About Five Element Acupuncture
One of the oldest forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Five Element Acupuncture originated +4,000 years ago when Chinese practitioners observed that everything that happens in nature, happens in us. That each of the Five Elements – Wood (Spring), Fire (Summer), Earth (Late Summer), Metal (Autumn) and Water (Winter) – represent an essential quality to the cyclical flow of energy vital to nature; and that the Five Elements within us must be in harmony and balance to support the body’s natural healing system bringing optimum well-being.
​
At the very heart of Five-Element Acupuncture is the fundamental belief that every person is unique. So, while one persons symptoms may be identical to another person's, the cause of those symptoms depends on the individual. Thus, every treatment is specifically planned for the patient as an individual and treats the root cause – not the symptom.
​
Herein lies the essence of Five Element acupuncture, we treat the person as a whole, rather than simply treating symptoms, allowing harmony to return. Our bodies naturally seek to heal themselves. By ensuring the energy is balanced and flowing, Five Element Acupuncture can help your body to heal and replenish. The aim is to ensure patients are in physical, mental and emotional balance.
How does Five Element Acupuncture work?
Unlike other forms of acupuncture (TCM) where needles are placed into position and the patient is left alone for up to thirty minutes, Five Element Acupuncture is interactive and personal between the practitioner and patient. The practitioner never leaves the room and the incredibly fine needles are rarely left in place for more than a few seconds. Most patients feel a brief dull ache or sharp tingle that fades quickly.
​
The energy meridians range across the entire body so the points used are not neccessarily closest to where you experience symptoms.
​
The medicinal herb, Moxa (also known as mogwart), is used in treatments if suitable for the patient. The herb is heated on the acupuncture point to warm the area, increasing the flow of energy, before the point is needled.