Common questions

It’s natural to want to understand how everything works before booking a treatment. Whether you’re curious about acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, or simply what to expect during your first visit, here are some of the most common questions I’m asked at my Caversham clinic. I hope they help you feel more at ease and confident about getting started, and if there’s something you’d like to know that isn’t covered here, please do get in touch.

Acupuncture

  • Acupuncture can support a wide range of conditions including stress, anxiety, headaches, insomnia, digestive issues, and musculoskeletal pain. Many of my patients in Reading, Caversham, and Henley-on-Thames also use acupuncture for improved energy, better sleep, and overall wellbeing.

  • Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points along the body’s meridians — pathways that help regulate the flow of Qi (energy) and blood. This gentle stimulation encourages balance within the nervous system, supports circulation, and promotes the release of natural endorphins, helping the body heal itself. From a modern perspective, acupuncture helps reduce inflammation, ease muscle tension and calm the mind, creating harmony throughout the whole system.

  • It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious before your first session, especially if you’ve never tried acupuncture before. The needles are extremely fine, much thinner than those used for injections , and most people are surprised by how little they feel. I’ll always explain what I’m doing and check that you’re comfortable before each point is placed. Many first-time clients find that once the treatment begins, any nerves quickly give way to a sense of deep relaxation.

  • Most people find acupuncture surprisingly relaxing. The needles are very fine, and while you may feel a slight sensation on insertion, treatments are generally comfortable and calming.

  • Most people benefit from a short course of 4–6 sessions to see lasting improvements. Some clients notice positive changes after just 1–2 sessions, while others with long-standing conditions may need a longer plan. At your first appointment, I’ll design a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

  • Yes. When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is very safe. I hold a BSc degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Five Element Acupuncture from the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, and I’m a member of both the British Acupuncture Federation and the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians. All treatments are carried out with sterile, single-use needles and follow strict hygiene protocols to ensure your comfort and safety at every stage.

  • Ear seeds are small seeds or beads placed on specific points in the ear to stimulate acupressure and restore balance in the body. Auricular acupuncture uses fine needles in the ear and is especially effective for stress, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing.

Yoga

  • Absolutely! My yoga classes in Caversham, Reading, and Henley-on-Thames are open to all levels. I provide clear guidance and modifications so everyone feels welcome and comfortable, whether you’re brand new or have been practicing for years.

  • I specialise in Hatha Yoga for strength and balance, and Yin Yoga for deep relaxation and flexibility. These two styles complement each other beautifully, helping students feel both grounded and restored.

  • Not at all. Yoga is about meeting yourself where you are. Flexibility develops over time with regular practice, you just need an open mind and a willingness to move.

  • Bring a yoga mat, a bottle of water, and comfortable clothing you can move in and a blanket for the cozy relaxation at the end!

  • Yes! Yoga combines mindful movement, breathwork, and relaxation techniques that calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and support mental wellbeing.

General

  • Yes. I offer online acupuncture consultations, virtual yoga classes, acupressure therapy, meditation, and wellbeing coaching, so you can access support from home.

  • I’m based in Caversham, Reading, and Henley-on-Thames, and also offer mobile, corporate, and online wellbeing services across the UK.


  • Yes. I provide corporate acupuncture, ear seed sessions, workplace yoga, and wellbeing workshops. These sessions help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost staff morale.