Treatment Modalities

What is Acupuncture, Moxa and Gua Sha?

Since time forgotten, several modalities have been discovered and refined through the ages that have proven to be very effective in regulating the energy flow of the individual. For those who are curious about Chinese medicine, the following definitions will be helpful during your visit on this site.

  • Acupuncture 針灸: the insertion of tiny, single-use, disposable stainless steel needles into specific locations (acupuncture points) on the body for therapeutic purposes
  • Chinese herbal medicine 草藥: I prescribe herbal medicine in the following forms: patent medicine (in pill or capsule), granules (pre-decocted herbal medicine in powder form that can be reconstituted by adding hot water), and raw herbs (for those who are more hands-on and delighted by the earthy smell of herbal goodness)
Pathfinder Healing pharmacy photo by Leslie Yerman
Photo by Leslie J. Yerman
  • Moxibustion 艾灸: using heat from the burning of Chinese Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris near (indirect moxa) or on the skin (direct moxa) to dispel cold, stimulate the flow of blood and facilitate healing.
  • Cupping 拔罐: vacuum glass cups being applied to the skin to create suction as a way of stimulating the flow of energy and blood.
  • Gua Sha 刮痧: Chinese medical treatment in which the skin is scraped to produce light bruising. Gua sha releases unhealthy elements from injured areas and stimulates blood flow and healing.
  • Tui Na 推拿: literally means “push and grasp”; it is a form of manual therapy that by itself can treat a wide variety of both external and internal issues. It is performed without disrobement.

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Although this is not a Chinese medicine modality, I practice craniosacral therapy because it is a powerful and wonderful treatment that helps our body transmute and release the shock from traumas of various levels. From concussions to dental works, it gently dissolves the tension held in our tissues and nervous system, and strengthens our Will to flourish once more.

  • Craniosacral Therapy: practiced from the biodynamic perspective, it is a light contact therapy that invites the body to self-correct through skilled touch, conscious presence, deep stillness, and a working knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and embryological development. In this modality, we invite Deep Healing to unfold through listening with our hands and heart. It is performed without disrobement.

What is Flower Essence?

Flower essence is a very diluted flower tea that one can take internally, or apply externally as a mist or add to bathwater, for instance. It does not alter the physical function of the body but rather help the user become more aware of what’s happening inside of oneself.

Just like in classical herbal medicine, empirical evidence informs us the medicinal quality of different plants and the dis-eases that they can cure. The flower of different plants also carries distinct energetic quality that can support us in addressing a wide scope of emotional issues, which can help us relate and and fare better with each other and more importantly, with our own self.

Flower essence is a gentle, direct and subtle ally for those who are interested in working on themselves to heal, to grow, and ultimately, to expand one’s consciousness. One Consciousness.

Pathfinder Healing Practices • 240 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 • (520) 333-2628