Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy that uses Moxa (dried Chinese Mugwort (Artemisiae argyi Folium) which is burned on or near the skin, or sometimes on the tip of an inserted acupuncture needle. Moxa warms and invigorates the flow of Qi in the body and dispels certain pathogenic influences.

Effective in treating: arthritis digestive problems, gynecological and obstetrical conditions, and more.

Ontake is a form of Moxibustion. This technique from Japan utilizes bamboo tubes filled with Moxa. The practitioner taps, rolls, and presses a warm, Moxa-filled tube along the acupressure meridians in a rhythmic pattern (often using a metronome) in what is known as Dr. Manaka’s meridian frequencies. The combination of rhythm, heat, frequency and pressure triggers rapid shifts in body condition and mood. This modality is extremely relaxing. All Ontake equipment is UV sterilized in between appointments.

Effective in treating: stress, muscle tension and pain, as well as to move Qi and blood.

In either form of treatment:

• May be used in conjunction with acupuncture and/or herbal medicine.

• Expect a small amount of smoke and a pleasant smell of burning Moxa, similar to a very mild incense. Ontake produces far less smoke than other techniques using Moxa.

• Expect to feel a warming sensation that quickly radiates along the pathway that is receiving treatment. This is a. good sign, indicating the arrival and flow of Qi.

Cupping

Cupping applies suction to the surface of the body to draw out pathogenic factors or to invigorate the flow of Qi at the surface of the body. Sometimes a lubricant is applied to the skin prior to placing the cups; this allows the cups to be slid back and forth, incorporating friction therapy (gua sha). Cups are UV sterilized after every use.

Effective in treating: early stage colds and flu, trauma, and muscle pain (especially in the back and shoulders). 

Cupping leaves circular marks on the skin which can vary in color and intensity - faint to dark, red to purple. The marks are painless but can resemble bruising. These should fade within a day or two. 

May be used in conjunction with any of the other modalities we offer.

Tui Na

Tui na is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapeutic massage and bodywork, sometimes used in conjunction with other modalities. It incorporates gentle pinching, pulling and pressure to address specific patterns of disharmony. As with acupuncture, tui na is used to harmonize yin and yang in the body by manipulating the Qi in the meridians.

Effective in treating: superficial trauma and injury, and a wide variety of musculoskeletal problems. It is an effective treatment for children and those averse to, or unable to tolerate, acupuncture needles.