First Timer? Here's What You Need To Know For Your First Acupuncture Appointent

Trying anything new for the first time can be overwhelming and even a little scary. Pair that with the concept of essentially having a stranger stick “needles” in your body, and it can be downright terrifying – but it doesn’t have to be, nor should it be.

At NJ Acupuncture Center, we fully understand that first time patients may be a bit apprehensive. SO, we put together this handy little guide of the top 10 tips for first time acupuncture patients. You can thank us later.

1.     Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing.

Depending on your needs, you can receive acupuncture treatment from head to toe. Therefore, it is essential to wear loose fitting clothing that is both comfortable, but can also be rolled or pulled up for access to all necessary meridians.

2.     Turn off your cell phone.

Unplug! This is “you” time. To best relax, turn off your phone – don’t put it on vibrate. (You’ll still hear it!)

3.     Be open and honest.

Share any medical experiences and concerns with your acupuncturist. Any emotions you’re struggling with or past experiences can only help you to receive the best treatment.

4.     Write down a list of questions, comments or concerns.

Acupuncture will work best when both you and your practitioner and you are on the same page. If you have any questions, comments or concerns -  as well as treatment goals – write them down so you don’t forget anything during your consult!

5.     Be mindful of scheduling.

It is ideal to schedule your appointment at a time that you can then relax afterwards. Though, if you can only squeeze in lunch-break appointments, any time slot is better than none. 

6.     Eat something light.

You don’t want to be super full, or super starving for your session. Ensure that you’ve eaten something light and healthy prior to your time.

7.     Show up early.

For your first appointment, there will be intake paperwork. Show up at least 10-15 minutes early to ensure you have ample time to thoughtfully and accurately complete any paperwork that is needed.

8.     Avoid caffeine.

You’ll want to be able to lay still and relaxed during your time here. So, chugging a large iced coffee prior to coming isn’t the best idea. (Really, it’s not a good idea at any time, but more on that later.)

9.     Breathe

It’s a human reaction that at times when you’re nervous or anxious, you hold your breath. Remember that breath is your life force! Breathe regularly and consistently. Focusing on your breath can help to deepen your relaxation.

10. Relax and enjoy it! Maybe even indulge in a little “acu-nap” afterward.

Call us or book online today to experience your first (of many, we’re sure!) acupuncture sessions!

How Acupuncture Can Lead to Better Skin

Let’s face it—when it comes to skincare, we’ve tried it all: serums, creams, facials, lasers, jade rollers, and enough sheet masks to wallpaper a small room. But what if one of the most effective ways to get healthier, clearer, and more radiant skin wasn’t found in a bottle—but in an acupuncture session?

At first, acupuncture might not scream “glow-up.” After all, it’s better known for relieving back pain or easing anxiety. But here’s the (beautiful) truth: acupuncture has been used for centuries to support internal balance, and when the inside is balanced, it shows on the outside.

Let’s break down how acupuncture can lead to better skin—and why your next skincare investment might just be a tiny needle.

The Skin-Body Connection

Your skin is the largest organ in your body—and a reflection of what’s going on beneath the surface. Acne, dullness, puffiness, premature aging, even rosacea or eczema flare-ups can all be signs of internal imbalances.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the skin is deeply connected to systems like the lungs, liver, stomach, and kidneys. If any of these are out of sync, your complexion might start acting out.

This is where acupuncture steps in. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture helps regulate internal functions—think digestion, circulation, and hormone balance. When those systems work harmoniously, skin often clears, tightens, and brightens naturally.

What the Science Says

You don’t have to take our word (or ancient wisdom) for it. Research is starting to catch up with what TCM practitioners have known for centuries.

A 2018 study published in The Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies found that facial acupuncture improved skin elasticity and hydration in participants over a five-week period. Another small study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed that acupuncture helped reduce symptoms of acne by regulating hormone levels and inflammation markers.

Translation? Acupuncture isn’t just “woo-woo”—it’s got real science on its side.

Benefits You Might Notice

Whether you're struggling with breakouts, dryness, or fine lines, here are a few ways acupuncture can work skin wonders:

• Boosts circulation: More blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients delivered to your skin—hello, natural glow.

• Reduces inflammation: Acupuncture helps calm the immune response, which is key for acne, redness, or irritated skin.

• Supports collagen production: Microtraumas caused by facial acupuncture can stimulate collagen, reducing the appearance of fine lines.

• Balances hormones: If your breakouts are tied to your cycle, acupuncture can help regulate hormonal fluctuations.

• De-stresses you: Chronic stress wreaks havoc on the skin. Acupuncture is known to lower cortisol levels, which can reduce stress-related flare-ups.

What to Expect

During a facial acupuncture session, tiny, hair-thin needles are inserted into the face to stimulate local healing. We also use body points to address the root causes—whether it's digestion, hormones, or stress.

Most clients describe the experience as relaxing—some even fall asleep! Over time (usually after a few consistent sessions), you may notice softer skin, fewer breakouts, and that elusive “lit-from-within” look everyone’s always talking about.

Real Healing, Real Results

Better skin doesn’t always come from a fancy new product. Sometimes, it starts with giving your body the balance it needs to heal and thrive.

If you’ve been chasing the perfect skincare routine without seeing the results you want, maybe it’s time to go deeper—literally. Acupuncture could be your secret weapon for healthy, radiant skin.

Curious to give it a try? We’d love to talk with you about your skin goals and create a personalized acupuncture plan to help you get there.

Book your appointment today—and get ready to glow.

Unlocking Relief: How Acupuncture Can Help with TMJ Pain

If you’ve ever felt that annoying click, pop, or tightness in your jaw while yawning or chewing, chances are you’ve heard of TMJ. Short for temporomandibular joint disorder, TMJ affects millions of people and can cause chronic jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, and even neck and shoulder tension. It’s a literal pain in the jaw—and if you’re dealing with it, you already know how frustrating it can be to find lasting relief.

Enter: acupuncture. Yes, those tiny needles you’ve maybe seen in a spa brochure or heard about from your yogi friend could be the key to easing your TMJ symptoms—naturally and effectively.

What Exactly Is TMJ?

Let’s start with the basics. The temporomandibular joints connect your jawbone to your skull and act like sliding hinges. When these joints become inflamed, misaligned, or overused (think grinding your teeth at night or clenching during stress), it leads to TMJ disorder.

Symptoms might include:

• Jaw pain or tenderness

• Clicking or popping sounds when opening the mouth

• Difficulty chewing or speaking

• Locking of the jaw

• Headaches, neck aches, and even earaches

It’s no wonder TMJ can take a toll on your daily life.

So, How Can Acupuncture Help?

Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and works by stimulating specific points on the body with ultra-thin needles to promote healing and restore balance. When it comes to TMJ, acupuncture targets the muscles around the jaw, head, and neck to reduce inflammation, ease muscle tension, and improve blood flow.

Think of it this way: your jaw is doing the equivalent of a tiny workout every time you talk, eat, or yawn. Acupuncture acts like a cool-down stretch and massage for overworked jaw muscles—only with added benefits like calming your nervous system and helping your body de-stress.

What Does the Research Say?

While acupuncture has been used for centuries, modern science is catching up with what practitioners have long known: it works.

A 2017 study published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies showed that participants with TMJ pain who received acupuncture reported significant improvements in both pain levels and jaw function compared to those who didn’t. Another review in 2021 concluded that acupuncture is a safe and promising option for TMJ, especially when conventional treatments fall short.

The best part? Acupuncture doesn’t come with the side effects often associated with medications like muscle relaxants or painkillers. It’s gentle, minimally invasive, and designed to treat the root cause, not just the symptoms.

What to Expect in a Session

If you’re new to acupuncture, you might be surprised at how relaxing it is. During a session for TMJ, your acupuncturist will likely place needles around your jaw, ears, neck, and even hands or feet (those distant points help regulate the nervous system). The treatment typically lasts 30–45 minutes, and many people leave feeling calm, refreshed, and already a little looser in the jaw.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may need several sessions to see lasting results. Acupuncture isn’t a magic switch—it’s more like a reset button your body learns to press more effectively with each visit.

Bonus: Stress Relief Included

TMJ and stress go hand in hand. Whether you're clenching your jaw at your desk or grinding your teeth in your sleep, chronic stress is often a major contributor. Acupuncture helps regulate cortisol levels, calm your nervous system, and promote better sleep—all of which support TMJ relief over time.

Final Thoughts

If jaw pain is cramping your style (and your smile), acupuncture could be the natural relief you've been looking for. At [Your Clinic Name], we specialize in treating pain holistically—and that includes stubborn TMJ symptoms. We’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that targets your unique triggers and helps you find long-term relief.

Ready to stop gritting your teeth and start feeling better? Book your first acupuncture session today. Your jaw will thank you.

Know the Different Types of Acupuncture

Acupuncture continues to grow across the world as a popular treatment for pain and symptoms of a number of diseases and conditions. Most of the time when you hear that someone has received acupuncture, you have one thing in mind. However, the term “acupuncture” has sort of become a catch-all for many different types of treatments that are available to patients. Since acupuncture is an ancient treatment, there have been updates and iterations over the years. Now, many different forms of acupuncture are out there, with their own strengths at treating different conditions. It’s always good to be informed, so we’ve put together a list for you of the most common types of treatments that often fall under the “acupuncture” umbrella.

Body Acupuncture – This is what likely comes to mind when you hear the word acupuncture. Tiny needles inserted into certain points and meridians along the body that regulate the flow of energy and promote healing.

Ear Acupuncture – Traditional Chinese Medicine says that the ear contains acupuncture points that can heal every area of the body. So, many acupuncturists will focus their acupuncture in the ear, using the same needles as in the body, whether on its own or in conjunction with body acupuncture points.

Electroacupuncture – Particularly useful for treating pain, electroacupuncture uses small clips on top of regular acupuncture needles to send an electric current in between two acupuncture needle points. The extra stimulation can improve the flow of energy between the points, helping heal pain.

Acupressure – Utilizing the knowledge of acupuncture points and meridians, acupressure pinpoints these same areas to heal pain, but uses massage and pressure instead of inserting a needle. Many acupuncturists will teach patients the proper areas, since patients can perform it themselves at home.

Moxibustion – When small amounts of herbs are placed on top body acupuncture needles and then lit, giving the area an extra boost of warmth.

Cupping – Usually done in tandem with acupuncture, cupping uses rubber or glass cups that are suctioned onto specific areas of the body. This can help when traditional body acupuncture needs a little bit of a boost when energy along a certain point has become stagnant. Cupping can leave marks on the body where the cup has suctioned on, but they are temporary.

What is Cryo Slimming?

By now you may have heard of cryo therapy, aka using extremely cold temperatures to promote healing and wellness.

But what about cryo slimming?

We are proud to now offer cryo slimming into our family of wellness tools, and here is how it can help you.

Contrary to other machines and facilities, our approach to cryo slimming is different and works without chemicals or high-intensity ultrasounds. We use only thermal shock, which works to preserve the surrounding non-fat tissue, resulting in a much more dramatic slimming effect.

The device we use is incredibly safe (or else we wouldn’t use it!) and each session lasts about 30 minutes while the therapy alternates between heat, a long period of cold, and then heat again. This is all done manually by our highly trained technician and feels great, similar to a firm massage.

Results will vary a bit from client to client, but both . scientific research and clinical trials have proven that cryo therapy reduces fat cells. Fat cells are destroyed during the treatment, and most are then eliminated from the body within 2-3 weeks.

We typically will provide treatment once every two weeks, as we are careful to allow enough time for thorough elimination and your metabolism to send the fat cells out.

Depending on your diet and lifestyle, results can be quite long-lasting, even years!

Though, for facial or a cellulite specific treatment, we recommend treatment once a month and can even schedule all your desired sessions in advance to streamline things a bit and ensure consistency.

Our approach to cryo slimming targets deep layers of the skin, and can be used as an anti-aging treatment too as it revamps and stimulates collagen production while leaving the face looking and feeling firm, plump, youthful and rejuvenated. We can even target specific wrinkles or blemishes for a more precise application, and clients will typically see and feel results right away, with the best results achieved after 4-8 sessions.

If you’re interested in giving our latest treatment offering a try, don’t wait! Contact us for a free consultation today!

The Benefits of Massage When Paired with Acupuncture

Acupuncture is excellent on its own, but it's even better when combined with a massage!

We're excited to announce that as of this week, all new clients will receive a free, 30-minute massage on us.

When combined, acupuncture and massage are effective at restoring circulation, pain management, promoting relaxation, providing an improved range of motion, and more!

As outlined by the American Institute of Alternative Medicine, “Acupuncture and massage therapy have been shown to provide effective forms of stress relief. This can help improve emotional and mental well-being and ease symptoms associated with specific mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression.”

Of course, the therapies are successful on their own. But when they are combined, their efficacy has been shown to increase even more.

The AIAM explains, “Acupuncture and massage relieve stress by restoring a healthy flow of energy, or qi, throughout the body. Acupuncture does so through the use of needles placed in specific parts of the body, while massage therapy targets certain muscles and other parts of the body in order to relieve tension.”

Plus, who couldn't use a calming, therapeutic, massage right now?

To book your first appointment and free 30-minute massage,  click here, or call us at (201) 668-0343.

Having Trouble Going? Acupuncture Can Help

We all know the saying, “When you gotta go, you gotta go”.

But for many among us, having to go can be an unpleasant and painful process. Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS is the most common gastrointestinal disorder, affecting nearly 15% of the population. However, IBS is also one of the most underreported disorders in the country, as many people don’t even recognize the symptoms of IBS, or think that they are a problem than can be treated. IBS can cause recurring abdominal pain and discomfort, along with irregular frequency of bowel movements and consistency of stool.

Especially with all that is going on in the world right now, it is not uncommon for stress and anxiety to affect our bowel function and manifest in digestive discomforts. While a number of medical treatments that can help aid the symptoms, thankfully one alternative method has been proven to be most effective against one of the most common forms of IBS.

A recent study performed in China at Yiwu Central Hospital has shown acupuncture to be an effective treatment of IBS-D, the form of the disorder associated with diarrhea. Along with receiving herbal medicines, the test group was administered acupuncture at 7 key points, with the needles remaining in place for 30 minutes. The points were chosen because they’re known to benefit the liver and spleen—in particular, soothing the liver and strengthening the spleen. This helps firm the intestines, which prevents diarrhea from occurring.

The treatment was found to be effective and improve the symptoms in over 90% of the patients; in addition, it was found to completely cure the symptoms in nearly 35% of patients! If you or anyone you know is suffering from the symptoms of IBS, acupuncture could be the solution. Balancing the energy in the body helps in all facets of life, even the ones we don’t talk much about.  

Acupuncture for Migraines

There’s no denying the recent times have been difficult for all. It’s stressful, and anything but normal to be secluded for this long. Unfortunately, with stress can come headaches — and those who suffer from migraines know this all too well.

Anyone who has ever suffered from migraines knows how debilitating they can be. They can last anywhere from a few hours to a multiple days, and often bring along other symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

While stress and diet are believed to potentially contribute to migraines, part of the frustration surrounding them is that the cause can be different in each patient, making them extremely difficult to prevent. And chronic migraines can lead to further issues like anxiety and depression.

Thankfully, there is one treatment that seems to be making a difference.

Florida-based, licensed acupuncturist Renee Sarra has been treating migraine sufferers with acupuncture. The treatment can be effective by managing the changes in the brain that migraines bring on. By doing a full body structure assessment, Sarra tries to identify what is bringing the migraines on, then treating through specific acupuncture points. In conjunction with massage therapy, Sarra says acupuncture helps patients relax. As she puts it, she’s trying to “get this fire, this energy out of the head.”

Recently, research conducted at the 254th Hospital in China seems to back up the effectiveness of acupuncture for not only treating migraines, but potentially preventing them. The study tested 120 total migraine patients between the aged of 18 and 70 who were divided into four groups. One group was treates with electroacupuncture in the projection zone, another was treated with conventional acupuncture applied to eight specific points.

Both groups were treated once per day over the course of 10 days, and in both groups, the treatment was successful when compared to the other groups (non-acupoint group and drug group). The Projection Zone group saw an effective rate of 93.3%, while the conventional acupuncture treatment saw an 86.7% success rate. 

If you or someone you know suffers from chronic migraines and hasn’t yet tried acupuncture, a migraine-free future may be just a treatment away.

Happy Spring! Beat Your Allergies With Acupuncture

Spring has sprung! You know what that means. The arrival of warm weather, new spring threads, trees budding, flowers blooming, the return of baseball season. But unfortunately, for many of us, that also means the return of dry, itchy eyes, sneezing, congestion, runny noses—all that comes with seasonal allergies.

Nothing can be more frustrating than when allergies hit at an unexpected time and interfere with enjoying the newly arrived nice weather and all the opportunity it brings. The good thing is, there’s time to prepare before the worst of allergy season arrives. And we’re not talking about stocking up on the over the counter allergy meds you see in those lame commercials.

This year, prevent and treat your allergies with the holistic approach of acupuncture.

Acupuncture is a reliable and lasting remedy for allergies because it does two concurrent, crucial things. 1) It treats the symptoms brought on by allergies (those runny noses and itchy throats, etc.) and, 2) it addresses the imbalances in the body’s energy that lead the body to be susceptible to seasonal allergies in the first place. Diet, exercise, pollutants, stress and more can effect the Wei Qi in our body, which is our cellular and molecular defense system. As Dr. Maureen Lamerdin writes: “Wei Qi's function is to protect and defend the body against foreign substances. When the supply of Wei Qi becomes inadequate attacks from bacteria, viruses and allergens get through our Wei Qi's defense system thereby producing symptoms.”

So this year, make sure your Wei Qi’s defense system is operating at its optimal level. An acupuncture regimen will ensure that it is, and that you can enjoy all this coming spring has to offer free from allergies.

Desk Neck? It's a Thing.

Chances are that during this COVID-19 pandemic, you’ve been self-isolating for nearly two weeks now. This means most of us are working from home which, unfortunately, probably means more time being sedentary and on screens which. Unless you have perfect posture, this can result in what we like to call “tech-neck” or “desk-neck.”

Neck pain is not fun, and it has a way of radiating throughout the body and affecting every facet of your daily life, even causing headaches, immobility, and even difficulty sleeping and relaxing. (And many of us are having trouble sleeping and relaxing right now as is!)

Thankfully, acupuncture and acupressure can help.

In many ways, acupressure massage can offer prompt relief of pain and increases mobility.

Here are three spots you can gently try to massage to find some relief.

Fengchi, GB20: this is located along the ear bone nestled in the groove back to where your neck muscles attach to your skull.

Hegu, LI4: this point is located on your hand, in between your thumb and pointer finger.

Jiaji (on the affected side): located along the vertebrae.

Pressing firmly but comfortably along the Fengchi and Hegu points for ten seconds, releasing for five, and repeating again for a series of 5 or 6 times can be an effective at-home exercise to practice.

Don’t let neck pain be, well, a pain in the neck. We’re here to help.

Acupuncture and Depression

Recently, Bustle explored something very near and dear to our hearts — the relationship between acupuncture and mental health. Specifically, the relationship between acupuncture and depression.

Speaking to various doctors and practitioners, it spoke of what we already know to be true, but love to hear it time and time again — that acupuncture can, and does help those struggling with a depressed mood.

We know that maintaining a balanced flow of qi can work wonders for mental health, and can release positive-feeling endorphins as well as a calming effect, too.

Bustle spoke with Dr. Josh Klapow Ph.D, a clinical psychologist, who also explained how acupuncture can be a helpful treatment for depression because it can reduce muscle tension, soothe the central nervous system, and improve your mood. It's also an excellent way to take time out of your day for yourself.

Though, Dr. Klapow said that studies have found that acupuncture isn't an effective primary treatment for depression, but rather is most effective when used in conjunction with other options as well. (Like therapy, exercise, dietary changes, etc.)

The article also explored research that has been performed looking into the matter — some positive and some less so.

Some of the more affirming studies included a review study published in the British Journal of Midwifery in 2018 which, “looked at 1,592 studies of depression and acupuncture to see if there was evidence that acupuncture might help postpartum depression." Only three studies fit the bill, and only one of those three showed that acupuncture might be as effective as the antidepressant fluoxetine hydrochloride (Prozac) for treating PPD. The other two studies didn't show much difference, but it certainly didn't seem as if acupuncture did any harm.”

We believe that giving acupuncture a try is ALWAYS worth it — as it quite literally can’t hurt, and can only help.

One Woman Shares How She Beat Her Migraines with Acupuncture

If you’re one of the million Americans who, unfortunately, suffer from migraines — you’re not alone. We know how desperate you might be to find some relief, and we’re happy to say we can help.

But, don’t just take our word for it. Meet Samantha Fletcher, who recently told the Daily Mail all about her struggles, and how she found relief through acupuncture.

Struggling since age 13, Fletcher said, “the migraines were mild and rare at first, but they became frequent and unmanageable. Two years ago, at the age of 26, I was having two a week.”

Despite medications and other traditional approaches to find relief, she then decided to give acupuncture a try.

She describes her thoughts during her first treatment saying, “I lay there for half an hour, then she returned to the room, took them out and sent me on my way. To my surprise, the next week was the first in years when I didn’t have a migraine. Had I found something that worked, or was it a fluke?”

It most definitely wasn’t a fluke.

Going once a week for several months that followed, Fletcher says, “I would leave feeling calm and less tense — and I had only two migraines in nine months while having acupuncture.”

Fletcher concluded, “Without the migraines, I have more energy, I feel happier, I can exercise again and it’s much easier to work. Skeptics may say it’s just the placebo effect — but I don’t mind if it is.”

We believe in the healing powers of acupucnture. If you’re struggling with migraines, let us help.

What is a Massage, Really?

You know they feel amazing and you know they help with stress and tension — but what is a massage, really?

What’s the purpose, the point? How do they work and what are the different kinds?

It’s important to know what type of service you’re going to receive, so we’re here to help. Here’s all you need to know about the three most common types of massage we offer: acupressure, deep tissue, and relaxation.

Acupressure

Acupressure massages are highly effective when performed by properly trained therapists. Using the same underlying philosophy as acupuncture, the approach uses firm pressure at acupoints and pressure points as opposed to acuneedles. During acupressure, physical pressure from the fingers is applied to acupuncture points throughout the body with the ultimate goal of clearing blockages within the affected meridians. The specific points of treatment will depend on the patient’s chief complaints and/or wellness goals.

Deep Tissue

If you find you’re suffering from muscle tension, cramping, anxiety or those pesky shoulder knots that develop over time from tension and poor posture — a deep tissue massage is the best option from you. Using firm and targeted pressure, the therapist will use deep pressure with slow strokes that are relaxing but also purposeful as they aim to reach the deep layers of your connective tissues and muscles. Though these massages are targeted and you should feel pressure, be sure to speak up if you feel pain. And, drink plenty of water after to help flush out the toxins!

Sweedish Massage

If you are in need of some “me” time and relaxation, a “typical” Sweedish massage is definitely what you’re after. This full-body, gentle massage is good at relieving tension and just feels really good, too. While it can also help to relieve muscle knots, it’s a great option for clients that might be new to massage, or are pretty sensitive to firmer pressure. Your therapist will use long, slow strokes across your body which will help to improve circulation and blood flow, promote relaxation, and maybe even soothe you off to sleep!

Before booking, be sure to consult with your therapist as to which type of service is best for you.

Enjoy!

How Acupuncture Can Improve Your Sex Drive

Having a low sex drive can be a difficult thing to deal with. It can affect not only individuals but those who they are in relationships with, too. And because it can often be misconstrued or feel embarrassing, many opt to not share their difficulties with low libido and rather keep their struggle to themselves.

Low sex drive is actually a lot more common that we’d like to believe. About 1 in 3 women between the age of 30 and 70 say they have low sexual desire, and men can also be similarly affected, particularly as they age.

One might not think of low sex drive as a condition or a disorder, or anything that can be “cured”. That is partially true—there may be no one thing that acts as a cure. But acupuncture can definitely help.

Knowing what we know about acupuncture and its efficacy at regulating and balancing certain imbalances in the body, and what contributes to low sex drive, we can determine how acupuncture can help those who are looking for a way to increase their sex drive.

One of the key causes of low sex drive is stress. Stress and libido have an inverse relationship; as stress increases, libido decreases. Depression, fatigue, anxiety and more can all cause high levels of stress, with knock-on effects that can be a detriment to one’s sex drive. The good thing is that acupuncture is one of the most efficient, natural remedies for reducing both mental and physical stress.

In addition, low sex drive can also be a result of hormonal imbalances. Acupuncture is also an effective treatment for re-balancing hormones, in particular, estrogen, progesterone and estradiol, which can all contribute to throwing a woman’s sex drive out of whack. And to show that, again, this isn’t solely a women’s issue, research shows that acupuncture can be an affective and holistic treatment for men'‘s libido issues, too.

Feeling like you have a low sex drive isn’t anything to be embarrassed about. And there are avenues for help that are safe, holistic and effective. Acupuncture is one of them, so don’t hesitate to try it if you think it can help.

How Acupuncture Can Help You Through Those Short Winter Days

Daylight Savings Time was created to help early agrarian societies take better advantage of daytime and sunlight in order to produce crops and complete other work tasks more efficiently. There is lots of debate over whether our modern society needs Daylight Savings Time anymore, with many areas of the world have never utilized it, and even some states abandoning it. The days get shorter in the winter here in the US regardless, but Daylight Savings often results in busy folks barely getting outside in the daytime at all.

It can affect our health, both mental and physical. Seasonal depression is perhaps the most extreme result, but many among us feel a general malaise during the winter months, highlighted by a lack of energy and increased fatigue. Often times, are diets in the winter are more filling, which lead to feels of bloat and contribute these negative feelings.

“During the winter months, it is important to nurture and nourish our Kidney Qi; it is the time where this energy can be most easily depleted,” writes Diane Joswick, L. Ac. “Our bodies are instinctively expressing the fundamental principles of winter – rest, reflection, conservation and storage.”

During a visit for general fatigue and energy issues, an acupuncturist will likely target the kidney, as Diane writes. The kidney is a key part of the body’s regulatory ability. A healthy and optimal kidney helps increase vitality and boost energy, while also increasing the immune system which during the cold winter months is put to the test.

This winter, don’t let the short days and long periods of darkness and cold get you down. Making acupuncture part of your general wellness routine, along with proper diet and exercise, can help prepare your body to naturally stay vibrant and avoid fatigue, as well as the many negative emotions that they can cause.

We promise, you can get through this winter with your energy and vibrancy in tact. And although it feels far away, eventually the days will be long once again!

Sniffle Season? Let Acupuncture Boost Your Immune System

In many parts of the country, November marks the season where temperatures really start to change, when the winter coats and hats and gloves get dusted off and put to use. But bundling up alone won’t shield you from catching the runny noses, sore throats, and sniffles that so many fo us deal with over the cold weather months. While getting enough rest and eating properly can help keep you well, there’s one natural way to boost your immune system so that it’s at peak performance at the right time of year: acupuncture.

Our body’s ability to fight infections and viruses is a result of many different parts of the body that work together. When any of those parts of the body are not operating at their peak, the immune system is weakened. One of the most important parts of the immune system is the spleen. Located near the stomach, the spleen holds many responsibilities, but from an immune system, standpoint, the spleen filters our blood, recycling old red blood cells and and storing platelets and white blood cells which are both responsible for fighting off infections, bacteria, and viruses. Acupuncture regulates our body’s internal system and important organs like the spleen—instead of relying on medications, acupuncture allows the body to perform its functions at close to their peak efficiency and effectiveness.

A study also found that targeted acupuncture is effective at cytokines and helper T cells. Cytokines are proteins that are secreted by cells that help cells interact and communicate with others, and helper T cells are active in the body’s fight against microbes.

Making acupuncture part of your usual Wellness routine is a great idea in general, but especially during this time of the year when many of us fall prey to runny noses, sore throats and the common cold. Help boost your immune system today by coming in for a visit!

Eat Too Many Sweets For Halloween? Let Acupuncture Get You Back on Track

Happy Halloween!

It’s time for jack-o-lanterns and elaborate costumes, bobbing for apples and scary stories…and, of course, trick-or-treating, and all the candy that comes with it.

It’s okay to indulge in sweets from time to time, particularly around a holiday like Halloween where it can seem like there’s a communal bucket of chocolate bars everywhere you go—home, stores, the office. And trust us, we know that once you start, it can be hard to stop.

While a few days of eating some sweets isn’t cause for concern, we know that often times just a few days off the wagon can cause us to feel sluggish, mired down and bloated. That’s because eating too much sugar causes some pretty not-so-deal results inside our bodies. According to Healthline, studies show that diets high in added sugar lead to obesity, insulin resistance, increased gut permeability and low-grade inflammation. And it’s particularly those last parts that tell us that acupuncture can help if you’re feeling fatigued and bloated because of a few too many days snacking on the sweets.

As we previously documented when talking about acupuncture’s ability to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis, acupuncture is unique suited as a natural and safe way to treat and ultimately reduce inflammation. Through opening up the body’s energy pathways, acupuncture naturally regulates the body’s functions, including what happens in the gut. When we intake too much sugar, extra bacteria and toxins more easily move out of the gut and into the bloodstream, which causes inflammation throughout the body. That can result in fatigue, headaches, and other discomfort throughout the body. Targeted acupuncture can help reduce gut permeability, ensuring that those toxins stay put and don’t inflame the rest of the body. And the good thing is that when our body doesn’t have much sugar in it, it’s less likely to crave it anymore.

So this Halloween, it’s ok to (smartly!) enjoy some sweets. If you overdo it and start feeling the effects, or if you think you’re feeling off because your diet includes too many sweets in general, think about how acupuncture can help you get back on track.

Give Shoulder Pain the Cold Shoulder With Acupuncture

The shoulder is a fascinating, complicated an important area of the body. It has an incredible range of motion and thus allows our arms to movie in many different ways and accomplish a wide variety of tasks. Everything from everyday chores to incredible athletic feats like pitching (Happy Baseball Playoffs!) and hitting a tennis ball are possible because of the little ball and joint located at the tops of our arms.

The problem with the shoulder? Because it’s so amazing and allows us to do so many different things, it is unfortunately prone to many different types of injuries and discomfort. Previously, we covered the condition known as Frozen Shoulder, and how acupuncture can help with the, well, unfreezing return the shoulder to full range of motion without pain. But there are a number of other shoulder conditions, major and minor, that acupuncture can also help with, including bursitis, rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, labrum injuries, and more.

It depends on the specific ailment, so it’s important to see a specialist to determine exactly what type of shoulder issue you are experiencing. However, acupuncture will be able to help in many ways, regardless of the condition, by doing a number of things. First, acupuncture helps regulate the energy in the body, clearing up blockages in the meridians that are helping cause the pain and discomfort at the point of injury. Acupuncture also increases blood flow which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, a holistic and safe alternative to cortisone shots and prescription painkillers and other medication. And finally, acupuncture, particularly electroacupuncture, can actually help speed up the healing and repair of damaged tissues and muscles.

Whether you’re a professional baseball player or just hoping to do household chores like the laundry and grocery shopping without pain, your shoulders are of utmost importance. If you ever have an issue with them, acupuncture is here to help!

Whiplash Is a Common Injury from Car Accidents, Here's How Acupuncture Can Help

Unfortunately, automobile accidents are all too common in our society. And the most common injury from auto accidents is whiplash. Whiplash occurs when the head is jerked forward and/or backward abruptly. It often doesn’t take much; whiplash can occur even in fender benders or thankfully minor accidents. And oftentimes, folks think that they’re okay, only to start experiencing symptoms a day or two after the accident. Of those symptoms? Headaches, dizziness, pain in the neck, numbness in the arms or the hands, difficulty concentrating or remembering, and difficult sleeping and overall fatigue.

There isn’t much that western medicine can do to treat whiplash. Most often doctors will tell a patient to take non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and naproxen, and otherwise urge patience to wait it out until the symptoms go away. That’s not a very reassuring plan, particularly when symptoms of whiplash can be severe.

Whiplash is an injury primarily to the spine and neck, which makes it a great candidate for treatment via acupuncture. A traumatic injury like whiplash ultimately results in the blockage of meridians and the stagnation of the body’s naturally healing energy, qi. Acupuncture is able to holistically regulate the body’s energy by opening up the meridians and getting the qi to flow again, particularly to the spine and neck area that are affected by whiplash. That results in a natural anti-inflammation process that helps reduce pain and swelling, as well as the knock-on effects of whiplash that affect other parts of the body.

If seeking acupuncture treatment for whiplash, it’s important to note how long ago the traumatic event was from the beginning of the treatment. Ideally, seeking treatment as soon after the event is helpful—with many injuries like whiplash, the earlier the treatment can begin the better, since this can help keep swelling to a minimum. If the injury occurred a while ago, you can and should still seek acupuncture treatment—the only difference is that the acupuncturist will likely target different meridians, as well as additional parts of the body that have been affected in the meantime.

Ideally, we would never have to treat anyone for whiplash. But accidents happen. Thankfully, we are here to help in case they do.

How Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Tendonitis

Acupuncture is one of the most well known and well studied natural remedies for pain relief — including for pain related to tendonitis.

Known as more of an umbrella term for pain radiating from tendons without any other verifiable diagnosis, tendonitis can be extremely painful; limiting mobility and quality of life. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and redness, and according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, tendonitis causes more than 70,000 people to miss work per year.

It’s also starting to manifest in new ways, and for different reasons than before. We are all using our hands more than ever before — but not in the most natural ways. Texting and typing are leading to more and more cases of tendonitis, as a hand and orthopedic surgeon explained, she has been seeing a rise in patients with tendonitis, especially in the wrist and fingers. She attributes a lot of this to tablet and smartphone habits.

Luckily, we can help.

Pain is the result of blocked or imbalanced qi along your inner meridians, which acupuncture can help to restore. By renewing the blood supply around the injured area and restoring the proper flow of energy, acupuncture also will trigger the release of pain-reducing endorphins, so swelling and pain will be reduced as mobility is increased.

A trained and licensed acupuncturist can help you to find relief.

Depending on the area of concern (the wrist and elbow are most common) acuneedles will be inserted in targeted acupuoints as you sit back and relax, enjoying the warming sensation of an infrared heating app as the work begins to set in. You may experience relief in just one session, though consecutive appointments are necessary in the beginning for maximum benefits.

We look forward to serving you along your journey to better health.