Aspire Acutherapy

06/09/2025

Seasonal Acupuncture Supports Wellbeing.
Aligning acupuncture treatments with seasonal energies is a traditional way to maintain health, providing support at times of seasonal change, when our bodies are adjusting to alterations in temperature, light levels and humidity. A short course of 2 or 3 treatments around these times is an excellent was to strengthen the constitution. The times of the Spring and Autumn equinoxes, in March and September respectively, is particularly significant as this is when the energy balance switches from Yin to Yang (lengthening light in Spring) and Yang to Yin (increasing dark in Autumn). Some individuals will notice personal areas where adjustment becomes challenging, such as seasonal allergies and SAD (seasonal affective disorder) and if this you then treatment in the weeks prior to your known time of challenge is recommended.
Hormonal changes have evolved over thousands of years to align with seasons. A recent international large-scale study of health records found that human hormones, including those for growth, stress, and metabolism, exhibit seasonal patterns, with peaks in summer and an anti-phase (lower levels) in Winter and early Spring.
In most modern Western societies we are comparatively insulated from stresses our ancestors faced in the Winter/early Spring months such as cold and food shortages, but this comfort and security, while welcome has also led us away from the rhythms of the seasons, bringing new stresses such as waking and working in the dark when our bodies instinctively crave rest, and days spent indoors under artificial light. Acupuncture can help support us through all of this.

25/07/2025

03/07/2025

How Acupuncture May Help Allergic Rhinitis.

Allergic Rhinitis, commonly known as Hay Fever affects around 10-40% of the population worldwide and can be seasonal or perennial (all year round). It is typically triggered by an allergic rection to substances such as pollen, dust, leaf mould and animal dander. Common symptoms are sneezing, nasal itching, nasal blockage, and watery nasal discharge. Other symptoms can include red, itchy tearing eyes, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, and systemic symptoms such as tiredness, fever, a pressure sensation in the head, and itchiness. The effect on sufferers ranges from mildly uncomfortable to chronically debilitating depending on the severity of the symptoms.
Medications such as antihistamines or corticosteroids can help control symptoms but do not cure the underlying condition.
Allergic rhinitis develops when an inhaled allergen adheres to the surface of mast cells (a type of white blood cell crucial to the immune system) which leads to a massive release of histamine, causing the inflammation and allergy symptoms. The body’s immune system is in effect overreacting to an external substance which is not a threat to wellbeing.
Acupuncture and traditional East Asian Medicine view Allergic Rhinitis as due to deficiency in the Wei Qi (defensive Qi) system, particularly involving the Lung and Kidney Qi which are most closely connected with breath, and retention of wind pathogen in the nose.
It is important to remember that in traditional acupuncture physical organs are part of much wider energy systems. A disharmony in Lung and Kidney Qi is not the same as Lung and/or Kidney organ pathology.
Acupuncture treatment involves treating both the symptoms and the root of the condition. In the case of perennial allergic rhinitis both are treated concurrently, for seasonal conditions in addition to treating symptoms when they occur it is beneficial to have constitutional treatments outside of, preferably before, the allergy season starts.
How May Acupuncture Help?
In general, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system resulting in biochemical changes that influence the body’s homeostatic (self-regulating) mechanisms. It stimulates the release of endorphins, other hormones and chemical messengers thus promoting physical and emotional well-being.
Research suggests acupuncture may help to relieve pain and congestion in people suffering with allergic rhinitis by: Reducing inflammation - promoting release of vascular and immune modulating factors. Regulating cytokines and IgE antibodies (mediators involved in immune activity). Enhancing natural killer cell activities and modulating the number and ratio of immune cell types. Increasing local microcirculation in affected areas, which aids dispersal of swelling.

13/06/2025

03/06/2025

Some of the British Acupuncture Council’s recent work on Mental Health Awareness Week. Great feedback from patients benefiting from the Inner Gloucester Project. The BAcC continues to work to support more acupuncture availability on the NHS although this is challenging at the moment. In the meantime I along with many acupuncturists nationwide offer low costs treatments to those on benefits, low income or in financial hardship. Information about this scheme has been sent to local GP practices and pharmacies, so do ask them to refer you if it is relevant to you or if you have any difficulties getting a referral (you shouldn’t but things don’t always work as smoothly as we’d like) contact me directly.

16/05/2025

EFT/Tapping is an integrated energy technique which involves gently tapping certain acupuncture points while identifying a troubling issue or fear, acknowledging the problem and then incorporating positive affirmations. EFT can help with stress, anxiety, phobias, chronic pain, unwanted habits such as smoking or cravings and unwanted self-limiting beliefs. It helps with relaxation and in building up self-confidence.
It has been used successfully in the treatment and support of PTSD sufferers. Although if you or anyone you know are suffering with PTSD or any other serious mental health issue please seek specialised professional help and if you are considering EFT please check with your therapist or clinician that treatment will be appropriate for you.

How It Works: Negative emotions disrupt the body’s energy flow and raise levels of stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline, the autonomic nervous system is then operating in chronic ‘sympathetic dominance’ or ‘fight or flight mode’. It has been shown through scientific research that acupuncture can down-regulate (reduce) cortisol and adrenaline levels and enhance serotonin (a neurotransmitter which regulates mood and contributes to feelings of happiness). Tapping on acupuncture points simulates them and can produce similar results.
The combination of stimulating acupuncture points which have a calming effect on the nervous system while consciously focusing on an anxiety can have a powerful effect on the brain which subconsciously begins to make a link between ‘the problem’ and feelings of calm, effectively rewiring the previous negative responses.

History: Techniques were originally developed by psychologist Roger Callaghan in 1979 when it was known as TFT (Thought Field Therapy). Gary Craig, one of Roger Callaghan’s students simplified the techniques to create EFT. Gary Craig worked with Vietnam veterans suffering with PTSD

Self Help: EFT techniques are simple to learn and the acupuncture points used are all easily accessible. After a few sessions it is often possible to continue using EFT by yourself. Some people like to continue regular therapy sessions for longer, which is fine. EFT is adaptable to individual needs.

For those unable to attend clinic EFT sessions maybe arranged remotely (online).

01/05/2025

I’ve been asked to share this again. I hope the information helps

How Acupuncture Helps Chronic Pain and Associated Inflammatory Responses.

Acupuncture regulates Qi (vital energy) to promote health and wellbeing, when Qi is strong and flowing smoothly our bodies are healthy and free from pain, but how does acupuncture actually work in physiological terms?
In recent years there have been many studies of the mechanisms of action (how effects are achieved) of acupuncture, involving the use of electrodes, MRI and scanners as well as measuring hormone levels before and after treatment.
Acupuncture has substantial general effects on the production of neuro transmitters and hormones (the body’s chemical messengers). It stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-killing chemicals, stimulates serotonin (mood regulator) production and down regulates (reduces) cortisol stress hormone.
In addition it has been shown that specific acupuncture points have differing affects on the body and brain.
Acupuncture works through the fascia (a thin, flexible layer of connective tissue that surrounds and supports every organ, muscle, bone, blood vessel, and nerve in the body).
Acupuncture stimulates nerves to block pain signals to the brain and influences the autonomic nervous system promoting para-sympathetic (rest and digest) response and down regulating sympathetic (fight or flight), therefore enabling the body into a self-healing state.

In recent years high-quality clinical trials investigating acupuncture have been conducted, particularly for chronic pain conditions. Therefore, there is evidence available, and the systematic reviews can draw firm conclusions. A systematic review of high-quality trials, Vickers et al 2018, involving over 20,000 adults with osteoarthritis, chronic headache or musculoskeletal pain (back, neck or shoulder) concluded:
• acupuncture was more effective than control for all pain conditions (pragmatic trials)
• acupuncture is not a placebo for treatment of chronic pain
• the effects persisted over time (15% reduction at one year)
[British acupuncture Council https://acupuncture.org.uk/about-acupuncture/acupuncture-research/ ]

More and more evidence-based research and basic research have recently confirmed that acupuncture can effectively improve the inflammatory response in inflammatory diseases and chronic diseases, alleviate patients' symptoms, promote the recovery of body function, and improve patients' quality of life [7th April 2023 - Harvard Medical School]

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) who provide guidelines for the NHS on the use of treatments and care of patients recommend acupuncture as a treatment option for chronic (long-term) pain and chronic tension-type headaches.

22/04/2025

🌍 Happy Earth Day! 🌍

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Earth element represents nourishment, stability, and harmony—just as our planet provides for us and future generations. Giovanni Maciocia deeply valued the connection between nature, health, and family, understanding that true well-being comes from living in balance with the world around us.

As we honor Earth Day, let’s commit to preserving our planet for our children, grandchildren, and beyond. Just as we care for our family’s health, we must care for the Earth—our collective home. 🌿💚

19/04/2025

Interesting interview and for those of you whose German is less than perfect (🙋‍♀️) be reassured it is conducted in English

Peter Deadman highlights the ancient Chinese practice of Yang Sheng, focusing on health, prevention, and combating loneliness. He recommends consistent movement and Qigong to harmonize body, energy, and mind.

15/04/2025

ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE
Acupressure applies gentle massage techniques to acupuncture channels (meridians) and points, it is based on the same Qi regulating, balancing and healing principles as acupuncture. Acupressure massage can help a wide variety of conditions, relaxing tight stiff muscles, increasing mobility and flexibility and aiding in recovery from injuries and RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury, pain felt in muscles, nerves and tendons due to repetitive movement and over use). It encourages the release of lactic acid which builds up when we suffer from fatigue and trauma. Acupressure massage promotes relaxation, and reduces stress and tension on both physical and emotional levels, which can help improve sleep quality, mental clarity and general wellbeing. Massage supports good circulation.

Oils are not used in acupressure massage. It is performed in the traditional way through light clothing.

In addition to Acupressure Revana is also trained in Tui Na (meaning literally push and grasp – a system of Chinese Massage incorporating both deep tissue massage and softer more gentle techniques) and is a qualified Remedial Massage therapist, enabling her to incorporate a range of techniques to provide an holistic treatment tailored to the needs of the individual client.

07/04/2025

Acupuncture Support During Pregnancy.

Today (April 7th) is World Health Day. This year the World Health Organisation are starting a year long campaign focusing on maternal and newborn health - ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’ (www.who.int)
Acupuncture has an important role to play supporting mothers to be. It is a safe effective treatment for common pregnancy discomforts such as nausea, low back pain and anxiety.
Acupuncture treatments can induce overdue labour and turn breach position babies naturally, although in such situations it is important to ensure your pregnancy team (midwife and/or consultant) are happy for you to have acupuncture. Acupuncture will not do any harm but in minority of pregnancies urgent medical care may be needed meaning there is no time to try acupuncture first.
After baby is born acupuncture can help support mother to regain strength and maintain well-being.

04/04/2025

✨ New Cochrane Review Confirms Acupuncture Helps with Chronic Low Back Pain!

A newly published Cochrane review of reviews has examined non-drug and non-surgical treatments for low back pain. The results? Acupuncture effectively reduces pain and improves function for those with chronic low back pain! 🎯

🔸 Acupuncture is already integrated into mainstream healthcare in several countries:
✅ Statutory regulated in Australia, New Zealand, and Portugal
✅ Covered by healthcare insurance in Germany and New Zealand
✅ Recommended in clinical guidelines when seeking out a PSA registered practitioner (BAcC)

However the study highlights that many clinical trials underestimate the real benefits of acupuncture because they don’t reflect the personalised treatments given by traditional acupuncturists.

⚡ Traditional acupuncture:
✔️ Is a safe intervention when provided by trained professionals
✔️ Can be a long-term solution for pain management

🔍 Looking for a trusted acupuncturist? The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) ensures the highest standards of training, safety, and professional conduct. Find a qualified practitioner near you today!
📖 Learn more about the research & find a practitioner here: https://acupuncture.org.uk