Helena combines acupuncture with associated techniques where appropriate. These are chosen according to your diagnosis and the pattern of imbalance identified, and with your agreement.

These can include:-

• acupuncture
• ear acupuncture
• acupressure and meridian massage
• moxibustion (the use of a gentle warming herb used to stimulate some acupuncture points)
• cupping

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an extremely safe treatment which involves the insertion of fine, sterile, disposable needles into specific acupuncture points to clear energy blockages and encourage the normal flow of Qi (energy) through the body. The Acupuncture points may also be stimulated using other methods of TCM including cupping, moxibustion and massage. Ear acupuncture may also be used.

Cupping

What is Cupping?

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the burning of mugwort, a small, spongy herb, to facilitate healing. Moxibustion has been used in TCM for thousands of years. The purpose of moxibustion, as with most forms of traditional Chinese medicine, is to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of Qi, and maintain general health and balance.

During a moxibustion treatment the practitioner lights one end of a moxa stick, roughly the shape and size of a cigar, and holds it close to the area being treated for several minutes until the area turns red. Another form of moxibustion uses both acupuncture needles and moxa. A needle is inserted into an acupoint and retained. The tip of the needle is then wrapped in moxa and ignited, generating heat to the point and the surrounding area. After the desired effect is achieved, the moxa is extinguished and the needle(s) removed.

“Each treatment is different just as each person is unique”