Purely Acupuncture

Purely Acupuncture – What is it? When?
30 minute Acupuncture only sessions are now available Tuesday, Thursday and Friday! This is the treatment for you if you are:
·       short of time
·       prefer a needles-only treatment
·       require frequent treatment
Call 416.515.1710 or go online to book.

Book online!

Booking online made easy!!

Well, I've finally done it. It’s taken awhile to get it up and running, but I now have online scheduling. You can quickly and easily book your appointments on-line.  Simply go to my website: www.joannalafriz.com, click on the ‘book now’ icon and choose a time that works for you. After you have scheduled your appointment you will receive confirmation and a reminder. How amazing is that? Of course, you can still call or email me personally to book your appointment if that suits you.

Simply Eat

I am frequently asked if Acupuncture can help a person lose weight. But before I answer that question, I inquire about eating habits and lifestyle. Encouraging my clients to eat and live well though diet and exercise is important. The weight loss will naturally follow.

I found a great article that explains Healthy eating, I've summarized the points here and added a few:

• Lots of fruits and veggies (a variety and bright colours).
• Have some protein with each meal.
• Choose foods seasonally.
• Cooked food is easier to digest. Raw foods can be difficult.
• Avoid fried foods (sautéing is better)
• Eat whole foods, less processed.
• Eat slowly, relax and enjoy (do not eat on the go or at your desk) 
• When having treats, have in moderation. Do not deny yourself small pleasures.

To answer the question, "Can Acupuncture help a person lose weight"?: 
Acupuncture can assist in weight loss but it is up to the individual to make the important lifestyle changes. 

Your Acupuncturist will support your body and its constitution. The treatment will most likely include, tonifying the Spleen Qi. The Spleen is responsible for digestion and producing Qi (for energy) and Blood (which nourishes the Mind; Vital organs, muscles, tendons and bones). The treatment is tailored to you and will incorporate other patterns that need to be addressed.

Auricular Acupuncture may also be used in conjunction with points on the body to help reduce cravings and deal with stress. All this supports the body in weight loss.

There is also a great article if you would like to read more on Acupuncture for weight loss.

If you have any questions regarding Acupuncture and weight control or Eastern Nutrition and foods that are appropriate for your constitution, feel free to contact me.

Acupuncture during Labour and Delivery

I am looking forward to this seminar in February 2013.
Helping women during labour and delivery. Decreasing discomfort and pain. 
I will report back regarding this in mid-February. Stay tuned and keep in touch.

Stay Healthy this Fall

Dear Clients,

The following newsletter is about preparing yourself for Fall and why I am Happy to introduce my Fall promotion for Health and Wellness.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Fall is the beginning of the yin cycle (quiet, cool and calm), a time of harvest. Fall is a good time to finish projects that you began in spring and summer and now you can enjoy the bounty of your hard work. It is also a good time to become more introspective and begin indoor projects.

TCM considers the Lung and Large Intestine organs as the “Metal” element and is related to the Fall. The Lung is associated with the emotion of “letting go.” Those who have difficultly with the end of summer may relate to this emotion very strongly. Acupuncture can ease you in this transition, as it has been know to effectively treat many mental and emotional issues.

The Lung, according to TCM, is considered to be the uppermost organ in the body. It is therefore prone to attacks of “Wind and Cold”. We tend to get sick more readily during the Fall due the cooler temperatures. Ensure that you dress warm, in layers and wear your scarf!

Regarding diet, we recommend a Spleen friendly diet to support your digestion and therefore your health. Decrease your consumption of dairy products and raw cold foods. Increase warm, cooked soups and stews. Add even more warmth to your foods with ginger and garlic.

To help you maintain good physical and mental/emotional health, contact me to help you adjust to this change of season. Regular treatments can strengthen you constitution.

To start you on the right footing this Fall, I would like to offer you until October 31, a package of 3 treatments for $225 (includes HST): http://www.joannalafriz.com/index.php/rates

Limit one package per person
May purchase as a gift
Please click on the link to make your purchase online OR feel free to contact me.

Warmest Regards,
JoAnn Alafriz, BSc, Dipl ST, Dipl Ac
Acupuncture and Shiatsu Therapy

2 College St, #301
Toronto, ON  M5G 1K3
416.254.7983
joann.alafriz@sympatico.ca

Social Networking

Interested in Traditional Chinese Medicine? Acupuncture? Eastern Nutrition? Shiatsu?

Do you have questions regarding how Acupuncture and Shiatsu and help you?

Are you interested in trying Cosmetic Acupuncture?

Follow me to learn more: 

Twitter:

@AcupunctureTO

@TherapyRoom301

Facebook:
JoAnn Alafriz, Acupuncture & Shiatsu Therapist

Treating Allergies with Acupuncture

Do you suffer from allergies? Dread this time of year because of the sneezing, itching and runny nose? Feeling miserable? Acupuncture can give you some relief.

Allergy symptoms result from the body's immune system overreacting to an outside substance that is normally harmless to others. These substances do not normally exhibit a reaction, but for some, they trigger the body to fight off the allergen in an overly exaggerated way.

There are various ways to easy the symptoms: anti-histamines, eye drops, homeopathic remedies, Vitamin C, and dietary changes. If you want to take treatment further, look to Acupuncture.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we view allergies as an invasion of Wind. Meaning that symptoms come on suddenly. If one is invaded by Wind, we believe it is because Wei Qi is not strong. Meaning the immune system is weak and is susceptible to illness.

A TCM Acupuncturist would treat the person holistically. First by treating the acute symptoms as they appear (sneezing, runny nose etc.). Second, treat the underlying deficiency i.e.) the weakened immune system. Spleen, Kidney or Lung Deficiencies would most likely be affected according to TCM. Meaning, that the function of these “Organs” are not performing to their optimal potential therefore allowing the Wind invasion.

Home care would also be given, it would include: dietary modification, the use of specifically chosen supplements and herbs, plus other suggestions to strengthen the deficient Organs.

If you or someone you know suffers from seasonal allergies, feel free to contact me for more information.

References:
http://www.yinyanghouse.com/treatments/acupuncture_for_allergies
http://www.somaacupuncture.com/allergies.html

Regulation of Acupuncture

Still waiting on The Transitional Council of the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of Ontario (TC-CTCMPAO) to regulate Acupuncture. It is a slow process but in the works. 

For more Information: http://www.ctcmpao.on.ca/regulation/index.html

Treating Coughs with Traditional Chinese Medicine

It's that time of the year when people become susceptible to colds. One of the main symptoms of a cold is that pesky cough. It can be dry, productive or it is exacerbated by your cold if you have a chronic condition such as asthma. In any case, it is running you down.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views a cough as main a disorder of the Lung. The Lung may be "attacked" from an invasion of Wind, Cold, Heat, Damp or Dryness. It may also be that the Lung's Qi energy is deficient; it's job of moving Qi and protecting the body's defenses is down.

According to TCM, there are many possible causes for a cough. There are also many different ways to treat it. Treatment depends on your signs and symptoms. Your practitioner will look at the subtleties of YOUR cough and how YOU feel? After the assessment a diagnosis is made and the appropriate points are chosen.

Signs and symptoms we look for (including a tongue and pulse diagnosis):
• Cough: chronic, barking or dry
• Fever, chills or both
• Body ache
• Mucous: Clear, runny, yellow or green. Nose stuffed. Sneezing.
• Throat: Scratchy or sore throat
• Sweat: Lack of, profuse, daytime or nighttime
• Headache
• Thirst
• Profuse white sputum
• Fullness of the chest, Shortness of breath, Asthma, Chest oppression
• Fatigue
• Weak voice
• Catch colds easily
• Pale complexion. Red cheeks

For example, a client comes in and complains of: fever & chills (but feels mainly chilled), body ache, stuffy nose with clear runny mucus, sneezing, scratchy throat, a headache and is not sweating. The Tongue presents: thin white coat.  Pulse feels: Floating, possibly a little tight

Your practitioner will conclude that there is a Wind-Cold invasion. Two of the main points used in this diagnosis are: Lung 7 and Large Intestine 4. These points help to push out this invasion and begin the healing process.

Cupping and moxabustion may also be apart of this treatment to expel the invasion.

A few suggestions to help prevent Wind-Cold and boost your body’s defenses:
• Wear a scarf around your neck to prevent the Wind-Cold invasion. It will also keep you warm.
• Ensure that you eat warming foods such as soups, cook with ginger and decrease raw foods consumption.
• Honey helps to soothe a dry and irritating cough

TCM has been effective in treating coughs and colds. It is best to treat as soon as the symptoms become noticeable. Most importantly prevention is key.

If you have any questions regarding this please feel free to contact me.

OPEN HOUSE

Hello everyone,

We are having an Open House on Monday, September 27th (4 - 8 pm). We would love to see you there. Come by for the event, say "hi", meet the other therapists and see our new space!

Remember the NEW location: 2 College Street, Suite 301. On the North West corner of College and Yonge.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Let me know if there are any questions, I'll be happy to answer them.

Cheers,

JoAnn

$35 for Shiatsu or Acupuncture - Today only!

Acupuncture and Shiatsu available for $35. It's only for today, so act fast at Fabfind

Feel free to share with family or friends.

Hope to see you soon.

We now have AC!

It's been over a week and I wanted touch base and let you know that the new space in Room 301 has such a great feel. I have received so much positive feedback (feel free to post). It's roomy, comfortable and has a great vibe. I thank everyone for your support.

I also wanted to thank those of you to tolerated your treatment with the heat this past week. With the heat wave, it made the room quite warm.  Good news: I now have Air Conditioning! Now I can keep the room at a comfortable temperature.

Once all 3 rooms are complete, I will share pictures with you.

Please keep in touch and don't foget that I'm offering you $20 off your next treatment: Acupuncture, Shiatsu or Cosmetic Acupuncture. You can use yourself or share with a friend. This offer ends: September 30, 2010.

Best regards,
JoAnn Alafriz

New Space: 2 College St, Suite 301

I have moved into my new clinic space. Same building, different floor, Suite 301.

There is now a waiting area. Come by prior to your appointment, relax and help yourself to some warm tea. My new room is bright and spacious with: sky lights, high ceilings and large windows. The room feels very open, warm and comfortable.

My hours have changed to accommodate more evening appointments. I am now available: Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 am - 7 pm.

Please feel free to drop by. I will post pictures very shortly.

Fees + HST

Beginning July 1, 2010, Acupuncture and Shiatsu fees are now subject to HST (13%).

Therefore the fees will be as follows:

Shiatsu                          Fee incld HST

60 minute                       $ 85.00

5 treatments                   $400.00

Acupuncture

Initial treatment              $110.00

60 minutes                     $ 80.00

5 treatments                   $370.00

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Single treatment             $110.00

10 treatments                 $970.00

Please call or visit my website for more information.

Thank you,

JoAnn

Moving on UP.

I am happy to announce that on July 1, 2010 I will be moving my practice on the 3rd floor of 2 College Street, Suite 301. This new space is sunny with a reception area. All of my contact information remains the same.

To celebrate, I'm offering you $20 off your next treatment: Acupuncture, Shiatsu or Cosmetic Acupuncture. You can use yourself or share with a friend. This offer ends: September 30, 2010.

One offer per client. Not to be combined with treatment packages.

I hope to see you there.

Best of health,

JoAnn

HST - July 1, 2010

As you may know the HST will be implemented on all Goods and Services in Ontario. Acupuncture and Shiatsu treatments are included. Beginning July 1, 2010, HST (13%) will be added onto my current fees. My fees will remain the same until further notice.

I strive to provide the best care possible. I am continuing my training to improve my knowledge and skills. Recently, I have added Tunia and Electro-Acupuncture to my repertoire. In the the Fall I will begin training in Eastern Nutrition. It's all very exciting.

If you have any questions, concerning the HST, please contact me.

Thank you for being loyal clients and I wish you the best in health.

Sincerely,

JoAnn Alafriz,

Acupuncture and Shiatsu Therapist

Tuina - What is it?

Tuina is an ancient massage therapy that has been used in China for over 2,000 years. This therapy improves the smooth flow of Qi through the meridian system that flows through our body. When Qi is blocked, pain is felt.

Techniques used in Tuina include: kneading, rolling, grasping and acupressure. These movements directly affect the flow of Qi. The result: decreased pain and tension. A feeling of calm and relaxation is then achieved.

As in shiatsu, loose clothing is worn and no oils are used. Tuina is a great compliment to shiatsu and acupuncture. It can be easily added to any treatment.

Tuina can treat: frozen shoulder, headaches, constipation, pain of the neck and low back, arthritis and insomnia.

Call to book your appointment or if you have any questions.

Hydrosols

I have now introduced Lavender and Rose Hydrosols into my Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments. Hydrosols are so lovely and refreshing.They are made from the direct steam distillation of whole plant materials. Different than essential oils, they can be used directly on the skin.

Lavender hydrosols gently tones oily, dry and mature skin. Lavender has always been recommended for fragile or damaged skin. It is very gentle and balancing for all skin types. It helps to soothe sunburns and other skin irritations. Use it to reduce anxiety and stress. 

Rosewater stimulates the skin and improves the circulation of blood. It also controls and balances sebum production, making it useful for both dry and oily skin. Its antibacterial properties help fight acne giving troubled skin a gentle, rather than a strong treatment. It is also an excellent balancer of the spirit.

In my Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments, hydrosols are applied after the removal of the fine needles and prior to the application of a balancing serum and facial massage. A relaxing way to end the treatment.

I am currently offering 10 Cosmetic Acupuncture treatments for $75.00 each. They are regularly $100 a treatment. Purchase a package before July 1, 2010 and avoid the HST. Offer expires: December 31, 2010

Treatment for Menstrual Cramps

Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful periods that many women suffer from. It can be described as pain or cramping that arises before, during or after menstruation. Pain can be felt in the abdomen or lower back. Some women will also experience nausea, vomiting and/or headaches. Acupuncture has been effective in the treatment of painful menstrual periods.

Scientifically speaking, the symptoms are caused by prostaglandin, a hormone produced by cells in the uterine lining. Prostaglandin levels increases during the second half of the menstrual cycle. When a woman’s period begins, the cells in the uterine lining release prostaglandin. Women who suffer from dysmenorrhea have considerably higher prostaglandin levels than those who do not suffer from dysmenorrhea.

When treating dysmenorrhea with Acupuncture there are several factors to consider to reach an accurate diagnosis. The diagnosis helps the Acupuncturist determine the method of treatment and points used. Each case is different depending on the presentation. You will be ask about:

Emotions -Do you feel: depression, anger or sadness

Type of Pain – Is it stabbing, dull, aches? Does it feel better or worse with pressure, heat, or cold?

Timing of Pain – Is it before, during or after menstruation?

Digestion – Do you bloat? Does your hunger increase? Does eating make you feel nauseous? Do you have particular cravings?

Your Cycle – Are you regular? Late? Early?

Once the pertinent questions are answered, a Tongue and Pulse diagnosis is then taken. This gives the therapist a clearer understanding (in respect to Traditional Chinese Medicine) on what is imbalanced. The therapist can then begin Acupuncture treatment and suggest lifestyle changes to compliment the treatment.

Studies have shown that Acupuncture can be effective in the treatment of Dysmennorhea. http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/nem020v1

New Year

Happy New Year!

2010 brings changes. For myself, I will begin to supervise and teach at the Shiatsu School of Canada & Acupuncture Institute. It is always a pleasure to be surrounded by students and keeping myself involved with the school. Therefore, I am no longer at Lifewise Health and Wellness. However, my days and hours remain the same at The Rejuvenation Room.

I am now practicing Cosmetic Acupuncture and am impressed by the results! Fine lines are reduced and the one's complexion becomes clearer. The treatment is also incredibly relaxing. If you have an interest, please let me know and I will be happy to answer any of your questions.

There is much enjoyment in my practice, the results and my clients. 2009 was a rewarding year. For 2010 I've promised myself Happiness, Health and Peace. I wish the same for you!

Stay in touch and Happy New Year!