CANCER TREATMENT SUPPORT

Natural Body Works specializes in working with individuals living with cancer. We offer Reflexology, Acupuncture, CranioSacral Therapy, Reiki, Energy Healing, Hypnosis and Massage to support cancer treatment, all on a sliding fee scale.

Natural Body Works is unique with respect to these sliding scale fees. We realize that many individuals with cancer are unable to work and therefore are typically unable to afford therapies such as those offered by Natural Body Works. These therapies are usually not covered by insurance. This is why we offer our work for whatever the client can afford to pay.

We suggest that the client read over our web site and choose the therapy that they feel most inclined towards. They can also consult with Diane or any of our other therapists to help them choose. The client will decide how much he or she is able to pay, and they receive treatment for that amount. There is no limit to the amount of treatment they can receive. We simply ask the client to keep in mind that expenses are incurred by the therapist for time and travel, which they should be compensated for. Also clients should keep their appointments or if need be, cancel in a timely manner.

While we have a lot of experience in working with individuals in cancer treatment, we unfortunately do not usually see patients seeking natural health care until they have progressed significantly in their disease. Many people do not realize how much our treatment modalities can assist in supporting their health and make their experience in dealing with cancer so much easier! We strongly suggest that any individual with a cancer diagnosis should start complimentary care along with their traditional medical care. Feel free to ask your Dr's opinion and/or research on the web.

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Massage Therapists at Natural Body Works blend a variety of massage types ranging from general "Swedish-type" massage through specific muscular therapy or deep tissue injury work. The massage therapist chooses methods based on your needs.

• Calms nerves
• Relaxes muscles
• Relieves chronic muscle tension
• Soothes many types of pain
• Relieves chronic inflammation by stimulating lymphatic drainage
• Improves blood flow to all organs
• Increases blood flow through muscles
• Stimulates the release of "mood enhancing" brain chemicals
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Alleviates constriction of nerves from excess muscle tension
• Stimulates immune system
• Speeds recovery of soft tissue injuries
• Improves posture
• Helps body learn automatic relaxation
• Restores balance
• Slows heart rate
• Deepens breathing
• Stimulates digestion
• Relieves many medical conditions and symptoms
• Feels great
• Many, many more!

MUSCULAR THERAPY

Muscular Therapy is system of massage, bodywork, and self-care instruction designed to identify, reduce, and eliminate muscular tension holding patterns which are a cause of pain and reduced mobility in the body. Our Muscular Therapists are all highly trained professionals, each having graduated from the Muscular Therapy Institute in Cambridge, MA. MTI is one of the top three massage schools in the country. This course of studies is 900 hours long - well above the 500-hour national average and legal requirement for massage therapists.

Your Muscular Therapy session may include some or all of the following:

• Swedish based massage techniques for relaxation and reduction of superficial muscle tension
• Moderate to deep tissue, muscle-specific massage techniques, trigger point therapy and cross-fiber friction to break up deeper muscle adhesions
• Passive Body techniques such as range of motion, fulcrum, stretching, rocking, etc. to increase ease of movement in body areas which have been restricted by pain or injury
• Self-care techniques you can use at home to prolong the effects of your Muscular Therapy treatment and help your body to release patterns of pain and injury. Self-care techniques are explained and demonstrated for you by your therapist

SPORTS MASSAGE

Pre-event Sports Massage is designed to enhance your athletic performance. This treatment increases blood and nutrient flow to muscle tissue, frees restrictions in muscles and joints, helps to ensure your stamina by increasing oxygenation of muscle tissue, and presents an opportunity to identity areas of the body which may be prone to future injury.

Post-event Sports massage can help your body recover faster after your competition. This treatment flushes Lactic Acid (and the soreness that accompanies it) out of muscle tissue, thereby creating an opening for fresh blood and nutrients to flow in, releases tension and mini-holding patterns which have developed in the body during your competition, relaxes tight, over-worked muscles, and helps your body find its way back to its pre-event balance state.

To ready your body for competition or help it recover from one, we believe regular massage and body-work should be a part of every athlete's training program. Young athletes are encouraged to begin massage and body-work while they are young. They will have a better understanding and awareness of how their body functions athletically and can avoid the chronic patterns of injury that many adult athletes and ex-athletes experience.

INJURY REHABILITATION

As different as injuries are, so are the methods that can be used to treat them. At Natural Body Works, we take the time to talk to you about your injury, its cause and any symptoms you are experiencing. We develop a treatment plan based on this assessment which will include the most effective combination of body work modalities for your unique condition.

Our therapists are happy to work under the direction of your MD, Chiropractor, or Physical Therapist. We never hesitate to tell you it your condition requires more that we can offer and we have a variety of health care professionals we can refer you to it need be.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE

Myofascial Release is very effective hands-on technique comprised of sustained pressure being placed into an area of Myofascial restriction and sliding through the tissue until it begins to stretch. Gliding through the restricted tissue in this manner helps to eliminate pain and restore motion that has been lost over time due to injuries, chronic tension, habitually poor postures.

NEUROMUSCULAR MASSAGE

The term "Neuromuscular Massage," also called NMT, refers to the style of bodywork that uses constant, focused pressure on a specific area of pain. This pressure applied by the therapist using fingertips, knuckles, elbow, or thumb for up to 30 seconds at a time, until the muscle spasm has been released. This is a very intense technique meant to treat serious pain. Neuromuscular Therapy is very effective at treating pain and stiffness in the low back, and neck, headaches, repetitive motion injuries.

PREGNANCY MASSAGE

Regular massage during pregnancy helps mom's body adjust to its rapid changes with greater ease and comfort. This treatment relaxes sore, over-stretched muscles, soothes the effects of hormonal elevations, increases joint flexibility, encourages the release of excess fluids, helps skin to stay supple and hydrated, promotes restful sleep, is generally comforting, healthy, and increases mom's enjoyment of this time, while carrying this precious gift of life.

Massage during pregnancy is as soothing, healing, and nourishing for baby as it is for mom. Because mom is baby's lifeline, if she is comfortable, relaxed, and at ease, these feeling are automatically transferred to baby. This creates a healthier, happier growing environment. Also, all of the physiological effects listed above have an effect on baby too. Relaxed muscles and joints, decreased fluid retention, and restful sleep lead to more effective circulation for mom-which is transferred to baby in the form of more nutrient and oxygen rich blood.

At Natural Body works, we use a side-lying position with supportive pillows for our Pregnancy Massage treatments. Our "moms in waiting" often tell us that the most comfortable they are all month is when they lie down on our massage tables!

Allowing your body time to adjust to change is especially important during pregnancy. If you are new to massage and have not been in ongoing, regular, monthly massage treatment prior to becoming pregnant, it is advisable to wait until the 12th week of pregnancy to begin your Pregnancy Massage treatment.

ENERGY WORK

Everything in the Universe is made of energy. This is a scientific fact. Energy moving very slowly becomes a solid and is visible. Energy moving very quickly becomes a vapor, and is increasingly invisible.

Our bodies have seven major Energy recycling centers called Chakras. The Chakras are vortices, which draw in fresh healing Energy (commonly called "Universal Life Energy") from the Atmosphere and Earth and transfer it into our bodies and spirit. The Chakras also dispel toxic or spent energy out of our bodies and spirit and back into the atmosphere and earth - to be recycled. Each Chakra nourishes the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the body area where it is located. Whenever there is any kind of imbalance in the physical, emotional, mental or spiritual body - any pain, discomfort, disease, upset, etc. - there is always a blockage in the Chakra corresponding to that body area.

The frequency of the Energy as it moves through the Chakra resonates within the color spectrum and is seen as a specific color. These colors are commonly referred to as the "Aura".

The object of Energy Work is to open blocked areas of the Chakras so that the individual can realize greater health. Benefits of Energy Work include:

• Deep relaxation, feelings of peace, well-being, calm and comfort
• Decrease or elimination of pain
• Release of chronic injuries
• Discharge the body's attraction to chronic injuries (the ankle that keeps being sprained, the knee that continues to be re-injured, etc.)
• Release of grief and other emotional upsets
• Balance the body, mind, energy and spirit
• Help the individual to be self-realized
(i.e.: identify for themselves where and what in their life is not working for them)
• Etc.

REIKI

The Reiki practitioner heals by allowing "Reiki energy" to flow through his/her hands into areas that need it. Reiki can be received even when massage is inappropriate.

Reiki I and Reiki II classes available. Contact us for details.

SPIRITUAL-ENERGETIC HEALING

Diane Jordan-Godwin employs the comforting, loving, and wise presence of the Spirit world in all her Energy treatments. At the very beginning of each Reflexology treatment Diane applies techniques which open and clear the bodies' Energy centers (the Chakras). This allows clients to experience the healing and comforting Energy of Spirits Guides, including their own loved ones in Spirit - who will work directly with them through the access points of the Chakras. Also, Diane has been given the wonderful gift of being an open channel for the Energy of all the Angels and Ascended Masters. During Reflexology these amazing and palpable Energies of Love, Peace, Comfort and Protection are channeled into the client's body from the reflex points on the feet - directly into and through the nervous system. The effect is quite transforming. Clients commonly relate that they have never experienced anything like it. Feelings of Peace, Love, incredible relaxation, lightness, joy, hope, well-being, release of pain (emotional and physical) and more are enjoyed. Messages of encouragement and Love from Spirit Guides and deceased loved ones are commonly perceived, seen and/or heard by clients during their sessions.

REFLEXOLOGY

Reflexology is wonderful way to address chronic pain, injury, or medical condition through the total relaxation of the nervous system. Reflexology accesses the nervous system through gentle stimulation of the nerve endings on the feet (of which there are over 7000). In fact, there is a nerve reflex point on the feet for every single inch of the body, every organ, gland, joint, body system, etc. This makes the feet an actual mirror image of the body. When a nerve reflex point on the feet is gently stimulated, a message is sent through the nervous system to the brain. The brain interprets this message as relaxation, pleasant sensation, comfort, etc. The brain then sends a message back through the nervous system to the body area which corresponds with the reflex point saying relaxation, pleasant sensation, comfort, etc. These messages override any messages of pain coming from the body area because the brain's attention is taken away from pain and applied to the pleasant sensation being experienced with Reflexology.

A full Reflexology session balances the entire body and allows energy to flow freely through the nervous system, thereby releasing energetic blocks. Energetic blocks are a cause of chronic pain, injury and disease. Likewise, physical and emotional trauma cause energetic blocks to form and a negative cycle is created. Reflexology helps release these blocks and balance and heal these cycles.

Although it feels wonderful, Reflexology is much more than a "foot massage", as it is sometimes described. Many people fall asleep or enter a trance-like state called the "Alpha State" - the only state in which self healing occurs in the body. Some other effects are a feeling of calm, and well-being, reduction or elimination of pain, improved sleep, concentration and energy, release of excess body fluids and toxins, a feeling of being more balanced and grounded, etc.

Some conditions which have been shown to respond well to Reflexology:

• Chronic Pain
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Reproductive Issues
• Constipation and All Digestive Issues
• Headaches
• Fibromyalgia
• Anxiety, Stress, Irritability
• Grief
• Bladder Issues
• Nervous System Disorders
• Depression
• Joint Pain
• Fluid Retention
• Plantar Fasciaitis
• Heal Spurs
• Knee and Shoulder Injuries
• And Many More

Hypnosis

What is Hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a very relaxed state of body and mind whereby the subconscious mind opens up and becomes aware of, acutely focused on and completely involved in whatever is happening. In Hypnosis, the individual is in a very deep state of relaxation which allows them to reach a deeper state of hypnosis. This paves the way for the individual's subconscious mind to become acutely aware of and intently focused on the hypnotist's voice and the positive suggestions which are being offered. These positive suggestions are then embraced and accepted by the subconscious mind. When positive suggestions are accepted by the subconscious mind, then the conscious mind, and consequently the body, will automatically act upon the suggestions as if they were the absolute truth - which of course they have become. Free consultations are available.

Hypnosis is effective with:

• Stop smoking
• Lose weight
• Release pain
• Relieve anxiety and stress
• Improve sport performance
• Improve performance at work
• Relieve fears and phobias
• Improve grades in school
• Enhance immune system
• Improve self-image and confidence
• Relieve troubling habits
• Past-life regression
• And so much more

Spiritual Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a truly enlightening experience when paired with Spiritual- Energetic Healing. Through the expansion of the sub-conscious mind/soul (which has access to all Universal knowledge) the individual can connect with their Angels and Guides on a very personal level. Pairing Spiritual-Energetic Healing with Hypnosis, Diane finds that clients develop a deep relationship with their Angels and Guides which they can access at any time to help them in their daily lives. Using Hypnosis, together with the Angels and Guides' ever present ability and desire to assist us, clients find that they heal, release habits, are relieved of pain and fear, find increased joy and Peace, grow and transform their lives with greater ease and comfort. Through the guidance of the Angels and Ascended Masters Diane has developed a particular Hypnosis technique - Chakra Perfection Hypnosis which can be utilized to help clients release troubling feelings and symptoms and receive guidance, Peace and healing on many levels. This Hypnosis can be tailored to just about any issue.

Chakra Perfection Hypnosis

• A great first time Hypnosis for anyone!
• A deeply healing Hypnosis for everyone!

Chakras are energy centers which are present in all people and animals. We all have 7 major Chakras which are aligned vertically from our tail bone to the crown of our head. Each Chakra vibrates at it's own particular energetic frequency to draw energy into the body area where it is located and on through the entire system. Chakras are a major part of our biological system. We could not live in a physical body without them.

Whenever one or more of the Chakras is blocked or not vibrating correctly (a common occurrence to varying degrees) there is then the corresponding development of a dysfunction, illness, injury and/or disease. Indeed all illness or dysfunction in an individuals' life can be traced back to a disruption in the workings of one or more of the Chakras.

Chakra Perfection Hypnosis is a wonderful way to open, clear, balance, heal and make perfectly functioning all of your Chakras. After this Hypnosis you will feel relaxed, healed, grounded, balanced, invigorated and simply wonderful in every way!

Connect with Your Angel(s) & Spirit Guide(s)

We all have Guardian Angels and Spirit Guides who are with us at all times, throughout our lives. We also have Guides who come and go - to help us at specific times and for specific reasons. Learn to call on your Angels and Guides.

In this group you will learn to call on your Angels and Guides - they want you to ! You will learn to open your Channel and recognize when you are receiving messages, help, guidance and inspiration.

In this Hypnosis you will:

• Enjoy a Chakra clearing.
• Travel in your own personal cloud chair to your place of Peace and healing.
• Connect with your Angel(s) and/or Spirit Guide(s).
• Release to your Angels(s) and Guides(s) whatever is causing you stress, imbalance, pain., etc.
• Receive from your Angel(s) and Guide(s) Love, Grace, healing, Peace and the knowledge that you are never alone!

Enhance & Embrace Your Divine Feminine Energy

In this Hypnosis you will travel to a Peaceful, lovely and magical garden to release all that has been holding you back from embracing the amazing woman you truly are!

You will enjoy a Chakra clearing, connect with and absorb the loving, feminine energies of:

• Archangel Haniel  She will help us to use the Moon's energy to heal and balance our hormones.
• Blessed Mother Mary  brings us gentle and loving "mother energy"
• Aphrodite  Goddess of Love, beauty and passion!
• Kuan Yin  Lovely and gentle Bodhitsatva of compassion.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is provided to you while fully clothed. It is a very gentle, hands-on healing method, which works with the spine, the skull, the cranial sutures, diaphragms and the fascia.

This physiological body system described above is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround, nourish and protect the brain and spinal cord. When restrictions are present within this system, then cerebral spinal fluid does not flow freely and an individual may experience any number of uncomfortable physical, emotional or mental symptoms.

The objective of this treatment is to release restrictions, thereby enhancing the functioning of the CranioSacral system. Misaligned bones can be restored to their proper position, patterns of injury can be released, joints may be re-aligned, and the relaxation response is achieved. All promoting balanced body mechanics for overall health and optimum performance levels.

SOMATO EMOTIONAL RELEASE

SomatoEmotional Release (SER) is an expanded level of a therapeutic process which uses the principles of CranioSacral Therapy to help rid the mind and body of the residual effects of trauma. When trauma (whether minor such as a sprained ankle or major such as disease or abuse) is experienced by an individual, a "Cellular Memory" is then experienced by the body as repetitive injury or chronic symptoms or condition. SomatoEmotional Release helps the body recognize that the previous trauma is past and the pattern can now be let go.

CST and SER compliment the body's natural healing processes. These therapies are increasingly used as a treatment for acute conditions. Additionally, CST and SER bolster the body's resistance to disease. For this reason, they are frequently used by proactive people looking for ways to prevent disease from occurring in the body. Some of the conditions which respond well with CST and SER are:

• Migraine Headaches
• Chronic Neck and Back Pain
• Stress, Anxiety and Tension-Related Problems
• Emotional Difficulties
• Chronic Fatigue
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
• Fibromyalgia and other Connective Tissue Disorders
• Orthopedic Problems
• Post-Surgical Dysfunction
• Scoliosis
• Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
• Motor Coordination Disorders
• Colic
• Autism
• Learning Disabilities
• Central Nervous System Disorders

Hatha Yoga INSTRUCTION

Take a step out of the world for awhile and enjoy the relaxation and mind/body connection of Yoga

In this 1-1/2 hour class - (private or semi-private up to 4 people) - you will learn:

• Pranayama - breathing techniques
• Mudras - ancient yogic hand symbols
• Asanas - body postures designed to improve health, increase flexibility and connect mind, body and spirit.

All these yogic skills are designed to release stress and melt away tension.

By turning inward and connecting with your inner essence you can learn to quiet the mind and improve mental clarity no matter what your age, shape or physical condition.

Whether you are male or female, young or old, flexible or restricted, high energy or low key, there is a Hatha Yoga routine for you! Because we are all different and unique, every person finds their own way of performing their Yoga posture......you will find the posture appropriate for your physical ability and you will find that Yoga will bring you closer to your true, essential self. While having fun and relaxing!

The regular practice of Yoga will increase your muscle flexibility and bone strength, as well as provide you non-physical rewards - such as the development of will power, focus & concentration.

Gain flexibility, expand your boundaries and encourage awareness in your body...learn to live in the present moment with a deep sense of peace.

Hatha Yoga...Empower yourself.

SPA TREATMENTS

Spa Treatments are a way to relieve stress and tension. Although typically perceived as indulgence, Spa Treatments are a wonderful vehicle for addressing tension because they are so generally relaxing to the entire body.

HERBAL MINI-FACIAL/MASSAGE

The face is cleansed, treated with an herbal facemask, and massaged with moisturizing lotion. This process exfoliates and hydrated the skin while toning skin and muscle.

BODY POLISH & SALT GLOW

Salt Glow Treatments use sea salts from the Dead Sea. Body Polish Treatments use organic, un-bleached, finely ground sugar, blended with essential oils. These treatments remove dead skin cells from the body to reveal new, young skin and leave the skin looking and feeling fresh, clean, incredibly soft, and "polished".

SEAWEED BODY MASK

You are covered with a warmed seaweed mud mask containing a blend of sea algae and sea salts, and wrapped in body heat-retaining Mylar. This treatment is good for all skin types.

EAR CANDLING

A gentle and relaxing ear treatment, which removes excess wax build-up and relieves symptoms such as itchy ears and chronic sinus congestion. May help to improve hearing loss caused by these conditions.

jump to Acupuncture FAQs | Acupuncture Research LinksACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is based on the idea that the qi (life energy) circulating through the body can be influenced by stimulating certain points. These points are located along a network of meridian pathways that connect all our major organ systems. When the energy is plentiful and flows smoothly there are no problems and people are healthy. However, when qi gets depleted, or is unable to flow smoothly through an area, problems develop. Acupuncture is designed to regulate the flow of qi throughout the body, helping to restore the body's natural healthy state.

Acupuncture treatments are very relaxing. Many people even fall asleep during treatment, often remarking that it is "the best type of nap" from which they wake feeling refreshed and energized.

Acupuncture is a wonderful way to restore balance to the body, alleviating bothersome symptoms as well as healing the underlying disharmony causing the symptoms in the 1st place.

Acupuncture points seem to be areas of electrical sensitivity and stimulating them sends a message to the hypothalamus-pituitary system, an area in the brain responsible for releasing neurotransmitters and endorphins (body's natural pain relieving hormones). Endorphins are also important in the body's hormonal system, helping explain why acupuncture is so effective in treating all sorts of pain conditions as well as GYN, infertility, and hormonal imbalances. These substances not only relax the body, they regulate serotonin which plays a role in mood, helping explain why acupuncture is so effective in treating anxiety, depression, stress, etc. Acupuncture also stimulates the immune system, explaining why acupuncture effectively treats autoimmune disorders and allergies.

Although most widely known for its effective pain relief, acupuncture has much broader applications. The World Health Organization recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of conditions; click here for a full list of them.

Commonly Treated Conditions

Chinese Style Acupuncture

Chinese style acupuncture is based on over 2000 years of medical theory and is the most common type of acupuncture practiced in the U.S. In Chinese acupuncture, the tongue and pulse are used as diagnostic tools. After the needles, about the diameter of a strand of hair, are inserted they are generally gently stimulated to facilitate the flow of qi.

Japanese Style Acupuncture

Japanese style acupuncture has the same roots as Chinese style, but has gradually developed a slightly different approach. Japanese style acupuncture uses abdominal palpation and the pulse as diagnostic tools, and generally involves even thinner needles, fewer needles, and shallower insertions, making it great for the needle phobic. There are even various non-insertive techniques that can be employed to stimulate the points without needles. Because acupuncture in Japan was once mainly practiced by the blind, Japanese style relies more heavily on touch rather than sight to decide on the entry points for needles. Treatments in this style are divided into two steps-"root" and "local" treatments. The root treatment seeks to address the underlying imbalance whereas the local treatment addresses the symptoms.

Both Chinese and Japanese style acupuncture are equally as therapeutic, differing slightly in their diagnostic method and treatment protocol. Although both are effective in treating most ailments, as a general rule Chinese style is recommended for musculoskeletal (especially acute) issues and Japanese would be suggested as starting point for anxiety disorders. Sarah has found that most patients tend to resonate more with one style or the other and is happy to demonstrate both. Her personal style often blends the two methods to suit her patients' individual needs.

Chinese Herbal Medicine

Chinese Herbal Medicine consists of over 5000 substances derived from plant, animal, and mineral sources (about 300 of which are commonly used), and is an essential part of the Chinese medical tradition. Over the years, an incredibly rich and powerful system of medicine has been created and many classical herbal formulas have been developed to treat a variety of health concerns. These formulas can be taken in prepared form (tablets, capsules, liquid extracts) or as individually mixed powders specifically tailored to your individual situation. They can also be used as topical liniments or patches. Herbs and acupuncture have a powerful synergistic effect, strengthening the impact of both. Herbal medicine can be particularly beneficial when dealing with challenging and/or chronic conditions.

One of the most appealing qualities of Chinese Herbal Medicine is the low risk of adverse reaction or side effects. Since the herbs are natural substances, the body is generally better able to absorb the medicinal benefits. And, all herbs used by Sarah are purchased from companies known to carefully test their products for safety.

Auriculotherapy

Auriculotherapy is ear acupuncture. The ear is actually a microcosm of the entire body-think of it as an upside down fetus-and can therefore be used to treat the entire body. Auriculotherapy is often used in detox treatments and in helping people stop smoking. It is frequently incorporated into Sarah's full body acupuncture treatments with great success, and patients are often sent home with pressballs/presstacks on auricular points to extend the duration of treatment for a few days.

Medical Qigong/Daoist Energy Healing

Medical Qigong is based on Daoist principles of energy and intention, and uses the knowledge and discipline of Chinese medical theory to direct energy in an efficient and effective manner. The practitioner is trained to sense where blockages/deficiencies are located and heal by acting as a conduit for energy, sending the energy to the specific areas that need it. Medical Qigong can be done in person or long distance and is generally incorporated into Sarah's acupuncture treatments.

Tong Ren Therapy

Tong Ren energy healing is a therapy based on using the collective unconscious, as defined by Dr. Carl Jung, to remove energy blockages causing disease. Created by Master Tom Tam, of Quincy MA, this method is based on over 20years of his clinical practice and research and is currently being studied by Dana Farber/Harvard Medical Center. It is often used in treating difficult cases of cancer, MS, Parkinson's, etc. Tong Ren is often incorporated into Sarah's acupuncture treatments, and can also be done long distance/over the phone if desired.

jump to Acupuncture Research LinksAcupuncture FAQs

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest, most commonly used medical procedures in the world, originating in China more than 2,000 years ago. Acupuncture is the insertion of sterile, disposable, fine needles into specific points located near or on the skin's surface. According to the 2002 National Health Interview Survey (the largest and most comprehensive survey on complementary and alternative medicine), 8.2 million Americans have used acupuncture and 2.1 million have used it in the previous year.

What does acupuncture feel like? Does it hurt?

Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair thin. The end of the needle is smooth and rounded so when the needle is inserted it pushes the tissue aside without cutting it. The needles are so thin it is as if they glide through the pores in your skin-often the insertion is hardly felt. Occasionally patients compare the insertion to a mosquito bite. The needles can be adjusted in the unlikely event you feel uncomfortable during the needling process. People describe the sensation of qi (energy) differently. Many patients report feeling a sensation of warmth, tingling, heaviness, or pressure. Others simply feel a deep sense of relaxation. Everyone's experience is unique, although it is quite common for people to leave the treatment with a great sense of relaxation and calm.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is one of the key components of the Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) system. In TCM health is achieved and disease is prevented by maintaining the body in a balanced state of yin and yang. Any imbalance leads to blockages in the flow of qi (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. When qi flows smoothly, we are healthy. But, if the qi flow is blocked, or we don't have enough qi, problems develop. Acupuncture finds the areas where qi is out of balance and works to restore the body's natural healthy state.

Several theories have been proposed as to how acupuncture may work from a western perspective. It is theorized that acupuncture points are areas of electrical sensitivity and that stimulating those points sends a message to the hypothalamus-pituitary system, an area in the brain responsible for releasing neurotransmitters and endorphins (body's natural pain relieving hormones). Endorphins are also important in the body's hormonal system. This helps explain why acupuncture is so effective in treating all sorts of pain conditions as well as GYN, infertility, and hormonal imbalances. These substances not only relax the body, they regulate serotonin which plays a role in mood, helping to explain why acupuncture is so effective in treating anxiety, depression, stress, etc. It also appears that acupuncture stimulates the immune system, thus explaining why acupuncture effectively treats autoimmune disorders and allergies.

Do I have to believe in acupuncture for it to work?

No. Acupuncture is successfully used on animals and children, who cannot understand the theory behind it. A positive open attitude certainly helps with any type of treatment/therapy but it will work regardless. I'd be more than happy to discuss any questions or concerns you might have to help you feel more comfortable with Chinese Medicine.

Is acupuncture safe? Is it regulated by the FDA?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that sterile, nontoxic needles be used and that they be labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only. Relatively few complications have been reported to the FDA in comparison to the millions of people treated each year by acupuncture.

Does acupuncture work?

According to the National Institute for Health Consensus Statement on Acupuncture in 1997, acupuncture has been shown to be effective for adult postoperative chemotherapy nausea and vomiting and in post-operative dental pain. Acupuncture has been found to be effective in treating addictions, stroke, headaches, menstrual cramps, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia pain, osteoarthritis, low-back pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome when used as a complementary treatment.

How many sessions will it take until I am feeling better?

It is hard to predict duration of treatment until after a thorough intake and initial treatment session. It depends on your condition. Everyone responds differently. As a general rule, the longer you've had a problem, or the more serious the condition, the longer it will take to resolve it. However, most people start to experience relief from their symptoms fairly quickly (within 2-3treatments).

How often should I come for treatment?

It depends on your condition. Most people come once a week at first. If a condition is particularly acute and painful, you may require 2 treatments a week for the first few weeks to more quickly get the situation under control. The benefits of acupuncture are cumulative and build over time. So, the length of time between treatments will gradually increase.

Are there any side effects?

There are very few side effects to acupuncture. Most people find it extremely relaxing and rejuvenating. Occasionally people feel tired after a treatment or experience temporary dizziness. It is helpful to eat before a treatment to help prevent side effects.

What is herbal medicine?

Chinese herbal medicine is the use of 300-500 commonly used herbs (roots, flowers, bark, seeds, fruits, branches, etc) to treat a variety of medical ailments. It has a tradition over 2000 years old. Herbs have fewer side effects than many western drugs since they are natural. Combining herbs with acupuncture increases the efficacy of both significantly. Herbs are can be taken as a decoction of raw herbs, powder, or patents. Patents, the mildest form, are essentially over-the-counter medicinal in the form of little pills or liquid. The powdered herbal formulas are individualized to suit your specific needs, which makes them particularly beneficial and slightly more powerful. Although the raw herbs are the most powerful, they are more labor intensive, so most people take the powders.

How long is each session?

The initial consultation is 1.5 hours in order to complete the rather thorough intake process and develop a treatment strategy, in addition to the treatment itself. Follow-up appointments are an hour.

Do you accept insurance? Why not?

Most insurance companies do not yet offer coverage for acupuncture or other alternative health care modalities. You should check with your insurance company before coming. We do not bill the insurance company or collect from them. We expect payment at the time of service. You can, however, use the receipt from us to obtain reimbursement.

What styles do you practice?

I practice Chinese style acupuncture, Japanese style acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Non-Insertive techniques (magnets, touching needle, acupressure) and Medical Qigong Energy Healing.

What is the difference between Chinese and Japanese style acupuncture?

Chinese style uses the tongue and pulse as diagnostic tools, whereas Japanese style uses the pulse and abdominal palpation. Chinese style is slightly more intense in its treatment approach. The needles are slightly thicker, although still about the diameter of a strand of hair, and are inserted slightly deeper with more stimulation. Japanese style is more subtle. The thinnest possible needles are used and are inserted very shallowly with minimal stimulation. Both styles generally include a front and back treatment.

What other modalities and adjunctives might be used during a treatment?

Sometimes electro-acupuncture is used, especially in cases of musculoskeletal pain, where a slight electrical current is sent through the needles. Moxa, an herb, is sometimes burned on the needles or skin to stimulate and warm an area. Occasionally a laser might be used. Magnets, pressballs, and tuina massage are also used regularly.

Is there any research on acupuncture or herbal medicine?

Most acupuncture research done in Asia has been in the form of case studies. Western research on acupuncture and herbal medicine is still in its infancy. Results are mixed because of the complexities with study design and size, as well as challenges in choosing controls and placebos such as sham acupuncture. However, the WHO lists over 20 conditions where acupuncture treatment is helpful. Further research will undoubtedly lengthen that list.

What sorts of things can acupuncture treat?

Acupuncture is most well-known for providing significant pain relief of all kinds-migraines, back pain, injuries, arthritis, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, etc. However, acupuncture is effective in treating a wide variety of ailments such as asthma, infertility, depression/anxiety, insomnia, GERD/reflux, menopause, etc.

What should I expect during my first visit?

During the first visit, we will ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior in order to obtain a complete picture of your treatment needs. Please come prepared to tell us all medications and supplements you are taking. It is always a good idea to eat something before coming and to wear clothes that can be rolled up to above your knees/elbows.

jump to Acupuncture FAQsAcupuncture Research Links

ANGEL MESSAGE READINGS

Diane Godwin, Certified Angel Messenger brings you messages of Love, support and guidance from your Angels. Ask a specific question or receive general guidance. The Angels are always ready and willing to help you with their upbeat and loving messages of encouragement and support! Telephone readings available!