Acupuncture | Embodied Wellness

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine

At the heart of Embodied Wellness LLC lies a profound integration of Chinese and functional medicine principles. Acupuncture, as a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, has evolved over thousands of years, guided by the belief that health is achieved through harmony between the body, mind, emotions, and the natural cycles of the seasons. This integrative model acknowledges the interplay between physical, mental, and environmental factors, promoting a holistic approach to health and wellness.

Historical Context and Development

Chinese medicine traces its origins back over 2,500 years, deeply rooted in the philosophies of balance and harmony, such as yin and yang and the Five Elements theory. Acupuncture emerged as a refined practice designed to restore the body’s natural energy flow, or "qi," by stimulating specific points along the meridians.

In the modern context, "qi" can be understood as the body’s oxygenation and circulation. When there is decreased blood flow and reduced qi (oxygen), tissues and organs naturally suffer. Acupuncture works to increase both blood flow and oxygenation, promoting healing and revitalization. By enhancing these processes, acupuncture ensures optimal function of tissues and organs. The history of Chinese medicine reflects centuries of observation, experimentation, and refinement, culminating in a rich system of healing still widely practiced today.

The World Health Organization (WHO) began recognizing and recommending acupuncture in 1979 for the treatment of various conditions. Since then, the list has expanded significantly, including not only chronic pain and stress-related disorders but also complex and surprising conditions such as migraines, infertility, and even chemotherapy-induced nausea. For more information, visit the WHO Acupuncture Overview.

The Interplay of Body, Mind, and Environment

In Chinese medicine, the human body is seen as an interconnected system influenced by internal and external factors. Seasonal changes, emotional states, and environmental influences can create imbalances that manifest as illness. Acupuncture aims to restore this balance by addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes, fostering long-term wellness.

Herbal Medicine and Ancient Formulas

Herbal medicine is an integral part of Chinese medicine, complementing acupuncture by addressing imbalances at a deeper level. Properly prescribed herbal formulas can effectively resolve health issues by targeting their root causes. Below are three examples of classic Chinese herbal formulas:

Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (六味地黄丸) - Developed during the Song Dynasty (over 1,000 years ago):
- Main Herbs: Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia), Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus), Shan Yao (Dioscorea), Fu Ling (Poria), Mu Dan Pi (Moutan), Ze Xie (Alisma).
- Function: This formula nourishes the yin of the liver and kidneys, supporting vital essence and preventing dryness and heat. It is commonly prescribed for conditions like lower back pain, dizziness, and tinnitus, which are associated with yin deficiency.
- Synergy: The combination of herbs ensures a balanced approach, with some herbs tonifying the yin and others draining excess heat to maintain equilibrium.
Xiao Yao San (肖遥散) - Developed during the Tang Dynasty (over 1,200 years ago):
- Main Herbs: Chai Hu (Bupleurum), Bai Shao (White Peony), Dang Gui (Angelica), Bai Zhu (Atractylodes), Fu Ling (Poria), Gan Cao (Licorice), Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger), Bo He (Mint).
- Function: This formula harmonizes the liver and spleen, alleviating stress, emotional imbalance, and digestive issues. It is often used for symptoms like irritability, bloating, and menstrual irregularities.
- Synergy: Chai Hu and Bai Shao work together to regulate liver qi, while Dang Gui nourishes the blood, and Bai Zhu strengthens the spleen, creating a harmonious balance.
Gui Zhi Tang (桂枝清) - Developed during the Han Dynasty (over 2,000 years ago):
- Main Herbs: Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), Bai Shao (White Peony), Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger), Da Zao (Jujube), Gan Cao (Licorice).
- Function: This formula is used to harmonize the yin and wei (defensive) qi, addressing symptoms like mild fever, chills, and aversion to wind. It is particularly effective for the early stages of colds and flus.
- Synergy: Gui Zhi warms the channels, while Bai Shao nourishes yin. Sheng Jiang and Da Zao strengthen the stomach and spleen, and Gan Cao harmonizes the entire formula.

These time-tested formulas demonstrate the efficacy of properly prescribed herbs, working synergistically to address the root causes of imbalance while alleviating symptoms.

Acupuncture Styles

Personalized to Your Nervous System

Acupuncture is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Your unique needs and comfort level guide the choice of technique. Explore the styles offered at our clinic:

Dr. Tang Microsystems: Holistic approach targeting the body’s interconnected systems.
Japanese Acupuncture: Gentle, precise, and ideal for sensitive patients.
Chinese Needling: Traditional and direct techniques with rich historical roots.
Korean Hand Acupuncture: Using the hands to reflect and treat the entire body.

Targeted Needling Techniques

Our acupuncture approaches are tailored to address pain and muscle tension effectively:

Trigger Point Releases: Relieving stubborn muscle knots and tension.
Auricular Acupuncture: Targeting ear points to promote systemic healing.
Dry Needling: Precision-based pain relief targeting deep muscle layers.

Advanced Modalities:

Modern technologies and techniques complement traditional acupuncture:

Electrostimulation (Estim): Applying light currents to needles for amplified results.
Integrated Therapies: Blending multiple methods to optimize energy flow and balance.

Holistic Integration: Beyond Needles

Every treatment is customized to harmonize with your body and mind, ensuring a well-rounded approach to wellness. From subtle, soft needling to dynamic techniques, we adapt to your preferences and health goals, creating a deeply personalized healing experience.

Additional Modalities

Cupping Therapy: Stationary cupping for muscle relaxation and sliding cupping for fascial release. According to TCM, cupping also helps remove stagnation and promote detoxification.
Gua Sha (Scraping): A scraping technique to release tension, improve lymphatic flow, and support detoxification.
Infrared Heat Therapy: Applying infrared light to improve circulation and reduce pain.
Moxibustion: The warming of acupuncture points using moxa (Artemisia vulgaris) to enhance energy flow and alleviate discomfort.
Tui-Na: A form of therapeutic massage to improve circulation and alleviate tension.
- Stretching: Guidance on targeted stretches is provided to support treatment goals. These stretches aim to enhance mobility, alleviate tension, and promote long-term physical resilience.

Additional Services

Embodied Wellness LLC is proud to offer services that are not commonly found in Spokane or even in most clinics nationwide. One of our key differentiators is the educational component of our treatment plans.

Our initial educational classes are open to anyone and everyone, regardless of whether you choose to become a patient at our clinic. This initiative is a way to give back to the community. Over time, we plan to expand these classes to cover a broader range of topics.

During these sessions, we explore theoretical concepts and design experiments that empower participants to better understand their own bodies. The goal is to educate, inspire, and help people make informed decisions about their health in a supportive and non-prescriptive environment.

Education

We prioritize education to help you understand your health. During your sessions, we discuss potential lifestyle changes and their benefits. Our clinic does not mandate these changes but instead provides the tools and knowledge to empower you to make informed decisions about your well-being.

Lab Reviews and Comprehensive Care

We provide a detailed analysis of lab results to gain insights into your health and tailor treatments accordingly. This combination of ancient wisdom and modern science ensures a deeply personalized approach to wellness.