Acupuncture therapy is rooted in the body’s ability to self-regulate and heal. The myriad of functions that enable us to live, make choices and execute our will are all informed by a subtle blueprint of information flowing through our connective tissues. Acupuncturists evaluate the quality of energy flow both through the meridians (energetic channels) of the body and the qualities of the radial artery pulse palpated at specific locations associated with the 12 primary channels. Palpating the acupuncture points — precise locations where the flow of energy is close to the surface of the skin — is another evaluation method.

Imbalances in this energetic system give rise to pain and dysfunction. Treatments restore balance and function which allows the client to heal both acute and chronic conditions, and when addressed early, prevent illness and imbalance.

Treatment involves the insertion of hair-thin needles which are made of high quality stainless steel and disposable for utmost comfort and safety. Needle insertion activates the point’s energetic field and influences the internal organs and structures associated with those points.

Traditional practice also includes moxibustion — a nourishing heat application using dried mugwort leaves (moxa). Needles and heating with moxa (when indicated) effectively balance, move energy and induce healing states of relaxation. Acupuncture points can also be influenced with touch and other non-invasive tools. Lisa uses her kinesthetic and intuitive skills to determine treatment plans and feel for change resulting from treatments.

Lisa’s foundational training was with Professor JR Worsley who developed a style of acupuncture known as Classical Five Element which is rooted in ancient wisdom to address the causes of “dis-ease” in the modern world, and treat the whole person.

Observing natural phenomenon, the ancient Chinese observed created the theory of the Five Elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water to explain cycles of change and constraint found across natural systems.  Professor Worsley believed that in the developed world suffering is more often due to life stresses beyond basic needs such as adequate food, water and shelter. He emphasized a focus on deep causative factors as well as the state of the person’s spirit.

This approach to acupuncture practice involves cultivating acute senses to ascertain subtle cues given off by the client’s body as well as developing a good rapport to create a state of trust as the foundation for healing potential.

While healing can take time and may follow a mysterious course, the acupuncturist creates change during the treatment session and usually clients feel sensations of movement and some immediate improvement. Possibilities include pain lifting, troubled emotions settling, physical movement improving and optimism rising.