Qigong is an ancient physical and spiritual practice originating over 5000 years ago.  It is used to cultivate your body’s qi.  There is scientific documentation on the benefits of qigong to reduce stress, boost immunity, decrease pain, and strengthen digestion.  There are different styles of qigong, including mind guiding, deep breathing and sitting, standing, walking, and lying down meditations. It is a great adjunctive therapy to acupuncture.

Qigong

Sarah Shupe, L.Ac., M.A.O.M.

Vital Body and Mind Therapies

2201 Mount Vernon Ave—Ground Floor

Alexandria, VA 22301

 

Phone: 703-217-7124

E-mail: info@acupuncturealexandria.com

Licensed Acupuncturist

Sarah Shupe, L.Ac., M.A.O.M.

Other therapies are commonly combined with your acupuncture treatment to enhance and prolong your results.  All these services are offered by Sarah Shupe, L.Ac., M.A.O.M.

Other Therapies Offered

Chinese herbal formulas are often prescribed to complement the acupuncture treatment.  Formulas usually contain 8 to 15 individual herbs.  This combination enhances the actions and effects on the body, while diminishing the side effects and interactions with other medications.  Herbal formulas are available in powder and pill form.

Herbal Medicine

Electro acupuncture involves attaching small electrodes to the needles.  This increases the stimulation of the acupuncture points and can be a very effective therapy.

Electro Acupuncture

Moxibustion involves the burning of the herb moxa (common name mugwort) to warm an acupuncture point.  This is done 1 of 3 ways.  The picture above shows indirect moxa—the compressed herb is lit and held over points.  Other forms are direct moxa—moxa rolls are placed directly on the skin, and liquid moxa—moxa tincture is placed on the points and a heat lamp is placed above the body.  The intent of moxa is to add extra stimulation to the acupuncture point.  It can warm the channels to drive out cold and congestion.

Moxibustion

With cupping, a glass cup is applied to acupuncture points and a vacuum is created.  This increases blood and qi circulation in the area.  Cupping is used mostly for pain relief and to relieve lung congestion. 

Cupping