The Chi, or Life Force Energy, flows to everywhere in the body-mind-spirit. From the superficial level at the skin, at the meridian level, the Chi then flows deeper into the body to the organs. Then that same Chi continues to flow back to another meridian, which in turn flows deep again, to feed another organ. In this way everything in the body-mind-spirit is literally connected. We can treat the ‘whole person’ through this connected system of energy flow throughout the body.

Your initial treatment is a time to get to know you and your concerns. This includes a thorough intake evaluation covering your medical and personal history, a Chinese Medicine evaluation and diagnosis, and your first Acupuncture treatment.

Treatment includes a traditional pulse and tongue examination and diagnosis, examining meridian energy flows, treating acupuncture points to balance the meridian flow, address symptoms, and support your constitutional energy. Treatments may also include acupressure and moxibustion.

We will discuss your diagnosis, you can ask all your questions, and I will offer you a treatment plan.

The Life Force Energy or Chi flows in pathways called meridians, that correspond to each organ of the body. Along these meridians at the surface of the skin are acupuncture points that function to move the Chi in specific ways. When these points are contacted, through the use of an acupuncture needle, the Chi moves, and we are able to support and restore the balance and flow of energy in the body. When the person’s own Chi is flowing properly the body’s inherent healing capacity is restored. Symptoms begin to resolve, and there is movement toward greater health and well-being.

A central part of Acupuncture is taking the pulses on the wrists of both hands. There are six positions on each hand, which correspond to the twelve meridians and the organs of the body. The pulses provide essential information about the quantity and quality of the Chi flowing in the meridians and to the organs.

Moxibustion is also part of Chinese medicine. Moxa is made from mugwort leaves (Artemisia vulgaris). The moxa cone is placed directly on the acupuncture point, on the skin. The moxa is lit and as it burns slowly, the heat permeates the acupuncture point, warming the Chi and supporting the energy flow of the blood. It has a strengthening effect that magnifies the benefit of treatment.