Acupuncture for Gut Health: A Holistic Approach to Digestion

In today’s world, digestive issues are incredibly common and a frequent complaint we treat at Balance. Whether it’s bloating, acid reflux, constipation, or IBS, gut problems can seriously mess with your day (and your mood). While medications and diet changes help, more and more people are turning to acupuncture as a natural way to support their digestion and feel better from the inside out.

How Acupuncture Supports Digestion

In Chinese Medicine, your gut health is all about balance. The Spleen and Stomach meridian systems (which make up the Earth element, ie our center) are the main players in digestion, and when they’re out of sync, you get symptoms like bloating, sluggish digestion, and discomfort. Acupuncture helps restore this balance by improving the flow of Qi (your body’s energy) and promoting better digestion.

Here’s why acupuncture helps improve GI issues:

Reduces bloating and inflammation. If you constantly feel puffy or uncomfortable after eating, acupuncture helps calm inflammation and get things moving properly.

Keeps you regular. Whether you’re dealing with constipation or diarrhea, acupuncture helps regulate your digestion so things run smoothly.

Relieves stress and supports the gut-brain connection. Ever notice how stress makes your stomach go crazy? Acupuncture relaxes your nervous system, which helps your gut chill out too.

Boosts digestion and nutrient absorption. If your gut isn’t breaking down food properly, you might feel tired or bloated all the time. Acupuncture strengthens your digestive system so you can absorb nutrients better.

Supports your gut microbiome. Your gut bacteria play a huge role in digestion, and acupuncture helps support a healthy microbiome so you feel your best.

Case Study: Acupuncture for Crohn’s Flare-Up

Meet “Sarah”, a 25-year-old woman who has been managing Crohn’s disease with medication for years. One day, she found herself in a stressful situation- her insurance denied her Humira refill due to an error, and she was stuck in limbo waiting for it to be resolved. This unexpected gap in medication triggered a flare-up, leaving her with abdominal pain, bloating and IBS, fatigue, and stress about how her body would handle being without Humira.

While waiting for her prescription, Sarah turned to acupuncture as a way to support her body during this difficult time.

This is how acupuncture helped Sarah:

1. Calmed inflammation. Acupuncture helped reduce the gut inflammation causing her pain and discomfort.

2. Supported digestion. We targeted points to strengthen her Spleen and Stomach, improving her digestion and nutrient absorption.

3. Relieved stress and anxiety. The uncertainty of not having medication was overwhelming, but acupuncture helped her feel grounded and at ease.

Within a few treatments, Sarah felt noticeably better! Her symptoms were more manageable, her stress levels had dropped, and she was able to function while waiting for her medication to be sorted out.

And we received the ULTIMATE message of gratitude from Sarah:

“… I'm so amazed, my symptoms get better every time! I know that was the point and what you suggested.. to come more often… it still just amazes me 😂 especially while being off medication so thank you!!”

ACUPUNCTURE, HERBS, AND CHINESE MEDICINE TO THE RESCUE!

Acupuncture Points That Help Digestion

Some of the most common acupuncture points for gut health include:

ST36 (Zusanli). Known as the “longevity point”, this acupoint on the lower leg is the ultimate digestion booster. Helps with bloating, energy, and gut motility. It’s a heavy hitter for the immune system, and can be very helpful for autoimmune conditions.

CV12 (Zhongwan). Located at the center of the abdomen. this point harmonizes the Stomach and is a go-to for acid reflux and stomach pain. We love this point for treating colic in babies!

SP6 (Sanyinjiao). A powerful point for digestive and hormonal balance, SP6 helps with bloating, anxiety, PMS, and fluid retention. This point is found just above the inner ankle bone.

LI4 (Hegu). This point promotes overall energy flow and helps relieve stress-induced digestive issues and pain. You’re likely familiar with this point, which is located between the thumb and pointer finger and it often used for headache relief.

Acupuncture is amazing, but when paired with Chinese herbal medicine, the results can be even better. Herbs like ginger, licorice root, and tangerine peel help improve digestion, reduce bloating, and support gut balance naturally.

Click here to see our acupressure guide for improved digestion!

Simple Tips to Keep Your Gut Happy

Along with acupuncture, a few lifestyle changes can go a long way:

1. Eat warm, cooked foods – Your gut loves them (cold foods can slow digestion and weaken the Spleen and Stomach Qi).

2. Chew your food well – Sounds basic, but it makes a difference!

3. Manage stress – Acupuncture helps, but so do deep breathing and meditation. Relaxing the Liver Qi improves stress-induced symptoms like IBS and indigestion.

4. Stay hydrated – Just skip the ice-cold drinks, which can slow digestion. Introduce ginger tea, room temp water, and coconut water, for example.

Ready to feel better?

If your gut’s been giving you trouble, acupuncture might be exactly what you need to reset and feel good again. At Balance Acupuncture, we specialize in holistic treatments that get to the root of your digestive issues.

Book an appointment today and start feeling better from the inside out!

Empowering Women’s Health and Fertility

At Balance, we believe that every woman deserves access to compassionate, healthcare tailored to her unique needs. Our commitment to women’s health goes beyond acupuncture; it’s a holistic approach that nurtures body, mind, and spirit while supporting each woman on her journey to wellness, fertility, and self-empowerment.

Supporting Women’s Health at Every Stage

Women’s health is a journey that evolves through the stages of life, and we are here to support you through all of them. Whether you’re seeking relief from menstrual pain, managing hormonal shifts, or finding balance through perimenopause and menopause, our acupuncture treatments and herbal remedies are crafted to harmonize your body’s natural rhythms. We are dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space where women can heal, grow, and thrive.

Fertility Support Tailored to You

The path to fertility can be deeply personal and sometimes challenging. As specialists in women’s health and fertility, we use  acupuncture, herbal medicine, and moxibustion to support and optimize your fertility journey. Whether you're preparing to conceive naturally, undergoing IVF, or exploring other fertility options, our treatments are designed to nurture your reproductive health and increase your body’s natural resilience. We aim help you feel empowered, supported, listened to, and confident every step of the way.

Advocating for Women’s Rights and Health Autonomy

Our clinic is not only committed to supporting women’s health and fertility but also to standing up for women’s rights. We believe every woman has the right to make informed decisions about her body and health. In our practice, we advocate for your autonomy and work alongside you, providing options and expertise so you can make choices that align with your values and goals. We take pride in being part of a community that respects and celebrates women’s strength and resilience.

Your Health is Our Mission

Our vision for women’s health is built on the foundation of empowerment, healing, and advocacy. We strive to create a nurturing environment where you feel heard, supported, and uplifted in every aspect of your wellness. With our integrative approach to women’s health, we’re here to support not only your physical well-being but your overall quality of life.

While we are a general practice and treat everything from pediatrics to men’s health and pain conditions and more, the majority of our clientele comes in for women’s health and fertility help. Every day we are supporting women through an IVF cycle, or a miscarriage, or a successful pregnancy, or postpartum issues, or unexplained infertility, and the list goes on.

We are fully committed to supporting you wherever you are in your journey and to provide care on every level: mind, body, and spirit. If you, or someone you know, could benefit from our support, don’t hesitate to reach out. (843) 790-4295.

Acupuncture Point Stomach 36: A Powerhouse for Health

If you’ve ever had acupuncture, chances are high that you received acupuncture point Stomach 36 (St-36). This point is renowned in TCM for its powerful effects on the body's overall vitality and well-being. While all acupuncture points on the body promote healing, ST36 stands out for its wide range of health benefits.

The name says it all

The Chinese name for Stomach 36 in acupuncture is "足三里" (Zú Sān Lǐ).

足 (Zú) means "foot" or "leg."

三 (Sān) means "three."

里 (Lǐ) is a traditional Chinese unit of distance

(Zú Sān Lǐ) can be translated to "Leg Three Miles." This name refers to the location of the point, which is found on the leg, and it implies a distance along the leg, traditionally measured as three "li" from a particular anatomical landmark.

More importantly, according to legend, you can press on this point and you’ll be able to walk or run three more miles! This point has an affinity for endurance and longevity.

Stomach 36 is a Summertime Go-To

Using both needles and/or moxibustion (a warming technique) on ST36in the summertime is particularly valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for several reasons:

• Boosting Immunity: ST36 is powerful to strengthen the immune system and our “defensive” wei qi. This is beneficial in summer when the body may be more vulnerable to external pathogens due to changes in weather and increased outdoor activities.

• Enhancing Digestion: ST36 is a major point for improving digestive function. Summer diets often include more cold and raw foods, which can weaken digestion. Moxa on ST36 helps maintain a healthy digestive system.

• Balancing Qi: Summer is associated with the Fire element and Yang energy in TCM. ST36 helps balance the body's Qi, nourishing our resourcing and ensuring the excess heat doesn't deplete the body's energy reserves.

• Preventing Illness: Regular acupuncture or moxibustion on ST36 can prevent summer-related ailments such as heat stroke, dehydration, and gastrointestinal disturbances by maintaining overall health and energy balance.

• Strengthening the Spleen and Stomach: ST36 is a key point for supporting the Spleen and Stomach, which are crucial for overall energy and nutrient absorption, and production of Qi and Blood. This makes it an excellent point for women’s health! And, strengthening these organs can help the body adapt better to the environmental changes in summer.

DIY Treatment with ACUPRESSURE on Point St36

While professional acupuncture treatment is highly effective, you can also stimulate ST36 at home using acupressure. This may be helpful if you want to strenghten your immune system, treat fatigue, treat menstrual discomfort, target digestive issues, or increase vitality to run 3 miles!

Here’s a simple guide to performing a DIY treatment:

Acupressure on ST36

1. Locate the Point: Sit comfortably and find ST36 on your leg. Measure four finger widths below your kneecap and one finger width to the outside of your shinbone.

2. Apply Pressure: Use your thumb or pointer finger to press firmly on the point. You should feel a slight soreness or tingling sensation.

3. Massage: Apply circular pressure for 1-2 minutes. Be sure to maintain consistent pressure and breathe deeply. Inhale lavender or neroli essential oil to promote relaxation.

4. Repeat: Perform this acupressure technique on both legs, ideally twice a day for best results.

Stomach 36 (ST36) is a powerful acupuncture point that can offer a multitude of health benefits, from boosting immunity to improving digestion and increasing energy. By learning how to stimulate this point through acupressure, you can tap into the healing potential of TCM right at home. Always remember to approach DIY treatments with care and, when in doubt, seek guidance from a professional.

Cosmetic Acupuncture Vs. Botox

In the quest for youthful, radiant skin, many turn to various treatments to combat the signs of aging. Two popular options are facial rejuvenation acupuncture and Botox. The former is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles and holistic wellness, and the latter focuses on cosmetic enhancement rather than overall wellness.

While Facial rejuvenation acupuncture and Botox are both treatments aimed at reducing signs of aging, they differ significantly in their methods and effects.

Here are 3 of the most significant differences to consider:

1- Acupuncture is all-natural and non-toxic.

Botox uses a form of toxin that only addresses the superficial signs of aging. Cosmetic acupuncture uses the body's natural healing processes to improve the skin. The insertion of the acupuncture needles stimulates collagen and elastin production, and increases circulation. This results in a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, improves texture, increases firmness, and boosts overall radiance.

Side effects are minimal, with occasional bruising or slight discomfort at the needle sites.

2- Facial acupuncture prevents muscle atrophy.

Botox temporarily paralyzes the muscle and overtime this can cause atrophy and sagging. With cosmetic acupuncture, we can relax or stimulate certain muscles depending on the patients needs. You will still be able to use your facial expressions freely!

3- Acupuncture provides long-term benefits for your skin and health.

Acupuncture is an intentional, highly individualized medicine, even when applied to your facial rejuvenation treatment. Acupuncture points are chosen and inserted in a specific order to increase your overall health and wellbeing. This in turn helps the skin heal, glow and rejuvenate. You are radiating from the inside out!

Your Treatment With Us

Our facial rejuvenation treatments are an effective and natural way to lift and sculpt the face without Botox or fillers! Treatments are designed to...

- reduce fine lines
- define the jaw and neck
- stimulate collagen production
- decrease puffiness
- bring overall glow to the face
- decrease stress and improve overall health

Our practitioners are certified in Mei Zen cosmetic acupuncture. Specific facial and body points are used to offer whole body healing and rejuvenation. This protocol will target your personal health and skincare concerns.

In Summary

Facial rejuvenation acupuncture provides a natural, gradual, holistic approach with overall health benefits, Botox offers a quick, chemical-based method with immediate results, but requires ongoing treatments and carries potential side effects.

Contact your practitioner to learn if facial rejuvenation treatments are right for you, and get ready to glow!

Summer Acupuncture for Winter Wellness

Have you been regular about your acupuncture treatments? It can be easy to fall out of routine in the summer! Now is a great time to get back in to the swing of things, and for a good reason: according to TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) theory, summer is the best season to nourish the body and treat winter diseases. 

Chinese Medicine proposes that we can harness that bright, hot, yang energy of summer to increase our immunity and vitality. Caring for your body while you are feeling healthy is the ideal time to prevent illness and boost your baseline level of health!

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. The concept of using acupuncture in the summertime to prevent disease in the winter is rooted in the idea of maintaining balance and harmony within the body's energy systems, or "qi."

Here’s how your summer treatments impact your winter health:

Boosts immunity. Acupuncture can enhance the immune system, making the body more resilient to infections and illnesses that are more common in the winter months.

Balances Yin and Yang. In TCM, the summer is associated with the yang energy, which is active and expansive. Winter is associated with yin energy, which is more inward and conserving. Acupuncture in the summer can help balance these energies, preparing the body to better cope with the colder, more yin-dominated season.

Regulates the internal systems. Acupuncture can help regulate the body's internal systems, such as the respiratory and circulatory systems, which can be more prone to issues in the winter due to cold weather and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Addresses chronic conditions. For individuals with chronic conditions that worsen in the winter, summer acupuncture can help manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of flare-ups when the colder weather arrives.

Offers preventative care. Regular acupuncture sessions during the summer can address any imbalances or weaknesses in the body, effectively preventing the onset of disease or exacerbation of existing conditions in the winter.

Let’s prioritize Chinese medicine and acupuncture regularly throughout the year- not just when we're falling apart. Your health relies on these consistent practices you do to maintain and optimize your wellbeing. Bring yourself nourishment, balance, and rejuvenation now for vibrant health in the winter!

Make an appointment with your acupuncturist today! (843) 790-4295

TCM, Summer + the Fire Element

Happy Summer!

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is associated with specific elements, organs, emotions, and health practices to maintain harmony and balance. Summer, governed by the Fire element, is a time of abundance, activity, and outward energy.

Here’s how TCM approaches health during the toasty summer season:

Characteristics of Summer in TCM

Element: Fire

The Fire element represents heat, growth, and movement. It’s the most yang of all elements, indicating maximum activity and expansion.

Organ Systems: Heart and Small Intestine

The Heart is considered the "Emperor" of the organs, governing blood circulation and housing the Shen (spirit or mind).

The Small Intestine helps separate clear from turbid, playing a crucial role in digestion and assimilation.

Emotion: Joy

Joy is the emotion associated with the Fire element and summer. Balanced joy supports emotional health, while excess or deficiency can lead to disturbances such as mania or depression.

Color: Red

Red symbolizes the vibrant energy of summer and the Fire element.

Climate: Heat

Summer is characterized by warmth and heat, which can invigorate but also deplete bodily fluids and energy if excessive.

Health Practices for Summer in TCM

Food Therapy:

Emphasize light, cooling foods to counterbalance the heat. These include watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, and leafy greens.

Incorporate bitter foods like dandelion greens and bitter melon to promote heart health and digestive functions.

Avoid overly spicy, greasy, and heavy foods, as they can add internal heat and burden the digestive system.

Hydrate!!

Increase fluid intake to replenish the body's moisture lost through perspiration. Herbal teas, such as chrysanthemum tea, can have cooling properties. Include electrolytes like coconut water, as well.

Avoid excessive consumption of cold drinks and ice, which can impair digestion by introducing cold and damp to the digestive system- this puts out our digestive fire!

Activity and Lifestyle:

Engage in moderate outdoor activities to align with the yang energy of the season, but avoid excessive exertion during peak heat times.

Rise early and go to bed later, mirroring the longer daylight hours. Take midday breaks to rest and prevent heat exhaustion.

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine:

Focus on points and herbs that support the Heart and Small Intestine, regulate heat, and enhance blood circulation.

Common points used include Heart 7 (Shenmen) for calming the spirit and Small Intestine 3 (Houxi) for clearing heat.

Herbs like mint (Bo He), honeysuckle (Jin Yin Hua), and chrysanthemum (Ju Hua) are often used to clear heat and toxins.

Emotional and Mental Health:

Foster activities that bring joy and social interaction, as summer is a time for outward expression and connectivity.

Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to balance the high energy and prevent overstimulation.

Seasonal Disorders and TCM Approaches

Heatstroke: Symptoms include dizziness, headache, and nausea. TCM recommends rest, hydration, and cooling herbs.

Skin Issues: Heat and dampness can lead to rashes and other skin problems. TCM uses cooling herbs and acupuncture to clear heat and resolve dampness.

Digestive Problems: Overindulgence in cold and raw foods can impair digestion. Herbs like ginger and acupuncture points on the stomach meridian can help restore balance.

By following these principles and adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits, TCM aims to harmonize the body with the season, promoting health and well-being during the vibrant summer months. And of course, contact your acupuncturist if you could use a seasonal tune-up! (843) 790-4295

Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies

Here in the Lowcountry, there are subtle signs of spring creeping in. The first daffodils have bloomed! Bees are a-buzzin’! Watch out for fire ants! At the clinic, we’re already treating stuffy sinuses and itchy eyes due to seasonally early pollen.

This transitional period between winter and spring is the ideal time to use acupuncture and herbal medicine to address your spring allergies. Both can decrease pain and inflammation, build the immune system (we refer to this as our “defensive Qi”), and regulate the body's histamine response to its various offenders. The sooner you start treatment, the easier your pollen season will be, ideally. Here are some tips that will help bolster your immune system in preparation for those spring blooms!

🌸 Get acupuncture (you knew this would be our top recommendation!). Acupuncture is very effective for regulating the immune system, decreasing inflammation, and boosting the lung qi in preparation for allergy season. And it’s backed by science- studies show acupuncture is effective in reducing allergy symptoms without side effects. Ideally, you start your acupuncture routing at least a month in advance of anticipated allergy season.

🌸 Try Chinese herbal medicine. There are a number of classic formulas that help to treat allergies and alleviate symptoms- ideally before they start! Ask your acupuncturist about which formula is best for you- and your kids!- as this is an individualized medicine.

🌸 Sip on nettle leaf tea. Nettles is a bright green plant containing compounds that act as antihistamines, making it effective for treating hay fever (check out this study!). The plant is also abundant in nutrients and antioxidants and great for reducing inflammation.

🌸 Have chrysanthemum (ju hua) on hand. This bright yellow herb enters the lung and liver meridian systems to clear heat, disperse wind, and clear the eyes and nose. Ju Hua is a great herb to use as a tea or eye compress when allergy symptoms like headaches and hot, dry itchy eyes hit.

🌸 Use essential oils. Our favorites for allergies include eucalyptus, tea tree, and peppermint. Niaouli MQV is also an excellent choice to decrease your histamine response. It’s most effective when used preventatively - that is, before you anticipate an allergy attack. All oils help clear phlegm and mucus, which can complicate our allergy symptoms and defenses.

🌸 Take your supplements! As always, discuss with your practitioner before starting any new supplement regimen. Our favorites for allergies is this anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, allergy relieving trio: vitamin C, and quercetin with bromelain (a flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables). We also recommend starting a probiotic at least one month prior to anticipated allergy season. A major portion of your immunity is regulated by the nerves in your gut, so good gut health is essential for a balanced immune response!

🌸 Start a gua sha routine. This scraping technique helps to release tension, clear heat, and stimulate the immune system to relieve allergy symptoms. Facial gua sha could be very helpful for sinus issues, as well. Gua sha techniques are specific but easy to learn and use at home- ask your acupuncturist to learn more.  A few minutes of gua sha goes a long way to make you feel better!

🌸 Enjoy local, raw honey! Eating local honey may provide some relief from seasonal allergies due to the small amounts of pollen in the honey. Honey is also soothing for the lungs and is an excellent remedy to stop a cough. Our favorite local honey is from Queen and Comb- available in our shop!

We hope you find success with some of these natural remedies! Please contact your acupuncturist to learn more about which tools and techniques are best for you, and how you can use them to relieve those sniffles and sneezes. We are accepting new patients! Call (843) 790-4295 to schedule, or book online.

TCM Food Therapy for Summer Wellness

Summer is just around the corner! Beach days, barbecues, and pool hangs are calling our name. The energy of the season is all about joy, connection, expansiveness, and fun. To enjoy the season to its fullest, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) teaches us how to live in harmony with the season and the feisty element of Fire. Whether you thrive in the heat or want to melt away, this TCM Summer Food Therapy guide is for you!

“Without the knowledge of proper diet, it is hardly possible to enjoy good health.”

— Sun Si Miao, Tang Dyansty Dietitian

Food therapy plays a major role in how we can maintain good health year round. In Chinese Medicine, every food has its own property and temperature and powerful medicinal ability. The key to thriving in the Summer is to include a diet that clears heat, resolves dampness, and strengthens the digestive system and Spleen Qi.

Summer is the most Yang time of year. That means both nature and our bodies are at its pinnacle of warmth and activity. Here in the Lowcountry, Summer brings a good dose of heat and humidity on the daily. In Chinese Medicine, we refer to this as Summer-Heat. It’s not just hot. There’s a damp quality, too, that can leave us feeling lethargic and sluggish on the brightest, sunniest days.

Summer corresponds to the Fire element and the Heart and Small Intestine meridian system. Late Summer brings in the Earth element, and the Spleen and Stomach meridian systems. If our body is in balance, we feel joyful and energized by the summer’s sun and maintain good health.

Signs that our body is out of balance with the Summer season include increased anxiety and agitation (an unsettled heart/spirit), rashes and skin irritation, GI issues, fatigue and lethargy, swelling/edema, and insomnia and sleep disturbance. Eating the right foods can help our body find its homeostasis and being us back into balance.

Following TCM Dietary Guidelines does wonders for our seasonal health and physical/emotional well-being. Enjoy our free guide for Summer-time food therapy!

TCM Tips for a Healthy Summer

Things are warming up and we've got your TCM tips to help you enjoy a happy and healthy summer! 

The transition from Spring to Summer is represented by the wood element moving into the FIRE element. The new growth and budding energy of spring is now exploding into summer vibrance and abundance. Whether you thrive in the heat or want to melt away, self-care is essential this time of year:

SYNC UP YOUR SLEEP SCHEDULE. Chinese Medicine suggests aligning your sleep schedule with seasonal changes will help you have the most energy throughout your day. In the summer, take advantage of the long days by rising early, napping in the afternoon, and staying up later. This practice will help keep balance within your circadian rhythm AND get the benefits of being in the sun before the rays get too hot and strong. 

EAT WITH THE SEASON. In these hotter months, our diet should be light, cooling, nutrient-dense, brightly colored, and hydrating.  Good options include: apricot, bananas, apples, lettuce, cantaloupe, watermelon, strawberries, tomatoes, citrus, peaches, cucumber, zucchini, asparagus, bok choy, water chestnut, corn, snow peas, and mint. These foods are plentiful this time of year, so be sure to incorporate them into your diet on a regular basis to offset the summer heat.

HYDRATE! Balancing fire with water is essential to staying healthy in the summer. This means to be sure to drink plenty of water and keep the mineral and electrolyte balance in check. Chronic dehydration can have more to do with electrolyte and mineral depletion rather than how much water you're actually drinking. Try coconut water on hot days or adding a pinch of sea salt or trace mineral drops to your glass of water. TCM also recommends watermelon juice for cooling the body and cleansing the system.

NOURISH THE SPIRIT AND CULTIVATE JOY. This is the essence- or the qi- of the season! Summer also corresponds with the Heart and Small Intestine organ systems, so symptoms like poor memory, anxiety, agitation, insomnia, UTIs, heartburn, or depression will indicate imbalance of these organ systems this time of year. If you're struggling with any of these, it's time to schedule an acupuncture treatment!

SCHEDULE AN ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENT. Acupuncture quickly and effectively brings balance in our body and helps our internal rhythms adjust to change. No surprise here, that acupuncture is our #1 go-to for self-care, especially with regards to seasonal transition. 

Contact us to learn more about seasonal wellness and Chinese Medicine or to book your seasonal tune-up! (843) 790-4295

Our Favorite Books for an Introduction to Chinese Medicine

Cozy up with a book introducing you to the amazing world of Chinese Medicine!

The wisdom and teachings of Chinese Medicine is vast, and there is so much literature- new, old, very very old- where you can dive in to learn more. Here, we are sharing 6 of our favorite reads for an introduction to acupuncture and Chinese Medicine!

The Web That Has No Weaver by Ted Kaptchuk- Lauren’s favorite. A classic well-written, comprehensive guide to the theory and practice of Chinese medicine.

Between Heaven and Earth by Harriet Beinfield- Andrea’s favorite. A soft introduction to the philosophies of Chinese Medicine and how to use Chinese medical techniques in our own lives.

Tao Te Ching (“The Book of the Way”) by Lao Tzu- a series of meditations laying the groundwork of Taoist thought and how to live according to the Tao- the Way, the guiding light, the very source of all existence.

Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition by Paul Pitchford- a truly comprehensive guide to the theory and healing power of Chinese medicine. This is our go-to reference for TCM nutrition and food therapy guidelines.

The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine- translated from the “Neijing”, this is one of the oldest and most renowned texts on Taoism and Chinese Medicine. It’s a dense read, but a great read for anyone curious about the underlying principles of Chinese medicine.

A Patient’s Guide to Acupuncture by Sarah Swanberg, L.Ac.- for those just discovering the wonders of Chinese Medicine, this book teaches you everything you need to know to fully feel the benefits of holistic healing- a fun and educational read.

Enjoy!