Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the gentle insertion of very fine sterile needles at specific points on the body to support circulation, regulate the nervous system and encourage the body’s natural healing processes. Treatments are tailored to each individual and may help support relief from pain, muscle tension and other imbalances in the body.

Acupuncture is often used to assist with musculoskeletal concerns such as back, neck and shoulder tension, as well as stress, fatigue and sleep disturbances.
By supporting circulation and the body’s natural regulatory systems, acupuncture aims to help restore balance and promote overall wellbeing.
Many people find acupuncture deeply relaxing and beneficial for both physical and emotional health.

Electro-Acupuncture

Electroacupuncture is a technique where a very mild electrical stimulation is applied to acupuncture needles using a specialised device. The gentle pulses help enhance the therapeutic effect of acupuncture by further stimulating the acupuncture points and surrounding tissues.

This technique is often used when treating muscle tension, nerve irritation and longer-standing pain conditions.
The stimulation may help support circulation, reduce muscle tightness and encourage the body’s natural healing processes.
The electrical pulses used during treatment are very gentle and carefully controlled.
Most people experience the sensation as a mild rhythmic tapping or pulsing and often find it comfortable and relaxing.

Naturopathy/Lifestyle Support

Naturopathy consultation using herbs, supplements and nutrition in Dunsborough

Naturopathic and lifestyle support may be incorporated into treatment when appropriate. This can include guidance around nutrition, lifestyle habits and simple strategies to support overall health and wellbeing.

Small adjustments in areas such as diet, stress management, sleep and daily routines can often play an important role in supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
Where appropriate, nutritional supplements or herbal support may also be suggested to complement acupuncture treatment.
The aim is to provide practical, supportive guidance that works alongside your acupuncture treatment and individual health goals.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a traditional therapy used alongside acupuncture that involves gently warming specific acupuncture points using a herbal preparation made from dried mugwort. The gentle warmth helps stimulate circulation, support the flow of energy through the body and enhance the effects of acupuncture treatment.

The warming quality of moxibustion can be particularly helpful in situations where the body benefits from added warmth and stimulation.
It is often used to support circulation, reduce discomfort and assist with certain chronic conditions including pain.
In some cases, moxibustion may also be used topically over areas of the body.
The warmth and herbal smoke can be soothing for irritated or sensitive skin and may help support the body’s natural healing response in areas experiencing itching, discomfort or localised inflammation.

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture is a natural facial treatment that uses very fine needles placed at specific points on the face and body to support circulation, skin vitality and overall facial balance.

By encouraging blood flow and stimulating the body’s natural regenerative processes, the treatment may help support healthy skin, improve tone and promote a more refreshed appearance.
Treatments are designed to work holistically, supporting not only the skin but also the underlying systems that influence skin health such as circulation, digestion and stress levels.
Many people find cosmetic acupuncture both relaxing and rejuvenating.

Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine may sometimes be recommended alongside acupuncture to support overall health and wellbeing. In clinic, this usually involves the use of Western herbal medicine, which uses plant-based extracts traditionally used to support the body’s natural healing processes.

In some cases, carefully selected herbal preparations may be used to support areas such as digestion, stress, sleep, immune function or recovery from illness.
When appropriate, certain traditional Chinese herbal formulas may also be incorporated to complement acupuncture treatment.
Herbal support is always tailored to the individual and considered as part of a broader holistic treatment approach.

Cupping

Cupping therapy involves placing specialised cups on the skin to create gentle suction. This technique helps stimulate circulation, release areas of muscle tightness and support the body’s natural healing processes. Cupping is commonly used to help relieve tension in the back, shoulders and other areas of muscular strain.

The suction created by the cups draws blood flow to the area and helps loosen tight connective tissue, which may assist with recovery from physical exertion or injury.
Many people find cupping helpful for relieving stubborn areas of muscle tension and promoting relaxation.
Cupping may leave temporary circular marks on the skin as circulation increases to the area.
These marks are not bruises and typically fade within a few days as the body continues to restore balance in the tissues.

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a traditional technique that involves gently gliding a smooth tool over the skin to stimulate circulation and release areas of muscle tension. The treatment encourages blood flow to the area, helps move stagnation and supports the body’s natural healing processes.

It is often used to help relieve tight or sore muscles, support recovery from physical strain and improve mobility in areas of tension.
Gua Sha may sometimes leave temporary redness on the skin as circulation increases, which usually fades within a short time.
Gua Sha can also be used as part of facial rejuvenation treatments.
When applied gently to the face, the technique helps encourage circulation, support lymphatic movement and soften areas of tissue tension.
Many people notice improvements in skin tone, brightness and overall facial vitality following treatment.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a skin treatment that uses very fine needles to create tiny micro-channels in the skin. This process helps stimulate the body’s natural repair response and supports collagen production, circulation and skin renewal.

The treatment is commonly used to support skin tone, texture and overall vitality.
It may assist in improving the appearance of fine lines, scarring and uneven skin tone while encouraging smoother, healthier looking skin.
Microneedling may be offered as a stand-alone treatment or combined with other facial rejuvenation techniques such as cosmetic acupuncture to support natural skin health and regeneration.

Treatments at Acupuncture Sanctuary