All your questions answered

If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, don’t worry! Just make a note, and we can chat about it during our call together.

Anxiety Q&A

  • Anxiety is a natural emotional response that helps keep us alert and performing at our best.

    However, when it becomes excessive, anxiety can overwhelm our thoughts and feelings, disrupting daily life and preventing us from living our best life. 

    Anxiety can stem from a combination of biological factors, psychological influences, and challenging life experiences. Its symptoms can be both mental and physical, often presenting as racing thoughts, feelings of unease, emotional distress and physical signs, such as rapid heartbeat or unexplained aches and pains.

    While anxiety, worry and stress are interconnected, worry serves as the primary driver of anxiety. Therefore, addressing our thought patterns through mindfulness, along with rebalancing and harmonising the whole body through acupuncture, can contribute greatly to both relieving the symptoms and tackling the root causes of anxiety.

  • While there are many types of anxiety disorders that I help women with in my clinic, Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is the most common.

    This type of anxiety is characterised by persistent and excessive worry about various life situations and can interfere with inner happiness and the pursuit of one's dreams and goals.

  • Yes, there is scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of both acupuncture and mindfulness as treatments for anxiety.

    *Acupuncture:*
    Numerous studies have demonstrated that acupuncture can help reduce anxiety symptoms. For example, a systematic review published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine in 2014 analysed 29 studies involving over 1,700 participants and found that acupuncture significantly reduced anxiety levels compared to control groups. Another study published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2016 indicated that patients receiving acupuncture experienced greater reductions in anxiety compared to those who received standard care alone. The mechanisms behind these effects may involve the modulation of the brain's neurochemistry, including the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and endorphins, which play critical roles in mood regulation.

    *Mindfulness:*
    Mindfulness practices, including meditation and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), have also been extensively studied. Research has demonstrated that mindfulness can lead to significant reductions in anxiety and stress. For instance, a meta-analysis in the journal Psychological Bulletin found that mindfulness-based interventions were effective in reducing anxiety across various populations. By fostering greater awareness of the present moment and promoting acceptance, mindfulness helps individuals manage their thoughts and emotions more effectively.

    The evidence shows that both acupuncture and mindfulness provide a holistic approach to managing anxiety, especially when treatments are tailored to individual values and needs. Check out my ‘Whole being’ programme, which includes both acupuncture treatments and mindfulness sessions, allowing you to benefit from this holistic approach.

  • I want to emphasise that my services are not a replacement for the care that you receive from your GP and other medical professionals (for example, hospital consultants). I do not believe in 'quick fixes' or 'one-size-fits-all' approaches, as these are rarely effective in managing anxiety and improving one's sense of well-being. I treat and respect each person that I meet as a unique individual, deserving a personal approach for deeper healing and lasting results.

Whole being Programme Q&A

  • Over the twelve weeks of the programme, you will go on a journey which is centred around rediscovering yourself and moving toward a healthier, happier life. I only wish that I had the opportunity to undertake this programme when I was younger. I spent so long feeling lost and out of place, and I believe that this programme could have made a real difference to my life.

    Our time together starts with a Personal Values questionnaire, where you will explore what truly matters to you. This is not simply a checklist.  Rather, it is an opportunity for your to dig deep and find your personal compass.

    In our first session, we will also engage in a Powerful Goal Visualisation together. This gentle, yet impactful, exercise will help you to clarify your heartfelt aspirations, giving you meaningful direction as you move forward.

    Throughout the programme, we will enjoy six carefully curated mindfulness training sessions and meditations together. We will uncover practical techniques that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine, ensuring that the practice of mindfulness fits seamlessly into your life from the outset.

    You will also benefit from six Five-Element Acupuncture sessions, specifically tailored to address the root causes of anxiety. This holistic approach focuses on restoring balance and harmony in your mind and body, fostering a sense of stability as you progress.

    To enhance your experience, I will provide Bonus Material, including a self-help guide on nutrition and anxiety written by Claire Coney, a Naturopathic Nutritionist, along with helpful bespoke mindfulness tips to help you manage your thoughts and feelings with kindness long into the future.

    By the end of your journey on the 12-week 'Whole being' programme, you will have come to understand that addressing the heart / mind / body connection is essential to one's well-being. You should also have developed a clear understanding of what truly matters to you and will feel confident in taking the next steps towards achieving your dreams and goals. This programme is not just about completing the 12 weeks; it is about opening the door to a new beginning, for which you will be equipped with the tools you need to help you achieve your goals, all with a renewed sense of optimism and vigour.

Acupuncture Q&A

  • The basis of Five-Element acupuncture is the understanding that there are five basic elements and that the whole universe can be observed and experienced through these elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. 

    The Ancients studied these fundamental elements and realised that they create and maintain the natural order from beginning to end, and on a continuous loop. The cycle of the Seasons is just one example of this. 

    In Five-Element Acupuncture, it is believed that what happens on the outside, happens within us, too. The five-elements represent the physical and energetic qualities of the human body and of the physical world. This means that we are all part of nature, that is we are fundamentally connected to nature, and not separate from it.

    When these five elements manifest in us in a balanced and harmonious state, we feel at our best and can fully enjoy our lives.  

    Acupuncture itself is a holistic system of medicine focusing on correcting imbalances of energy ('qi', pronounced 'chee') in the body. What distinguishes Five-Element Acupuncture from the Western Medical Tradition is the way in which it addresses all aspects of the person, on all levels, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

  • Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile, single-use needles to stimulate specific points onenergy pathways called 'meridians'. The needles are incredibly fine and most people feel very little or no pain at all when they are inserted. 

    An acupuncture treatment involves inserting needles into the body in order to improve the quality of the qi (vital energy) and improve its flow. The overall aim is to direct the flow of qi to trigger your body’s healing response and to restore physical, emotional and mental equilibrium.

  • During each session, I will ask you questions about how you have been feeling since the previous session. This helps me to understand the flow of energy in your body and to make the necessary adjustments to the treatment to optimise your well-being. 

    As part of the process, I may conduct non-invasive tests and utilise a technique called 'moxibustion'. This involves burning dried mugwort ('moxa') on specific acupuncture points on your body. Whilst it may sound a bit unusual, moxibustion is quite painless and I have yet to meet a patient who found the technique in any way unpleasant!

    Throughout your sessions, I will always explain what I am doing and why I am doing it, ensuring that you are fully informed and comfortable every step of the way. I also encourage you to ask questions, as your understanding and peace of mind are important to me. 

    Rest assured, your safety is paramount at all times. With the use of only a few needles, my aim is not to 'fix', but rather to 'reset' your energy system, allowing your body to rebalance itself naturally. This approach promotes a sense of harmony and supports your overall well-being.

  • Yes, acupuncture is a safe and natural healing method when performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner.  Acupuncture needles are pre-sterilised, single-use and are disposed of immediately after use (even unused needles from multipacks are thrown away following a session).

  • Unfortunately, that is impossible to predict without an in-depth needs assessment. I would therefore suggest that you book in for your free call so that we can chat about it further.

  • The cost of each discounted package is as follows:

    Package x 3: £61 per session, totalling £185.00

    Package x 5: £58 per session, totalling £290.00

    Package x 7: £55 per session, totalling £385.00

    Just a friendly note: my prices are reviewed every March, so be sure to check back for any updates!  

Harmony Mindfulness Q&A

  • During the eight weeks of the programme, you can expect to embark on a wonderful journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

    Not only will you discover what the practice of mindfulness is, and what it entails, you will also learn how to make mindfulness an indispensable part of your daily routine. I will guide you through the process of 're-training' your mind, helping you to cultivate a daily practice that feels right for you. Whether it's weaving mindfulness into your hobbies, or syncing your practices with the changing seasons, together we will find a rhythm that fits seamlessly around your work and family commitments.

    One of the highlights of the programme is the opportunity for you to share your experiences with me and receive feedback. We will explore a variety of helpful topics each week, such as breath awareness, body scans and understanding thought patterns.

    We will also touch on important mindfulness attitudes such as 'letting go' and gratitude

    -tools that can truly enrich your life.

    At the end the programme, you will be provided with practical tips and guidance to help as you continue on your mindfulness journey. Remember, the beauty of this experience lies in your openness and commitment. The more you engage with the practice, the more you are likely to benefit.

    Ultimately, you will find that mindfulness allows you to manage your thoughts and feelings with greater kindness and respect for yourself. It will help you to develop a sense of calm and harmony within your body, making it easier to cope with stressful life events, and helping you to 'reconnect’ with your inner self.

General Q&A

  • If you are unsure whether to choose acupuncture or mindfulness to help manage your anxiety, the following information may help you to decide.

    Five-element acupuncture, carried out by a qualified practitioner, focuses on restoring balance within your body’s energy system. Each treatment is tailored to address your specific emotional and physical symptoms and to alleviate anxiety by promoting relaxation and harmony.

    By contrast, mindfulness is a self-practice that involves developing mental techniques which help you to remain present 'in the moment'. This can help reduce anxiety by equipping you with tools to apply in everyday life. Mindfulness practices can easily be integrated into your daily routine, empowering you to manage anxiety effectively over time.

    The good news is that you do not have to choose between the two, as I offer a comprehensive 12-week programme called ‘Whole being ,’ which incorporates both five-element acupuncture and mindfulness, along with additional supportive practices. This programme provides a holistic approach to anxiety management, ensuring you receive the benefits of both modalities to enhance your overall well-being and long-term happiness. It is a 360-degree approach!

  • Absolutely! I am here to support you in maintaining a sense of inner calm and happiness now and in the future.

  • While I cannot guarantee specific outcomes, I want to assure you that every service I provide—whether it’s mentoring, five-element acupuncture, or mindfulness—is thoughtfully designed to be positive, supportive, and empowering. It is important to recognise that achieving success ultimately depends on the commitment and effort of each individual, as well as their body's natural healing capabilities.

  • By choosing my services, you are contributing to World Vision's mission of empowering children and transforming communities. Your support helps fund vital initiatives that address the root causes of poverty, providing essentials like clean water, nutritious food, healthcare, and education. With every programme purchased, along with acupuncture sessions, you are helping to support children and the communities in which they live, enabling them to thrive and become self-sustaining. Together, we can foster hope and empower children to shape their futures.

  • At my acupuncture clinic, I prioritise creating an eco-friendly environment that promotes healing and contributes to sustainability. I believe that every small step we take can make a difference. If you notice anything I may have missed, I would greatly appreciate your input! I am always open to new ideas and suggestions on how to make my clinic even more environmentally friendly.

    Here are some of the practices I follow:

    1. Energy Conservation: I use energy-saving LED lights in my clinic to minimise energy consumption and reduce our carbon footprint.

    2. Recycling: Every week, I take home paper, plastic, and glass for recycling, helping to minimise waste and contribute to a cleaner planet.

    3. Digital Documentation: I embrace digital documentation and communication methods to reduce paper usage, making my practice more environmentally friendly.

    4. Non-Toxic Cleaning: I prioritise environmentally friendly, non-toxic cleaning products to minimise the impact on air quality and water systems, ensuring a healthier space for all my patients.

    5. Air Quality Improvement: To enhance air quality and create a calming atmosphere, I have introduced indoor plants in my clinic. These plants beautify the space and contribute to a healthier environment.

    6. Paperless Marketing: I use digital marketing strategies like social media and email newsletters, reducing paper waste from traditional advertising methods.

    7. Sustainable Supplies: I choose acupuncture needles that come with 10 needles per sleeve and only one guide tube per blister. I also opt for medical supplies made from sustainable or recyclable materials whenever possible.

    8. Eco-Friendly Treatment: I have a wipeable treatment couch cover and professional medical-grade wipeable pillow covers. Additionally, I encourage all my patients to bring their own blankets to reduce the need for excessive washing, further minimising our environmental impact.

  • Yes, I do! In March, I will be hosting "Finding Calm: An Introduction to Mindfulness for Women", which will explore the value and benefits of a daily mindfulness practice for busy women. This workshop will take place on March 22 at The Storyhouse in Chester. For inquiries, please check my listing on their site.

    Additionally, I am open to accommodating group requests for businesses, friends, and families. If you are interested in organising a group session, please do not hesitate to reach out for more details. I would love to create a meaningful mindfulness experience for you!

  • Yes, this is usually very straightforward and easy! When we chat on the phone, I will be happy to explain the specifics of how it works, including any necessary documentation and the information you may need to provide. So, just ask and I will guide you through the process!

  • Yes, I collaborate with local organisations on a contract basis, particularly those which align with my values and which prioritise eco-friendly practices. I provide tailored acupuncture and mindfulness services designed to meet the specific needs of their workforce. Research shows that acupuncture can help to reduce stress, enhance focus and improve overall well-being, leading to higher productivity levels. Similarly, mindfulness practices have been proven to decrease anxiety and increase employee engagement, fostering a healthier work environment. I am passionate about helping individuals feel their best so that they can thrive in the workplace (as well as at home!). Additionally, employees may be able to claim back the cost of their sessions through their organisation's private healthcare insurance provider, making this a valuable investment in workplace wellness that can lead to improved morale and reduced healthcare costs for the organisation.

  • I primarily treat women in my practice, as I often find myself alone in my clinic building. However, I want to emphasise that all individuals are welcome. My approach is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for anyone seeking assistance with anxiety. Regardless of whether you identify as a woman, a man, or non-binary, I am committed to providing personalised care tailored to your unique needs, ensuring the highest standard of support for everyone.