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Five Element acupuncture
Treatment that looks at the whole person: your body, mind and spirit, and the one element that shapes you most.
What is Five Element acupuncture?
Five Element acupuncture is a classical style of acupuncture brought to the West by Professor J.R. Worsley, himself from Coventry. It's based on the idea that each of us is shaped most by one of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal or Water.
When that element is out of balance, the effects can show up anywhere: in how we sleep, how we feel, or how our body copes. So rather than only treating a symptom, I work to support your element, and with it, you as a whole.
Treatment uses very fine, single-use, sterile needles on points along the body's channels. Some needles stay in for a while as you rest; others are in for just a moment.
In Chinese medicine, the body's treated as one connected system rather than a set of separate parts, so a session isn't aimed at just one symptom in isolation. Traditionally, working with the nervous system and the body's channels is thought to support how the whole body finds its balance. Many people simply notice they feel calmer and more even after a session, not just in the area we focused on.
What people come for
Why people choose acupuncture
People come to White Willow for all sorts of reasons: aches and pains, or simply feeling out of balance and wanting some calm, unhurried time to feel more like themselves.
Many come to relax, unwind and feel revitalised. Others come because acupuncture is recognised for certain conditions: for example, NICE, the body that advises the NHS, includes acupuncture as an option for chronic primary pain, and for helping to prevent chronic tension-type headaches and migraine.
What I can't promise
Everyone is different, and acupuncture isn't a substitute for medical care. If you have a diagnosed condition or you're taking medication, keep your GP involved. I'll always tell you honestly whether I think acupuncture is right for you.
Alongside acupuncture
Other techniques I may use
These are included in your treatment where they'll help, at no extra cost.
Cupping
Glass or silicone cups create gentle suction on the skin. Many people find it eases tight, tired muscles. It can leave round marks that fade within a few days.
Moxibustion
Moxa, dried mugwort, is warmed near acupuncture points to bring comforting heat. It's never uncomfortably hot.
Gua sha
A smooth tool is stroked over oiled skin to release tension. It can leave temporary redness.
Tui na
Chinese therapeutic massage using pressure on points and channels, often used alongside needles.
Ear acupuncture
Tiny points on the ear, used with fine needles or small seeds taped in place so you can keep pressing them at home.
Korean hand therapy
A system of points on the hands, which can be used with needles, seeds or pressure.
Electro-acupuncture
A very mild electrical pulse passed between two needles, used where a stronger stimulus is helpful.
How acupuncture works alongside your GP and other therapies →
Your session
What happens in a treatment
- Your first visit starts with a full consultation of up to 1½ hours, so I can understand you as a whole. On return visits, we start by talking about how you've been since last time.
- I may check your pulses and look at your tongue, as Chinese medicine practitioners traditionally do.
- You'll lie comfortably on the couch, under a blanket, with only the areas needed uncovered.
- Needles are placed and, if appropriate, left while you rest. Many people drift off.
- I'll finish with advice you can use at home, if it would help.
Ready to book, or just have a question?
Call or WhatsApp me. There's no obligation, and no question is too small.
By appointment only. Daytime, evening and weekend appointments: Mondays and Thursdays all day and evening, other days by arrangement, including late clinics.
Still deciding? No pressure, ask me anything first. 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or change a time.