Modalities

Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine, traditionally focuses on points along the body’s meridian lines. However, there’s flexibility in this approach—acupuncturists often use "Ashi" points, which are tender areas on the body that can be treated to release muscle tension and promote healing.

“Dry needling” is a modern term for a practice that overlaps significantly with acupuncture. It involves inserting thin needles into tight muscle areas, known as trigger points, to create a therapeutic response that relaxes tension and alleviates pain.

With extensive training and experience in both dry needling and acupuncture, Sophia blends these techniques to deliver whole-body results that address pain, tension, and overall balance.

• Both use filiform (acupuncture) needles, which are thin and flexible.

• Both address musculoskeletal and myofascial pain effectively.

• Both require a detailed understanding of human anatomy to ensure safe and effective treatment.

• Both aim to restore physiological function and balance to the body.

Acupuncture and

Trigger Point Dry Needling

• Training Requirements:

  • Acupuncturists undergo rigorous training, including at least 650 hours of hands-on practice, as part of a 3-4 year graduate program that includes anatomy, physiology, and pathology.

  • Dry needling by physical therapists often involves shorter courses ranging from 30-50 hours, though some advanced programs offer over 200 hours.

• Needle Retention:

  • In acupuncture, needles are typically retained for 15-30 minutes to stimulate therapeutic effects.

  • In dry needling, needles are often inserted and removed quickly, though retention is sometimes used.

• Scope of Treatment:

  • Acupuncture addresses pain both locally (at the site of discomfort) and distally (targeting points away from the pain site to influence the body holistically).

  • Acupuncture also treats a wide range of conditions beyond pain, including digestive, endocrine, gynecological, and psycho-emotional issues, reflecting its roots in East Asian Medicine.

Differences

Similarities

Cupping and Gua Sha

Cupping and gua sha are time-honored techniques designed to release tension and restore balance in the body. By improving circulation, these therapies help move stagnant energy, promote lymphatic drainage, and deliver fresh, oxygen-rich blood to tired or sore muscles. The result? Less stiffness, reduced pain, and a revitalized sense of well-being.

The red marks left after gua sha, known as "sha," are a natural sign that stagnation has been released. While the marks may look dramatic, they indicate that your body is moving toward healing and balance. These marks are not bruises and typically fade within a few days. After treatment, drinking plenty of water or warm fluids and doing gentle stretches can support the healing process.

Gua Sha

Gua sha is a therapeutic technique that uses a smooth tool to gently scrape the skin, promoting circulation and releasing tension.

Fire Cupping

Fire cupping uses glass cups that can be gently moved along the body, creating a soothing sensation similar to a traditional massage.

Vacuum Cupping

Plastic cups with hand held vacuum pump works better for precise pressure from each cup. You can do gentle stretches while the cups are on.

Meditation

Meditation can feel like a loaded word. Some picture sitting in a lotus position for hours, others dread the thought of being bored or frustrated trying to quiet their mind. And many believe they simply can’t meditate because their thoughts never stop.

I’m here to tell you—it is possible for you to meditate! No awkward positions or forceful attempts to silence your mind are required.

In my beginner meditation classes, I teach you how to work with your mind and breath to find moments of stillness that suit you. Just like you wouldn’t run a marathon without training, quieting the mind takes practice. Meditation is about cultivating awareness—of your breath, body, and mind. You’ll learn to notice where you hold tension, how deeply you breathe, and how these elements can come into harmony.

My goal is to help you make meditation an everyday practice, even if it’s just one intentional breath at a time. A small moment of mindfulness can make a big difference!

Chinese Herbal Therapy

Chinese herbs are a natural complement to acupuncture, addressing health concerns that acupuncture alone cannot. Unlike pharmaceuticals, herbs work gradually, and consistency is key to seeing results.

Herbs come in various forms:

• Pills, capsules, or tablets: Convenient and easy to take, making them the most popular option.

• Powders: Mixed with warm water for faster absorption and quicker results.

• Raw herbs: Cooked at home for the most traditional approach.

I keep a selection of herbs in stock and can also arrange for drop shipping directly to your home for added convenience.