tcm bodywork & supportive therapies

In addition to needling, we can use a combination of Acupressure, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, gua sha (the rubbing of a smooth jade stone to stimulate qi and bloodflow) and energy work (reiki, qi gong) to support you where you are at. These modalities are available in addition or as an alternative to needling.

Acupressure is the application of strong, deep, mindful pressure on specific acu-points. This modality of therapeutic touch unwinds deeply held tension and provides a gentle method of physical, mental, emotional release along with deeply relaxing and regulating the nervous system.

Tui Na Massage is a system of traditional Chinese massage and manual manipulation techniques designed to relax the muscles, relieve pain and stimulate harmonious Qi and Blood flow throughout the body, and is used along with intuitive techniques.

Cupping or Fire Cupping is the use of specialized glass cups to induce suction & bloodflow to specific areas on the body, mainly on the back. It’s sometimes called a “reverse massage” - it creates a negative pressure between the cup and the skin, allowing for fluid to move through fascia, the matrix connecting all of our muscles together. Its function is to move stagnant Qi and Blood, which become stagnated due to injuries, holding patterns and other various ailments. Cupping is also used to release heat and toxins from the exterior layer of the body (known as the Wei or protective layer) and can be helpful for acute cold/flu symptoms, or just before a cold is coming on, by stimulating an immune system response. It’s common to have red/purple spots for a few days where the cups were placed.

Gua Sha is the use of a smooth Jade stone to stimulate bloodflow in targeted areas, including the face, neck, arms, legs, or any area that requires attention. It can be extremely helpful for relieving pain and impaired mobility that is due to injury or mobility issues. It promotes healthy circulation and stimulates the body’s natural healing response and immune system.

Moxibustion (灸, jiu) is the burning of the herb Mugwort (artemisia vulgaris/ai ye) to stimulate warmth and circulation through infrared heat to acupuncture points, and infuse the medicinal properties of this powerful herb through its smoke. It is used to warm and clear the channels of stagnant Qi.

Shi Liao is the TCM branch of Nutritional Therapy and is an elegant system of approaching foods as medicine. Foods, as well as herbs, are divided into energetic categories: hot/cold, warm/cool, dampening/drying, yin/yang etc. Which foods are best suited for you are unique to your body, your energy, your constitution. Together in a compassionate way we can find ways to support your daily routine with foods that nourish your most vibrant alignment.