The Heart of Acupuncture
Our Acupuncturists are Allison Green and Helen Hunt. Please visit their profiles for full information on the treatments that they offer.
​
Acupuncture is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been used for at least 2,000 years to balance the body and promote its natural ability to heal. It is a safe treatment that looks to address the root cause of symptoms and is tailored for you as an individual, focussing on the body and mind as a whole.
​
Very fine, single-use, sterile needles are inserted below the skin to stimulate acupuncture points, these are located on acupuncture meridians or channels. The treatment is painless, but you may experience some tingling or numbness, and many people feel very relaxed during the treatment. Depending on the nature of the issue being treated and how chronic it is a number of sessions may be required. We will develop a personal treatment plan during the first consultation which is reviewed as sessions progress.
​
There is plenty of ongoing evidence-based research to show the effectiveness of acupuncture to treat a variety of conditions from migraines to menopausal problems to back issues. It is also used for natural cosmetic facial rejuvenation.
​
Cupping
Cupping is another Chinese Medicine technique that involves placing glass jars, in which a vacuum has been created on the body. Rather like a reverse massage, the cups create suction on the muscles allowing increased flow of blood, fluid and Qi, relieving tension, releasing toxins and clearing stagnation. Massage oils can be used with the cupping to stimulate the muscles and acupuncture meridians. Acupuncture and cupping are often combined. Many Olympic athletes have had this treatment and were seen with ‘cup marks’ - purple or red circles where the cups have been, this shows the release of ‘stagnation’ but isn’t a sign of tissue damage, and unlike a bruise any marks simply fade after a couple of days.
​
Moxa
Moxa involves the burning of small amounts of specialised herbs on or near acupuncture points. The burning herb stimulates the points and warms the body, and can be particularly beneficial for chronic conditions. Moxa can be used by itself or with acupuncture needles
​
Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture
Acupuncture, cupping and gua sha to:
- target wrinkles and sagging
- promote collagen
- brighten the complexion
- smooth fine lines
- boost muscle tone
- work with underlying issues
​
Acupuncture isn't only for when you're not well. It's used extensively in Asia for holistic beauty to gradually smooth facial lines, improve texture and reveal healthier looking skin. You will see the UK press giving it the thumbs up too.
​
Add in some specially blended oils, cupping and lovely jade gua sha and you have the perfect combination.
​
Your face is a reflection of what's happening in the body so we will always have a full health consultation and discussion of which area you are looking to target. The treatment should also include a couple of acupuncture points on the body to address any underlying issues.
What does it involve? Many tiny needles are inserted along facial lines or in areas to encourage a 'lift' or tighten of the skin and underlying tissues, with the aim of increasing blood flow, boosting collagen production, and improving fascial tone. The session also includes cupping and gua sha using oils.
​
Body points may also be used to help with underlying issues such as water retention.
How many sessions do I need? We're working naturally with your body so results aren't instant. Most people have 6-10 1-hour sessions and may need 6 before seeing real more lasting results - everyone is different.
​
Does it hurt? If you have had anti-wrinkle or filler injections the needles are nothing like this! You may feel a momentary 'pinch' sensation from the TINY needles, depending on the area, some parts of the face are more sensitive than others.
​
Are there side effects? However careful we are it's possible to get a tiny bruise as in any needle insertion. No products or fillers are inserted into the face and any oils used are as non-reactive and nourishing as possible.
​
Where possible 'real' acupuncture points are included in the treatment, rather than needles placed just for location, so the whole body should benefit.
​
