An Acupuncturist’s Blog
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If you’re considering acupuncture for the first time, it’s natural to feel curious about what to expect. At ZEN·6 Acupuncture Highgate, Amelia provides a calm, professional environment where each treatment is tailored to your unique health needs and goals. Whether you’re seeking support for stress, pain relief, fertility or overall wellbeing, your first acupuncture session is the foundation for a personalised treatment plan.
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Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, but for many it brings significant discomfort and impacts quality of life. Symptoms such as hot flashes (vasomotor symptoms or VMS), night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings and physical changes are common. While hormone therapy remains a standard treatment, some women seek non‑hormonal alternatives. Among these alternatives is acupuncture. In this blog I’ll summarise what we know (and don’t know) about the use of acupuncture in menopause, featuring key studies including those by Avis et al., Lund et al. and Zhao et al. and provide a balanced perspective of benefits, limitations and practical considerations.
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As the vibrant colours of autumn begin to appear, we are reminded that nature is in constant transition and so are we. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the change of season is not just about weather, but also a shift in energy, emotions and how we care for our bodies.
Autumn is associated with the Metal Element and the organs of the Lungs and Large Intestine. It is a time of letting go- both physically and emotionally, while also gathering strength and nourishment for the winter months ahead.
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In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Blood (Xue) is more than that which flows through our veins. It’s the foundation of vitality, mental clarity, emotional balance and physical strength. When Blood is abundant and flowing smoothly, we feel grounded, calm, and radiant. When it’s deficient, we may experience fatigue, dizziness, pale complexion, dry skin, brittle nails, insomnia or even anxiety.
One of the most natural and effective ways to build and nourish Blood is through food. Let’s explore how TCM views Blood nourishment and which foods can help restore balance, boost energy and support the menstrual cycle.
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A Calm Practice for Busy Lives
In a world that seems to run on speed, many people feel drained long before the day is done. Qigong is a gentle, ancient Chinese practice that harmonizes breath, movement and awareness and offers a simple way to recharge.
The best part? You don’t need a mat, special clothing or even a lot of space. You can cultivate real, vibrant energy right from a chair.
Below is a simple seated Qigong routine designed to awaken your vitality, calm the nervous system and strengthen the flow of qi (energy) throughout your body.
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Supporting Movement, Comfort and Performance
Sports and physical activity are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but they can also lead to muscle tension, overuse, and the occasional strain. Many active people, from gym-goers to runners, social padel players and professional athletes, choose acupuncture as part of their overall approach to recovery and wellbeing.
In this blog, we’ll explore how acupuncture is commonly used in a sports-recovery context, what people report experiencing and how it may support your training routine.
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Why It Happens and How Acupuncture Can Help
Many women are surprised when shoulder pain becomes one of the most frustrating symptoms of menopause. Stiffness, aching, reduced movement or even a sudden onset of “frozen shoulder” can appear during perimenopause or menopause, often without any obvious injury.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Shoulder pain is increasingly recognised as a common but under-discussed menopausal issue. Understanding why it happens can help you choose the right treatment and get lasting relief.
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Sleep plays a vital role in our physical health, emotional wellbeing and ability to cope with daily life. However, many people experience with sleep at some point, whether that’s trouble falling asleep, waking during the night or not feeling refreshed in the morning. Stress, emotional strain, pain, hormonal changes and busy lifestyles can all affect our ability to rest well.
Acupuncture and acupressure are commonly used to support relaxation and overall wellbeing, which in turn may help promote healthier sleep patterns.
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Winter invites us to slow down. In Chinese medicine, this season is associated with the Water element and the Kidneys- our deep reserves of energy, vitality and resilience. When we work with winter’s rhythms rather than pushing against them, we can protect our immunity, steady our mood, and arrive in spring feeling grounded instead of depleted.
Here’s how simple food and lifestyle choices can support your body through the colder months.
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If you’ve recently had an acupuncture appointment, you may be wondering what to do after acupuncture to support your results. Acupuncture doesn’t stop working when your session ends- in fact, the hours and days afterward are an important part of the healing process.
Proper acupuncture aftercare can help your body integrate the treatment, reduce side effects and allow the benefits to last longer. Below are simple, effective guidelines I often share with patients after their sessions.
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If you are menopausal and finding that your usual exercise routine often leads to injuries, this routine is for you!
Below is a Qi Gong routine specifically adapted for hip pain and stiffness. It supports bones, joints and the nervous system.
This practice works best when done daily, ideally in the evening
It should leave you feeling calmer, heavier and more settled
If you feel energised or heated afterward, you did too much
Consistency matters more than duration
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Padel is fast-paced, sociable and great fun- but it can also be physically demanding. Regular play involves quick changes of direction, repetitive shots and sustained effort, which may lead to muscle tightness or general aches over time.
To support Georgians padel players both on and off the court, I’m pleased to offer a special acupuncture rate for club members.