Moxibustion treats and prevents diseases by applying heat to points or certain locations of the human body. The mild heat helps stimulate circulation. The material used is "Aiye" mugwort in the form of a cone or stick.
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While acupuncture can only manipulate Qi that is already available in the body, moxibustion, the burning of the dried herb mugwort on or over various acupuncture points of the body adds Qi to the body. This makes the treatment of choice for breech presentation when used during the final month of pregnancy. Since moxibustion does not require needles, We will train midwives, doulas and pregnant women in its application. Benefits of moxibustion include a decrease in the number of breech births and their complications, as well as potential reductions in the cesarean section rate.
Moxibustion can be applied directly to the body, indirectly to the body on top of a layer of ginger, garlic or salt, near the body if moxa sticks are used, or attached to needle handles when used in combination with acupuncture. Spray-on moxa is usually used with heat lamps, and activated moxa heat packs can be worn under the clothes all day.
MOXIBUSTION for Breech Presentation
The turning of breech babies has long been well known to respond to moxibustion. By burning moxa over one of the acupuncture points, it can relax the muscles in the uterus allowing the baby to turn.The moxibustion is done by taking a moxa stick (a stick of compressed herbs the size of a candle) and lighting the end. This herb then smoulders and the heat radiates into the point. This is done over the point on each side for fifteen minutes each day for 1 week.Take a two-day break. If the baby has not turned yet, continue with the moxa for another seven days. It is even more effective if the patient does the “knee to chest” position in conjunction with acupuncture/moxa treatment.
To do the “knee to chest” position. with head down on the floor. Maintain this position for 15 minutes, twice a day. By positioning the body so that the head is lower, gravity encourages the baby’s head to “float” toward the fundus of the uterus, flex her chin onto her chest and start to turn under. Acupuncture treatments should be performed every other day for up to 2 weeks to assist with the process of turning the baby to the right position.
Moxibustion is a completely safe and very gentle way of attempting to turn babies. The best results are often gained before week 35 as after this stage there is so little room for the baby to move. I have however had babies that have turned at week 38/39.Usually only one treatment is required, where the acupuncturist will do the moxibustion, teach where the points are, and then give a moxa stick to the patient to continue the process at home.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha is an ancient Chinese treatment, similar in effect to Cupping. "Gua" stands for rubbing or friction. This technique stimulates the skin to bring "sha" stands for rush to the surface, releasing the exterior (during the early stages of an acute illness such as a cold or flu) and resolving Qi and blood stagnation, treating stiff neck, shoulders and upper back. It promotes healthy circulation to the muscles, tissues, directly beneath the surface treated, as nutrients are carried to the tissues and metabolic wastes are carried away. You will feel a change right away.
When "Gua" friction is applied with a a smooth-edged tool in repeated, even strokes, the "sha" surfaces as small red petechiae(non permanent).
Seven Star Dermal Technique
the Seven Star Needle is used to cause Bleeding or stimulate acupuncture points to treat Skin Conditions.
Acupoint Bloodletting
Form of bloodletting characterized by prick to bleed certain acupuncture points with a lancet (a three edged needle). It has various purposes, including activation of blood, clearing acupuncture meridians, reduction of excess heat and treating varicose veins.
Qi Gong
Qi Gong (pronounced "Chee Gong") is the art of internal strength development by exercising the essence, vital energy, and spirit. To practice Qi Gong one must combine shape-posture, consciousness, and vital energy. The ancient Chinese call these, "The Three Regulations" and they regulate the body's constitution, consciousness, and respiration, respectively. The nucleus of Qi Gong is the exercise of consciousness and vital energy. Correct use of these energies results in relegation of the internal functions of the human body. In applying these techniques, one employs the use of the human body's chakras and meridians, which are the body's focal points and channels through which it's Qi energy flows.
In the view of Chinese medicine, many "dis-eases" are caused by blockages in these channels. Along with regulating respiration and consciousness, Qi Gong regulates the functions of the central nervous system. The main functions of Qi Gong can be summarized as dis-ease prevention; dis-ease treatment; strengthening the body; improving intelligence and prolong life; and finally manifesting the latent power within us all.
Acu-Yoga
Combination of self-applied acupressure and a group of yogic postures and stretches.
It activates the acupuncture points and the meridians.
Meditation
Meditation is an adventure of self exploration, the rewards are the truly priceless skill of "Internal Literacy": the ability to read the facinating book of your own reality.
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Azita Moallef, L.Ac.
P.O.Box 7639
Santa Monica, Ca.90406
310.453.5717
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