We offer private, couples and group services in Penticton and Keremeos, and by invitation throughout BC.

Sliding scale rates and low income subsidies available to those who genuinely need it, please enquire

ACUPUNCTURE AND OTHER THERAPIES WITH LAUREL IN KEREMEOS, PENTICTON, MOBILE OR VIRTUAL:

Book online here! Or call / text (250) 499-1905 or email oksacupuncture@gmail.com for more info.

If acupuncture is currently booking too far ahead for your needs, consider a virtual appointment! Video call with an acupuncturist who can guide you through some easy techniques you can do at home. Great option for relief of pain or stress and anxiety. Contact us for more info.

CUPPING AND TUI NA MASSAGE WITH ALANA IN KEREMEOS:

Book online here! Or email alana.leask@gmail.com for more info.

MOBILE SERVICES:

In the South Okanagan / Similkameen for people with accessibility needs (some conditions apply).

Around BC for organizations and communities.

Call / text (250) 499-1905 or email oksacupuncture@gmail.com to request this service.

EVENING ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENTS:

Call / text (250) 499-1905 or email oksacupuncture@gmail.com to request this service.

VIRTUAL CONSULTATIONS WITH GUIDED ACUPRESSURE SELF-TREATMENT:

Available BC wide.

Call / text (250) 499-1905 or email oksacupuncture@gmail.com to request this service.

TO ORDER HERBAL, WELLNESS & PERSONAL TREATMENT SUPPLIES:

Available anywhere.

Call / text (250) 499-1905 or email oksacupuncture@gmail.com to request this service.

Our clinic aims to protect the health and safety of our patients and community from any communicable disease by utilizing symptom pre-screening, masks, distancing, air purification, and frequent hand washing and sanitizing.

Thank you for choosing us as your health provider. We value your trust in us and look forward to working with you.

Acupuncture

Developed in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture consists of stimulating specific points on the body using fine, sterile (single-use) needles to support the body's own healing mechanisms. Modern studies support acupuncture as one of the safest and most effective therapeutic methods available to treat pain and many internal health concerns. Acupuncture is an umbrella category that inclu... Read More

Developed in China thousands of years ago, acupuncture consists of stimulating specific points on the body using fine, sterile (single-use) needles to support the body's own healing mechanisms. Modern studies support acupuncture as one of the safest and most effective therapeutic methods available to treat pain and many internal health concerns.

Acupuncture is an umbrella category that includes various needling styles:
- orthopedic techniques commonly associated with pain relief - sometimes called trigger point needling, dry needling or intramuscular stimulation (IMS)
- subcutaneous needling - as in Japanese / Hara styles
- micro-needling - such as auricular acupuncture, Koryo / Korean hand acupuncture, and cosmetic acupuncture or facial rejuvenation
- electroacupuncture or electro-stim
- needle free options such as magnets, ear seeds, tapping or acupressure
- and other modern and classical methods.

None of these needling styles is unilaterally better than any other, they all have their time and place where they may be more appropriate. Our acupuncturists practice all of the above needling methods.

A Registered Acupuncturist or TCM Doctor or Practitioner’s scope of practice also includes the use of cupping (also called suction or myofascial release), moxibustion (or moxa), Gua Sha (also called scraping), Tui Na Massage, Qi Gong, and TCM nutrition.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is supported by research and utilized in clinical settings around the world. It is a holistic approach to healing, that takes into consideration all factors that may affect your health, not just the presenting symptom. It is a unique tool to help understand and treat your condition when there may otherwise seem to be no answers. TCM practitioners undergo a minimum of 4 – 5 years' intensive study in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, anatomy & physiology, etiology & pathogenesis, and medical philosophy from both Eastern & Western perspectives, and are required to complete an undergraduate degree before being accepted into Chinese Medicine schools.

Conditions TCM is used for include (but is not limited to):

• Acute and chronic pain; pain from strain, injury, overuse or degenerative conditions
• Headaches & migraines
• Stress, irritability, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders
• Reproductive health
• Digestive health, food sensitivities
• Immunological & endocrine conditions
• Cardiovascular health
• Allergies and respiratory health
• Pre- and post-surgical support and healing
• Side effects of medications or other therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation
• Cosmetic acupuncture, weight management
• Addictions, relapse prevention, smoking cessation, and other lifestyle changes


Tui Na (Chinese massage and acupressure)

You’re probably familiar with common Western massage techniques like Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, prenatal massage, and sports massage. You may have also heard about Tui Na massage, a Chinese massage modality. Tui Na, or tuina, is a therapeutic form of massage and has been used in China for more than 5,000 years. Defined as “the ancient healing art of fingers and strength,” tui na (... Read More

You’re probably familiar with common Western massage techniques like Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, prenatal massage, and sports massage. You may have also heard about Tui Na massage, a Chinese massage modality.

Tui Na, or tuina, is a therapeutic form of massage and has been used in China for more than 5,000 years. Defined as “the ancient healing art of fingers and strength,” tui na (pronounced “twee nah”) has been gaining international attention for its safe and effective treatment for a wide variety of conditions. Tui na massage therapy is used for giving special treatments to people of all ages, from infancy to old age.
Practitioners may use their finger, hand, elbow, knee or foot to apply pressure to a specific body location. This complementary and alternative Chinese medicine modality makes use of rhythmic compression techniques along different energy channels of the body to establish harmonious flow of qi throughout the body and bringing it back to balance. By applying pressure to meridians, acupoints, and groups of muscles and nerves, tui na removes blockages and works deeply with the positive energy of the body.

Technique
Tui na makes use of various hand techniques in combination with acupuncture and other manipulation techniques. Many of the techniques used in this massage resemble that of a western massage like gliding, kneading, rubbing, vibration, tapping, friction, pulling, rolling, pressing and shaking. In tui na massage, the muscles and tendons are massaged with the help of hands, and an acupressure technique is applied to directly affect the flow of qi at different acupressure points of the body, thus facilitating the healing process. It removes the blockages and keeps the energy moving through the meridians as well as the muscles.

Benefits of Tui Na
A typical session of tui na massage may vary from thirty minutes to an hour. The session timings may vary depending on the patient’s needs and condition. Clients can unrobe to their comfort level or remain clothed, wearing loose clothing. tui na methods can include soft tissue massage, manipulation, acupressure in conjunction with herbal compresses, ointments, liniments, and heat. The best part of the therapy is that it relaxes as well as energizes the person. The main benefit of tui na massage is that it focuses on the specific problem, whether it is an acute or a chronic pain associated with the joints, muscles or a skeletal system. This technique is very beneficial in reducing the pain of neck, shoulders, hips, back, arms, highs, legs and ankle disorders. It is a very effective therapy for arthritis, pain, sciatica and muscle spasms. Other benefits of this massage therapy include alleviation of stress related disorders like insomnia, constipation, headaches and other disorders related to digestive, respiratory and reproductive systems.

The greatest advantage of tui na is that it focuses on maintaining overall balance with both physical and mental health. Any one who wants to avoid the side effects of drugs or a chemical based treatment can adopt this effective massage technique to alleviate their pain. Tui na massage therapy is now becoming a more common therapy method due to its focus on specific problems rather than providing a general treatment.


Cupping

Cupping is a treatment method using suction, or negative pressure, to achieve therapeutic benefit. It is an ancient practice that has been adopted by many contemporary health practitioners. This resurgence is due to its effectiveness in reducing pain and treating many health concerns. The vacuum created by the cupping method causes hyperemia (an increase in blood flow) and extravasation (fluid ... Read More

Cupping is a treatment method using suction, or negative pressure, to achieve therapeutic benefit. It is an ancient practice that has been adopted by many contemporary health practitioners. This resurgence is due to its effectiveness in reducing pain and treating many health concerns. The vacuum created by the cupping method causes hyperemia (an increase in blood flow) and extravasation (fluid release from blood vessels into soft tissue) that initiates a complex and unique healing process. The body works to break down and eliminate the extravasation, a process which decreases pain, increases enzymes that reduce inflammation, forms new blood vessels, brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to the affected area, increases antibodies, stimulates immunity, regulates the nervous system, and increases the healing response.

In TCM terms, cupping unblocks stagnation and stasis, detoxifies, and regulates the free flow of qi, blood and body fluid.

Cupping can be used for local areas of pain or injury, headaches and migraines, nerve pain, respiratory illness, and immunity.


Gua Sha

Gua Sha (also called scraping) uses a smooth, flat tool, traditionally made of jade or bone, to rub the surface of the skin. This technique is used to remove stagnant blood or toxins (like lactic acid), loosen fascia, unblock tight muscles, reduce pain and inflammation, promote circulation, and stimulate immunity. It is useful for pain, strain, tension, stress, mobility issues, musculoskele... Read More

Gua Sha (also called scraping) uses a smooth, flat tool, traditionally made of jade or bone, to rub the surface of the skin. This technique is used to remove stagnant blood or toxins (like lactic acid), loosen fascia, unblock tight muscles, reduce pain and inflammation, promote circulation, and stimulate immunity.

It is useful for pain, strain, tension, stress, mobility issues, musculoskeletal injuries, headaches and migraines, overexertion, stress, respiratory illnesses and immunity.


Moxibustion

Moxibustion, or moxa, uses the burning of the plant Mugwort (Mogusa in Japanese / Ai Ye in Mandarin) to promote healing. The heat can warm the body, or release excess heat. The ash created by the burning plant has unique anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects. Mugwort itself is a medicinal plant with traditions of use around the world. It has cleansing properties and is in the same family... Read More

Moxibustion, or moxa, uses the burning of the plant Mugwort (Mogusa in Japanese / Ai Ye in Mandarin) to promote healing. The heat can warm the body, or release excess heat. The ash created by the burning plant has unique anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects.

Mugwort itself is a medicinal plant with traditions of use around the world. It has cleansing properties and is in the same family as sagebrush (used in smudging), wormwood (used to make absinthe), and artemesia annua (a highly researched medicinal plant that won the Nobel prize for medicine for its use in treating malaria).

Using moxibusiton in conjunction with acupuncture points and channels can reduce pain and inflammation, help heal from injury, treat respiratory illness and immunity, and increase vitality.

Additionally, studies have shown that burning medicinal plants can help remove airborne germs and toxins.

Moxibustion can be applied on it’s own or in conjunction with acupuncture. “Direct moxa” is pressed into cones or rice grain sized threads to burn directly on the skin. Moxa can be placed inside a wooden box or on top of a sliver of ginger or base of salt, and then placed on the body, for an insulated slow burn that provides warming and tonification. “Indirect moxa” is held over the body in stick form, or burned on the end of an acupuncture needle.

Each technique has its own specific benefits and applications, but the immediate effect is deeply relaxing and comforting.


Herbs and Nutrition

Traditional Chinese Medicine provides a unique and highly effective set of tools with which to understand and treat our health. This can be especially useful when conventional tests, diagnostics and treatments do not seem to help. Let this rich tradition help you regain your quality of life in a way that is completely safe, and easy to apply to your currrent life and lifestyle. I believe in sta... Read More

Traditional Chinese Medicine provides a unique and highly effective set of tools with which to understand and treat our health. This can be especially useful when conventional tests, diagnostics and treatments do not seem to help. Let this rich tradition help you regain your quality of life in a way that is completely safe, and easy to apply to your currrent life and lifestyle. I believe in starting simply: what do you already use and enjoy that has therapeutic benefit? What foods and herbs do you have access to... what is already in your kitchen, what grows easily where you live, and what is readily available and affordable? This is where we start!

In some cases, plant based medicine from the Materia Medica may be appropriate. Our clinic has a fully stocked Western herbal apothecary, and many of our remedies are made onsite: from dried herbs and tea blends, to herbal concentrates such as tinctures, glycerites, medicinal vinegars and honeys, to topical salves and liniments. We also carry essential oils and flower essences, including the complete Bach Flower Remedies, and dozens more. Most of our remedies are custom made to order, tailored specifically for your needs. Herbal plans can be adapted to any budget, we accommodate specific diets, allergies, sensitivities, and safety needs.


Ear beads

A needle-free application using ear reflex points that support the internal organs, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. The vagus nerve passes through the ear and can be accessed with these points. This cranial nerve, also referred to as the gut-brain axis, connects our brain to our respiratory and digestive systems, and other parts of the body. Stimulating the vagus nerve activates our ... Read More

A needle-free application using ear reflex points that support the internal organs, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.

The vagus nerve passes through the ear and can be accessed with these points. This cranial nerve, also referred to as the gut-brain axis, connects our brain to our respiratory and digestive systems, and other parts of the body. Stimulating the vagus nerve activates our parasympathetic, or "rest and digest" nervous system mode. It can illicit healing and proper function of these important bodily systems, promote overall wellness, and support recovery from stress and trauma.

The ear contains dozens of other acupuncture reflex points, that correspond to various bodily systems and functions. These points can be understood through embryology, and the process in which we developed from a single cell to a multi faceted being. The genetic information of our entire bodies is contained in each cell, and in each microsystem of the body, including our ears, scalp, abdomen, and extremities.

Ear beads are a tiny pellet the size of a small seed that is placed over specific acupuncture points in the ear with adhesive cloth tape. They can be worn for a few days to a week if desired. Ear seeds can also be applied after your acupuncture to prolong the effects of your treatment.


Virtual Consultation

Phone or online consultation with a Traditional Chinese Medicine Registered Acupuncturist. Your practitioner will listen to your concerns, ask about your symptoms and health history and offer recommendations based on Chinese Medical knowledge. These may include dietary recommendations or a food plan, Western herbal medicine, self treatment techniques - such as ear seeds, cupping, gua sha - und... Read More

Phone or online consultation with a Traditional Chinese Medicine Registered Acupuncturist. Your practitioner will listen to your concerns, ask about your symptoms and health history and offer recommendations based on Chinese Medical knowledge. These may include dietary recommendations or a food plan, Western herbal medicine, self treatment techniques - such as ear seeds, cupping, gua sha - under the direction and supervision of your practitioner, tailored cultivation exercises such as qi gong, or other lifestyle guidance to assist you with your specific concerns.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is supported by research and utilized in clinical settings around the world. It is a holistic approach to healing, that takes into consideration all factors that may affect your health, not just the presenting symptom. It is a unique tool to help understand and treat your condition when there may otherwise seem to be no answers. TCM practitioners undergo a minimum of 4 – 5 years' intensive study in acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, anatomy & physiology, etiology & pathogenesis, and medical philosophy from both Eastern & Western perspectives, and are required to complete an undergraduate degree before being accepted into Chinese Medicine schools.

Conditions TCM is used for include (but is not limited to):

• Acute and chronic pain; pain from strain, injury, overuse or degenerative conditions
• Headaches & migraines
• Stress, irritability, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders
• Reproductive health
• Digestive health, food sensitivities
• Immunological & endocrine conditions
• Cardiovascular health
• Allergies and respiratory health
• Pre- and post-surgical support and healing
• Side effects of medications or other therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation
• Cosmetic acupuncture, weight management
• Addictions, relapse prevention, smoking cessation, and other lifestyle changes


Facial Rejuvenation

Facial acupuncture, cupping and gua sha have been shown to help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, scars, patchiness, discolouration, and improve tone and complexion. As well as address sleep, vitality, digestion, circulation and immune function for health and radiance from within.

Botanical remedies for internal or topical use may be available at additional cost.


Treatment Supplies

Contact us to arrange pick up or delivery of herbal products, and treatment supplies including silicon Fascia Buddy facial and body cupping sets, gua sha tools, ear beads and seeds, magnets, and more.

Laurel is a BC Registered Acupuncturist, and certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist and Balance System Acupuncture Practitioner. She successfully completed the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Doctorate Diploma Program in 2004. Her post graduate training includes Chinese medical philosophy and metaphysics, Japanese acupuncture and moxibustion, Balance Method (developed / popularized by Dr. Richard Tan), Master Tung style, auricular acupuncture, Koryo Hand Therapy, and NADA acupuncture for addictions.

Laurel is also a clinical herbalist who draws from her education and ancestral traditions in Eastern and Western herbal medicine. She completed the intermediate program at the Wild Seed School of Herbal Studies. She is an avid wildcrafter and medicine maker with a dedicated apothecary. She works with traditional formulas, custom blends, and her own line of over the counter botanicals.

Over the past two decades, Laurel has created dozens of acupuncture outreach programs in the Lower Mainland, including Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, and around the Southern Interior. She has worked with hospitals, public health clinics, First Nations communities, and many non profit organizations.

Laurel continues to work in diverse settings and with a diversity of needs, including injury and pain, stress, trauma, emotional and sleep disturbances, smoking cessation, addictions and lifestyle changes, cosmetics such as scar treatments and facial rejuvenation, and internal medicine - including digestive, respiratory, hormonal and reproductive health. She is especially interested in immunology and autoimmune conditions.

She enjoys finding the underlying patterns within complex and stubborn conditions, and loves the look a first-timer gives after experiencing quick relief.

Laurel has a background in front line support and outreach work and community organizing. She strives to bring curiosity, cultural humility, and trauma informed care to her work, and advocates for accessible, intersectional, strength based, and community led health care.

Laurel loves plants, traveling, learning, and time with her family. After many years in Vancouver and around BC, she is happy to be back in the Okanagan, her first home.

Laurel is owner, acupuncturist, herbalist and educator at Okanagan-Similkameen Community Acupuncture in Keremeos and Penticton BC, on the traditional unceded territories of the syilx and smelqmix people. She serves the South Okanagan and Similkameen Valley, and is available by invitation throughout BC.

Laurel is a BC Registered Acupuncturist, and certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist and ... Read More

Alana is a recent graduate from the Acupuncture Diploma program at the globally recognized and award-winning institution, Pacific Rim College in Victoria, British Columbia. Currently practicing on the traditional unceded territories of the Sylix, and Smalqmix nations. In Alana’s practice she shows special interest in pain management, digestive health, gynaecology issues, mental-emotional disorders, stress, and addictions.

She aims to collaborate with you to achieve your health goals. Your body holds the innate wisdom to heal itself, but we could all use a helping hand from time to time.

Alana is a recent graduate from the Acupuncture Diploma program at the globally recognized and aw... Read More

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