Blog

Traditional moxibustion terms can sound poetic. Christine helps translate them into a plain description of what will happen, what to report and how progress is reviewed.

Read a little about moxibustion and you soon meet phrases such as warming the channels, nourishing qi or moving stagnation. They come from a long traditional framework and can be fascinating. They can also leave you unsure what will actually happen on the treatment table.

Two languages in one room

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, uses moxibustion at the Lane Cove clinic and is comfortable speaking both languages. She may describe her reasoning in traditional Chinese medicine terms, because that is the theory behind the method. She will also put it into everyday words: where the warmth will be applied, how long it lasts and what you might feel.

Traditional concepts explain how practitioners have thought about moxibustion over centuries. They are presented here as traditional theory, not as proof of a particular result for you.

Questions that bring the plan into focus

• Exactly how and where will the moxa be applied?
• Which sensations should I mention straight away?
• When will we stop and look at how things are going?
• What other options are available if this does not suit me?

Asking these questions is not a sign of scepticism about the tradition. It simply helps you make an informed choice about your own care.

Comfort comes first

Before any heat is used, agree with Christine on how you will signal that something feels too warm. Mention reduced feeling in your skin, any skin conditions, and sensitivity to smoke or breathing difficulties such as asthma. Ask what aftercare is expected once you leave.

Instructions should be specific to you. A routine found online, or a friend's experience, cannot tell you what is suitable for your circumstances.

Where tradition meets your own goals

For Christine, the most helpful explanation is one that leaves you knowing what is proposed and why. If a traditional term in your Lane Cove session is unclear, interrupt and ask; she would much rather pause and explain than have you nodding along unsure.