For over 30 years we have searched the world and have studied with some of the leading authorities in their fields to provide the most effective and tested alternative therapies to help you to improve your health.
(for more detailed information on each therapy please click on the link).
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive system of medicine based on thousands of years of cross-cultural and knowledge and medical experience of the human body and mind. It is accepted around the world as a safe, effective and holistic alternative or complement to modern western medicine.
All About Balance
The fundamental understanding of TCM is that when the body is in a state of balance you will experience good health. Modern western medicine also has this understanding, and calls this state of balance homeostasis. When the body is out of balance it is then that you will start to experience symptoms of dis-ease. Rather than try to just remove the symptoms of imbalance TCM aims to address the root cause of the condition.
The Energetic Channels
TCM has an understanding the flow of energy, or Qi (pronounced chee), that flows around the body. These channels are understood to be related to the internal organ system as well as the muscles. When the Qi is flowing smoothly and evenly the person experiences good health. When the Qi is disrupted, by, for example, poor diet, trauma, stress, medication, or other factors, the result is pain and illness.
There are a number of different approaches we, as TCM practitioners can use to help redress the imbalances:
Acupuncture is a very effective way to release the energy flow and restore the body to a state of balanced “Qi.” Acupuncture is performed by inserting fine needles into carefully selected points along the body which correspond directly to the energy channels.
When the needle is correctly inserted in the proper location, your body’s energy will actually “grab” the needle and the needle will stand firm. Sometimes you will feel very little, sometimes you will feel a dull sensation, and sometimes you will literally feel an energetic sensation flow briefly through the meridian as a blockage is cleared. You may be surprised at your ability to “sense” the acupuncture working as the Qi starts to move in a more normal and healthy way.
Cupping is an ancient technique practiced in both China and the West. The process traditionally uses glass jars, heated to create a vacuum, and placed on the upper back. In the East this was thought to relieve acute illnesses such as colds and fevers, Cupping can also be done all over the body to invigorate the flow of Qi and was used to help relieve tension and pain. It has also traditionally been used in the West where it was thought to promote detoxification.
If cupping is considered beneficial for your condition, it will be done as part of your acupuncture treatment. You can also come in separately for a cupping treatment if you wish.
There are records of Cosmetic Acupuncture, or Facial Acupuncture, being used in China since the Sung Dynasty (960AD – 1070AD). Although the focus of Cosmetic Acupuncture is on the face, the treatment is a whole body treatment, with the sessions tailored for you as an individual. As well as the using acupuncture we will discuss the other elements that may affect your appearance such as diet, exercise, sleep and stress reduction.
Moxibustion is the burning of Common Chinese Mugwort (commonly called Moxa) to produce a therapeutic effect. Moxa is said to have a warming and strengthening characteristic and when burnt either on the needle or above the skin it is thought to help to increase the Qi and clear cold and excess moisture from the body. As well as using Moxa we also have special heat lamps developed in China that mimic the effects of moxibustion. Most people enjoy this sensation of warmth and find it very relaxing. The heat never gets close enough to the skin to burn.
Moxibustion, or Heat Lamp treatment, where appropriate, is included within an acupuncture session.
Shiatsu is a type of Japanese massage that uses pressure rather than the more common moving techniques of Western massage. The Shiatsu practitioner applies pressure to the acupuncture points and channels using a combination of fingers, palms, elbows and knees. Additionally Shiatsu includes techniques for stretching and mobilising joints, very similar to Thai some of the methods of Thai massage.
Shiatsu has traditionally been used to help a wide range of conditions, and most people find it deeply relaxing and helpful in reducing stress.
Food Intolerance Testing
Food intolerances can be at the root of many health conditions and a simple food intolerance test can give you the knowledge you need to remove foods from your diet that could be damaging your health.
We use We use the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) IgG Blood Test supplied by a leading European Laboratory to test for food sensitivities.
NST – NeuroStructural Integration Technique / Bowen Technique
Bowen Therapy is used to release tensions and stresses in the body’s muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia. During the treatment the practitioner uses fingers and thumbs to find and release these tensions. Bowen Therapy can have a profound effect on both physical and emotional states.
We all know the importance of diet and nutrition in maintaining good health! During your consultation we will look at your diet and make recommendations based on your TCM diagnosis. If appropriate we will also recommend specific nutritional supplements.