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Review our glossary of complimentary health terms, or jump to a section per the list below:
Oriental Medicine
Hands-on balancing of emotional and physical energy.
A technique similar to acupressure, except that fine needles are inserted at specific points along the meridians just under the skin to stimulate, disperse and balance the flow or energy, relieve pain, and treat a variety of chronic, acute and degenerative conditions. Penetrates and stimulates specific points in the body to restore normal energetic balance.
In 1997, the National Institutes of Health officially recognized acupuncture as an effective treatment for pain and nausea. Acupuncturists insert specially made needles into specific points to stimulate the body's natural energy. Licensed in Washington and more than 30 other states, acupuncturists work as independent providers of health care for a range of conditions from pain management to women's health problems.
The application of tuning forks and the use of different sound intervals to create increased motion and balance in the body’s muscular and energetic systems.
Facial rejuvenation by acupuncture is an effective, safe and natural alternative method of lifting facial skin and disappearing wrinkles. Acupuncture reduces signs of aging by facilitating the circulation of qi (vital energy) within the facial meridians (qi pathways).It improves overall skin texture, muscle tone and increases the elasticity of skin. You will feel more energetic, vital and fresh.
A school of Japanese acupuncture which is distinguished by its emphasis on the classics, its utilization of the five-phase points in treating the root of disease, and the importance which it attaches to palpatory skills in diagnosis and point location.
Manaka Yin Yang Balancing Therapy
Manaka Yin Yang Balancing therapy primarily utilizing ion pumping cords (IPC) on the Extraordinary Vessel System and which excells at structural balancing. IPC polarity agents provide minute [qi or ki] stimuli or influences rather than activating the anatomophysiological or nervous system.
"To look at a particular phenomenon, we must use glasses that are suited to the scale of the phenomenon. If we want to examine the general anatomical structure of an organ, we can examine it with the naked eye. If we want to understand the cellular structure, we must use a microscope. If we want to understand the molecular structure of each cell, we must use the scanning electron microscope or an equivalent scanning instrument. Without appropriate modelling and tools for each scale, we can determine nothing about the phenomenon studied. This is as true in the study of acupuncture as in anything else. If the nature of what we are dealing with in acupuncture is very subtle, and to most people, unobservable and imperceptible to the naked eye, we must devise appropriate methods and tools of observation coupled with appropriate models.... The appearance of the dragon we are chasing is elusive. It is so masked by the clouds of rationalism and dogmatism that we can only glimpse it at specific times in specific conditions...." Yoshio Manaka, M.D., "Chasing the Dragon's Tail", Paradigm Publications, 1995. Page 19.
Nogier Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture for diagnosis of food, air-born and toxic allergies.
Noger Auricular therapy, also known as ear acupuncture is a medical technique developed and studied by Dr. Paul Nogier since 1951. The technique works on the neurological properties of the ear. In the ear there is a series of points called “neurovascular complexes” which are linked to the central nervous system, in turn linked to the different organs of the body.
When an organ is sick, painful points will appear on the ear. The points are detectable with a pressure tester or using an electric detector. The detection of the points allows a diagnosis and also means that the pain and therefore the functional pathologies can be treated.
Pediatrics Acupuncture has formed a specialized subject in Chinese Medicine. It is a safe, natural, drug free and effective way of healing a series of common diseases in children. Pediatrics Acupuncturist starts with taking a full health history, assessing the pulse, tongue and abdomen of the kid to diagnose the pattern of energetic imbalance, weakness or blockage in the free flow of qi (vital energy).
Then, she may use a variety of non invasive and gentle modalities to facilitate the natural healing process of the child's body by restoring balance of energy. These modalities may include acupressure, tuina (massage)moxibustion, pellets, tuning forks and acupuncture. If there is a need to insert needles they would be few, very fine quality and thin without keeping them in place (just in and out).
Shonishin Pediatric Acupuncture
Shonishin Pediatric Acupuncture, an energy balancing therapy utilizing non-inserted techniques for infants and young children (up to approx. age 12). Conditions treated range from emotionally related imbalances to acute and chronic conditions.
A gentle form of Japanese Acupuncture, Toyohari developed within the tradition of Meridian Therapy by blind acupuncturists in Japan. This system excels in the development of Qi sensitivity required for accurate point-location, abdominal diagnosis and subtle non-insertive needling techniques.
An Asian system of healing that focuses on achieving internal balance. TCM practitioners use methods such as acupuncture, heat application (moxibustion), herbal preparations and exercises (e.g., tai chi, qigong) to restore the flow of qi (vital energy) and the balance of yin and yang.
TCM diagnosis is based on examination of the pulse and tongue. TCM diagnostic patterns typically seen in persons with HIV/AIDS are spleen qi deficiency, liver qi congestion, general qi deficiency and yin deficiency.
T'ai chi is a relaxed, fluid, non-impact exercise form that promotes inner tranquility. This Chinese martial art is a simple yet profound daily routine for people of all ages. Recognized for centuries in China as an ideal activity for lifelong well-being, t'ai chi builds strength and endurance, enhances flexibility, improves coordination and helps reduce stress.
Alexander Technique
The Alexander Technique is a means of awareness through the very precise mechanism of the body. Effortful habits are replaced by graceful patterns of ease. The process of the Alexander Technique integrates thinking and moving so that response to stimuli can be expansive, alive and as effortless as you choose.
This education can be applied to any activity from sitting at a computer terminal without tension or stress, to running without injury or pain, to responding more calmly to your work environment. The Alexander Technique is classically studied by actors, singers, dancers and musicians, and can benefit anyone seeking improved functioning in their life's activities. Everyone from corporate business people to individuals seeking pain recovery or relief from repetitive strain injuries studies the Alexander Technique. The education has also proved to be an invaluable tool for artists, equestrians and athletes.
The Technique was developed by F.M. Alexander over one hundred years ago. There are Alexander Teachers in all the departments in Julliard School of the Arts in NYC, and in most universities that have dance, drama or music concentrations.
People who have studied the Alexander Technique include: Jeremy Irons, John Cleese, John Dewey (American Educational Philosopher), Frederick Perls (Originator of Gestalt Therapy), Mary Steenburgen, Moishe Feldekrais (originator of the Feldenkrais Method), Sir Paul McCartney, Professor Nikolais Tinburgen (Nobel Prize for Physiology/Medicine), Robin Williams, Sting, William Hurt.
Naturopathic Medicine
A therapeutic system of medicine that is based on the principle of similars— like cures like—which means that a substance that can cause certain symptoms in a healthy person can cure similar symptoms in an unhealthy person. Homeopathy aims to aid and stimulate the body's own defense and immune processes. Homeopathic medicines are derived from a variety of plants, animal materials and minerals. These medicines are prescribed to fit each individual's needs, given in much smaller and less toxic doses than traditional medications, and are used for both prevention and treatment. Homeopathy is recognized by the World Health Organization as the second largest therapeutic system in the world.
Adhering to the principles of holistic medicine, naturopathic doctors can use various natural methods to treat patients, including nutritional supplements, herbal medicine, homeopathy and lifestyle counseling. In the state of Washington, naturopathic doctors (ND) are legally defined as physicians licensed to diagnose and treat in a general family practice. Some NDs are also licensed midwives or licensed acupuncturists.
Craniosacral Therapy
A gentle form of treatment which enhances the function of every system in the body through balancing the craniosacral rhythm. Craniosacral Therapy (CST) practitioners listen to the body's subtle fluid impulses and rhythms. The fluids hold patterns of congestion or inertia brought about by injury, toxicity, trauma, shock or stress. These patterns prevent freedom of movement in our fluid body and the tissues become stagnant.
Once identified the pattern can be followed and released for the natural healing process of the body's own physiology to self correct. CST was discovered over 100 years ago by Dr. William Sutherland who had insight that the cranial bones articulated and are closely connected to interrelated tissues and fluids at the body core.
Massage
NT practitioners are trained in Chi-Kung and work mainly on the abdomen with deep, soft and gentle touch, to train internal organs to work more efficiently and also address unprocessed emotional charges. All of the body systems are addressed: digestion, respiration, lymph, nervous, endocrine, urinary, reproductive, skeleto-muscular and the acupuncture energy system (Chi).
Deep Tissue Massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It aims to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the fiber's of the muscles, tendons and fascia.
The purpose is to "unstick" the fibers of a muscle while releasing deeply-held patterns of tension, removing toxins, while relaxing and soothing the muscle. It is both corrective and therapeutic.
A holistic therapy using thumb pressure on points on the feet which correspond to all parts of the body. Applying pressure to these points helps facilitate the body’s return to balance and health.
Detailed, focused work on specific areas of the body. Massage therapy is an appropriate form of treatment for many soft tissue injuries and traumas and has been found to be very effective in reducing neck and back pain stemming from automobile accidents and work accidents.
Lomi-Lomi: Ancient healing art form of massage practiced by the Kahunas of Hawaii. Lomi-lomi has a rhythm and flow that is soothing and feels complete. Rather than focusing on specific sites of pain and discomfort, Lomi-Lomi uses long flowing strokes to align and harmonize ones mental and emotional body for ease and integration with there physical body.
The use of water has been used throughout history for cleansing and healing as well as for basic life support. By varying and contrasting temperature, water can be applied to reduce inflammation, increase metabolic and lymphatic function. It is a readily available therapeutic modality that can be utilized for home treatment of many metabolic or musculoskeletal problems.
Is a specialized massage therapy in which the practitioner works on the skin with gentle circular, pumping or spiral movements. It stimulates the lymphatic system, which transports fluids that are vital to the defense of the body and eliminates toxins. MLD is believed to alleviate fluid retention associated with PMT or pregnancy, to reduce stretch marks and also to accelerate healing after a fracture or surgery. Some women even have treatments before a facelift. It is also widely used for a general detox and energiser.
Injury, trauma, stress, or shock can cause excessive muscle tension for long time periods causing the brain to be programmed. As the healing process begins the brain often needs extra sensory movement input to release the holding pattern.
Re-education is facilitated by moving muscles through range of motion at different tension levels and speed.
The term "Swedish Massage" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.
Swedish massage techniques include: long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration, effleurage, and shaking motions.
Myofascial trigger points are tiny knots that develop in a muscle when it is injured, strained or overworked.
The symptom of a trigger point is referred pain; that is trigger points send their pain to some other site in the body. Trigger points can cause headaches, neck and jaw pain, low back pain, tennis elbow and carpal tunnel syndrome. Trigger points are located then released thus freeing the muscle to a healthy state.
A gentle hands-on therapy that works through the body’s visceral system (the heart, liver, intestines and other internal organs) to locate abnormal tone, adhesions or displacement and alleviate abnormal points of tension throughout the body to facilitate the flow of healing Qi.
Reiki
Reiki is a healing approach that uses light touch from the practitioner to channel healing energy to the recipient. Used to relieve physical and emotional pain and to promote spiritual clarity, Reiki also speeds the healing process and balances the body's energy.
Trager Approach
The use of touch and movement to communicate with the body and mind the feeling of a freer and easier way of being and moving.
Utilizing gentle, non-intrusive, natural movements, The Trager Approach helps release deep-seated physical and mental patterns and facilitates deep relaxation, increased physical mobility, and mental clarity. These patterns may have developed in response to accidents, illnesses, or any kind of physical or emotional trauma, including the stress of everyday life.
A session usually lasts from 60 to 90 minutes. No oils or lotions are used and the client is dressed for their comfort, with a minimum of swimwear or briefs, and are additionally draped appropriately.
Watsu
The word “Watsu” comes from the words Water and Shiatsu. Watsu is a unique form of bodywork that uses warm water (97 degrees) for support. During a Watsu session, you will be floated, massaged, and gently stretched.
The therapeutic benefits of warm water, combined with elements from such disciplines as Zen Shiatsu, yoga, dance and meditation, make Watsu effective in treating a wide variety of conditions.
Watsu is used for pain reduction, increased range of motion, increased circulation, psychological problems, relaxation and reduction of stress. It has been used to help individuals for rehabilitation of physical problems and disabilities, for pregnant mothers, the elderly, as well as for those who have suffered abusive relationships.
Like Watsu, it begins with the client being cradled, stretched, and relaxed above the water surface. In Waterdance, the client is then given nose clips and gradually and gently taken entirely under the water.
Once freed from the bounds of head support and gravity, the client’s body can be moved, stretched, and worked in literally unlimited ways. Waterdance incorporates elements of massage, Aikido, dolphin and snake movements, rolls, somersaults, inversions, dance, and much more. The effects of this work include physical release and can induce deep states of relaxation, meditation, bliss, and even visions.
Energetics and Education
Chi Kung Breathing offers varied breathing techniques to discover blocks and holding patterns within our bodies. These patterns keep us from feeling our sensations and emotions and use excess energy to keep these in place.
Becoming aware of these patterns frees up energy, resources vitality, brings new body awareness, enhances the body's PH balance and decreases body pain and fatigue.
"Continuum is at the same time a philosophical, scientific, artistic, musical, poetic, and spiritual concept, a cosmology, and an advanced state of consciousness." — Jim Oschman of Energy Medicine in Therapeutics and Human Performance for more information go to www.continuummovement.com.
As injured tissue releases and begins the healing process, emotions and memory from a cellular level may emerge thus needing to integrate the past with the present somatic experience.
Manual therapy which involves movement of
the spinal segments and the pelvis. It is a gentle, non-invasive technique which uses light isometric contractions of specific muscles to affect 
changes in alignment.
These changes will result in an increase in joint mobility which will help to alleviate pain and allow for more freedom of movement. It is an excellent treatment for neck and back pain and restriction, headaches, hip problems and whiplash.
Neuromuscular Reprogramming (NMR)
Developed In CA by Jocelyn Olivier and David Weinstock, NMR uses muscle testing to assess dysfunctions of the nervous system resulting from traumatic injury and overuse. It cues the brain for new learning resulting in correction of neuromuscular imbalances.
Ayushakti Ayurveda
To the Ayushakti Vaidya, the pulse is a subtle language that the adept practitioner learns to “read.” These 360 subtle variations of the pulse are indicators to the underlying physiological imbalances that can cause acute and chronic disease. As the vaidya reads the pulse, he or she is able to ascertain what is happening in your body, mind, emotions and spirit. Although the science of “reading” the pulse in this way is still not well known in the United States, specialized practitioners have successfully practiced this technique for thousands of years.
