Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese form of healing that uses small needles to redirect the flow of energy in the body to restore balance and alleviate pain. Acupuncture is part of TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine).

More information about Acupuncture:

The earliest written text for TCM is from about 250 BCE. TCM is a completely different system from Western Medicine – it has a different philosophy, different techniques, and uses different terms.

One of those terms is “Qi” (pronounced “chee”) which is often translated as “life force” or “energy.” It is similar to “prana” in yoga. Qi flows through the body in certain channels or meridians. The acupuncture points are specific locations along the meridians where we can influence or access the Qi.

Acupuncture has its roots in Daoist Philosophy. One of the key principles of Daoism is balance. Balance is exemplified by the “Yin/Yang” symbol.

In TCM, Health is defined the free flow of abundant, balanced, and unobstructed Qi. Anytime there is pain, disease, or discomfort, the Qi is either stuck or it is not balanced. The goal of acupuncture is to restore balance to the body by balancing the flow of Qi.

Acupuncture Services

Deep Springs Health is at 1619 Dayton Ave, Suite #321 in St Paul, MN 55104 (near the Whole Foods at Snelling and Selby).

Parking: There is on-site parking in front of the building, as well as nearby street parking. The west door closest to Fry Street is fully handicapped accessible with an elevator.

Two types of Treatment sessions offered: Focused or Comprehensive

Focused:

Addresses a single concern such as headaches or elbow pain

Only one set of needles placed

Those needles stay in for about 30 minutes.

Total treatment time from start to finish is about 45 minutes.

Cost is $60

acupuncture Frequently asked questions

What happens during a treatment?

The treatment involves using very small needles to activate or stimulate the acupuncture points. When those points are stimulated, the body’s Qi (pronounced “chee,” meaning “energy”) starts to flow, and balance can be restored. Once the needles are in, people typically either fall asleep or rest in a sleeplike state.

Most of the points are on the arms below the elbows, the legs below the knees, the scalp, and in the ears. Wearing shorts and a T-shirt is ideal. Some conditions require access to your abdomen (GI issues or fertility) or other areas where you have specific pain (lower back, shoulder blades). In those cases, I may ask you to disrobe further to access those points. Your privacy will be protected with a sheet.

Does it hurt?

The needles are small and hair-thin. They may pinch or sting slightly when they are first going in. Usually, taking a deep breath will help to settle down the stinging. Once the needles are in, they can feel a bit dull, achy, crampy, throbbing, or warm. That is the Qi (energy) moving.

What if I can’t tolerate needles?

Acupuncture is probably not for you.

What can I expect from the treatment?

It takes time for your body to adjust to this new movement of energy. You may not necessarily feel a change right away. Acupuncture is a cumulative treatment – it builds up over time. Most people have been dealing with pain or their other concerns for a long time before coming to acupuncture. It takes time to unwind those issues. I typically recommend once a week for 3-4 weeks to start. If you are in acute pain, twice a week might be necessary.

Is it safe for everyone?

Generally, yes. Most people get some benefit from the treatment and there are very few side effects.

Please see the Informed Consent form for details.

What if I don’t feel better?

Acupuncture is a broad field and there are multiple techniques that are available to help you. If you are not getting relief after a couple of sessions, we can discuss if those other options may help you.

Where are services performed?

Deep Springs Health is at 1619 Dayton Ave, Suite 321 in St Paul MN 55104 (near the Whole Foods at Snelling and Selby).

Hours are by appointment.

Please reach out here to schedule an appointment.

There is on-site parking in front of the building, as well as nearby street parking. The west door closest to Fry Street is fully handicapped accessible with an elevator.

Questions before scheduling? Please reach out by filling out the contact form to discuss what is the best option for you.

What if my questions isn’t listed?

Visit the contact page and fill out the contact form and I’ll get back to you with a response.

Scheduling an appointment

Please reach out via the contact form to schedule an appointment. Let me know whether you are interested in acupuncture, shamanic work, or both.

Payment is due immediately after the session. Payment can be made with cash, Paypal, Venmo, or using a credit card via Square.

These sessions require active participation and commitment. Please arrive promptly for the scheduled session, as they cannot exceed their allotted time.

24-hour’s notice is required to cancel or reschedule appointments.