The traditional philosophy of Chinese Medicine holds that life energy, Qi(pronounced chee), runs through the body along channels, known as meridians, which connect all major organs. When Qi is obstructed or imbalanced, it manifests as illness or pain.
Acupuncture stimulates specific points along the meridians to balance the flow of Qi, removing pain and restoring health. The acupuncturist inserts sterile, single-use needles, almost as thin as a human hair, into points just below the surface of the skin.
Studies from a Western perspective have found that acupuncture points are areas of electrical sensitivity. When these points are stimulated, the body releases endorphins and neurotransmitters, which are the body's natural pain killers. Endorphins not only relax the body and relieve pain, but they can also stimulate the immune system, increase circulation, and positively affect the hormone system and the serotonin level in the brain.
Cupping is an ancient technique, used in many cultures, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, which may 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 fire to create a vacuum-like suction inside of glass cups and is used to bring the flow of Qi and blood and to help remove toxins in the body.
Tui na means "pushing grasping," and is a powerful form of Chinese medical bodywork (Chinese Massage). Based on the same Chinese 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.
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture also known as Cosmetic Acupuncture or Acupuncture Face lift is a safe, non-surgical and virtually painless alternative to facial surgery, botox injections, collagen injections and laser or chemical peels. By reducing the signs of the aging process, Facial Acupuncture can take as many as five to fifteen years off your appearance. At the same time, it is more than a cosmetic procedure. It is a rejuvenation and revitalization process designed to help the whole body look and feel younger. Often the patient will get relief or resolution of pre-existing conditions.
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture increases local circulation of blood and lymph to the face reducing fluid accumulation and improving color. It helps to improve muscle tone and dermal contraction especially in the face and neck, lifting and firming the skin. Research has shown that it increases collagen production and aids in its dispersal thus helping to firm the skin and fill out wrinkles.
The earliest use of ear acupuncture, like body acupuncture, dates back to ancient China. Auricular acupuncture is the stimulation of acupuncture points on the external ear surface for the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions in other areas of the body. The ear holds a microsystem of the body. The map on the ear is in form of an inverted fetus with all the fine details of the anatomical, physiological, and emotional body represented. Ear acupuncture has proven to be an efficient method of treating a wide variety of conditions, from headaches and allergies to addictions and pain disorders.
Hot stone massage is a variation on classic massage therapy. Heated smooth, flat stones are placed on key points on the body.The stones are immersed in water and heated in an electric heating device until they are within a certain temperature range. The stones may be placed at specific points on the back, in the palms of the hand, or between the toes and fingers.The warmth of the hot stones improves circulation, calm the nervous system, and re balance the mind and body.