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Acupuncture originated and has been documented in China for thousands of years. It is part of the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM.) Acupuncture is the insertion of ultra-fine, sterile, single-use needles to access the body system to create harmony and eliminate symptoms. Other non-insertive modalities may be used, such as herbal therapy, acupressure, cupping, gua sha, tuina, and moxibustion to promote wellness.

It is based on the theory of yin and yang, and human’s relationship to nature. The relationships of organ systems within the human must be in balance for wellness. Disharmonies may manifest externally when the internal organs are blocked, possibly by poor diet, lack of exercise, and positive emotional outlet. External factors, such as stress or trauma, may cause harm to the body and affect the organs over time. Acupuncture will assist in releasing blockages, increase circulation and promote the body’s own healing response.

Moxa is an herb (Mugwort, artemesia vulgaris or ai ye) that is used to promote circulation. It is applied externally by direct or indirect methods to promote warmth and healing. Moxibustion is useful to improve poor digestion, arthritis pain, bruising, infertility, and to turn breech babies.

Cupping therapy has been used for centuries in many cultures. Glass cups are applied to large muscle areas to alleviate tension and pain. Cupping is also great for respiratory issues, such asthma, COPD, and the common cold. It’s like getting a deep tissue massage in reverse, pulling instead of pushing.

A vacuum is created by fire or a pump to pull the muscle tissue into the cup allowing increased circulation to tired or tense muscles. Slight bruising, signs of blood stagnation, may occur and will be cleared out by the body’s lymph system in just a few days. This allows new blood to replenish muscle tissue and alleviate pain.

Gua Sha is a scraping method that increases circulation and alleviates pain. A small tool is used with lubrication and light pressure to produce tiny petichiae. This effect increases blood flow and reduces inflammation in the muscles. Gua Sha may be used on smaller parts of the body to alleviate headaches, neck pain, back pain, or tendonitis.

Tui Na, pronounced twee-nah, is a style of Asian body work. Massage techniques such as gliding, kneading, tapping, rolling, rocking, and shaking are used to release muscle tension and distribute blocked qi along channels. It can feel both relaxing and energizing.