theacupunctureloft
theacupunctureloft
Your Acupuncturist's Guide
203 posts
The Acupuncture Loft (Belfast)
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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NEW Period & Menstrual Templates
📣 NEW INTRODUCTORY PRICE FOR 1 WEEK ONLY 😍
START SHARING AUTHORITY-BUILDING CONTENT TODAY. LET YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT SPEAK VOLUMES ABOUT YOUR EXPERTISE.
Created by a medical writer and therapist, who understands your field.
YES I NEED THIS TEMPLATE PACK NOW.
Ideal for busy therapists/practitioners/coaches who work with clients on period health. These ‘Done for you’ templates are EDITABLE in Canva (a ‘free to use’ online editing platform). This is a perfect package to help you become an authority in your field.
Edit, personalise and your good to go!
What’s inside?
✅ 12 posts suitable for Instagram and Facebook. Beautifully designed posts touched with gold elements. Content can be changed and edited. Content includes is 12 Myth Busting Period Facts. The content is inclusive and creates a strong pro-period message that breaks taboos. These carousel posts are designed to take your client on a journey and to present you as a leader in this field.
✅ 12 Stories suitable for Instagram or Facebook. These Period related stories are designed to create a conversation, to increase engagement and to develop relationships with your current and potential client base.
✅ 5 creative Pinterest Blog Graphics to tie in with your period posts. Blog topic suggestions included.
✅ Social media engagement tips to help you make the most out of your templates.
✅ Links to health related Affiliates Programs that I often use when speaking to my clients on this specific topic. I am a strong advocate for therapists and believe we all need sources of additional income. Let me share my tips on make your social media efforts work for you.
If tech is not your thing. Don’t worry! Take advantage of the exclusive Concierge Branding option, that can be selected after you have gone through check out.
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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Fertility/Hormone Authority Building Templates
Start sharing authority-building content today. Let your social media content speak volumes about your expertise.
Created by a medical writer and therapist, who understands your field.
Yes Gimme Now!
Ideal for busy therapists/practitioners/coaches who work with fertility, hormones or women’s health. These ‘Done for you’ templates are fully EDITABLE in Canva (a ‘free to use’ online editing platform). This is a perfect package to help you become an authority in your field.
Edit, personalise and your good to go!
What’s inside?
✅ Fertility/Hormone Expert Press Kit including a press release (3 pages). Fully editable.
✅ Fertility/Hormone Expert Story Book includes content around ‘stress relief’ (9 pages). Perfect to use as a email opt in to help build your email list. Fully editable.
✅ 7 Facebook Posts - Content ‘5 Hormone Balance Tips’ fully editable. The carousel layouts is a fantastic way to take your clients on a journey while showcasing your expertise.
✅ 7 Instagram Posts - Content ‘5 Hormone Balance Tips’ fully editable. The carousel layouts is a fantastic way to take your clients on a journey while showcasing your expertise.
✅ 7 Pinterest Posts - Content ‘5 Hormone Balance Tips’ fully editable. The carousel layouts is a fantastic way to take your clients on a journey while showcasing your expertise.
✅ 8 Editable Animated Instagram and/or Facebook Stories. Every story includes a ‘call to action’ to encourage potential clients to get in touch. Includes an introduction story & carousel layout stories to showcase your expertise.
If tech is not your thing. Don’t worry! Take advantage of the exclusive Concierge Branding option, that can be selected after you have gone through check out. Your business details & further content information will be requested upon purchase.
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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Seasonal Editable Newsletter Templates for Acupuncturists
5 beautifully formatted patient newsletter templates.
Not only grow but nurture your email list with fantastic content ideally suited to acupuncturists.
Content & photography included. Templates can be edited and re-used for every year.
If tech is not your thing. Don’t worry! Take advantage of the exclusive Concierge Branding option, that can be selected after you have gone through check out. Your business details will be requested upon purchase.
The 5 seasons according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Spring
Summer
Late Summer
Autumn
Winter
Share seasonal information with your patients to support them in preparing their body, mind and spirit according to each season,
Each template may be edited to add or remove content.
Add your clinic’s logo or name.
Add your clinic’s website & business details.
Easily connect your social media accounts to your newsletters.
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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COVID-19 SECURE 2020 - BUSINESS TEMPLATES
IS YOU HEALTH, WELLNESS OR BEAUTY BUSINESS READY TO RE-OPEN? CAN YOU ASSURE YOUR PATIENTS OR CLIENTS THAT YOU HAVE COMPLIED WITH GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS IN BECOMING COVID-19 SECURE?
DOWNLOAD THIS ESSENTIAL 20 PAGE DOCUMENT CONTAINING ALL THE INFORMATION AND TEMPLATES YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO BE COVID-19 SECURE TODAY.
What’s included:
Why you need a COVID-19 risk assessment, Daily Contact Log and Pre-Screening Checklist before a patient or client enters your premises or even if you provide home visits.
An detailed COVID-19 Risk Assessment that will suit anyone who works one to one with patients or clients, this template already includes the most important information in regards to hand-washing, work place hygiene, Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) plus patient, client, staff and visitor safety while in your work premises.
A blank COVID-19 Risk Assessment template as you may want to add some more information better suited to your work environment.
A Daily Contact Log (includes section for temperature readings) for screening and tracing purposes. This is essential as you do not want to be in the position, where you need to close to self isolate due to COVID-19 exposure. Especially after just re-opening your premises. Most people are unaware that they may have a low grade fever, you need to catch this before anyone enters your premises.
A Pre-Treatment/Session Screening Check. This contains a list of COVID-19 related questions that you should ask your patients/clients just prior to their session with you. This essential if you work in the wellness industry.
In England, practitioners/therapists are required to put a short version of a COVID-19 risk assessment within their website and/or social media platforms. This will be soon rolled out throughout the rest of the UK including Northern Ireland.
In this time of fear and uncertainty, our patients and clients really need to feel safe with one to one treatment sessions. It is our responsibility to make sure this happens. It essential for our clients and patients feel safe in returning to us, as they will know that we are COVID-19 SECURE.
I wish you a speedy and safe re-opening of your business.
If you have any questions or need additional help, please feel free to reach out.
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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Covid-19 Secure Clinic Template
Let’s get your clinic Covid-19 secure for 2020 and the foreseeable future.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with government regulations required to re-open your clinic or treatment space? As an Acupuncturist, we have always had strict requirements that needed to be put in place for the safety of ourselves, our patients, staff and visitors. Increased measure to ensure public safety have now been in place.
In light of the current crisis, everyone who works one to one with clients/patients will need to ensure that they uphold the law and maintain safe practice rules.
The templates provided will make sure your work space is Covid-19 secure and are fact checked according to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UK government’s regulations.
Choose which template you would like personalized.
Email your logo and your brand font plus colors to me.
If you do not know what your brand colors are, email your website address and I will retrieve the necessary branding information for you.
If you would like any of the template wording changed. Please also state this within your email and include what you would like to be added or removed.
Find the list of available templates by clicking here.
The templates available are good for any profession that requires physical contact with their clients/patients.
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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😭 There is nothing wrong with a good cry! I’m sure we’ve all had our fair share of tears over this last 3 months. 1. Tears help us regulate 😊 2. Pain killing chemicals are released 😊 3. Mood boosting chemicals are released 😊 😔 Maybe you’re struggling with your mental health. Maybe you feel like you’re in constant state of anxiety. While all of these feeling are valid and definitely to be expected, while we navigate this uncertain time. Sometimes you might be feel like this ‘new normal’ is just too overwhelming. Stress affects our mood, our health, our sleep and our relationships. If you find your having more ‘bad’ days than good or you are in acute psychological distress ❤️ The urgent care appointments with The Acupuncturist are open for you. Please if you would like to have a chat or use the link in the bio. #urgentcare #acupuncture #belfast #theacupuncturist #stressrelief #anxiety #panicattacks #depression #itsoktocry #worry #ocd #adhd #ptsd (at Belfast, N.Ireland) https://www.instagram.com/p/CAi35m2B_m-/?igshid=1reypae1qn1sf
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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👩🏻‍⚕️ OPEN FOR URGENT CARE APPOINTMENTS ONLY ❤️ Thank you for your patience during this time. I hope you and your family are doing well amid this crisis. My thoughts have been with you constantly. ✅ We have been advised by our governing body The British Acupuncture Council after careful consideration for your safety and well being - that we can re-open for urgent care cases. I am so delighted, as I have missed all of you and my clinic so much. ✅ Please find the booking link in the comments section. ✅ You will find me full dressed in Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and you can expect the highest standard of safety and hygiene as usual. Appointments will be staggered throughout the day to ensure clinic hygiene between each patient. Only one person may attend the clinic at a time (unless accompanied by a carer). Further advice regarding your appointment, will be given when you book online. ✅ If you need an urgent care appointment, please book in now for the next available appointment. This clinic will be open every Wednesday at 41 Bloomfield Avenue. Belfast. BT5 5AA. ✅ Routine appointments can be still booked in online for August 2020. If regulations change for routine appointments and we can re-open earlier. You will be contacted immediately. ✅ If you have a package or appointments booked with The Acupuncturist, these appointments will be honored when routine appointments are permitted. Please do not worry about your package or appointment’s expiration date. Everything has been extended during this time. ✅ Please follow the instructions on the booking link below. Urgent care appointments cover any pain condition, psychological distress (anxiety etc…), mobility issues or acute injuries. ✅ Please do not book in unless you feel your appointment is urgent. If you are unsure whether you need an urgent appointment, I am happy to discuss your case with you. Please message me. ✅ Urgent care appointments are unfortunately not available for people over 70, who are diabetic, currently having chemotherapy or you fall into an ‘extremely high risk’ category. ❤️ Thank you again for your understanding. Your safety remains at the heart of every decision that (at Belfast) https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdY5wQBnTF/?igshid=fxffblmec9y3
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theacupunctureloft · 5 years ago
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HAPPY EARTH DAY ❤️💐 “Far out in the uncharted backwaters of the unfashionable end of the western spiral arm of the Galaxy lies a small unregarded yellow sun. Orbiting this at a distance of roughly ninety-two million miles is an utterly insignificant little blue green planet whose ape-descended life forms are so amazingly primitive that they still think digital watches are a pretty neat idea.” Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, #1) #earthday2020 #earthday #belfast #acupuncture #hitchhikersguidetothegalaxy #loveearth https://www.instagram.com/p/B_R5QZGjTzs/?igshid=5m0xf12454kw
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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🎄 Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture - The Ultimate Collagen Induction Therapy - Belfast 🎄 Cosmetic Acupuncture enhances your skin's elasticity and naturally eliminates fine lines and wrinkles without the use of harsh chemicals. Anti-Aging, Acne, Rosacea & Scar Reduction. Cosmetic Acupuncture at The Acupuncturist incorporates facial acupuncture and traditional body acupuncture to also assist with: ✅ Weight management ✅ Lymphatic drainage ✅ Reduces water retention ✅ Improve blood flow ✅ Supports hormonal balance ✅ Improve sleep and digestion. All essential to feeling great from the inside out naturally! Click below for booking and fee information for The Acupuncturist’s Cosmetic Facial Rejuvenation single session and packages. ❤️ Also available as Gift Vouchers for that special person ❤️ #facial #wrinkles #pigmentation #acne #rejuvenate #collagen #redlighttherapy #contour #belfast #northernireland #theacupuncturist #notonthehighstreet #giftsforher #giftsforhim #holidayseason #Rosacea #scars (at Belfast) https://www.instagram.com/p/B5IiAH-hsW4/?igshid=1fkkf6u4p23ue
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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Donegal Doula and Placenta Encapsulation Specialist
I am delighted to introduce Caroline Doherty, the extraordinary Donegal Doula & Placenta Encapsulation Specialist. I strongly encourage all of my all pregnant ladies to use this wonderful service.
Caroline is a qualified encapsulation specialist since July 2016, Certified with IPEN /PRN whose methods comply with food safety guidelines generating highly skilled placenta services providers. Caroline also holds valid certificates in Food Safety Level 2, Hazard Analysis (HACCP) Level 2 and Infection Control.
Caroline is part of an regulatory group within the placenta services sector working closely with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), Public Health and Environmental Health also ensures each member follows current best practice and is updated on regulatory developments as they arise.
Donegal Placenta Encapsulation has a purpose built unit to perform placenta encapsulation and preparation of the placenta remedies . 
Caroline can you tell us a little about you?
I'm Caroline Doherty and have been married to my soul mate Paul for 24 years. We have 7 children, 4 boys and 3 girl aged 22, 21, 20, 19, 16, 14  & 5 years old. I had 6 natural births and one emergency caesarean birth with my last baby.
I am a birth/postpartum Doula, and Placenta Encapsulation Specialist. I’m also a Trageshule trained baby wearing instructor, belly binding and Rebozo massage therapist. If needed, I also offer homeopathic remedies as one of my aids to help Mums birth their baby, and in postpartum healing.
Caroline, what encouraged you to take this path of healing and supporting mums?
I suffered from severe post natal depression with my second baby 21 years ago, not knowing what was making me feel the way I felt, until my friend had a talk to me about seeing a doctor and I got the help I needed.
From there on, I learned how to recognise the signs and symptoms of post natal depression, every baby I had there after I learned of a more holistic approach to my maternal mental health, that really worked for me. I was lucky to be blessed with my seventh baby in 2014.
Of course I was very anxious because I was almost forty and I was afraid I would get post natal depression (PND) again, so I started to research everything I could do to avoid post natal depression.
There were so many articles about placenta consumption to avoid PND.
Well I was very interested in this as I saw this as a natural way to replenish my hormones and have lots of energy to enjoy my fourth trimester with my new born baby, six other kids to mind and a household to run, sadly I didn’t get to encapsulate my own placenta as there wasn’t a specialist available to encapsulate my placenta for me.
One year later my sister was due on new years eve and the encapsulation specialist wasn’t available for her either as she would have had to travel a four hour round journey just to collect my sisters placenta. I decided then and there I would train to be a placenta encapsulation specialist, as I wanted my sisters, daughters and friends to be able to avail of this fabulous service and so my journey to being a doula , placenta encapsulation specialist and all things birth and baby began.
Why is placenta considered so important in post birth healing?
During and after a normal vaginal delivery (including post-natal bleeding) a new mother will lose between 1/8 to 1/10 of her body’s blood supply. With caesarean section births, blood loss can be significantly more.  Losing a large amount of iron so quickly can cause anaemia, leaving a new mum feeling tired, faint and exhausted.  The blood needs high supplies of iron to carry oxygen to the cells. Low supplies of oxygen leave your cells starving and less able to heal after trauma.
Placenta encapsulation benefits the new mother by supplying incredibly rich meaty iron, amino acids and essential fats which we believe is the perfect replenishment following the physical exertion of pregnancy, labour and birth.
Stem cells and growth factors in the placenta play a key role in healing the wound left inside the uterus after birth by the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall.  A mother will typically bleed for between 3 – 6 weeks after birth. This blood loss stems from where the placenta separated from the uterine wall.  We have found however that mothers who consume their placenta after birth, particularly after consuming raw placenta in a smoothie or other, bleed significantly less e.g. usually much lighter bleeding for between just 5 – 10 days after giving birth.
What are the most important nutrients found in the placenta?
Stem Cells and Growth Factors.
Iron – essential for oxygen absorption in the cells.
Vitamins B6 – aids in the making of antibodies.
Vitamin E – for healing damaged skin cells.
Oxytocin hormone – essential for facilitating birth and breastfeeding.
Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) – responsible for reducing stress levels.
Cytokines – Fibroblasts that trigger cell metabolism healing and replacing damaged cells and tissue.
What are mum’s saying about the benefits of placenta remedies?
Reduce post birth bleeding quickly
Encourage a quick and healthy milk supply
Balance hormonal peaks and drops
Reduce stress levels
Prevent the baby blues and postnatal depression
Boost energy to cope with a busy day after little sleep
Improve the appearance of skin/hair/nails
The placenta benefits a healing mother after birth in many forms.  Placenta smoothies, capsules, creams, tinctures, essences and homeopathic remedies can all be made using the placenta; each may have their own benefit to the body and encourage a quicker more natural recovery after birth. 
Caroline there is two placenta capsules to choose from, can you tell us more about this?
Basically, the placenta is either steamed before dehydrating (Steamed preparation) or it is dehydrated from raw (Simple preparation). The Steamed preparation is loosely based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, with lemon (grounding), ginger (circulation) and chilli (warming) in the steaming water.
Feedback from mothers is directly comparable for both preparations, so whichever you choose, you end up with very potent capsules.
On a practical level, the Simple preparation tends to yield 10-15% more capsules than Steamed and the majority of new mothers opt for this preparation.
What is the difference between a tincture and essence?
Placenta Essence has been described as a great all-round remedy, for perking up or calming down and to be reached for when feeling under the weather emotionally or physically.
Placenta Tincture’s real strength has been reported in re-balancing hormones which can become distressed during PMS or menopause. Tincture can also be used as a base for homeopathic remedies. 
Does placenta capsules boost a woman’s milk supply and help ward off baby blues plus PND?
What we do know is the hormonal composition of the placenta and the effect these hormones can have on a new mother. Those in highest concentrations are: -
Corticotrophin (CRH) the body’s natural stress relieving hormone found at its most concentrated in the placenta. When your placenta goes, so does this concentrated stash of this precious hormone.
Oxytocin not only for bonding, but also for pain relief, contracting the uterus and facilitating the release of breast milk.
Human Placental Lactogen (hPL) for stimulating mammary gland function
Prolactin for stimulating milk production
What we don’t have is any scientific research or evidence-based studies on the effects of new mothers consuming their placenta. Research requires substantial funding and as none of the large corporates with available budget stand to profit from new mothers’ consuming their own placenta, this field of research remains untapped.
What we do have is anecdotal evidence from many new mothers who have reported benefits from consuming their own placenta.
How is the placenta kept safe after child birth?
A placenta will need to start chilling within 30 minutes of its arrival, so it reaches less than 8°c within 4 hours, so make sure your birth partner, attending midwife and consultant are fully aware of your wishes. I provide my clients with detailed guidelines to share with them on how to safely handle your placenta and provide an electric cool box and safe storage packs as part of their service.
Once the placenta is placed into the container and then in the electric cool the cool box can be plugged in and it will bring your placenta down below 8°c, then your birth partner will call me and we will arrange collection, your placenta is safe in the electric cool box once the cool box is plugged in.
Caroline, you qualified with fedant as a birth & post partem doula in august 2016. What service does a Doula provide?
A doula (pronounced doo-la) is now recognised as a woman experienced in childbirth, which offers continuous emotional and practical support to mothers before, during and after childbirth.  This support is non-medical in nature and will never take the place of a midwife or maternity team member.
As a Doula, I respect that giving birth is one of the most life-changing experiences in a mother’s life, which she will always remember.
I understands the physiology of birth and emotional needs of a woman in labour and will provide practical support in the form of physical comfort measures such as massage, rebozo techniques, hypnobirthing and being a constant presence at the birth until the baby is born
I help mum and her family prepare for the birth by sharing her knowledge and experiences
And have an open approach to pregnancy and childbirth.  I support not only to first time mums, but ‘any time’ mums, VBAC, epidural births, home and hospital births, c-section births, water births, instrumental births, natural births, lotus births, multiple births, stillbirths, in fact any births.
Your doula supports your birth.
What has been your best experience with the services you provide?
There are so many, here is just a few
I feel extremely privileged for being present when another woman is birthing her baby into this world. The raw, primal look on that woman’s face is just absolutely amazing and then the elated, empowering look of “I did it, I’m a mum“ when she has her baby in her arms just blows my mind every time.
Or the mum that called me four months after her second baby was born to say how wonderful she felt and it was because of her placenta pills, this same mum didn’t encapsulate with her first baby and had horrendous post natal depression, no energy and a very poor milk supply.
 Or the mum that told me she could not have survived the first 2 months after her baby was born if I wasn’t her postpartum doula.
To conclude, sometimes we think our bodies will never be the same after birth,
FINDING SELF LOVE. ... It is about learning to love and respect your body for being the vessel that allows you to go on the journey that is life - to walk, to breathe , to create and carry a baby, to hold your kids hands, to kiss your partner, to swim in the ocean or laugh with your friends, to have fun. Anything that you love to do is because your body carries you there.
Love yourselves ladies.
If you would like to find out more.
Contact Caroline Doherty
FACEBOOK: @donegalplacentaencapsulation
TELEPHONE NUMBER :- 0860733111 or 00353860733111
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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Acupuncture Sisters Real Talk: Anxiety
I had the pleasure of speaking with Claire Norton from Claire Norton Acupuncture about our own mental and our journey into acupuncture. Which we discovered was very similar. We have shared some home truths with each other and we want to share this with you too. Find my answers to Claire’s questions in a link below. Enjoy and remember to fill your happiness bucket daily. It’s OK to talk.
Q. Claire how does anxiety manifest in our lives?
A. Anxiety is the term used to describe feelings of unease, worry and fear. It is a natural human experience; however when the feelings become more prevalent in our day to day life for a prolonged period of time it can lead to more serious health conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension). Both anxiety and stress causes the body to release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline which in turn can cause physical symptoms such as a pounding heart beat, palpitations, faster breathing, loss of appetite, needing to urinate more frequently, butterflies in the tummy and feeling sick. Psychological symptoms of generalised anxiety include restlessness, feeling ‘on edge’, irritability, excessive worry, a sense of dread and difficulty concentrating. Others may experience obsessive/ obtrusive thought patterns which are both unpleasant and exhausting.
Q. Claire, when we spoke. We both realised that we discovered acupuncture through our own personal experience with anxiety. Can you share your experience with us please?
A. In 2007 I was unfortunate enough to have my own experience of anxiety. I experienced my first panic attack whilst driving, it stopped me in my tracks and I had to pull over. I can picture it vividly, I was driving back to Kettering from Newcastle and a wave of bodily sensations came over me. I had difficultly breathing, my hands were clammy. I felt ‘detached’ from my body and couldn't focus on the road as everything began to blur. I felt faint and extremely unsafe. I pulled over and called for help as I truly believed that I was experiencing a heart attack and managed to get home with the help of friends. I jumped in the car the very next day to experience the same sensations and the cycle repeated itself again and again until my driving became completely limited. At that time I worked in motorsport, can you imagine telling your 'racing driver boss' that you are scared to drive to work? Rapidly anxiety rippled through my life effecting every aspect of day to day living until I felt house bound and unrecognisable. The thought of socialising, taking a trip to the dentist, spending a night alone or even leaving the house filled me with dread.
Q. What did you do relieve these feelings of anxiety?
A. This experience resulted in me trying many interventions, actually anything that was recommended I gave it a go. This is when I first discovered acupuncture, a friend recommended it and I was surprised due to my misconception that acupuncture wasn't just for pain symptoms. After my first session I felt more grounded, confident and more recognisable as the woman I was before the anxiety. Bit by bit, session by session, the anxiety dwindled away and I felt like myself again. This experience blew me away, I had to understand this magical treatment and help others; so with that I enrolled on a degree in Five Element Acupuncture at the College of traditional Acupuncture. I found that this experience has helped me to understand anxiety first hand and therefore help others that suffer from the condition; this awful condition finally served a meaningful purpose for me.
Q. Do you treat a lot of anxiety conditions with acupuncture?
A. Anxiety is currently the second most common complaint that I see in my practice, following back pain. The following recent experience of acupuncture in the treatment of anxiety was kindly written for me by one of my patients…
"At the time I considered acupuncture I was suffering with severe anxiety. I didn't actually realise how long I'd been suffering with this, or quite how much it was adversely affecting my life until I started treatment. I'd had this throughout most of my adult life. Many days I found it challenging to leave the house, this would involve several conversations with myself, changes of clothes due to perspiration and then often going back after leaving the house to check everything was switched off and ok. I would feel stressed regularly and find it hard to communicate under pressure as my breathing would become erratic and I was also prone to random emotional outbursts which sometimes scared me.
After just a few treatments I noticed a huge change to the way I felt both physically and emotionally. The built up tension which I sometimes felt physically in my chest area had gone. With this I felt stronger, more confident, and taller. As I became able to deal with situations that had previously caused me to have anxiety I felt more able to cope with my life and now my outlook has completely changed. Acupuncture has certainly made a big positive impact in my life."
Q. How does acupuncture work to reduce anxiety?
A. Acupuncture involves the relatively painless insertion of ultra fine sterile needles in to various parts of the body. These points are determined by the acupuncturist after taking a full health profile and history; lifestyle and dietary advice may also be given if appropriate. This ancient system of healing has been developed over 2,500 years and originated in China.
Acupuncturists have degree level qualifications and adhere to codes of safe practice and professional conduct in order to be registered and insured by the British Acupuncture Council. In general, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system and cause the release of neurochemical messenger molecules. This results in biochemical changes that influence the body's homeostatic mechanisms, thus promoting physical and emotional well-being. Research suggests that acupuncture de-activates the ‘analytical brain’ responsible for over thinking and worrying thus promoting relaxation. Acupuncture is a safe adjunctive therapy which you can use safety whist taking medications and could even help lessen the unwanted side effects.
Q. Claire sometimes anxiety requires a multi discipline approach. What other actions do you recommend to your patients?
Firstly I would recommend visiting your GP to rule out any other underlying conditions/ deficiencies. They may recommend medication or Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) if your GP feels it may be beneficial.
Remove all caffeine from your diet such as tea, coffee, some soft drinks and chocolate. Caffeine is a stimulant and should be avoided if you are experiencing anxiety.
Breathing techniques can be wonderful especially for those experiencing panic attacks who have a tendency to shallow breathe. Belly breathing is my favourite and is very easy to do, simply place your hands on your belly and breathe slowly ensuring your breathing into your entire diaphragm; your hands should rise with every breath and sink on each exhale. Those that are shallow breathers may find it difficult to do however only five minutes of belly breathing a day can help and when comfortable you can use this technique when you are feeling anxious.
Claire Norton Acupuncture: https://www.clairenortonacupuncture.co.uk/
Trish’s answers to Claire’s blog post: https://www.clairenortonacupuncture.co.uk/post/a-chat-with-trish-o-hara
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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Preparing your mind, body, and spirit for Autumn.
"The forces of Autumn create dryness in Heaven and metal on Earth; they create the lung organ and the skin upon the body... and the nose, and the white colour, and the pungent flavour... the emotion grief, and the ability to make a weeping sound."  -- Inner Classic
The practice of tuning into nature, harmonizing with seasonal changes, as well as connecting to the elements are all part of both the ancient Taoist way and traditional Chinese medicine.  
Failing to take the time to connect with the season of autumn and its element—which is metal, is what leads to experiencing the feeling of being out of balance. Understanding how to properly attune your mind, body, and spirit to the season and connecting with any element that might not come natural to you, requires a level of guidance. 
Here are a few ways you can tune into the energies and qualities of both the element of metal and the autumn season through these lifestyle, diet, and spiritual health practices. 
Autumn is a season of Yin. A marking of the autumn season includes the dropping of seeds to provide for the next generation, allowing for the flow and energy of life to continue. Taoist’s refer to this as the ‘cycle of life.’ During this season it’s common to experience feelings of loss and sadness, which are further amplified after coming away from the late summer season of harvest and plenty. 
Here are a few tips to help prepare your mind and emotional well-being for autumn: 
Go to bed earlier and increase your sleeping time. This is regenerative and assists in building a healthier immune system. 
Take time for mindfulness meditation. Build awareness, harmonize, open your heart and mind, and embrace the season. 
Give yourself some more personal time. Read that book you want to read, create something, or take a relaxing bath. After the business of summer, autumn is about recapturing time for yourself and the one’s you love. 
The metal element is connected to your lungs and your intestinal system. Paying extra attention to these areas of your body is important. Here are some tips for preparing your body for autumn: 
Avoid the temptation to do less when the weather turns cooler outside. Making time for exercise and outdoor activity is key for promoting your flow of Qi to gain energy and strengthen your body, lungs, and movement within your intestines. 
Eat for the season. In Taoist tradition, there’s a downward movement to autumn and its seasonal vegetables—root veggies. Incorporate root vegetables in your meal. Try the wonderful Champignon & Pearl Barley Soup recipe below!
The metal element is considered a pungent element. Likewise, incorporate more pungent foods like garlic, cinnamon, curry, chili and ginger. These assist in moving Qi and boost your immune system. They help you sweat out toxins, bringing better health to your lungs and intestines.
The Chinese medical practice of ‘cupping,’ is the perfect autumn treatment to schedule with us. We use small suction cups made of glass to quickly and painlessly move and scatter Qi blockages throughout your body. Keeping Qi moving is imperative for good health during the Autumn season.  Read more about Cupping Therapy here.
The metal element is often associated with reflection and “letting go.” Here are some tips for preparing your spirit for the autumn season: 
Follow the Taoist teaching of being mindful in your quality of breath. Avoid breathing shallowly, and instead practice deeper breathing techniques. 
Take time to de-clutter and let go of things in your home or personal spaces that are not needed. 
Dig deeper and de-clutter your heart, mind, and spirit by letting go of emotional waste. This is the season to let go of unhealthy thoughts such as anger, bitterness, resentment, and grief that block positive transformation energies. 
If you would like an Autumn tune up session, please book here.
Thank you
Trish x
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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This Acupuncturist loves working with noses! 👃🏻 Acupuncture is perfect for relieving 👉🏼 Sinus pain 👉🏼 Sinus pressure 👉🏼 Sinus inflammation 👉🏼 Facial swelling 👉🏼 Clearing phlegm/mucous build up Booking link in bio Trish 😊 (at The Acupuncturist) https://www.instagram.com/p/B2WXiY2BS85/?igshid=gxwdqhiirqty
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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5 reasons to try cupping at your next acupuncture appointment
1. Pain relief & improving your game.
Pain relief is one of the main reasons my clients use cupping therapy. Cupping zones in on those painful points and areas of swelling. While increasing blood flow and providing muscles with important nutrients, energy, blood and oxygen.
Cupping helps release painful, stiff and tight muscles, to ease pain.
The Wall Street Journal reported on the high number of Mets baseball players using cupping. Mets player Daisuke Matsuzaka started the cupping trend within the Mets, was reported to say "As an athlete, I want to play as long as possible, in order to do that, I need to find ways to protect my body. I'm always looking for something that might be better."
Cupping isn’t just for celebrity athletes, it’s beneficial for everyone.
2. Relieves cold, cough and allergy symptoms.
My six year old daughter is my No 1 fan of cupping (yes even kids love it too). Happy kid, Happy Mama!
As a mum and acupuncturist, I treat my daughter’s mild coughs and colds as naturally as possible. Cups placed on specific acu-points on the back, can help relieve her symptoms gently. Cupping stimulates the lungs and helps to clear out phlegm. Excess phlegm triggers coughing, an action to help bring it out of the body. Cupping can help speed up this recovery process.
Cupping is also wonderful at boosting our immune system by moving lymphatic fluid and blood throughout the body.
3. Natural Stress Buster
Who doesn’t need a little more relaxation, in their lives. Constant stress not only makes us feel bad, it can lead to a whole host of physical and mental health conditions. Alongside acupuncture, cupping is also well know for it’s pressure relieving benefits.
One of my client’s who struggles with shoulder pain especially during stressful times, described cupping as “Instead of pressure being pushed deeper into the body, it felt like it was drawn out. The ultimate pressure reliever.”
4. Detox
Poor circulation and everything we are exposed to on a daily basis - can lead to a build up of toxins inside the body. This toxic build up can be the root cause of various health conditions.
Cupping supports moving stagnation and eliminating toxins, which damage our health and well-being.
Acupuncturist’s tip: Drink lots of water after your cupping session, to flush away impurities and to promote better health.
5. Improve skin conditions
Did you know that cupping is used to clear acne, eczema and as a anti aging therapy. No wonder why Kim Kardashian loves facial acupuncture sessions!
Cupping therapy reduces inflammation, and even diminishes cellulite around the tummy and thighs.
In clinic, I use small specialised facial cups to increase lymphatic drainage and blood flow around the face, jowls and neck. It is often used as part of cosmetic acupuncture facials as a anti aging and acne treatment. Highly recommended for a more youthful and glowing appearance.
The Acupuncturist
Trish O' Hara Lic Ac, BSc(hons), MBAcC
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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😳 Over Active Bladder! Do you or someone you know have an overactive bladder? ✅ Passing urine more frequently than normal. ✅ Have a strong urge to pass urine that you cannot put off. ✅ Urinary leakage when you cannot get to the toilet quickly enough. ✅ Getting up to pass urine more than once through the night. 💥 Bladder function is regulated by a group of nerves at the base of the spine called the sacral nerve plexus. By stimulating these nerves through gentle electrical impulses (neurostimulation), your bladder activity can be changed. A procedure called Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS) is often used by urologists. This protocol is actually based on Acupuncture points. 😊 Acupuncture gently modifies the signals to achieve bladder control, using very fine pins and electro stimulation. How successful is using acupuncture for an overactive bladder? 80% of clients (80 out of 100) see an improvement in bladder symptoms within 6-12 sessions. Get in touch with your acupuncturist Trish O’ Hara Lic Ac, BSc(hons), MBAcC, if you would like more information or to book an appointment. Call 07525 419320 or send a DM. (at Northern Ireland) https://www.instagram.com/p/B0QWZKfhZ42/?igshid=9truacnmtxs6
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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😂 Yes! #wonderwoman #justmyacupuncturist #acupuncture #belfast #northernireland (at Belfast) https://www.instagram.com/p/BztUlIhhIqz/?igshid=3tvr06x1t4bg
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theacupunctureloft · 6 years ago
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Acupuncture is fantastic for any kind of knee injury or pain #kneepain #knee #kneeinjury #kneeinjuryrehab #acupuncture #redlighttherapy #belfast #theacupuncturist (at Belfast) https://www.instagram.com/p/BzgegfphToJ/?igshid=1ip3v93e7c5bi
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