Acupuncture & Traditional
Chinese Medicine Modalities
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Acupuncture is the primary modality used within Traditional Chinese Medicine. It uses hair-like needles to stimulate the energy (Qi) within the body. The points are selected based on their unique function which enables balancing, healing and movement of Qi within the body. Acupuncture is known to be deeply relaxing and profound in making shifts to wellness.
Book your appointmentHere are a few examples of conditions that acupuncture can help to treat:
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General health
weight loss or gain, sleep disorders,
energy and fatigue, blood pressure
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Immune system support
common cold, flu, increased susceptibility to illness -
Respiratory illness
shortness of breath, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, sinusitis -
Digestive conditions
bloating, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
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Gynecological conditions
infertility, menstrual disorders, pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), painful menstruation, miscarriage, menopausal symptoms -
Acute pain -Â sports-related or other injuries
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Chronic pain -Â frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, low back pain, pain of any joint (jaw, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle), fibromyalgia, arthritis, sciatica, disorders of spinal discs, headaches, plantar fasciitis, muscle tension, muscle pain
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Neurological conditions neuropathy, numbness, tingling, stroke recovery,
bell’s palsy, multiple sclerosis -
Eyes and ears
dry eyes, itchy eyes, floaters in vision, tinnitus -
Emotional conditions
stress, anxiety, depression -
Addictions
smoking cessation, drugs and alcohol withdrawal, sugar cravings -
Treatment or drug side effects
helps to mitigate side effects related to chemotherapy and radiation therapy as well as other pharmaceutical drugs
Acupuncture for Facial Rejuvenation and Skin Health
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Acupuncture has been toted as the natural botox alternative offering increased circulation, hydration and rejuvenation to address a number of health concerns.
Within my practice I offer facial rejuvenation acupuncture, LED light therapy, and SkinPen Microneedling (aka collagen induction therapy).
These natural approaches boost the skin’s radiance, decrease muscle tension, enhance collagen production and support healthy aging.
Book your appointmentSupportive Modalities in Traditional Chinese Medicine
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I also provide support using the Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities of cupping, gua sha, and moxibustion. We’ll discuss these options during our initial acupuncture appointment as part of your individualized treatment plan.
Learn more about how these modalities work and the benefits they provide:

Cupping is a “suction-cup” method used to break up fascial adhesions, stubborn phlegm in the lungs, and other obstructions that can lead to pain. It helps to draw the muscle and connective tissue away from bone, creating space for increased blood flow and healing. This can provide relief from pain, illness and flu, and stubborn states of cold in the body.

Gua Sha (scraping therapy) is used to regenerate blood flow in tight and restricted areas. It breaks up superficial capillaries to jump start the body’s natural healing mechanism. It is used to treat musculoskeletal concerns.

Moxibustion is an ancient modality involving the burning of the herb mugwort over acupuncture points. By doing this, heat can deeply penetrate the body (this type of heat is similar to that produced in an infrared sauna) to soothe sore muscles and painful joints, encourage proper circulation, strengthen blood and Qi in the body, and maintain general health.
Here are some frequently asked questions:
What happens during my first appointment?
What are some examples of lifestyle, exercise and movement recommendations
Can you support me with nutrition and Chinese Food Therapy?
What about supplements and herbs?
I don't have a like minded community. Can you recommend a place to connect with women who are on their own health journeys?
How can I access your exercise and movement therapy work?
What clients are saying...
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Rachel is one of a kind. Truly knowledgeable and generous with her time and energy. The amount of follow up I received from ONE appointment was incredible.
-AF
I went to see Rachel Mark for the first time this week for acupuncture. I left feeling so well cared for and very relaxed, exactly what I was looking for. Thank you!
-ED
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I had facial rejuvenation acupuncture with Rachel and it was an amazing treatment. I will definitely book again in the new year. The clinic was beautiful and I have already recommended it to many of my friends.
-EB
The team at Glow Integrative has been an amazing resource in supporting my health and wellness journey - and the clinic is a beautiful place to visit!
I look forward to my acupuncture sessions with Rachel because of her extensive knowledge and gentle nature. I feel so supported whether I have a specific issue I'm working through or just need space to relax.
I highly recommend a visit to Glow!
-SP
Rachel is lovely and knowledgeable. She is an intentional listener and thoughtful in her responses. She helps me stay accountable and committed to my long-term goals of a healthy mind and body. Plus, I always have a great sleep after treatments!
-NL
I’ve been seeing Rachel Mark for acupuncture and her knowledge, support and commitment to wellness has made such a difference in my life. Her new clinic is elegant, friendly and inviting and all the staff that I’ve met have been so kind and welcoming. I love that there are multiple modalities to support the spectrum of women’s health and I would happily and heartily recommend the clinic to anyone looking for support on their wellness journey.
-SF
I have been a patient of Rachel’s for many years and seeing her dream come true of opening her own clinic at Glow Integrative is wonderful.
The clinic is so warm and inviting with so many modalities to support women. I strongly recommend this clinic to everyone and I look forward to trying out other practitioners in the future. Rachel’s care, understanding and skill as an acupuncturist has been life changing for me!
-VH
Glow is a warm and inviting clinic with professional and friendly reception staff. I feel welcomed and relaxed as soon as I step inside. The location is convenient and peaceful with great parking options.
I am fortunate to be under the care of Rachel Mark (acupuncture). She brings authentic compassion and expertise to each appointment. My health is supported and valued deeply by Rachel and I am amazed at the progress she has been able to make with my health and quality of life. My time with Rachel at Glow has become a non-negotiable and something I am incredibly grateful for.
-SB
Rachel's calm, reassuring and positive nature is the perfect prescription for wellness and the mind-body connection. After a realization that I needed to balance the stress of work and life in a sustainable way, Rachel started working with me to support stress reduction and mindfulness. Through acupuncture and her integrated health coaching plan, I have noticed profound changes in my energy level, my ability to sleep (allowing my body to recover) and my overall well-being. I know that it is a process and I feel stronger knowing Rachel is with me on this journey. I truly can't say enough about Rachel's support and the difference she has made, and will continue to make, in my life.
-DH
I love Rachel's needles! Rachel's acupuncture treatments have been an anchor for me during challenging times over the past five years. I've been particularly grateful for Rachel's gentle acupuncture and calming presence while navigating fears, stresses and re-occurrences of cancer. Her treatments have also assisted me with low energy due to menopausal symptoms and depleted iron stores. An appointment with Rachel not only provides healing and comfort during stressful intervals. In addition, she's encouraged and guided improvements in my exercise and wellness practices. When I've asked for advice on topics such as health supplements, yoga practices and complementary therapists, Rachel has gone beyond my expectations in providing relevant and useful information. Her knowledge of healing, balancing and moving the body - in connection with the mind and spirit - is unique! I'm thankful for Rachel's ongoing support, and I highly recommend her acupuncture treatments, along with her other health offerings.
-DR
I was apprehensive about going for acupuncture. But Rachel was the best ever. She listened and was reassuring. The treatment was so relaxing, and afterwards I felt great. I've been back several times since.
-GC
I had am amazing cupping appointment from Rachel. Rachel was thorough, informative and a wealth of knowledge.
As well, the clinic itself was beautiful and the employee at the front desk was very friendly and professional. I had such a great first experience that I immediately booked my future sessions!
-NW
I can't wait to meet you in person (or virtually)
Book your first - or next - appointment with me here
*virtual appointments available if you are outside of Victoria
Book now!