Acupuncture Physical Medicine (APM) is a western-born style of acupuncture that combines classical (Chinese) acupuncture, with emphasis on meridian points with western medicine treatment of trigger point releases (tight bands of muscle fibers) to unblock physical and emotional holding patterns through the use of musculo/skeletal and viscero-somatic de-constriction modalities. This style of acupuncture was developed by Dr. Mark Seem, founder of Tri-State College of Acupuncture, and lends it western touch to the pioneer of trigger point therapy, Dr. Janet Travell.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a synthesis of the oldest and most modern aspects of Chinese medicine. Codified in China in modern times before being exported to the west, TCM is the most commonly-known and most popular style of acupuncture around the world. Some of the most important aspects of TCM philosophy and treatment are those based on the root principles of yin and yang, the much-researched system of qi meridians (invisible energetic pathways running through the body,) and their accompanying energetic organ systems (each meridian runs on a path moving directly through, and thus energetically supporting and being supported by, one of 8 major western organs).

Examined in its entirety TCM offers the practitioner and patient a road map and guide to the entire holistic energetic system of the body, and a wide variety of treatment strategies whereby one can shift these patterns into more optimal processes. By utilizing these ancient paradigms and principles TCM practitioners and acupuncturists in general are able to access deeper and more elusive aspects of the psychosomatic individual than is currently permitted within the reductionist model of biological systems in current western medicinal paradigms. The founding strengths of the original Chinese theories are the bedrock on which most, if not all, other acupuncture forms take their basis.

While TCM has made some significant shifts away from some of the core classical Chinese doctrine, most significantly in its inclusion of some Western/modern principles and in its exclusion of the ancient shamanic rituals woven throughout the ancient practices, it is still considered to be the main conduit through which the ancient Chinese practices are propagated throughout the world today.

Hara diagnosis is a holistic system of Japanese acupuncture based on abdominal reflex points as a way to measure and treat disharmonies in the body. Holism in this instance refers to a microcosmic facsimile of the entire body contained within a given smaller distal area, (such as is commonly utilized in reflexology and auricular therapy) where certain aspects of the abdomen refer to parts of the body which they proportionately represent within the microcosmic holistic system in question.

In Hara-based (energetic) medicine we can get a clear sense of the overall state of the individual's body-system based primarily on palpation of the Hara area itself to get an idea of what aspects of the body are pathological and/or in or out of balance with each other. There are also some solid clinical studies which lend credence to the notion that the Hara system is an actual connective system throughout the body, and the common (western) thinking for how this might be so is based primarily upon the ability of the connective tissue to relay neural and somatic information throughout the body-system. Maureen has studied Hara diagnosis with Kiiko Matsumoto, universally acknowledged and widely-published Master of Japanese Acupuncture.

Gua Sha is a tool used to clear away stagnation in the superficial tissues of the body to improve circulation, clear away stagnation in muscles and fascia, and alleviate cold symptoms. For more information please go to www.guasha.com. This is usually done in combination with acupuncture.

Cupping is a method whereas we use suction cups on the skin to bring to the surface metabolic waste, targets specific areas of the body and is commonly used to target deeper layers of the body for stagnation of blood and qi and is commonly used to treat common colds and pain conditions.

Moxibustion is the burning of the herb mugwort on specific points of the body to promote warmth internally, stimulate energetic and biological movement in channels, and to strengthen the internal fortitude of the energetic body-system. Moxibustion is one of the oldest of all practices in Oriental Medicine, thought by some scholars to possibly even pre-date acupuncture.

Auricular Acupuncture (ear acupuncture) is a complete system of acupuncture. There are dozens of points on the ear which correspond to all parts of the body, both external and internal. This system is believed to work primarily through the endocrine and nervous systems. Maureen is a certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist and specifically uses the NADA protocol (National Acupuncture and Detoxification Association protocol) which has been clinically and scientifically successfully proven to be an effective treatment in substance abuse/addiction cravings-reduction, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and general stress reduction. www.acudetox.com

Facial Rejuvenation has become a hot topic in our society. By inserting tiny needles under the superficial layers of the skin, we can relax the muscles of the face to even out skin tone. This also promotes collagen regeneration, and improves skin texture and tone.

A great alternative to surgery. A gentle and holistic alternative to invasive cosmetic procedures, Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture is a painless, non-surgical method of reducing the signs of the aging process. But it should be considered more of a “life-lift” than merely an alternative to a facelift. More than a cosmetic procedure, it is a rejuvenation and revitalization process designed to help the whole body look and feel younger. Working with your inherent constitutional energies, Acupuncture Facial Rejuvenation, taps into your deepest reservoirs of qi to transform your appearance from the inside out. By potentiating your elemental energies and balancing your qi, these treatments enhance health, vitality and beauty.

As a consequence, both your inner and outer well-being are renewed and revitalized. Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture can erase as many as five to fifteen years from the face, with results apparent after just a few treatments. Fine lines may be entirely eliminated and deeper wrinkles diminished. Bags under the eyes can be reduced, jowls firmed, puffiness eliminated, droopy eyelids lifted and double chins minimized. Other likely results include: moisturizing of the skin with increased local circulation of blood and lymph to the face; increased collagen production, muscle tone, and dermal contraction; tightening of the pores; brightening of the eyes; improved hormonal balance to clear acne; and the reduction of stress evident in the face—all bringing out your innate beauty and radiance.

This treatment includes a full acupuncture treatment enhanced with acupressure, stretching and or other modalities tailored to your individual needs.

Maureen has studied various modalities and uses and eclectic bodywork approach. This treatment involves acupressure, stretching and /or other modalities tailored to your needs. Acupressure is a form of bodywork which uses pressure on specific meridian points to unblock constrictions and promote energetic balance and wellness.

Thai Yoga (Nuad Boran) is a Thailand healing art which incorporates Thai bodywork with yoga stretches and gentle rocking. It improves range of motion, opens Sen lines (energy channels), alleviates aliments, relaxes and promotes a deep sense of peace. This treatment is generally performed on a floor mat, wearing loose fitting clothes.

Aromatherapy is the use of essential plant oils. Essential oils are fragrant, highly concentrated, extracts from flowers, leaves, spices, fruits, woods and roots, each with its own benefits to the mind, body and spirit. Add aromatherapy to enhance any treatment.

Raindrop therapy is the use of eight specific essential oils massaged one by one into the back along the spine. These oils penetrate deep into the back to oxygenate and help align the spine and relax surrounding tissues

Ear candling is the use of candle-like cones, inserted into the ear and heated, to remove excess wax buildup, relieve pressure in the inner ear and help calm any inflammation. This is beneficial for those who have chronic ear and sinus infections.