Our treatments

Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile, single-use needles at specific points on the skin. In TCM theory these points lie along pathways called meridians, through which Qi (vital energy) flows, linking the internal organs.

Imbalance or obstruction in this flow is considered to underlie ill health, and acupuncture aims to restore its normal movement. The practice is thought to have originated in China several thousand years ago, and has also developed in Japan, Korea and Tibet.

Chinese cupping

Cupping uses glass cups, warmed briefly to create a vacuum, which are placed on the skin. The gentle suction lifts the skin and underlying tissue into the cup.

It is traditionally used to encourage circulation, relieve muscular aches and help the body relax.

Chinese herbal medicine

Chinese herbal medicine combines natural ingredients, mainly from plants, into a formula designed to correct patterns of disharmony. A core set of herbs addresses the main complaint, with others added to suit your individual constitution.

Formulas are reviewed and adjusted as your condition changes. Please tell us about any medication you are taking so that we can take it into account.

Tui Na massage

Tui Na is a Chinese therapeutic massage using techniques such as pressing, kneading and tapping, mainly with the fingers and hands. Like acupuncture, it works with the meridian system and aims to bring the body back into balance.

It is commonly used for muscle and joint problems and injuries, and can be either calming or invigorating depending on the techniques used.

Chinese food therapy

In Chinese and other East Asian cultures, food has long been regarded as a form of medicine. Foods are classified by their observed effects — for example, whether they are warming or cooling — and the ideal diet brings Yin and Yang into balance.

Following your consultation, we can suggest dietary changes that suit your constitution and help support your treatment.

Nutritional medicine

Food provides the energy and nutrients we need to stay well. Stress, a poor diet and some health conditions can leave us short of essential vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional medicine uses vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc and iron, as a complement to a balanced diet.

Therapeutic exercise

Gentle, regular exercise supports circulation, strengthens the heart and lungs and helps relieve stress. Where appropriate, we may recommend simple exercises to continue at home between sessions.