Shen Dao Acupuncture

Acupuncture is based on the concept of Qi, or 'vital energy' that flows throughout the body. Energy flows may become blocked or depleted due to physical, emotional or environmental factors. These imbalances can manifest as pain, lack of energy, lowered immune system and/or illness. Very fine single-use, stainless steel disposable needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body. The points stimulate nerve fibres which carry electrical impulses back to the brain. This increases blood flow, triggers neurotransmitters and the release of hormones such as endorphins and serotonin. Thus, stimulating the body’s natural healing response.

The benefits of acupuncture include stress and pain relief, improved emotional well-being, stabalized mood, regulated hormones, improved immune system, improved digestion, reduced inflammation, improved sleep, improved circulation, increased energy and overall wellbeing.

Cosmetic facial acupuncture is a natural and effective approach to rejuvenate and support skin health. A restorative treatment that boosts circulation, softens tension in the face and promotes a smoother more radiant complexion. Ultra-thin needles trigger a self-repair response in the skin, stimulating collagen production and elastin proteins. This helps to smooth and tighten the skin, decreasing wrinkles and eliminating fine lines. Improved blood flow, lymphatic drainage and skin cell micro-circulation helps to relax tension in the face, improve muscle tone, decrease puffiness and lift sagging.

Treatments are based on a Chinese medicine diagnosis and address the forehead, eyes, cheeks, mouth, jawline and jowl area. Internal imbalances are also addressed helping to improve anxiety, sleep, digestive issues and whole body balance. Each session begins with a gentle organic facial cleanse followed by a blend of face and body needles, botanical oil, gua sha and/or jade roller massage.

Cosmetic acupuncture has a cumulative effect and treatments are best applied in a series of 6-10 treatments. If you have had botox or filler it is recommended to wait 4 weeks post-treatment before receiving cosmetic acupuncture.

Maara is certified in the Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture System and has completed advanced training under Dr. Martha Lucas and Michelle Gellis.

BENEFITS

• Reduces stress and tension in the face

• Reduces wrinkles and eliminate fine lines

• Improves facial muscle tone, skin texture and complexion

• Improves blood flow and lymphatic drainage

• Decreases puffiness, inflammation

• Stimulates production of collagen and elastin proteins

• Smoothes and brightens skin

• Helps lift sagging around eyes, cheeks, jowls, chin and neck

• Reduces the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation

• Prevents and clears acne, decongests the skin, decreases inflammation

• Improves blood flow, lymphatic drainage, skin cell micro-circulation

• Increases exfoliation and elimination of toxins

• Tightens pores and softens scars

• Improves anxiety, sleep, digestive issues

• Whole body rejuvenation, relaxation and balancing

*Cosmetic acupuncture treatments are not recommended during pregnancy.

The placement of small needles into specific points of the outer ear. It helps to regulate the nervous system, promote relaxation, calming of the mind and support mental health. It is also beneficial in the treatment of addiction recovery and trauma support.

Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST) is a gentle, hands-on treatment that supports nervous system regulation and the body's innate capacity for healing. The practitioner listens to and engages with the subtle, rhythmic movement within the craniosacral system – the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

Treatment encourages the gentle release of restrictions held in the tissues and nervous system, allowing space for your body to shift out of the ‘fight or flight’ response into a state of stillness where the parasympathetic nervous system (‘rest and digest’) takes over. This slows the heart rate, relaxes muscles, and promotes digestion, bringing the body into a state of balance and reorientation towards health.

Craniosacral therapy is especially effective in treating overwhelm, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, post-concussion syndrome, TMJ pain, sinusitis, headache, migraine, sleep disturbances and trauma recovery.

Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves the application of suction cups on the skin to release deep muscle tension, increase blood flow, help clear stagnation, reduce inflammation and increase lymphatic flow. It is frequently used in combination with acupuncture for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy which consists of burning dried mugwort on particular points on the body. It is used to stimulate blood circulation, warm acupuncture points and promote smooth flow of Qi along the meridians.

Diet is an integral part of Chinese medicine. Since food is one of our primary sources of energy, it has great potential to influence our health. TCM food therapy considers the energetic qualities of foods and how they can restore and enhance long term health according to your body’s constitution.