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
- Auricular (or Ear) Acupuncture 耳針: the insertion of tiny, single-use, disposable stainless steel needles into the outer ears for therapeutic purposes. Ear points are special!
- Chinese herbal medicine 草藥: I prescribe herbal medicine in the following forms: patent medicine (pills and tablets), granules (pre-decocted single herbs 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)
- Moxibustion 艾灸: using heat from the burning of Chinese Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris near (indirect moxa) or on the skin (Okyu 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. Feels so freeing between the shoulder blades, and wonderful when treating the early stages of flu and other seasonal infectious diseases
- 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 I didn’t learn this as 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 and other stuck energy from traumas. From concussions to dental works, to 40 years old tailbone injury, the gentle hold and attentive “listening” (with our hands) can dissolve the tension held in our tissues. It can calm down the sympathetic nervous system, help us resolve traumas, and strengthen our Will to thrive and flourish.
- Craniosacral Therapy: practiced from the biodynamic perspective 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.
While herbs taken at therapeutic level can change one’s physiology, flower essences 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.
If you have specific questions about how Chinese medicine can support and improve your well-being, please don’t hesitate to reach out directly.
Pathfinder Healing Practices • 240 N Court Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701 • (520) 333-2628