TREATMENTS
ACUPUNCTURE
Once a diagnosis has been made through careful, thorough
observation and questioning, a selection of points are
used (anything from 3 to 20). For those new to acupuncture,
the first session usually helps disperse any fears.
Expectations are varied but generally there can be a
fear of pain which is quickly diminished as the needles
are inserted. Initially you may feel a tingle, a slight
ache or feeling of heaviness but this quickly passes
leaving you with a sense of relaxation. Depending on
your condition you may need anything from 3 to 12 treatments
and maintaining your well-being might mean that regular
monthly sessions are beneficial to you. Generally I
like to start with 3 weekly sessions allowing an outcome
without any strong commitment on your part and reviewing
the situation after that time.
CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE
Chinese herbal Medicine has stood the test of time with
an unbroken tradition going as far back as the 3rd century
BC. In China the herbalists are held in very high esteem
and are well respected for their knowledge and skills.
They often specialise in one particular area. Dosages
given here are half as much as in China. This reflects
the differences in constitution and temperament in my
opinion. On the whole the Chinese like strong treatments
and a direct approach and we are more subtle, needing
a less stimulating reaction. We are also not so used
to taking herbal treatment and so smaller dosages may
indicate an initial sensitivity to something unusual.
The results are equally very successful, however.
How the herbs are administered: Once a diagnosis
has been made (through questioning, pulse taking and
analysis of the tongue) herbs are administered either
along with acupuncture or on their own although I personally
prefer to use some acupuncture first as the outcome
of that can help me to refine my thoughts on which formula
would work best. Generally I use powered herbs which
are very easy to take. Just a teaspoon of the powder
mixed with hot water taken twice a day. The taste can
be a bit off putting at first but that is mainly because
they are something unusual. None of the herbs I use
contain any animal products or endangered plants. The
Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (of whom I am a
full member) has a good website which might be worth
a visit if you have any doubts or questions. www.rchm.co.uk
MOXIBUSTION
Often during acupuncture treatment moxa is used as well.
It is made from the herb “mugwort” or its
other name “motherwort” and is applied externally.
The heat when it is lit can be helpful with some arthritic
conditions or otherwise cold and damp internal conditions
in the body.
ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE
Acupressure massage is often used prior to acupuncture
but for some who really have a fear of needles it can
constitute the whole treatment and be reasonably effective.
I find it a useful way to help relax and refine diagnosis.
Instead of needles, pressure is applied with the fingers,
a safe and useful treatment for babies and young children
and something you can learn to do for yourself or your
child.
REFLEXOLOGY AND AURICULAR ACUPUNCTURE
Pressure applied to the feet, hands and ears can have
an effect on the whole body and it is a useful way to
affirm diagnosis, relax the client and in some cases
help with addictions. Ear acupuncture is becoming increasingly
popular to help overcome the addiction of smoking.
DIETARY AND LIFESTYLE ADVICE
Different seasons bring their own strengths and weaknesses
which affect our health and how we feel. It is useful
to know what foods are most beneficial for the season
and for your own condition. If you are prone to feeling
the cold, for example, foods which are energetically
warm can be of help and this knowledge can help you
to help yourself long after your treatment.
FACIAL REVITALIZATION
Facial revitalization has an interesting history and
dates back to the Song dynasty (960 1279AD) China when
effective treatments were used to beautify the concubines
helping them to prolong their looks for as long as possible.
In modern times it is used to revitalize and relax the
face and it can literally take years off. It can minimalise
lines, sooth tension from tight facial muscles, reduce
puffiness and generally tone and tighten the whole face
giving it a glow of good health. It can have an amazing
effect on your overall complexion and is especially
good for dispelling any redness and blemishes. An added
bonus is that it helps the rest of you as well and is
used as a diagnostic map. Dark circles under the eyes
can indicate your reserves of energy are low, for example,
so additional body points are also used and/or herbs
which help to clear the dark circles by treating the
underlying cause. It encourages beauty from the inside
out which so often is just simply being healthy.
If you would like further information I can send you
a leaflet on request.
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