What does acupuncture treat and how is Five Element (5E) different?

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All types of acupuncture (TCM, dry-needling, 5E) are good at treating pain, illness and healing injuries.  The system of medicine behind all types of acupuncture has been used successfully for 3 to 5000 years to treat the full spectrum of human diseases.  Historically speaking, 5E is an older form of acupuncture that strives to nourish the soul of the individual as the foundation of true health.  This makes 5E particularly adept at treating depression, anxiety, impotence, fibromyalgia, insomnia, hopelessness, loss of vitality, long standing anger and frustration, chronic imbalances, and most psycho-spiritual needs.  While TCM and dry-needling are well suited to fixing immediate injuries and illnesses, 5E is geared to the client who is looking to build and maintain a longer term relationship with their well-being and healthcare.  At it's best, 5E can truly be a guide along a journey to your best self.

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What are the needles like?

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All needles are single-use, disposable and sterile acupuncture needles that are smaller than a human hair.  Roughly 40 of these needles will fit in the the standard 18 gauge hypodermic needle.  Acupuncture needles are made of stainless steel and are extremely flexible.

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Does it hurt?

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Acupuncture feels nothing like getting a shot, however, it can be intense.  Unlike other styles of acupuncture, 5E does not generally leave needles in the body for a prolonged period, though early clearing treatments and some other exceptions exist.  Instead, 5E practitioners strive to "connect" with the qi with as few needles as possible as quickly as possible.  The connecting of needle with qi can produce an intense and fleeting sting, burn, tingling, electrical or even dull aching sensation.  This is considered a good sign that goals will be achieved. 

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How many treatments will I need?

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The frequency and duration of treatments depends on the individual situation: nature of the imbalance, duration, and an individuals overall constitution.  As a general guideline you should expect to start with a two hour diagnostic intake that will include a thorough discussion of your history and goals as well as acupuncture and cranial-sacral massage.  I recommend follow up sessions of an hour or longer every week or two weeks thereafter - for a total of 4-6 sessions. Further sessions can be timed in accordance with the clients needs.  For some, more frequent and targeted acupuncture-only sessions will be beneficial while others will quickly reach their goals and focus instead on maintenance and relaxation.  At this point clients may chose to add additional time for massage to a 5E session.  

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How much does it cost?

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The regular prices range from $75 to $120 depending on the amount of time allotted (60 minutes to 2 hours); however, price should not keep you away.  Discounted rates are available for anyone in need, just ask.  Additionally, discounts are immediately applied to artists/musicians, teachers, and service industry workers.

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What Covid-19 measures are in place? What should I expect?

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Full disclosure means letting you know that during the pandemic I closed my practice for more than two months and quarantined at home with my husband while following strict social distancing measures.  I have no indication that I have had the virus and continue to follow social distancing and protective guidelines during my days.  I encourage everyone to do the same! However, I do feel compelled to lend aid where I can so I am returning to practice under new guidelines from the Department of Health and the National Council for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  All patients must be scheduled in advance and must certify that they are in good health with no fever or symptoms for two weeks proceeding treatment.  If you feel unwell on the day of your treatment, please cancel.  

 

All clients will enter through the studio's private entrance located through the iron gate on St Ferdinand.  You will be screened for fever and asked to wash your hands and don a face mask (one will be provided if necessary).  For initial 5E treatments a special face shield will be provided and weather permitting, we will conduct our interview on the terrace. Massage clients do not require these measures but will receive most of their work face down or in side-lying position to minimize face to face time.  Both you and I will wear a face mask throughout, except when you are in the face cradle and yours can be removed. 

 

The office is disinfected with hospital approved cleansers between each client and at the end of every work day and a UV/ozone light is deployed in the space once a week.  Hand sanitizers and soap and water are available to both of us throughout.  During your treatment, weather permitting, we will open the windows and keep the air in our private space circulating as best as possible. We do have an individual air system in the studio.  However, anyone who is seriously concerned about contamination because of immune deficiency is asked NOT to make an appointment at this time.  

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Please plan to arrive at the time of your appointment and not before as our waiting room is no longer available.  Also, at this time you cannot bring another person with you as they will not have a place to stay. I hope these measures allow both of us to feel comfortable, safe, and healthy throughout. Thank you for your understanding during these unseen times.  

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