Moxibustion involves the heating of acupuncture points with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment.
Medical qigong is a primary branch of Chinese medicine that involves energetic healing and balancing without the use of needles. Sessions include a brief intake followed with the client relaxed and fully clothed on the treatment table for thirty to forty-five minutes while the practitioner directs and balances the client's energy. Clients commonly enter a deep meditative state during the treatment and feel gentle waves of energy as they move along pathways through the body. Some of the benefits of medical qigong include stress relief, improved mental focus, increased energy, improved quality of sleep, enhanced immune function, and disease prevention and healing.
Tui na means "pushing grasping," and is a powerful form of Chinese medical bodywork. Based on the same Oriental medical principles as acupuncture, tui na seeks to improve the flow of qi through the meridian channels. Tui na is particularly effective for conditions involving muscles, tendons and joints, such as structural misalignment, orthopedic problems and sports injuries. It can also be used to treat internal diseases.
Cupping is an ancient technique, used in many cultures, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws superficial tissue into the cup, which may either be left in place or moved along the body. Cupping brings fresh blood to the area and helps improve circulation. Traditional cupping, sometimes referred to as “fire cupping," uses heat to create a vacuum-like suction inside of glass cups. In modern times, cups that use a small pump to create suction have also been introduced.