Based on the popularity and thousands of years of success of this medicine, the intention is to decrease pain, not create it. A hair-thin needle is quickly inserted just below the skin to engage with the body's energy or what we call Qi. That being said, there are sensations very specific to acupuncture that might be felt during a treatment which we will go over before our session begins.

Typically, people will meditate, do some deep breathing, get lost in the music, and eventually fall asleep. We call it an "acu nap". It is always helpful to remember that while you are where you are, there is no place else you need to be.

Occasionally, upon removal of a needle, a point might bleed a few drops or leave a tiny bruise. This might occur when contact is made with a blood vessel. I will apply pressure with a cotton swab for about 3-5 seconds or until the bleeding stops.

Acupuncture is subjective and results vary from person to person. Immediately after a session, people tend to feel relaxed and calm and might sleep really well that night. People might experience a decrease in pain and/or a boost in mood. It greatly depends on the reason for the visit and the treatment plan discussed.

It is recommended that during treatment time, you refrain from distractions of the outside world, allow yourself to slow down, and remember what it feels like to relax.

The tongue is a snapshot of the present internal workings of our body. We use it as a tool to determine the condition of certain organ systems. We look at color, coating, size, and characteristics for insights. There are actually 6 pulses on either wrist that correspond to the organ systems in our body. We look for signs of heat, cold, excess, deficiency, and other characteristics that contribute to the bigger picture.

Traditionally the herb Mugwort, referred to as Moxa, is a weed that is rolled into a cylinder and burned like a cigar. It is held over certain acupuncture points to influence therapeutic effects. Due to the lack of ventilation, the use of Moxa spray is more suitable for an enclosed environment. After the needles are placed in various points, Moxa spray is applied in order to decrease inflammation, circulate the qi, decrease pain, and boost the immune system. The application includes the addition of an infrared heat lamp, which is required to activate the properties of the herb.