Cupping Therapy and Moxabustion:
How does acupuncture work?
In the more modern, scientific view, acupuncture points stimulate the nervous system to release endorphins from the brain, which travel along via the spinal cord, encouraging muscles to relax and inflammation to release. These natural chemicals also trigger the release of relaxing hormones. Acupuncture improves circulation to damaged tissues; increasing oxygen and helping to disperse carbon dioxide, congestion and sluggishness.
Some of the main symptoms that can be relieved with acupuncture are; pain, inflammation, stress, and mobility problems, and since 1996, the World Health Organization (WHO) has approved acupuncture to be an effective treatment for a long list of conditions including the following
- Neurological and muscular disorders: headaches, neck and back pain, sports injuries, sciatica, osteoarthritis, neuritis and facial pain, TMJ
- Digestive disorders: irritable bowel, constipation, diarrhea and gastritis
- Menstrual and reproductive problems: dysmenorrhea and menopausal symptoms
- Urinary tract disorders: prostatitis and bladder dysfunction, sexual dysfunction
- Respiratory problems: sinusitis, asthma, sore throat and recurrent respiratory tract infections
- Stress and psycho-emotional problems including anxiety and depression
- Addictions
Click on the link to see the complete list of conditions as studied by the WHO_list_conditions_treatable_with_acupuncture
Does acupuncture hurt?
You offer so many services. How do I know what to choose?
What can acupuncture help with?
- Neurological and muscular disorders: headaches, neck and back pain, sports injuries, sciatica, osteoarthritis, neuritis and facial pain, TMJ
- Digestive disorders: irritable bowel, constipation, diarrhea and gastritis
- Menstrual and reproductive problems: dysmenorrhea and perimenopausal symptoms
- Urinary tract disorders: prostatitis and bladder dysfunction, sexual disfunction
- Respiratory problems: sinusitis, asthma, sore throat and recurrent respiratory tract infections
- Stress and psycho-emotional problems including anxiety and depression
- Addictions
For more information on acupuncture and to see the complete list of conditions studied by the WHO click here.
What happens during an acupuncture session?
At subsequent visits we will have a brief talk about how you are feeling, what symptoms you are experiencing and we will decide what we are going to work on for that day. I may ask you to remove some clothing so that I can access the points we need to work on. There will be a sheet to cover up with. Once you are settled on the treatment table I insert your needles, or use whatever other treatment options we have decided on.
I will then give you a few moments to rest while I make notes and I will return and offer Reiki for you for the duration of your treatment. The needles will stay in for approximately 20 minutes. The combination of acupuncture and Reiki is extremely relaxing and soothing and use of the two approaches help to get your energy flowing clearly. This brings the necessary energy, blood, oxygen and healing endorphins to the areas of your body that need healing.
How long does a session take?
I am afraid of needles, but I think I would like to try acupuncture. Will you help me?
We can also work with some of the alternative treatment methods I offer. We can also use acupressure, cupping therapy and Reiki.
Are there any side effects or dangers associated with acupuncture?
These risks are further reduced with the proper training and procedures. My training includes several techniques for safe needling to reduce any possible risk to my clients. I am also trained in clean needle technique to minimize any risk of infection. I will not take any chances with your health. Riskier acupuncture points are simply not used as there are many safer alternatives. If you have any concerns, please discuss them with me. I will be happy to explain how I safeguard your health.
Are you licensed? Are you insured?
Can I use my workplace benefits for acupuncture?
How often do I need to come for treatment?
Some people experience relief after the first treatment and others need to come back weekly or more, for 4 to 6 weeks. Some conditions, such as seasonal allergies, would benefit if the person comes back at least once every 2 to 3 months for a “tune-up” treatment.
These are general guidelines of course. Stubborn issues might require more frequent visits or a longer duration of treatment and other conditions might improve after only 1 or 2 sessions.
What is moxabustion?
What is cupping therapy?
Do you do cosmetic acupuncture?
What is a Reiki session like?
Whenever you feel ready to begin, you will be asked to lie, fully clothed, on a massage table, or sit in a chair. You will be offered a blanket and made warm and comfortable.
I usually start at the ankles and then go to the top of the head and work down, scanning and working with whatever energies I am guided to use.
You will feel a very gentle resting of my hands on your head, face, torso, legs and feet. Sometimes I also work with my hands slightly off of the body.
You may feel warmth, tingling, coolness or sensations of energy moving through your body. You may also see colours or visions, and some people even report hearing sounds like water, birds, voices etc.
You will become very relaxed, almost to the point of falling asleep. (I often have people drift off on my table.)
After a session you may feel very “light”. I always ask people to sit and sip some water before they leave to make sure that they are properly grounded or “back down to earth.”
People will often have incredible bursts of energy following treatments. If they have been experiencing any physical pain it is can be reduced or even eliminated. Some report having deeper more relaxing sleeps after Reiki, and clients will simply feel less stressed and more able to cope with day to day events.
How does Reiki work?
Reiki essentially removes energetic disturbances and boosts you up with energy so your body, mind and spirit, can more efficiently repair and maintain themselves.
What can Reiki help with?
Some clients will have dramatic results, and others will find that they simply feel better. They feel confident and full of life and vitality.
Even if you are already in good health, Reiki can give you energy to spare and feelings of inner peace.
What does “Healing Crisis” mean?
- A physical release could be anything from a headache, diarrhea, skin rash, or tiredness.
- Emotional releases could be old memories surfacing, or unexplained irritability, sadness, or weepiness.
Releasing or Healing Crisis is a GOOD THING! This means that the Reiki is doing its’ job and getting rid of these unhealthy residues.
To support yourself through a releasing time, drink plenty of water to flush toxins from your system. Eat and sleep well, and try to find some quiet time. Don’t worry, releases are usually mild and brief, but if symptoms persist, or if you find them overwhelming, always consult a medical or psychological professional.
Should I stop taking my medicine or treatment after a Reiki session?
Where did Reiki come from?
The Reiki story many know is that Dr. Usui studied for many years looking for a healing system. He was advised by a monk to go to the mountain top to meditate for 21 days. On the morning of the 21st day he was struck in the forehead with a ray of light and was given the Reiki system of healing.
He taught Reiki to others and it has been handed down from Master to Master and has evolved into the modern form of Reiki practiced today.
We now know that there is a more detailed history of Reiki and how Usui created the system. Further down the page you can find a list of reading materials to help you learn more.
Is Reiki a religion? Will it go against my belief system?
Some people do find a sort of “enlightenment” through the practice of Reiki, but these feelings can be integrated with any of your existing practices. For example, I know Christian Reiki practitioners that say they feel closer to God when sending Reiki, and it feels like they are praying for Gods’ love to heal their clients.
Are there any books you would recommend to help me understand more about Reiki and Energy Healing?
* Traditional Reiki for Our Times by Amy Rowland
* Tapestry of Healing by Jeri Mills, MD
* The Spirit of Reiki by William Rand, Frank Petter and Walter Lubeck
* Energy Medicine by Donna Eden
* The Anatomy of the Spirit by Caroline Myss
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