Acupuncture
I first started receiving acupuncture in my early 20s and was relieved to find a medical system which inspired hope and peace in me contrasted to the general tone of fear I had noticed in my experience with allopathic medicine. I was inspired to dive into this ancient medicine as a way of bringing deeper healing into myself and my client's lives.
The marriage of Chinese medicine with the wisdom of western psychology and somatic embodiment traditions brings a great potency for transformational healing. To be held in a space of deep embodiment while working through deep shifts in the root of disease in our beings is a powerful process.
Deeply influenced by Japanese palpation-based acupuncture from the lineage of Kiiko Matsumoto, I believe in your body's wisdom. In this tradition, you work together with me by giving feedback on your sensations to determine if and how the energy is moving. It is a stand for patient participation and a movement away from the ”trust the expert in the white lab coat" model. I value your experience not only as diagnostic criteria but as a way for you to practice embodiment, listen to yourself, and find your own truth and wisdom.
My practice is also deeply influenced by the teachings of Liu Ming’s Taoist practices and philosophy. He largely draws from Tang dynasty (7th century CE) medical theory to bring into presence the influences of nature, the seasons, and feng shui. I hold in context what is happening in the cycles of the natural world as we determine the most appropriate course of treatment for you. 5 Element theory is incorporated throughout.
What is Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a comprehensive natural health care system that has been used in Asian countries for thousands of years to preserve health, diagnose, treat and prevent illness. Acupuncture treats people by stimulating points found along energy meridians at specific locations on the body.
Acupuncturists stimulate the points by inserting very thin needles through the skin to produce physiological effects. Other methods, such as heat, electro-stimulation, tuning forks, or finger-pressure can also be used to stimulate the points along the meridians.
The general theory of acupuncture is that proper physiological function and health depend on the circulation of nutrients, substances, and energy called Qi (pronounced “chee”) through a network of “channels” or “meridians.” This network connects every organ and part of the body, providing balance, regulation, and coordination of physiological processes.
Pain and ill-health result when the flow of Qi through the body is disrupted or blocked by such things as disease, pathogens, trauma/injuries, and the side effects of medication, as well as lifestyle factors such as stress, fatigue, overwork, and poor diet.
What to Expect
Your first visit will take about 1.5 hours and will include a complete assessment of your health and lifestyle factors that may be contributing to imbalances in your body.
Follow up visits are approximately 1-1.5 hours depending on your treatment plan. Some of the questions when reviewing your health history may be unusual- such as detailed questions about your digestion- even if you have come to see for a different condition.
Chinese Medicine treats the body as a whole- which means that I will consider all of the body’s processes, both emotional and physical. I will also take a look at your tongue, and take pulses on both wrists. All of this information will paint a picture of your condition and constitution and help me formulate a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan.
What conditions can be treated?
The World Health Organization and the National Institute of Health are among the many organizations endorsing acupuncture and herbal medicine for a variety of conditions such as:
Chronic and Acute Pain
Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Headaches/Migraines, Neck and back pain, Sciatica Whiplash
Respiratory
Allergies, Asthma, Bronchitis and other infections, Sinus problems
Gastrointestinal
Acid reflux, Diarrhea or constipation, Irritable bowel syndrome, Nausea/vomiting, Other digestive issues
Women’s Health
Menstrual cycle imbalances / PMS, Menopausal symptoms, Infertility, Dysmenorrhea, Morning sickness,
Other issues
Acne, Addictions, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes
Acupuncture FAQ
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes. Licensed acupuncturists use individually packaged, sterile, and disposable needles. Practitioners undergo 3-4 years of rigorous training and must pass State Board Licensing exams. In the state of California acupuncture is regulated by the California Acupuncture Board.
What does acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture is well known globally to treat a variety of issues. Like any healing system it is not a magic bullet and requires commitment to your health.
What is a treatment like?
I begin all first-time appointments by gathering relevant health information. I will go over your health goals and offer a plan to help you achieve them. I may feel the pulses on your wrists and look at your tongue. If you are coming in for pain or mobility issues I may palpate areas of pain or discomfort and determine your range of motion with gentle movements. You may also receive dietary, herbal and lifestyle recommendations. Follow up appointments involve a quick check in on your progress followed by your treatment.
How should I prepare for a visit?
Eat a light meal or snack before coming. Please show up on time. If you are 10 minutes late I will not be able to see you (you will be charged for the time she set aside for your appointment).
What should I do while receiving acupuncture?
Take this time to relax fully into your self-care. I will check in with you before I leave the room to make sure you are warm enough and comfortable.
How long will it take to feel better?
This depends on several factors including how long you’ve had a particular complaint, how severe it is, your self-care habits, and general commitment to your health. Using natural healing methods such as acupuncture, massage, herbs, and nutrition requires patience and commitment. Generally, the longer you’ve had an issue the longer it will take to resolve. Most patients report improvements after 3-4 treatments and some even after just one treatment.
Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Absolutely! Acupuncture can provide relief from common occurrences in pregnancy such as back pain, nausea, and fatigue. It is also a great addition to general self-care throughout your pregnancy and can help prepare your body for labor and delivery.
Can you treat children?
Yes! We have special techniques to treat a child’s unique and developing system. For children who are scared of needles we use gentle alternatives including a specialized Japanese system called Shoni Shin.