Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic approach designed to address a wide range of physical, emotional, and psychological issues. It focuses on promoting, maintaining, and restoring health by encouraging a smooth and balanced flow of energy throughout the body, known as Qi (pronounced "chi"). When this energy flow gets blocked—whether due to stress, trauma, a poor diet, or other factors—it can lead to pain or illness. TCM offers a range of treatments, including acupuncture and herbal remedies, to help you feel your best and support your overall well-being.

Acupuncture is a therapy that has been practiced for over 5,000 years in China. It works by stimulating the body to naturally restore balance to the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee"). This is achieved by inserting ultra-fine, disposable needles into the skin at specific points on the body. These acupuncture points are linked to energy pathways, known as meridians, that extend throughout the body. Additionally, these points correspond to specific internal organs. The oldest known text on acupuncture is the "Nei Jing," or "Classic of Internal Medicine," which dates back to between 2697 and 2596 BC.

A question that many people have about acupuncture is, “Does it hurt?” The great news is that most patients find the treatments to be very relaxing and typically feel little to no pain at all! Sometimes, you might feel a tiny pinch when the needle goes in, but that sensation usually fades away quickly. Once your Qi is activated, you may notice a gentle ache or a tingling feeling. For most people, these sensations are mild and completely normal.

Absolutely! Acupuncture is wonderful for people of all ages, from kids to seniors. Some folks choose it as an alternative to Western medicine, while others use it to complement their current treatments. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) teaches us that acupuncture isn’t just for when we’re feeling unwell—it can also help prevent health issues down the line. Many people discover that acupuncture and herbal remedies are fantastic ways to stay healthy and balanced in their daily lives. Plus, seasonal "tune-ups" and stress-reducing acupuncture sessions are highly recommended for a little extra wellness!

Studies show that our bodies respond positively by releasing endorphins—those natural pain relievers—boosting blood cell counts, and strengthening the immune system. Acupuncture is a wonderful method that helps our bodies promote healing. It works by balancing our overall energy, helping us to feel our best and regain well-being!

Have you ever heard of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)? It's a fantastic natural healthcare system that includes acupuncture, herbal remedies, nutrition, and practices like Qi Gong. While many people associate acupuncture with China, it’s also practiced in Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Europe, each region bringing its unique twist. Japanese acupuncture, for instance, focuses on gentle needle techniques that aim to minimize any discomfort. As Jennifer’s teacher, Koji Ichihashi, wisely put it, “If a patient has pain, do not cause them any more pain.” Now, let’s talk about “Hara.” In Japanese, it means abdomen. Hara Diagnosis is a fascinating practice where we gently palpate the abdomen to find any imbalances in the organ systems. If you think about your doctor checking your abdomen for soreness or other issues in Western medicine, it’s similar! In TCM and Japanese acupuncture, we use this gentle touch not just to diagnose but also to quickly understand how well our treatments are working. It’s all about making you feel better!

Chinese medicinal herbs are a wonderful complement to acupuncture treatments! You can enjoy these herbs in the form of tasty medicinal teas or convenient capsules. Sometimes, a special formula is recommended to help keep the benefits of acupuncture going even longer between your visits. Just like acupuncture, these herbal formulas can help with various symptoms while encouraging your body to heal naturally. They’re great for strengthening your constitution, easing cold and flu symptoms, and finding relief from constipation. If you’re curious about whether a specific herbal formula could help with your situation, just ask Jennifer—she’s happy to help!

The strength of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) lies in its holistic approach to health. During your visit, we will begin with a thorough review of your personal and family health history. We’ll also discuss your lifestyle and habits related to overall well-being. This information, combined with an assessment of your pulses and tongue condition, forms the basis for a TCM diagnosis and treatment plan. Typically, patients start with weekly treatments, which are gradually reduced in frequency as their conditions improve. Some acute conditions may require fewer than five sessions for effective treatment. Generally, acupuncture has a cumulative effect, with each session building upon the previous ones. Jennifer encourages patients to take an active role in their healing process by addressing dietary and herbal needs, as well as practicing relaxation techniques.

• We're excited to see you! Before your treatment, we’ll take some time to chat about your health history and current situation. To make things easier, it’s a good idea to fill out your forms ahead of time.

• Dress comfortably in loose-fitting clothes that you can easily roll up above your elbows and knees. Some folks like to bring a pair of shorts to change into, but don’t worry— we have plenty of cozy sheets to keep you draped and comfortable.

• Make sure to enjoy a light meal a few hours before your visit. It’s best not to overeat right before your treatment to keep you feeling great!

• We also recommend avoiding coffee and especially alcohol beforehand, as they can affect the results of your cosmetic treatment. It’s a good idea to keep this in mind afterward too!

• For your wellbeing, try to avoid any strenuous exercise two hours before and after your treatment.

• When you step into the treatment room, please put your cell phone on airplane mode or turn it off. This will help avoid any electromagnetic interference that could disrupt the healing process. You might want to do the same at home during your sleep.

• And most importantly, don’t rush! Feel free to arrive a bit early, enjoy a refreshing glass of spa water, and unwind for a few moments before your treatment begins.

• Also, think about scheduling your appointment so you have plenty of time to get to your next event or simply relax at home afterward. We can’t wait to help you feel your best!

In November 2007, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) formally endorsed acupuncture, recognizing it as an effective treatment for postoperative pain and nausea related to pregnancy and chemotherapy. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is also frequently used to address a variety of common conditions, including:

• Allergies and asthma

• Anxiety and depression

• Arthritis and joint problems

• Back pain

• Bladder and kidney problems

• Colds and influenza

• Constipation and diarrhea

• Dizziness

• Effects of chemotherapy

• Fatigue

• Gastrointestinal disorders

• Gynecological concerns

• Headaches and migraines

• Heart palpitations

• High blood pressure

• Weakened immune system

• Insomnia

• Menopausal symptoms

• Neck pain and stiffness

• Premenstrual syndrome

• Sexual health issues

• Skin concerns

• Stress and tension

• Tendinitis

With the help of acupuncture and TCM, many people find relief from these conditions, leading to a happier, healthier life. If you have any of these concerns, it might be worth exploring these treatments!