Acupuncture is a tried and tested system of complementary medicine based on ancient principles which have been in use for over two thousand years to restore, promote and maintain good health. Its aim is to restore the body's equilibrium.

According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our physical and emotional wellbeing is dependent on the balanced flow of energy, otherwise known as 'qi' through the body. When the flow of 'qi' becomes stuck or unbalanced it can lead to ill health.

Through the insertion of ultra fine needles into specific points along these channels of energy, acupuncture can stimulate the body's own healing response by removing any blockages and helping to restore its natural balance. Nowadays more and more people are turning to acupuncture as a safe, natural medicine to treat long standing conditions or where conventional treatments have not helped.

At your first treatment a thorough diagnostic assessment is carried out and Sharon will ask you questions about your lifestyle and medical history. An important method of assessing your condition is the taking of your pulse. The twelve meridians (six on each wrist) are checked for rhythm, strength, speed and quality. Sharon will discuss the treatment plan, how many treatments you may need and the spacing of these treatments.

During acupuncture treatment sterile needles (as fine as a hair) are inserted at specific points on the body. Several points may be used, some may be at the site of pain, some may be on your hands, feet, abdomen or wherever Sharon feels there is an imbalance or energy block. Many people do not feel any discomfort, some don't feel anything at all, some may feel a variety of sensations from a dull ache a tingle or a mild pain sensation which lasts for a second or two. The needles are occasionally left in place for up to twenty minutes, and sometimes Sharon will manipulate them after 5 or 10 minutes, however most are removed almost instantly.

For some conditions the herb 'moxa' may be used to generate heat which will stimulate the acupuncture point - as seen below.