, such as structural misalignment, orthopedic problems and sports injuries. It can also be used to treat internal diseases.

Cupping

Cupping is an ancient technique used in many cultures for a variety of issues ranging from sore muscles and back pain to placing on the abdomen of colicky babies. A special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, and it can either be left in place or moved along the body. Cupping brings fresh blood to the area and helps improve circulation. Traditional cupping, sometimes referred to as “fire cupping," uses heat to create a vacuum-like suction inside of glass cups. In modern times, cups that use a small pump to create suction have also been introduced. After a cupping session, you will likely have some coloration in the tissue where the cups were located. ranging from a light pink to a dark purple. This is referred to as "sha" and is the stagnation within the tissues drawn toward the surface so the body can eliminate it much easier. It is not painful and will normally fade away in 2-5 days. (Remember the U.S. swimmers at the 2016 Olympics had those funny "hicky" marks? That's the "sha"!)

Moxibustion

Moxibustion involves the heating of acupuncture points with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment.

Qigong

Qigong means "life energy cultivation" and is traditionally seen as a method to cultivate and balance Qi. The practice involves rhythmic movement, focused breathing, and concentrated awareness. Qigong is a safe and gentle meditative exercise that promotes healing of the mind and body.

GuaSha

GuaSha means "scrapping sand". GuaSha is a vigorous treatment used to eliminate "pathogens" at the skin level and to break up blockages along the meridians. It is done with a guasha tool and it creates a rash that feels bumpy as if sand were underneath the skin--hence, "scrapping sand".  Though the rash looks rather impressive, it fades in 2-5 days and generally doesn't cause any discomfort after the treatment.