Frequently Asked Questions
Email: info@alexacupuncture.eu
Whatsapp: +34 696 821 886
Acupuncture is a natural therapy that has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is now used extensively in holistic care worldwide. It involves gently inserting very fine needles at specific points on the body to stimulate the cells to encourage circulation, support natural balance, and the body’s natural healing processes.
TCM theory teaches that the smooth flow of energy (TCM calls it Qi) throughout the body is fundamental to our natural wellness. When Qi becomes blocked, we become more susceptible to illness and stress. A build up of stress over time may disrupt the smooth flow of Qi within the body, contributing to both physical and emotional issues.
Acupuncture provides a natural way to regulate the body and restore balance. It seeks to address both the symptoms and the cause. Many people come for help with anxiety issues and feelings of being emotionally overwhelmed. Others come for relief from pain, tension and discomfort related to stress or injury.
Acupuncture has also been shown to improve blood flow and circulation, reduce inflammation, support the immune system and trigger the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals.
Many people are pleasantly surprised by how gentle acupuncture feels.
We use extremely fine, sterile single-use needles, similar to the size of a strand of your hair which are gently inserted into specific acupuncture points on the body.
After insertion, sensations vary depending on where the needles are placed. Sensations also vary from person to person. You may experience any of the following: a slight tingling or dull ache, warmth or heaviness, a gentle spreading sensation and deep relaxation.
Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. I am a licensed acupuncturist with a University BSC Hons degree in the subject.
Sterile, single-use needles minimise infection risk.
Side effects are unusual and normally mild for example: slight bruising
Your first session will be longer than any follow ups as I need to fully understand your medical situation before we begin.
Please allow 90 minutes for initial consultations and 45 minutes for follow ups.
If you have a specific muscular skeletal issue, we may be able to tackle it directly in a 45 minute session. Please explain your needs when you book.
This depends on your individual circumstances and goals.
Acute issues can often be successfully dealt with in 1–4 sessions
Chronic matters often require a course of treatment, typically 5–10 sessions
You may choose to continue your treatment for maintenance and preventative care
After your first appointment, I will recommend a treatment plan tailored to you.
You will be able to see progressive improvement in tone, elasticity and skin quality from the beginning. However, results are gradual and cumulative.
Depending on the condition of your skin and muscle tone at the beginning of the treatment, between 6 – 10 sessions will be recommended to achieve optimal results.
Yes. I have been asked about this several times and I recommend the following list of Acupuncture Treatments which can be made available at your location in Nerja to help you recover your Natural Health Balance you get the most out of your Retreat.
Relaxation and Wellbeing Treatment
A 60 minute rebalancing and grounding treatment designed to improve both sleep quality and energy levels, 50e€
Facial Skin Rejuvenation
A 60 minute treatment designed to encourage blood circulation to the face – ideally you would do this twice if you have the time on your trip, 65€
Specific Muscular Skeletal Issues
A 45 minute treatment to address pain or inflammation, 45€
Auricular (Ear) Acupuncture
A 30 minute treatment using ear acupuncture to help calm the nervous system, reduce cravings, and support a sense of grounding, a valuable addition to reset periods, 40€
Cupping, also available as an add on to acupuncture
A 30 minute traditional therapy that uses small glass cups placed on the skin to create a gentle suction. This has a lifting effect which encourages circulation, helps release muscular tension, and creates a deep sense of relaxation, 35€
Eat a snack or a light meal beforehand (don’t arrive with an empty stomach)
Drink plenty of water
Wear comfortable, loose clothing
Avoid alcohol
Avoid coffee for at least 2 hours beforehand
Depending on the treatment given, you might feel calm and relaxed or bursting with energy.
You might have some mild soreness as your body responds to the treatment.
Avoid exercising straight after your treatment session.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Avoid alcohol and greasy foods.
Please make a note of any significant changes you notice so that we can talk about them at your next session.
To optimize treatment results, it’s best to wait for a few hours before taking a hot shower, bath, sauna, or exposing the areas which have been treated to cold or drafts. Wear a warm scarf in winter months – even on The Costa!
No. Acupuncture is commonly used to relieve discomfort during pregnancy.
However, please tell me if you are pregnant so I can adjust your treatment appropriately.
Generally, yes.
But, please tell me if you have recently had any medical procedures, Botox or dermal fillers so I can plan your treatment accordingly.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
TCM is the most widely taught and standardised system of acupuncture today. It was developed in China and formalised in the 20th century and is based on patterns such as Qi deficiency (lack of Energy), Blood stagnation (poor circulation), Damp, Heat, etc.(concepts which are much harder to describe in Western language), using pulse and tongue diagnosis. Treatment focuses on restoring balance within the organ systems and improving the flow of Qi through the meridians.
Five Element Acupuncture
Five Element acupuncture is rooted in the classical theory of the Five Elements which are: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Each element represents a type of energy and a pattern in nature:
Wood – growth, vision, direction
Fire – warmth, joy, connection
Earth – nourishment, stability
Metal – structure, boundaries, letting go
Water – depth, resilience, willpower
Each element is linked to specific organs (e.g. Liver = Wood, Heart = Fire), emotions (e.g. anger, joy, worry, grief, fear), seasons, colours, sounds, and even personality traits.
Five Element acupuncture is based on the belief that illness arises when one element (or its related organ system) becomes imbalanced or out of harmony with the others. Treatment focuses on identifying a person’s “constitutional element” — the element that is most out of balance at a deep level — and restoring harmony across the system.
Master Tung Acupuncture
Master Tung’s system is a distinct lineage passed down within a family tradition and popularised by Tung Ching-Chang. It uses a unique set of points (many not found in standard TCM charts) and is known for:
Using fewer needles
Distal needling (treating one area from another, e.g. hand points for back pain)
Fast results
It’s often more symptom-focused and highly practical, while still grounded in classical principles.
I use a combination of these established acupuncture systems and by integrating these approaches, I aim to support your overall wellbeing in a personalised and holistic way.