What can Acupuncture do for me?
Traditional Five Element acupuncture treats you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms. Each treatment is unique and tailored to your needs. By working with the body’s natural energy, acupuncture helps your system function more harmoniously. This means we don’t just soothe discomfort — we aim to address the root causes, restoring balance in both body and mind.
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You can visit your acupuncturist for many of the same reasons you might see your doctor, as well as for general wellbeing and health maintenance.
To learn more, the British Acupuncture Council website has research factsheets, videos, and further resources.
Common Reasons People Seek Acupuncture
People come to acupuncture for a wide variety of reasons, including:
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Stress, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing
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Sleep difficulties and fatigue
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Headaches and migraines
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Musculoskeletal pain (back, neck, and joints)
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Digestive health and appetite balance
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Women’s health, fertility, and menopause support
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Allergies, skin conditions, and immune health
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General wellbeing and preventative care
Whether you are seeking relief, renewal, or simply a greater sense of balance, acupuncture offers a natural way forward.
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What can Moxibustion do for me?
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The Role of Moxibustion
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As a practitioner of Five Element acupuncture, I often use moxibustion (moxa) as part of treatment whenever symptoms allow. Moxibustion is a gentle form of heat therapy that uses the dried leaves of the mugwort plant. When carefully warmed on or near the skin, moxa stimulates the flow of Qi (vital energy), supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
Moxa is traditionally used to warm, strengthen, and invigorate areas of the body, and to dispel cold or stagnant energy that may be causing imbalance.
Many people find it deeply comforting — the warmth penetrates beyond the surface, leaving a lasting sense of ease and vitality. In Five Element practice, it can be particularly powerful in restoring harmony where weakness, cold, or blockages are present.
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​Everyday benefits of moxibustion may include:
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Supporting the immune system and overall resilience
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Improving circulation and easing pain or stiffness
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Reducing feelings of cold or fatigue in the body
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Supporting digestion and energy flow
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Calming the mind and promoting relaxation​
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Moxa treatment is safe when carefully applied, and tailored to your comfort. The gentle warmth is non-invasive and soothing, making it a welcome addition to many acupuncture sessions.
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Gentle, warming, and deeply restorative, moxibustion can be a powerful ally on your path back to balance.
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What happens when I go for treatment?
Your first appointment is a chance for me to really get to know you. I will take a full medical history and then carry out a range of traditional diagnostic methods to build a complete picture of your health. This includes:
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Reading your pulses, including the centre pulse
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Checking the flow of all 12 meridians
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Observing your tongue
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Noting subtle body temperature changes
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Feeling the qualities of the pulses and overall energy balance
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This initial consultation and treatment can take up to two hours, giving plenty of time to understand your needs and create a personalised plan.
In Five Element acupuncture, two people may share the same symptoms, yet the underlying cause can be completely different. My role is to look beneath the surface, seeking out the root cause of imbalance so that your body can begin to heal itself.
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Every treatment is unique and tailored to you — designed to bring balance, vitality, and a greater sense of wellbeing.
Would you like me to also add a gentle line about how ongoing sessions are usually shorter and more relaxing, so patients know what to expect after the first appointment?
How does it feel? Is it safe?
​Acupuncture is a safe and natural treatment suitable for people of all ages. The risk of adverse effects is extremely low when carried out by a qualified practitioner.
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The needles used are very fine — about the width of two human hairs — and are designed for comfort. Most people are surprised at how gentle acupuncture feels. You may notice a mild tingling, a warm sensation, or a gentle dull ache on insertion, but these feelings are usually fleeting.
Many patients find the overall experience deeply calming and relaxing, with a sense of ease that often continues after the session.
Acupuncture is not only safe — it can be a restorative and nourishing experience for both body and mind.
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