Acupuncture and Acupressure are a traditional holistic medicine from China that has been practiced for over 3,000 years. The use of acupuncture points revolve around the use of very fine needles gently placed in specific points mapped out on the body. The needles inspire a shift in the body to help bring about health and well-being. In my practice I use oils, Acutonics (sound therapy) and metals, along with needles. Chinese cupping, moxabustion (the burning of the Mugwort herb), Qi Gong, and nutrition are often combined in these treatments as well.
While there are many explanations, Acupuncture points are based on ancient Chinese beliefs of energy and blood flow throughout the distinct pathways (meridians) that network the body, much like nerves and blood vessels. In this theory, the insertion of acupuncture needles and in my practice the use of metals, oils, and/or Acutonics at various points along the body's meridians enables energy and blood to flow into areas where there is a deficiency and away from areas of excess. These changes in flow create a balance in the body, which allows the body to naturally restore itself and heal.
2. Does it Hurt?
Acupuncture uses very thin needles with quick insertion methods. They are not hollow in the center like the needles used for injections, and therefore do not enter the skin the the same way. Some report feeling a slight pinch at the insertion and some do not notice it at all. Once in, the area around the needle may awaken a sensation including tingling, pressure, warmth, cooling and more, this is a great sign and please share with your practitioner as it is your body's natural healing response.
3. Are the needles sterilized?
The most common practice among acupuncturists in the U. S. today, and what we use, are disposable, stainless steel needles. The needles are disposed of properly and are not saved and reused for other treatments. This eliminates all risk of contamination.
4. How often should I come in? How soon will I see results?
Many feel some benefit after just one treatment. For some it can take more treatments depending on the conditions treated and one's constitution. To establish steady and lasting improvement we recommend getting a treatment once a week to once every other week depending on your condition. We will discuss with you during your visit the possible treatment plans for you to optimize your health, time and monetary needs. When you're feeling well, coming in for tune-ups once per season is good preventive medicine.
5. Definitions:
~ Acutonics - Sound Therapy using specific tuning forks aligned with the acupuncture point functions.
~ Chinese cupping - The placement of glass, bamboo or plastic cups on acupuncture points or along channels of energy flow (meridians) with the use of heat or regular suction. This bring more blood flow to an area and has many health benefits including muscle relaxation, detoxification, pain relief, and immune system strengthening.
~ Moxabustion - The burning of the mugwort herb over specific acupuncture points has proven to be an effective boost to many immune system imbalances and digestive complaints as well as certain muscle and joint problems.
~ Qi Gong - A Chinese Medical energy medicine which combines breathing techniques, meditation and body movements.
Mindybody Classic View
Jenny Saferstein, M.S., L.Ac., A.P.
Jenny is a Licensed Acupuncturist in the State of Ohio (L.Ac.), a Diplomat of Acupuncture (Dipl.Ac.) certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), and earned a Master's of Science in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine from Bastyr University in Seattle, Washington, 2010. She is an Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor (A.W.C.) certified by the Kerala Ayurveda Academy in Seattle, Washington through attending their 500 hour course on Ayurvedic Medicine (Traditional Medicine of India), 2009, and is a Registered Ayurvedic Practitioner (R.A.P.) with the Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America (AAPNA). Jenny earned her Bachelor's of Science in Natural Health Science from Bastyr University, and previously studied Pre-Medicine and Chinese Art History at The Ohio State University. She spent the summer of 2005 studying Chinese Art History and Culture in Shanghai and Beijing, China.
Personal health issues at a young age led Jenny into the world of Medicine. With over 13 years of personal experience in Chinese Medicine and Complimentary Medicines, Jenny has studied and trained in a variety of styles and techniques. In her practice she treats Gynecological imbalances, Pregnancy, Pediatrics, and Pain Management. Her Chinese Medicine focus is with the Chinese Medicine Schools of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Channel Theory and European Auricular Acupuncture. She utilizes Acutonics (tuning fork therapy) and other sound therapies along with homeopathic flower essences and herbal remedies. Follow this link for more information about her Ayurvedic Consultations.
Clinical Experience: ~ Bastyr Center for Natural Health Internship, Seattle, WA. ~ Harborview Hospital Madison HIV and Aids Clinic Internship, Seattle, WA. ~ Harborview Hospital International Clinic Internship, Seattle, WA. ~ Kerala Ayurveda Clinic Internship, Seattle, WA. ~ Community Acupuncture Clinic, Tzfat, Israel. ~ Golden Leaf Natural Health, Private Practice, New York, NY. - Golden Leaf Natural Health, Private Practice, Akron, Ohio, and Cleveland, Ohio.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda is the traditional holistic medicine of India, Ayu means life or longevity and veda means the science of. The history of Ayurveda also called Ayurvedic Medicine, has been noted in texts over 5,000 years old. This medicine includes numerous modalities aimed at helping one learn how to attain balance and rejuvenation.
An Ayurvedic Consultation is a 60 minute visit with a detailed history and current symptom intake according to the principles of Ayurvedic Medicine. We will discuss a treatment plan based on your Doshas (constitution) and imbalances (symptoms). Ayurvedic Medicine strives to improve one's life through simple additions or shifts in one's daily routine. It is through these shifts that we can regularly restore balanced health and understand our needs as we encounter daily stresses. Diet, Lifestyle, breathing techniques, essential oils and yoga therapy are some of the main tools that may be discussed and tailored to you.
