Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a time-honoured healing practice with roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, dating back thousands of years. It has been used for generations to restore balance, ease discomfort, and support the body’s natural ability to recover from physical and emotional stress.
At 5 Elements Health, acupuncture is offered as a gentle, personalised approach to wellness. Treatments are designed to help regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support a sense of calm and clarity. Many people find acupuncture beneficial for managing pain, hormonal imbalances, fatigue, sleep issues, and emotional wellbeing.
Acupuncture is holistic by nature—it does not simply focus on symptoms, but on the whole person. While you may seek treatment for pain relief, digestive issues, or anxiety, other areas of imbalance will often be addressed during the session. This whole-body approach supports deeper, long-term healing and helps you feel more balanced on every level.
Frances practises a gentle Japanese style of acupuncture, which is particularly well-suited to children, sensitive individuals, and those who may feel nervous about needles. This approach uses minimal stimulation and subtle techniques to encourage healing without discomfort.
Each session is tailored to your individual needs and life stage. You’ll be welcomed into a quiet, restorative space where you can unwind and let your body begin to heal at its own pace.
Acupuncture is suitable for people of all ages and can be safely combined with other therapies. Whether you are addressing a specific health concern or looking to feel more balanced and resilient, acupuncture offers a natural and holistic way forward.
FAQs – Acupuncture
What should I expect at my first visit?
Before your first appointment, you’ll be asked to complete a comprehensive health questionnaire. During your visit, Frances will review your health history and ask in-depth questions to develop an individual diagnosis. The session will begin with light palpation (gentle touch) of the lower legs, arms, abdomen (hara), and wrist pulses to assess your channel system and underlying imbalances. Please wear loose clothing to allow access to these areas.
What is included in a treatment?
Treatments are generally divided into two stages: the root and the branch.
The root treatment addresses deeper structural and energetic imbalances.
The branch treatment supports the root and relieves presenting symptoms. Techniques used may include:
• Japanese-style acupuncture (gentle and sometimes non-inserted)
• Acupressure
• Ear acupuncture
• Shonishin (Japanese children's acupuncture using non-needle tools)
• Chinese food therapy and tailored dietary guidance
Each treatment is based on what your body needs on the day, and no two sessions are exactly alike.
What does acupuncture feel like?
Acupuncture is generally very gentle. Most people feel little to no discomfort during treatment. You may feel warmth, heaviness, tingling, or a deep sense of relaxation. Many clients find the experience calming and restorative.
I’m afraid of needles—can I still have acupuncture?
Yes. Frances specialises in Japanese acupuncture, a gentle style that uses subtle stimulation and is ideal for children and those who are needle-sensitive or anxious. Many clients who feel apprehensive are surprised by how comfortable they feel during and after treatment.
Are all acupuncturists the same?
No. Acupuncturists with formal Traditional Chinese Medicine training complete thousands of hours of education and clinical practice. Other health professionals may use acupuncture with as little as a weekend course. It’s important to choose a practitioner with deep training and experience, like Frances, to ensure accurate diagnosis and safe, effective treatment.
How many treatments will I need?
This depends on the nature and duration of your condition, your overall health, and how your body responds.
Acute issues may improve within a few sessions.
Chronic conditions often require more time and consistency.
As a general guide:Simple conditions: 1–3 sessions
Moderate/chronic conditions: 6–8 sessions or more
Longstanding conditions: One month of treatment per year of illness
Sessions are typically weekly; in acute cases, they may be more frequent initially. Results are cumulative, and your lifestyle, diet, and willingness to engage in the healing process will all support faster outcomes.
Will acupuncture interfere with other therapies or medications?
No. Acupuncture complements most other therapies and may enhance their effects. It does not interfere with medications, herbs, or supplements, as nothing is ingested. Over time, as symptoms improve, you may be able to reduce other treatments—but always consult your doctor before making changes to prescribed medications.
Can acupuncture help with emotional or stress-related issues?
Yes. Acupuncture is widely used to support emotional wellbeing, reduce anxiety, ease overwhelm, and regulate mood. It works by calming the nervous system and addressing deeper imbalances that contribute to emotional symptoms.