“Everything that appears in the physical realm is always connected with
energy flow at the invisible level.” - Dr. Nan Lu

FOUNDATIONS

Chinese medicine (now mostly known as East Asian medicine) is a comprehensive medical system that dates back to some time between the 15th and the 11th centuries BC. Ancient medical texts describe the medicine as being rooted in the adequate movement of Qì (氣, pronounced “chee”, meaning air or vapor) and Xuè (血, pronounced “shui”, meaning blood).

Writings also expand on one of the most fundamental concepts of East Asian medicine, Yīn (陰, pronounced “in”) and Yáng (陽, pronounced “yong”). They are opposite forces that are in constant dynamic balance. They are mutually interdependent, interconnected, and inter-transforming. “Dis-ease” is understood as a single or combination of, stagnation, deficiency, excess, or disharmony in the movement of Qì or Xuè, which may result in the imbalance of Yīn and Yáng. Thus, in Eastern medicine, illness is understood in a very different way from that of Western medicine.

EAST VS. WEST

The understandings of anatomy, physiology, and pathology, as well as diagnosis and treatment methods have evolved in different manners in the East compared to the West. Over millennia, East Asian medicine became a highly elaborate medical system, with its own health and illness concepts. Instead of using modern technology, East Asian medicine uses tongue, pulse, observation, interviewing, and palpation as diagnostic tools.

As opposed to a “one-size-fits-most” approach, each practitioner develops an individualized treatment for the patient in front of them, that day. Patients presenting with similar symptoms may not be treated the same, and patients treated similarly may not present with the same symptoms. In East Asian medicine, a whole-body, constitutional approach is held for each patient seeking care.

ACUPUNCTURE & CHINESE MEDICINE

The practice of acupuncture is probably the most recognized treatment modality of East Asian medicine in the West. It consists of the insertion of very fine, sterile, and single-use needles, in specific acupuncture points on the body. A regular treatment may include front and/or back treatment, as well as ear, scalp, and facial acupuncture.

There are hundreds, if not thousands of acupuncture points, each with their own functions and linking organ systems. These have been thoroughly documented in medical historical texts that are still being adapted and translated for learning purposes today.

Needles are inserted in the body, to assist in rebalancing meridian/channel disharmonies, in hopes of restoring health. The points are chosen according to the current diagnosis established during the patient interview. You will most likely receive a different treatment at every appointment, as you likely have changed since your last session!

East Asian medicine treats a variety of ailments ranging from acute and chronic pain to anxiety, menstrual abnormalities, acne, depression, sleep issues, digestive concerns, reproductive health (women & men), dermatology, and so much more! Read more about what East Asian medicine can address here. Feel free to communicate any other concerns during appointments, as East Asian medicine sees the body as an interconnected system and not distinct individual parts. I will find a way to help you or refer you to the right practitioner who can do so!

While acupuncture is well known in the West, it is only one of many treatment modalities used in the East Asian medical system. Sessions may also include herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, moxibustion (moxa), massage therapy, TCM food and lifestyle therapies, as well as Qì and energy based practices.

As a practitioner with a background in other forms of therapies, I may also incorporate various elements of modern practices during your session. This may include individualized herbal skincare, movement therapy, as well as breathwork.

Ancient healing practices, like East Asian medicine, facilitate harmony throughout the body. They restore health and balance within various bodily systems, allowing you to increase your sense of wholeness and wellbeing.

Start your healing journey today!