I tried acupuncture for the first time about two years ago and I have been hooked ever since! It helps me relax, feel balanced and glow from the inside out. Jennifer Canfield, LAc, Dipl OM acupuncturist and herbalist, changed my life and I am so excited that she will be chatting with us about all things acupuncture and wellness today on the Honor Blog. Enjoy! Xx, Ursula

What benefits can be expected from acupuncture?

There is such a wide range of benefits experienced through acupuncture. Most of my patients report a deep sense of relaxation immediately following their treatment and better sleep. Long term benefits may include anxiety resolution, stress reduction, deep and restful sleep, improved mood, greater energy, stronger immune function/resistance to seasonal colds and flus, hormone balance – for men and women, pain relief, improved digestion, decreased inflammation in the body, increased vitality, and so much more. Patients often report long term relief from conditions they thought not treatable, including the diagnoses of advanced maternal age, infertility, mood disorders, and/or chronic health conditions. Acupuncture works on the cellular level to bring balance to the body and restore homeostasis. The example of treating the root of a tree is often utilized, finding and treating the cause of a condition versus the symptoms.

What benefits can be expected from acupuncture?

Everyone! In my practice I see women, men, and children of all ages. At its most basic level, acupuncture can treat everyday stress and anxieties and keep the body strong to prevent illness. On a deeper level, acupuncture and Chinese Medicine have been treating internal medicine conditions for thousands of years.

Who is a good candidate?

There is such a wide range of benefits experienced through acupuncture. Most of my patients report a deep sense of relaxation immediately following their treatment and better sleep. Long term benefits may include anxiety resolution, stress reduction, deep and restful sleep, improved mood, greater energy, stronger immune function/resistance to seasonal colds and flus, hormone balance – for men and women, pain relief, improved digestion, decreased inflammation in the body, increased vitality, and so much more. Patients often report long term relief from conditions they thought not treatable, including the diagnoses of advanced maternal age, infertility, mood disorders, and/or chronic health conditions. Acupuncture works on the cellular level to bring balance to the body and restore homeostasis. The example of treating the root of a tree is often utilized, finding and treating the cause of a condition versus the symptoms.

What type of acupuncture do you specialize in?

I specialize in family wellness, including a large client base seeking support with fertility, hormone balance - from teens to menopausal, and anti-aging. I also work with more challenging cases that have been unresolved otherwise, including infertility, autoimmune disorders, and overcoming anxiety, trauma, and PTSD.

How can acupuncture improve the appearance of the skin?

There are many ways acupuncture can improve the appearance of the skin. From an internal medicine perspective, acupuncture (and herbs if indicated) can restore moisture or what is known as “yin” in Chinese Medicine to the body. This can result in skin with greater elasticity and the dewy “glow” we think of as a healthy complexion. Acupuncture can also decrease systemic inflammation in the system, which can treat conditions such as rosacea, acne, and broken capillaries. In my practice I work often with hormone balancing, which can greatly benefit the skin as well. By restoring balance to the hormones, conditions such as melasma and cystic acne can be addressed and treated. Cosmetically, and on a superficial level, tiny acupuncture needles can be used to lift and restore a youthful look to the entire face. Many patients inquire about treating expression lines, wrinkles, and even cellulite during their acupuncture session, and find good results from multiple sessions close together.

Are there supplements that you recommend for healthy beautiful skin?

Absolutely! In my practice I custom make herbal formulas from high quality Chinese herbs for all types of conditions. I also make sure patients stay hydrated and get enough water. Quite simply, hydration is key for healthy skin! As well, I recommend a good quality Omega-3 supplement, probiotics for healthy intestinal flora, and sufficient levels of Vitamins A, B-Complex, C, E, and D, as well as antioxidants and minerals. Ideally these vitamins and minerals can be attained through a healthy diet, but if not, I will recommend to supplement.

To learn more about Jennifer and the Lotus practice in Santa Monica, please click here.