Dating back thousands of years, is thought to be one of the oldest forms of medicine in the world. Acupuncture itself involves various techniques of stimulating points on the body. Most commonly used and well known among acupuncture techniques is the penetration of the skin with small, sterile, disposable needles. Stimulating these specific points restores and maintains the balance of the body, mind and emotions.
Cupping involves the use of either a glass or plastic cup in which a vacuum has been produced by either the application of heat or by a pump. When the cup is applied to the skin’s surface the suction created by the vacuum aids in pulling toxic build from the muscle tissue. As pathogenic toxins are released from the underlying tissues and brought to the surface of the skin the body is then able to eliminate them much more efficiently. This also allows fresh, oxygenated blood to circulate more freely and more efficiently nourish the body’s tissues.
Electrical stimulation involves attaching electrical components to some of the acupuncture needles that will be used on your body. By agitating the needles through the electrical current, they can resonate into your tissues and muscles for a deeper treatment. Rather than stimulating the needles by hand, our acupuncturist can control the electrical frequency that is attached to the needles and help to deeply affect your qi and pinpoint your necessary treatment areas.
Herbal Medicine involves herbal remedies which are prescribed based on a client’s Chinese medical diagnosis. The power of an herbal formula lies in the fact that it has been designed specifically for the individual in order to restore health and balance by treating the root of a client’s condition not just masking symptoms. The formula prescribed maybe in the form of a tincture, pill or raw or powdered herb blend which is then prepared as a tea. Herbs are considered to have few or no side effects compared to western pharmaceuticals.
Tui Na is a form of Chinese massage which promotes the circulation of blood and energy. Tui Na involves the practitioner using various body manipulations and movement techniques to alleviate pain and address health issues using pressure on particular acupuncture points.
Gua Sha involves long sweeping strokes along an aspect of the body with a small tool which results in small petechiae called sha. The sha generally fades within 2-3 days after treatment. Gua Sha removes blood stagnation, promotes normal circulation and metabolic processes. Many times the client experiences immediate relief from pain, stiffness, fever, chills, cough, nausea and other forms of inflammation. Gua sha can be used for acute and chronic conditions.
For over half a century, people have been turning to Rolfing for various reasons: relief of chronic/acute pain, poor posture, headaches, improved athletic performance and better balance and mobility. By living in a state of injury or pattern dysfunction, we perpetuate states of discomfort and inherit the belief system that 'everyday pain' is part if life. Rolfing can help to 'reboot' the body, so that it is once again fluid, effective and efficient.