An ancient approach to health care
Classical texts spanning back 2000 years combined with growing modern studies have proven how the insertion of fine needles along the body’s natural pathways can have a profound healing effect against disease. Through a combination of techniques, and with a 5 Element focus, acupuncture treatment can get to the root cause of illness, gently encouraging Blood and Qi to circulate and ultimately bringing you back into balance.
The aim for every treatment is to remove blockages in the natural healing response, and to encourage the body to work effectively at nurturing itself.
A Storehouse in Acupuncture is a point that describes a space of safety. It reflects the wisdom of the body to gather, preserve, and nourish — reminding us that true strength comes from balance, preparation, and inner abundance.
Facial Acupuncture
Facial Enhancement Acupuncture is the insertion of small needles into muscles and acupuncture points in the head, neck and face to promote Qi and Blood flow.
This relaxing practice encourages collagen production as well as smoothing out skin texture, boosting elasticity, brightening the eyes, minimising scarring and acne, reducing sagging, swelling, puffiness and improving skin tone such as dullness or discolouration. Using incredibly small micro needles, this technique can also focus on minimising the appearance of fine lines around areas of the eyes, forehead, mouth, cheek and chin.
In tandem with the Five Element approach, during a facial enhancement acupuncture treatment, other points on the body are needled to ground the treatment. The practice allows other health complaints to be addressed at the same time. This often leaves the patient with feelings of overall improved wellbeing, better sleep, more energy and improved resilience.
Treatments usually conclude with application of gentle serums or oils based on your skin type and a 10 minute facial massage with gua sha or using small cups. I also offer facial yoga and facia release exercises you can introduce to your skincare routine at home. 6-10 treatments are advised for long lasting luminosity on a fortnightly basis.
FAQs
What happens during an acupuncture treatment?
During your first acupuncture treatment we will have a thorough discussion where I will ask you specific questions about your health and lifestyle. Some of the questions might not seem relevant for the condition you are coming in for, however they are fundamental in building a diagnosis. This will be followed by a physical examination where I will look at your tongue, take your pulses, take your blood pressure, feel your abdomen and potentially feel different channels in your body.
After this, we will have your first treatment. Depending on my diagnosis of you, needles may be left in or inserted and immediately taken out, and I will monitor your pulses through out the treatment.
How many treatments do I need?
Acupuncture is an entirely individual experience and differs for everyone and you can visit your acupuncturist for the same reasons you might visit the GP. Depending on how deep set your condition is, it may require more treatments close together, or less. To begin with I always recommend 5 weekly treatments to gage how your body is responding to treatment and to build a full treatment plan.
The aim of acupuncture is to prevent disease, so most long term patients who are well will still come for acupuncture seasonally for a check over and a boost.
If you are coming for fertility, I treat at any stage, however my advice is always for men and women to come for treatment at least 3 months before starting IVF. Three month preparation is important for optimal impact on egg quality, hormone balance and sperm health.
What do I need to do before or after an acupuncture treatment?
It’s good to have a light meal an hour or so before acupuncture and also to wear loose clothing, although there is commonly a reason to undress if I need to access a point in a location that is hidden underneath.
After acupuncture, it’s best to keep hydrated and stay away from alcohol or stimulants such as coffee as this can sometimes oppose the effects of the treatment.
What will I feel and are there any side effects?
Everyone feels it slightly differently, sometimes in the areas around where the needles are placed you can feel a heaviness, a pressure or a sensation somewhere else in your body. The insertion of the needle can often feel like a very slight scratch. During treatment many people feel a sense of calm and relaxation and sometimes there can be an emotional release. Some people can feel a bit spacey after treatment, this doesn’t last long and if you have driven to your appointment you might just need to wait for 10 minutes before you drive. Rare occasions the needles can leave bruises but they are usually very small and quickly go.
If using cupping or gua sha, there is often bruising or redness seen on the skin called petechiae which is a sign of stagnation in the body that has been released. This should be covered from sun, wind, cold until it has gone down which is usually within 2-5 days.
Are there any reasons I can’t have an acupuncture treatment?
No, we are trained to deal with a wide range of health conditions and so, while we may advise you see another health professional along side treatment (e.g. GP, Osteopathy, Herbalist etc.) we will be able to treat you.
Is Acupuncture safe during pregnancy?
Yes! Acupuncture is very safe during pregnancy as it is a gentle but effective treatment. It can help especially with symptoms such as back pain, sickness, low mood, high blood pressure and UTIs. It can also be very effective for preparing you for birth, for turning breech babies and for induction.