When we hear the word ‘acupuncture’ in Canada, we think of ‘needles’. However the original Chinese word for acupuncture is zhen jiu 针灸, which actually means “acupuncture and moxibustion”.
Moxibustion
Our clinic specialises in the Fukaya and Kinseikyu methods of Japanese moxibustion. Cara Conroy-Lau (R.Ac) trains closely with Felip Caudet (left image) of Okyu Barcelona and lineage holder in the Fukaya tradition.
Moxibustion, (Chinese: 灸; pinyin: jiǔ, Japanese: “okyu”) is widely used in the traditional medicines of China, Japan and Korea. It is has been used as a physical therapy for thousands of years and is an effective companion or alternative to needles. Artemisia (mugwort) is most commonly used in moxibustion. There are many methods and styles of moxa practice, too many to describe here.
In the Fukaya method of moxibustion, certain areas of the body are first carefully palpated for congested and tender active points. These points are then selected and treated using small rice grain size pieces of moxa. This particular heat stimulation allows immobilised areas of the body’s fascia network to release – allowing tension to drop away, and circulation and mobility to return.
Other Chinese Medical Modalities
Beyond acupuncture and moxibustion, there are several other important tools available in the Chinese medical tool kit. Based on a complete assessment and diagnosis, some of the following non-needle/moxa options may be included in your session:
Acupressure
Acupuressure or tui na is the Chinese medical form of massage therapy. Acupressure points in the body can be stimulated in the body to provoke deep relaxation and a healing response that has some similarities to acupuncture.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha is a form of soft tissue manipulation and mobilisation. It has a similar effect as cupping. Gua Sha is a Traditional Chinese Medical technique, similar to ‘Graston Technique’ used by Chiropractors and Physiotherapists. It enhances microcirculation to the painful/tense area treated (usually the neck, or back), and relieves pain and tension.
Cupping
Cupping is used in many medical traditions. Its practice has been refined over two thousand years in by Chinese doctors. We use glass fire cupping in particular on the abdomen, to help improve function and circulation in the torso and digestive system. Like Gua Sha, it can also assist with the release of tension and stagnation, greatly increase circulation, break up adhesions in fibrous tissue and to boost energy. It can also be used to reduce cellulite and improve the complexion by stimulating collagen and elastin.
Chinese herbal medicine
Chinese herbal medicine is another main pillar of Chinese medicine, and is not currently available at Cranbrook Acupuncture Clinic. If it is something that would benefit you, we can recommend excellent herbal TCM practitioners.
Come in and let’s talk.
If you’re ready to start, simply book your initial consultation. Phone 250-417-7137, or book online: