Acupuncture
Acupuncture works on the parasympathetic nervous system, stimulating our “rest and digest” state. The other side of that coin, the sympathetic nervous system, governs “fight or flight”. Overly stimulated sympathetic nervous system activity, as seen with heightened emotional, physical, or environmental stressors, is associated with numerous chronic health issues.
Acupuncture originated in China approximately 3,500 years ago and remains one of the oldest, most commonly used systems of healing in the world. Modern research has begun to demonstrate some of the mechanisms explaining its effectiveness.
Acupuncture treatments support your body’s innate wisdom in returning to a state of balance. At Open Space our board certified acupuncturists use a gentle, effective technique to promote circulation, decrease inflammation, and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
The World Health Organization lists the following symptoms, diseases, and conditions as treatable by acupuncture:
Digestive
Abdominal Pain
Constipation
Diarrhea
Indigestion
Respiratory
Asthma, Bronchitis
Common Cold, Sinusitis
Smoking Cessation
Tonsilitis
Neurological
Headaches
Migraines
Neurogenic Bladder
Dysfunction
Parkinson’s Disease
Post-Operative Pain
Stroke
Miscellaneous
Addiction Control
Athletic Performance
Blood Pressure Regulation
Chronic Fatigue
Immune System Toning
Stress Reduction
Musculo-Skeletal
Arthritis
Back Pain
Neck Pain
Muscle Pain
Muscle Weakness
Muscle Cramping
Sciatica
Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat
Cataracts
Poor Vision
Toothache
Gingivitis
Tinnitus
Emotional
Anxiety
Depression
Insomnia
Nervousness
Neurosis
Gynecological
Premenstrual
Syndrome
Menopausal Symptoms
Infertility
Chinese Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine has been used for centuries in China and across the world to address both acute and chronic conditions, as well as maintain health and promote longevity. As with your acupuncture treatments, we will choose an herbal formula specifically tailored to your individual health presentation and goals. In most cases, herbs will be prescribed to help increase the effectiveness of the acupuncture treatment, and to extend its actions.
Cupping
Cupping therapy uses glass cups & fire to create a negative pressure suction on the skin and muscle layers. This technique can improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, decrease pain by stretching muscles and connective tissue, and aid the body with detox.
Tui Na
Tui Na (twee nah) is a form of bodywork with similar elements to a conventional massage, but also incorporates acupressure, body manipulation, and organ manipulation. Tui Na is used in combination with acupuncture and other techniques for a variety of ailments, including chronic and acute pain, digestive issues, sciatica, muscle spasm, and insomnia.
Just as western massage helps to ease stress, Tui Na helps to balance the body’s energy and promote parasympathetic nervous system activity, putting your body in an ideal state to heal.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion (“moxa”) is a technique in which dried mugwort (Ai ye) is burned on or near the surface of the skin. Where acupuncture is used to manipulate the qi of the body, moxibustion can actually add qi. It is used to help strengthen the immune system, warm the body, promote circulation and stop pain. In our practice, we often use moxa to treat menstrual pain or irregular periods, and to turn breech babies.
Cosmetic Acupuncture & Microneedling
Cosmetic facial acupuncture has been used for thousands of years in China, and recently has gained traction worldwide as an alternative to botox or cosmetic surgical procedures.
This technique uses very fine needles on the face and body to stimulate collagen production, increase circulation, soften wrinkles and fine lines, and even skin tone and texture. Collagen and elastin production, both of which naturally deplete with age, are promoted during a facial acupuncture treatment.
Cosmetic acupuncture is most effective when treatments are received once or twice weekly for 5-10 weeks. Our cosmetic sessions include the option for intra-oral (buccal) massage, which benefits jaw tension and tight muscles of the face.
Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, uses a device with thin needle tips to puncture the skin on the face, neck and head. Some benefits include: reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; scar, acne, and sun damage treatment; improved skin texture and elasticity; hyperpigmentation treatment; and thinning hair or hair loss.
Virtual Consultations
This offering is available for non-local clients who are interested in working with us. A full intake session is required, in which we will discuss health concerns, health history, goals, and more. These sessions include extensive follow-up on lifestyle, nutrition, herbal medicine, and breathwork. Virtual consultations may include: DUTCH Hormone Testing, HTMA, and comprehensive bloodwork.