Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine that involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. These points are located along pathways called meridians, which are believed to carry the body’s vital energy, or qi. By stimulating these points, acupuncture aims to restore balance, promote the smooth flow of qi, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Modern research has shown that acupuncture can influence the nervous system, improve circulation, and stimulate the release of the body’s natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory compounds. It is a holistic therapy that takes into account not just physical symptoms, but also emotional and environmental factors, making it a versatile treatment for a wide range of health concerns. Many people find acupuncture to be deeply relaxing and a powerful tool for restoring overall well-being.

Toyohari, or East Asian Meridian Therapy, is a modern Japanese acupuncture style rooted in classical Chinese Medicine. Renowned for its gentle yet effective techniques, Toyohari employs non-insertive methods using classical tools to gently stimulate acupuncture points through stroking, pressing, or tapping. Originally practised exclusively by blind practitioners, it places a strong emphasis on touch, including palpation and pulse diagnosis, to identify and address imbalances in the body.

Diagnosis and treatment in Toyohari are guided by the Five Phase system, which offers a holistic perspective on the body-mind connection and its relationship to the surrounding environment. Throughout treatment, practitioners use the pulse as a feedback system to monitor progress and ensure precision. By harmonizing qi and blood within the meridians, Toyohari treatment enhances the body’s natural ability to heal and restore balance.

Chinese herbal medicine is a fundamental component of traditional Chinese & East Asian medicine that combines natural ingredients like roots, bark, flowers, and minerals into customised formulas to support your unique health needs. Each ingredient is selected not only for its individual therapeutic benefits but also for how it synergises with other components in the formula to enhance effectiveness and minimise any potential side effects. During a consultation, we will discuss whether Chinese herbal medicine may be a beneficial addition to your healing process.

Alongside acupuncture, I may use some additional techniques to further support your treatment. These are always optional, and we’ll only include them if you feel comfortable.

Cupping – This technique uses glass or silicone cups to create gentle suction on the skin. Cupping helps to increase blood circulation, release muscle tightness, and ease pain. Both cupping and gua sha can also be used to support immune function and help relieve symptoms of colds and flu. Cupping can leave light, temporary marks on the skin that are a normal part of the healing process and will fade within a few days to a week.

Gua Sha – A traditional scraping method using a smooth-edged tool over the skin. Gua Sha helps to release tension held in the muscles and fascia, stimulate blood flow, and support the body’s natural healing response. It often leaves a temporary redness that fades within a few days.

Moxibustion (Moxa) – The warming of acupuncture points by burning the herb mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). Moxa can be applied directly on the skin, over acupuncture needles, or held nearby to create gentle warmth. This technique is deeply nourishing and is often used to support energy and immune function, improve circulation, and ease pain.