Acupuncture is a key part of Chinese Medicine, with origins that can be traced back thousands of years. Treatment involves the use of very thin disposable stainless-steel needles (often as thin as a hair) inserted at specific points on the body. These points aren't only related to muscles, tendons, nerves or areas of pain, but also to channels or meridians that can move qi, energy and blood through the entire body. So a headache or nausea may be treated with a peripheral point in the foot or wrist that links back via a meridian to the main point of pain. Patients often comment with amazement when a digestive related acupuncture point on the lower leg is stimulated and their stomach starts gurgling, or when a key point on the foot is used to help turn a breech baby - something that's pretty amazing to witness even after years in practice!

In Australia the study of acupuncture is regulated, and a qualified acupuncturist learns over 300 acupuncture points and a wide range of different acupuncture techniques. Training includes detailed study of the body’s systems and conditions, and clinical hours cover treatment for:

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• Gynaecology, obstetrics and male fertility

• Mental health 

• Traumatology and musculoskeletal problems 

• Respiratory, digestive, vascular, and urinary systems

• Problems with the eyes, ears, nose, throat and mouth

• Nervous and endocrine systems

• Common paediatric diseases

• Bleeding disorders and connective tissue conditions

• Insomnia and sleep disorders

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While the more yang styles of acupuncture such as musculoskeletal and trigger point have become popular in the last decade or so, and we've seen the rise in dry needling here in Australia (which isn't acupuncture and can be studied in as little as a weekend), more gentle styles of acupuncture are also available, and they are especially suited to people with anxiety or heightened sensitivity. Every treatment can be tailored to the individual, and a skilled practitioner will always craft a session that’s as unique as you are. If you are curious about trying acupuncture but feel worried that it sounds scary, you can schedule a chat or come in for a session to try it out -- you are under no obligation to lock into a 10-session treatment package. 

Chinese Herbal Medicine - leaves, twigs, roots, shoots, flowers, berries, seeds and/or shells are used in combinations, in either dried "raw herb", granule, or pill form to help put you on track to better health. In clinic Tina uses mostly granulated herbs for the convenience of patients. No animal products (except shells) or endangered species are used, and many of the herbs can be used in cooking and taste delicious (click here to read more about herbs).

The seasons change around us, and as they do, so do our specific nutritional, nourishment and health needs. Learn how to eat intuitively for where you are at in this present moment. Help align yourself not only with the seasons and cycles of the Earth, but understand which foods will be most helpful and nutritious for you at different times, based on the 5 Element food system. Please note: this way of eating is gentle, body positive, culturally inclusive, and supportive of your body's nourishment needs. It is not about dieting, fasting or detoxifying. We don't see foods as "clean" or "dirty" but work with you to establish a healthy, pleasurable relationship with food and eating. 

Living in harmony with Nature helps to promote health and longevity. It can also help us live a happier, more satisfying life. Learn how to balance your inner and outer environment by taking sleep, work, intimacy, exercise, breathing and emotions into consideration. Note: this is not a replacement for psychology or mental health support. 

The study of planetary/seasonal influences, and the Five Elements (fire, earth, metal, water, wood) on individual health and well-being is an important part of the core teachings of Chinese Medicine. Just as the moon and the planets can be useful for understanding what to plant in a garden and when, so too can the cosmos be looked at and listened to for practical tips on how to live a more healthy and fulfilling life. We will begin the session with a brief meditation and then work our way through the key stories in your star-chart from an Eastern and Western astrological perspective, looking at archetypes, patterns and themes as well as the elements or energies you are most aligned with, and what that might mean as you journey through life. Tina has over 20 years experience working with astrology, and draws on a combination of astrological, symbolic, psychological and mystical traditions in her readings. Sessions are also available for children, and can be done for a parent or care giver. Readings take place either face to face, over the phone, or via Zoom. They are between 60-180 mins in length. Please reach out for further info.

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