Acupuncture is an ancient healing method developed by the Chinese over thousands of years. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), all health problems (including emotional problems) arise from an imbalance in the flow of Qi (life energy). By inserting fine needles into specific points along meridians (energy pathways) throughout the body, balance can be restored and disease can be alleviated.

After a diagnosis is performed according to the principles of TCM, acupoints are selected for needling and stimulated appropriately. This process shifts the flow of qi and blood in the patient while they rest during the treatment. The readjustment of qi regulates the body’s function, promotes healing, and eliminates disease. Some conditions require more than one course of therapy in order to achieve this balance.

Although western medicine cannot explain exactly how it works, acupuncture can reduce inflammation, stimulate the immune and nervous systems, increase endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers), and improve blood circulation, which may promote the healing process and reduce pain. Scientific research is currently being done by the National Institute of Health (and other reputable institutions) on TCM and its impact on various health issues, such as arthritis, nausea, toothache, low back pain, and so on.

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that helps generate new collagen and skin tissue. A device with tiny oscillating needles pricks the top layer of skin and penetrates topically applied hyaluronic acid and serums into the underlying layers. As the skin heals, a process called "dermal remodeling" takes place, which stimulates the fibroblasts that help to initiate collagen, elastin, and other skin fibers This gives the skin a more toned, firm, smooth, and youthful appearance. While it is mostly used on the face for its anti-aging effects, it may also be applied on scars, specific wrinkles, enlarged pores, acne, hair loss, stretch marks, and more.

Constitutional Facial Acupuncture (CFA) is a method of stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities to achieve internal health and facial rejuvenation. It involves a combination of Chinese, Japanese, and French acupuncture styles. After the body is needled to address the constitutional needs of the patient, a customized facial protocol is applied. This protocol is developed based on the health and appearance of the patient and their desired results. A CFA treatment involves a combination of facial acupuncture, Chinese herbal poultices and creams, microcurrent stimulation, acupressure & massage and heat/cold therapy. It increases blood circulation, collagen production and muscle tone, and it can lift the face and diminish wrinkles.

Another ancient Chinese healing modality, herbal medicine has been effectively used for thousands of years to treat a broad spectrum of health conditions. Two or more herbs are combined to address specific diseases, based on a TCM diagnosis. Their subtle synergistic effects are remarkable and have fewer side effects than Western drugs, which makes them appealing to many people. They may be administered as teas, pills, capsules, tinctures, or applied topically.

Tui na is a deep penetrating massage that regulates the body’s imbalances, improves the circulation of Qi and blood and has a therapeutic effect on bones, joints, tendons and soft tissues. Various techniques are used (including acupressure) on the different areas of the body to elicit this effect.

Qi Gong is an ancient practice developed by the Chinese to cultivate and regulate qi, or life energy. Through Qi Gong breathing exercises, movement or quiet meditation, the mind becomes clear and relaxed and the body’s internal environment becomes regulated appropriately. There are many different types of Qi Gong; medical Qi Gong involves specific exercises for illnesses, which may be taught and prescribed for a patient by a Qi Gong therapist. With proper practice, Qi Gong can eliminate disease, restore and strengthen the body’s constitution, relax the mind, enhance the intellect, promote longevity, and improve the quality of life.

Qi healing is an extension of Qi Gong. It is a form of “energy work” which is in accord with the principles of Chinese medicine. Qi healers learn this technique through studying with a Qi Gong master and cultivating their skills over years of meditation practice. Using Qi, the practitioner senses any imbalances that exist in the patient, and then alleviates these disharmonies without touching them physically.