ACUPUNCTURE

 

The ancient healing art of acupuncture is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, which itself originated in China over 3000 years ago. It is a testament to its efficacy as a method of healing that it is still used today and has a place in our modern society. Disease or disharmony occurs in the body when there is an imbalance or blockage of vital energy or Qi (pronounced “chi”) in the body, and the main purpose of acupuncture is to address these imbalances, thus allowing the Qi to circulate freely and facilitate healing. A network of energetic pathways known as meridians traverse the body from head to toe and circulate Qi throughout the body. Acupuncture involves the insertion of ultra fine disposable stainless steel needles into specific points along these meridians to access the Qi and correct the imbalances.

Contrary to popular belief, acupuncture is useful for treating more than just musculoskeletal problems, and has a wide range of applications. Acupuncture has been proven as an effective treatment for the following conditions: chronic and acute neck and back pain, tennis elbow, sciatica, sprains, sports injuries, migraines, hayfever, asthma, high blood pressure, stress, depression, anxiety, insomnia, dental pain, TMJ syndrome, arthritis, osteoarthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal disorders, morning sickness, gynaecological problems and fertility issues.

 

CUPPING

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The healing modality of cupping therapy has been widespread in both Eastern and Western healing traditions for over 3000 years. Monisha often utilises this method as an adjunct to acupuncture. The technique involves placing glass cups on the body and creating a vacuum. The suction has the effect of breaking up stagnation and enhancing the circulation of lymph and blood, relieving sore and tight muscles, clearing toxins, and soothing the nervous system, Cupping can also be beneficial in the treatment of several other conditions including the common cold, allergies, migraines, stress, anxiety, insomnia, high blood pressure, digestive disorders, and even cellulite. Sliding cups is another method of cupping where oil is applied to the skin allowing the cups to be moved along the body, creating a deep tissue suction massage. Cupping may leave tell tale marks on the body resembling bruising, however these marks are not painful and should resolve within a few days.

 

 

MOXIBUSTION

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Moxibustion (commonly referred to as “moxa”) is a branch of TCM that involves safely burning the dried leaf of the herb Mugwort on acupuncture points, along the meridians, or around specific areas of the body. The technique involves lighting a moxa stick, which has the appearance of cigar, and holding the smoldering end close to or moving it around the area being treated. The skin will redden slightly, and the client will feel a pleasant warming sensation, which will often radiate along the meridian. Other methods of moxibustion involve placing lit moxa on the head of an acupuncture needle, or burning it on top of ginger, garlic, or salt. The intention behind moxibustion is to create warmth and invigorate the flow of Qi in the body, thus bringing the system back into balance. Moxibustion therapy is usually utilised in conjunction with acupuncture, and has been proven to be effective for treating a wide range of conditions including headaches, migraines, back pain, muscle stiffness, arthritis, tendonitis, digestive disorders, gynaecological problems, infertility, and most famously, for turning over breech babies in the womb.

 

QIGONG

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Qigong (pronounced “chi-gong”) is an ancient Chinese form exercise.There are three main categories of Qigong: martial arts, spiritual and medical. Monisha teaches and practises medical style Qigong, which is primarily concerned with promoting physical and mental wellbeing, healing and prevention of illness. Qigong therapy is gentle in nature, and can thus be performed by almost anyone, regardless of age or physical condition. It is practised by millions of people worldwide, and also by chronically ill patients in many hospitals in China. It is characterised by the combination of slow, controlled and repetitive movement sequences, coordinated with the breath. The movements are designed to cultivate Qi and build energy, and enhance its smooth flow throughout the muscles, joints and meridians, whilst also massaging the internal organs. There are myriad benefits to practising Qigong including improving sleep, calming stress and anxiety, enhancing mental clarity, bolstering immunity, promoting circulation, building muscular strength and improving flexibility. Along with acupuncture, one can gain even better results when also practising Qigong. Scientific research has shown that Qigong can help treat a number of conditions including: high blood pressure, muscular pain and stiffness, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke and brain injury rehabilitation, falls and balance disorders, and shingles related immunity.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT

 

During your first visit with Monisha, she will take a thorough and detailed case history of many aspects of your health, lifestyle and habits. She may ask you questions that are seemingly unrelated to your main complaint, but rest assured that this is standard procedure. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is holistic in nature, and everything about the complex being that is you, is taken into account in order to make an accurate diagnosis. In addition to taking a detailed case history, Monisha will also ask to see your tongue, as this is an important diagnostic indicator in TCM. She will perform pulse diagnosis, and may also observe and palpate your abdominal region and other areas of the body. Your comfort is always paramount, and she will endeavour to this end at all times. Once she has formed a diagnosis, she will commence with the treatment. Monisha practises both Chinese and Japanese styles of acupuncture and will often combine the two types in one treatment. For nervous first timers and those who are needle phobic, she is able to use non-penetrative methods. Acupuncture is rarely painful, as the needles are only slightly thicker than a hair’s breadth. There may be a slight pricking sensation on insertion which quickly dissipates as the needle goes deeper, and for many people there is no sensation at all. Once the needle is inserted, Monisha may twirl or manipulate the needle to facilitate the arrival of Qi, which may evoke a sensation of warmth, heaviness, a dull ache, or tingling at the point. The needles are retained for 15-30 minutes, and you will find yourself relaxing and going to your happy place, and it is not uncommon to fall asleep. Monisha may also incorporate cupping, moxibustion or acupressure into your treatment, if required. After the needles are removed, she will discuss a treatment plan with you, and may prescribe herbs and give you lifestyle and dietary advice to get the best results from your treatment. It is advised to stay well hydrated post treatment and take it easy for the remainder of the day, although this is not always possible for everyone.

 

Other things to keep in mind:

• Wear cotton undergarments if possible and loose or easy to remove clothing

• Make sure you don’t come on an empty stomach; it is best to have consumed a meal or a snack within a few hours prior to your treatment

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions, Monisha is here for you to get the best out of the treatment and is happy to answer any questions that may arise