What is acupuncture & how does it work?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body encouraging healing through the stimulation of Qi which balances the movement of energy throughout the body. In Western terms, it is believed to stimulate nerves, muscles, connective tissue, boosting the body’s natural painkillers and blood flow. This makes acupuncture amazing for reducing pain and improving overall wellbeing.

What is Five Element Acupuncture?

FEA is a classical style of Chinese medicine that focuses on treating the root cause of illness by restoring balance among the five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Each person has a dominant element, and imbalances in that element can lead to physical, mental, emotional or spiritual symptoms.

How does FEA differ from other types of acupuncture?

While other styles often focus more on symptom relief and the physical body, Five Element Acupuncture emphasises emotional and constitutional healing. It treats the whole person - not just the symptoms - by identifying and addressing the elemental imbalance at your core.

Is acupuncture painful?

Most people feel little to no pain. The needles are extremely thin - about the same size as a human hair. You may feel slight tingling, pressure, warmth or a dull ache that quickly fades and is not painful. The majority of people who come for treatment find acupuncture very relaxing and sometimes even fall asleep! Always let your practitioner know if you do experience any discomfort.

What conditions can Five Element help with?

Common conditions treated included:

• Chronic pain or tension

• Migraines and headaches

• Fatigue and low energy

• Stress, anxiety and depression

• Fertility and hormonal imbalances

• Digestive issues

• Sleep disturbances

• Allergies

• Low immunity

• Menstrual and menopausal symptoms

• Grief, anger, fear and other emotional blocks

Five Element Acupuncture differs from TCM as it works at harmonising the root cause of imbalances through the body, mind and spirit which encourages symptoms to naturally dissipate.

What happens during a session?

A typical treatment includes:

• A conversation about your health, emotions and life patterns

• Pulse diagnosis

• Gentle needles at specific acupuncture points

• Often Moxa (a warming mugwort herbal therapy) is used for added benefits

Sessions are relaxing and often leave clients feeling centred, calm and clearer.

How many treatments will I need?

This varies from person to person. I typically recommend receiving your first 4-6 treatments weekly-biweekly as these are essential for creating a strong and supportive energetic foundation. After that, monthly maintenance sessions will keep you feeling topped up and tuned in. Eventually you may find seasonal treatments are all you need to keep feeling balanced.

Is acupuncture safe?

Yes, when performed by a qualified and licensed practitioner. Sterile, single-use needles are used to prevent infection & the treatment room is kept clean with everything freshly prepared for each client.