Valerie Abbott completed, with honors, an extensive Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) program from Grant McEwen University administered at Compu College St. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient holistic system of health and healing. It is one of the oldest continuous systems of medicine in history. Acupuncture (one component of TCM) is one of the most commonly used procedures in the world. The Chinese believe the existence of humanity and, in fact, all of nature, is dependent upon a life energy called Qi (chee.) It is only by this energy that the planets move, the wind blows, our hearts beat and humans live and breathe. When this energy is flowing freely all of life's processes operate in a rhythmic and harmonious way, but once this flow of energy is blocked (either by disease, trauma, stress, emotions, lifestyle, poor nutrition, etc) the system is disrupted and pain and illness occur. Acupuncture works to re-program and restore weak, stagnant or unbalanced energy. (Please read "An Eastern and Western perspective on how Acupuncture works" below)
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends Acupuncture as an effective treatment for over forty medical problems including: pain, allergies, respiratory conditions, digestive disorders, gynecological problems, disorders of the eyes, nose and throat, headaches, alcoholism and substance abuse, back pain, arthritis, stress, tension emotional disorders and depression, to name a few. If you suffer from any of the above or you’d just like to experience the total relaxation that Acupuncture can bring, then please call me for an appointment. Bring Your Body, Mind and Spirit Back into Balance! An Eastern and Western perspective on how Acupuncture works. In Western Modern Medicine, Acupuncture is explained as electricial energy that runs through nerve pathways in the body. By inserting a metal needle (metal conducts electricity) electricity can be re-routed to different areas. Needling
stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord and brain. These chemicals will either change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemical and hormones which will influence the body's own regulating system. Acupuncture stimulates the body's natural healing abilities which brings the body back into balance. In the East, this energy is called Qi (pronounced chee). The pathways that energy flows along are not called nerve pathways they are called meridians. There are 12 major meridians in the body and 365 acupuncture points. The flow of Qi through the meridians can be affected by trauma, stress, improper diet, emotions etc. These factors will cause blockages in energy flow. Once the blockage is removed and the free flow of energy established, then healing can begin. Both East and West agree that Acupuncture can reduce inflammation, help with pain, improve organ function, improve immunity and help bring the body back into balance (homeostasis). The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends Acupuncture as an effective treatment for over 40 medical problems and most health insurance companies are providing coverage. If you have a fear of needles then Acupressure, Cupping, Moxabustion or Chinese Massage (Tui NA) can be an alternative. Visits range from 1 to 1.5 hours with the full amount of time devoted to your needs only. Our treatment rooms are beautifully decorated with fireplace, soft lighting, scentless candles and soft music. If you feel that your body, mind and spirit have become out of balance or if you would just like to experience the total relaxation that Acupuncture can bring, then please give me a call. Patients are booked by individual appointments only.
