There are many different styles of acupuncture and modalities of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Each has their own advantages and particular uses and only after a full diagnosis can we decide what suits an individual best. All treatments revolve around moving Qi (loosely translated as ‘energy’) and Xue (‘blood’) in the body.
Each practitioner has their own style of examining a client. So the below is particular to me and how I approach every client.
Of primary importance is that the client always feels at ease, comfortable and in a safe environment. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of what I do. I am entrusted by you and I take that trust seriously.
With all treatments, the session will always begin with a chat about your health. In a relaxed, friendly and non judgemental environment, I’m always curious to know how you feel, what makes you tick and what challenges you’ve faced in your journey. My questions can be wide varied and include your medical history, but they all serve a purpose of gaining an understanding of where you are at present and developing a diagnosis under Traditional Chinese Medicine theory.
This is further refined with the tongue and the pulse. Chinese medicine is a big fan of the tongue. It reveals what may be going on in our body. Our pulse is typically taken at the wrist, on both hands. An acupuncturist feels for three points on the pulse and the force and style of the pulse further refines the diagnosis.
Throughout the session I am examining factors like your complexion, skin tone, muscle tone, blood vessels, hair, eyes – generally how an individual presents. Palpation, that is, feeling points or areas on the body, may be the final step. We do all these as there is information in all aspects of an individual that help gather what is a complex web of our health into a coherent diagnosis that I then begin to work with.
Having done all this, I then decide on a modality of treatment with you;
- Acupuncture will involve the insertion of thin, fine needles into certain points in the body.
- Moxibustion involves heating points of the body using Moxa (the herb Artemisia or more commonly known as Mugwort – typically cured over years)
- Cupping involves placing ‘cups’ on the body to create a vacuum. These can leave marks on the body so be sure to inform me if you have any upcoming events where you do not want red patches or bruising on the skin! Typically, these marks will fade over a week.
- Tuina is a form of Chinese massage and usually oil will be used.
There may also be a combination of these modalities depending on the diagnosis.
While the treatment is being carried out, the client will be either sitting or lying down. If you need to remove items of clothing, there is a privacy screen or I will leave the room.
Generally, sessions last approx. one hour. The first session may be longer (approx. an hour and a half) as there is more information to understand.
If you have any questions about treatment, feel free to contact me with no obligation. You can call or text me on 087 9878 171 or email at info@holohealth.ie
