The Bow Acupuncture & Community Wellness - Blog for The Bow Acupuncture & Massage

Big News! We Are Moving to a New Location Summer 2021 (Target date August 1st)

6/10/2021

Be Well Healing Arts and The Bow Acupuncture Present: The Wellness Hub

We've Been Hinting for Awhile That Something Big Was Coming...
It's Official, We Are Moving!

The Bow Acupuncture is teaming up with Be Well Healing Arts to bring you The Wellness Hub. A space all about wellness, healing, renewal and community. The Bow Acupuncture will now be housed in The Wellness Hub...We remain committed to the Jacksonville community and we will continue to offer affordable community acupuncture at the same sliding scale rate of $20-$50 (just at a new location).

In addition to community acupuncture, The Wellness Hub will offer private room acupuncture (one-on-one), massage therapy, organic/holistic skin care services - with more natural wellness services to come in-time.

We are so excited to announce this big move and can't wait to see you all at The Wellness Hub. Our target opening date is August 1st and we'll keep you updated on any changes. During this transition in June and July, our hours for acupuncture will fluctuate, as Ronnie attends to details at the new location. You can give us a call to check our hours and days of operation, and the online scheduler always reflects the real-time availability.

Check out The Wellness Hub Website. It's still under construction, so excuse our dust!

The Wellness Hub
Our New Home, located at 9086 Cypress Green Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32256
(near I-95 and Baymeadows)

Would You Like to Support Us as We Grow?

Thank you for your support!

Click Here to Support Us by Lending $25

To Our Loyal Patients and Clients,

We are so appreciative of your support and patronage of our small business over the past 7 years--especially over this past year--which has been a challenging one. As exciting as our move to our new location is, we will also be incurring some expenses (many a bit unexpected) as we prepare the new building to house The Bow Acupuncture & Community Wellness. As any small business owner does, we've searched out unique ways to get funding for our expansion.

We have the opportunity to get a 0% small business loan through Kiva.org to help us with this transition. Kiva is non-profit organization that makes crowdfunded loans to small businesses. With a Kiva loan to a small business, the money that is raised is paid back, so it's different than your typical "Go Fund Me." So we will use the funds to help us expand, and as we pay back the loan our supporters (you) will be repaid.

How Does this Work? We need 40 of our supporters to lend $25 by June 25th. This will allow us to move to the next stage to have the entire loan amount funded. You can lend more if you want, but all you really need to do is lend us $25. If you want to help more, you can even share with your friends and ask them to lend $25. As we pay back our loan, you will get your money back and at that point, you could even choose to re-lend and let your money keep working to help other small businesses all around the world.

We are very grateful for this opportunity and for all of our wonderful supporters. We feel confident that with this move, we will be able to continue to offer affordable acupuncture to the Jacksonville community for years to come.

Thank you so much!

Ronnie & The Bow Team

Click Here to Support Us by Lending $25

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What are the Benefits of Hot Stone Massage? - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

12/18/2020

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Every massage at The Loft at The Bow includes hot stone therapy. This article will explain the benefits of hot stones and how they are used during a massage session

How is hot stone therapy performed and what is is?

The practice of hot stone massage has been around for thousands of years. It started in the Indian healing tradition of Ayurveda and was later adopted by Chinese Medicine. Years later, Hawaiian Natives and Native Americans were using hot stones for massage and healing.

While a therapist is performing manual massage, the stones are placed in a bath of hot water. These specific stones, known as basalt stones, are used specifically because they are able to contain heat for a longer period of time. When the stones reach the perfect temperature, between 130 and 140 degrees, the therapist will use the stones in particular ways, depending on the condition being treated. Often, hot stones are used while performing traditional massage strokes, such as gliding. A therapist may also place a hot stone for a longer period of time, heated to a lower temperature, on an area that has been experiencing pain or discomfort.

What are the benefits of hot stone therapy?

Hot stones deeply enhance the relaxation of a massage. Similar to the benefits of a heating pad, hot stones warm the affected area of the body, which helps to recirculate blood and soften tight, sore muscles. Hot stones, being from the earth, naturally produce a grounding effect, which can create a feeling of centeredness and comfort. The addition of heat also makes the muscles more pliable, enabling the therapist to get deeper into the tissue to treat soreness and other conditions.

What conditions can benefit from hot stone therapy?

One of the benefits of having hot stone massage is deep relaxation. Relaxation is an effect of your parasympathetic nervous system being activated (this is the opposite of being in "fight or flight" mode). When this happens, the heart rate slows down, your body’s internal mechanism are set into motion and your muscles relax. Because hot stones enhance relaxation, they can be used to benefit almost any condition - not just physical pain, but also conditions such as anxiety, depression and insomnia.

We hope to see you soon for your hot stone massage in Jacksonville, FL! Please visit our massage page to learn more and book online.

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The Benefits of Cupping Therapy - Affordable Massage and Cupping in Jacksonville, FL

12/18/2020

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In the past few years, cupping has been gaining popularity due to some celebrities and Olympic athletes drawing attention to the benefits of this ancient Chinese practice. In addition, recent studies have shown that cupping has many positive effects on a number of conditions that affect almost all systems of the body.

This article will explain what cupping therapy is and how it can enhance your massage experience.

What is cupping therapy?

There are two types of cupping used during a massage - gliding cupping and stationary cupping. For gliding cupping, a silicone cup is suctioned to your back and moved around the muscles, including the small muscles around the spine. This process feels a bit like a vacuum, as it lifts up fascia surrounding the muscles to bring new blood into areas where it has been stagnating. Next, stationary cups, plastic cups that use suction to lift up fascia and muscles are strategically placed on the body to remove toxins, target trigger points and increase blood flow. These cups will remain on for 5-10 minutes while your therapist works on other areas of the body. Although these cups are small, they provide the same, if not more pressure than that of a deep tissue massage.

What are the benefits of cupping therapy?

1. Increase in circulation
2. Increase in joint range of motion
3. Reduction in muscle tension
4. Increase in lymphatic drainage
5. Increase in mobility of connective tissue

Some of the most common issues addressed with cupping therapy include: muscle pain and discomfort, fibromyalgia, migraines, repetitive stress injuries, pre and post-operative conditions, poor circulation, digestive issues, asthma and many more.

Are there any side effects of cupping therapy?

While there are very few side effects from cupping, you will notice that cupping will leave red or purple, which can last for up to ten days after your treatment. These marks are caused by the recirculated blood being brought to the body part. These are not bruises and will not be painful to touch. However, you may experience some soreness, similar to receiving a deep tissue massage.

For more information on cupping, check out this article from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine.

We take pride that every massage at The Loft at The Bow includes cupping at no extra charge.

Please visit this page on our website to book your massage and cupping session today!

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How Does Acupuncture Work? - Affordable Acupuncture and Massage in Jacksonville, FL

12/11/2020

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An Ancient Therapy for Modern Ailments

Acupuncture is a modality used to support the body’s natural healing process. Originating in East Asia thousands of years ago, acupuncture is now used by over one million practitioners worldwide, including Western doctors and healthcare professionals who use this safe, non-invasive practice to treat a variety of symptoms and conditions. Many prestigious health clinics and organizations recommenced acupuncture such as the World Health Organization, The Mayo Clinic, MD Anderson Cancer Center and The Cleveland Clinic.

Acupuncture Stimulates the Body's Natural Healing Mechanisms

Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners believe that inserting needles into specific points stimulates the body to heal itself by balancing the qi, or energy. This idea correlates with the Western concept of homeostasis, which is the body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment by regulating hormones, body temperature and other physiological processes. Acupuncture acts as a catalyst, encouraging the self-regulating mechanisms of the body and mind by stimulating nerves and connective tissue. This results in the release of endorphins and neurotransmitters, which relieve pain and promote feelings of well-being; and the improved circulation of metabolic components carried in the blood.

Many Conditions Benefit from Acupuncture

Current, modern research has shown that acupuncture is helpful in treating a number of conditions, including: fertility concerns, insomnia, depression, fibromyalgia, arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, digestive concerns, migraines, hypertension, asthma, pain relief in cancer patients and more. It is sometimes hard to believe that acupuncture can benefit so many conditions, but it is simply because of acupuncture's regulation over the nervous system and it's promotion of homeostasis (balance) in the body that causes all of these positive benefits for diverse conditions. It works as an alternative or complimentary treatment practice to other interventions, encouraging the body to return to a state of balance and vitality. You can read more about modern research and acupuncture from Evidence Based Acupuncture.

If you live in Jacksonville, Florida and are ready to experience the benefits of acupuncture, please book an appointment with us today!

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Beyond Just the Physical: Massage for Mental Health - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

10/15/2020

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The Mind-Body Connection
While massage is frequently associated with healing the physical body, there is a growing awareness of its beneficial role in the treatment of psychological distress and mental health disorders. A study in the International Journal of Neuroscience found that the feel-good brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine increased an average of 28% and 31%, respectively after massage. The study further concluded that massage may significantly alleviate depressive symptoms, including lethargy and anxious thoughts.

Massage for Stress Hormone Reduction and a Happier You
Stress, perhaps the greatest contributor to mental health issues today, can create a vicious and complicated cycle of issues that affect both the body and the mind. When the mind is stressed, the body will manifest symptoms such as digestive issues, headaches or immunity issues. And when the body is in pain, the mind becomes distracted by discomfort and consumed by trying to figure out a way to alleviate the pain. Massage can lower the stress of both body and mind by reducing the amount of cortisol in the body as well as addressing pain.

Clinically Proven
Research supports that massage can relieve stress in patients with chronic pain, generalized anxiety disorder and healthy adults. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), the effects of massage therapy on trait anxiety and depression is nearly the same as those found in the research studies of psychotherapy for those with the same condition. Regular massage has the potential to improve mood and reset circadian rhythms, which produces better sleep and more energy.

Why not schedule a massage and see how it can improve your mental health and stress levels?

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How to Use Massage to Heal Repetitive Strain Injuries - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

10/7/2020

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Repeat, Repeat, Repeat...Pain!
Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) are injuries that occur when the same movement is repeated over and over again. While RSIs are frequently associated with athletics, (for example, tennis elbow, golf elbow or a rotator cuff injury for a baseball pitcher) people from all walks of life often suffer from these injuries based on their jobs or frequent hobbies. Some of the most common instances of RSIs include carpal tunnel syndrome, which causes pain in the wrist and hand from excessive typing or other hand activities; and plantar fasciitis, a recurring pain in the bottom of the foot caused by extended periods of running, walking or standing. Repetitive Strain Injuries begin with pain while performing the particular activity, but as the injury progresses, pain, numbness and tingling may occur while doing unrelated activities or upon waking. Left untreated, RSIs can progress to a level in which medications, steroid injections or surgery are recommended to alleviate symptoms.

How Can Massage Help?
Massage therapy can be used as an alternative or a complementary treatment for these painful injuries. Massage therapy is a non-invasive way to increase the mobility of joints by relaxing the tendons and muscles of the affected areas. Unlike pain medications, massage comes with no side effects besides relaxation. It will get new blood flowing to the affected area, which removes toxins and promotes healing. Regular massage can increase range of motion in the affected areas, which decreases the risk of injury. This eliminates the need to compensate with other muscles, and will improve movement efficiency.

Relieving the Stress to Heal
Finally, healing occurs most rapidly when the body is relaxed. While recurring pain can be stressful to both body and mind, massage releases endorphins to ease pain and improve mood at the same time. Your massage therapist can work with you to create a session that will address your physical concerns while putting your body into a relaxed state for optimal healing and emotional well-being.

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How to Get Lower Body Relief Between Massages - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

9/30/2020

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A simple restorative yoga pose to relax the mind as well as the low back and legs...

Massage Therapists perform a variety of techniques during a session in order to relieve pain, stress and tension in your lower back and legs. But there is also a simple exercise that you can perform at home or at work that can help ease the discomfort when you’re not able to come in for a treatment.

Viparita Karani, also known as “Legs Up the Wall Pose” is a restorative yoga posture that relieves stress and tension in the lower body and simultaneously allows the mind to relax. All you need to do is find a comfortable place on the floor—grab a pillow, a towel or a blanket if you’d like-- shimmy your hips as close to the wall as possible and walk your feet up until your body is in an L-shaped position. If straightening your legs is uncomfortable, you can keep your knees bent. Another option is to lie on your bed and place your feet up on the wall or the headboard.
Stay present and focus on your breath or the sensations in your body. As you stay in the position, the muscles in your hamstrings and lower back will begin to relax, which will then help ease tension in the joints, tendons and ligaments of your legs, hips and lumbar spine. Elevating your legs in this pose is also great for circulation, draining any excess fluid from sitting or standing all day and facilitating the return of blood back to the heart.

Try Viparita Karani after a long day, intense physical activity or whenever you feel you need it. Or you can play some music, burn a candle and make it a daily ritual. Aim for keeping your legs elevated for five minutes when you first start, and work your way up to fifteen if you find it helpful. Please note this exercise is not recommended for anyone with glaucoma, hypertension or a hernia.

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Benefits of Massage for Immunity - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

9/25/2020

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In 1903, frustrated with the healthcare model in his day, Thomas Edison is quoted as saying, “The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patient in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.” Today, as we encounter new challenges in the realm of healthcare, we are fortunate to have an arsenal of tools and modalities that help to prevent illness by boosting immunity. One of these modalities is massage therapy.

Massage Stimulates Immune Cells to Strengthen Defenses
While many people use massage therapy as a way to reduce pain, alleviate injuries or muscle soreness, the benefits go far deeper than the musculo-skeletal system. Research has shown that massage not only stimulates a larger quantity of T-cells and B-cells—those cells that protect your body from invading antigens—but it can also help increase the strength and effectiveness of the cells. Studies have shown that massage increases the activity level of cytotoxic T-cells (sometimes called “killer T-cells), which fight off viruses.

Stress Reduction Key to Immunity
Massage is also shown to cause a decrease in the hormone Arginine Vasopressin (AVP), which is responsible for feelings of aggression and the release of the hormone cortisol, which provides that all- too-familiar sensation—stress. And stress, in addition to the uncomfortable emotions and thoughts it brings, increases inflammation, which can decrease the functionality of your immune system and make you more vulnerable to illness.

Finally, massage is a great way to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. Sometimes referred to as the “rest and digest” system, the parasympathetic system conserves energy, slows the heart rate, and increases intestinal and gland activity. Basically, it helps our body to relax. Which helps our mind relax. Which allows all that beautiful healing and immunity strengthening to take place.

So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your immunity, to relax and to feel great, consider scheduling a massage today!

Schedule Massage

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Benefits of Couples Massage - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, Florida

6/11/2020

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What are the Benefits of a Couples Massage? - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

What are the Benefits of Couples Massage?
Besides alleviating pain, healing injuries and lowering stress levels, massage also releases the “feel good” chemicals of oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine. These are the hormones that promote bonding and feelings of affection and intimacy. A couples massage is a great way for two people to experience these physical and mental benefits while spending quality time together. A couple may choose to use this time to chat and catch up with each other or to simply relax. Either way, this shared experience can increase individual well-being while strengthening the bond of the relationship.

What Exactly to Expect with Couples Massage
Before the session, each person will consult individually with the therapist who will be performing his or her massage. This will allow for the session to be customized for each person’s physical concerns and preferences. The couples massage will take place in one large room with two beds set up. Couples may choose the session to be one hour, ninety minutes or two hours in duration. They can also choose to include hot stones, cupping and/or aromatherapy in their treatment.

Not Just for Romantic Partners
While a couples massage is often seen as an activity for romantic partners, it can also be a great activity for friends or family members who want to try a new activity together. For those who may be intimidated by an individual massage session, having a couples massage with someone they know can provide a level of comfort and security.
So, if you’re looking for a gift idea or simply want to relax with someone you care about, why not try a couples massage?

Scheduling Your Couples Massage
We offer couples massage on most days of the week at The Wellness Hub. You can give us a call at 904-834-0740 or go online to schedule your couples massage. Please read the instructions for booking online carefully should you choose to book online. You'll need to reserve two appointments that start at the same time.

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Free De-Stress Acupuncture & Massage for Healthcare Professionals

11/23/2014

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First Tuesdays of the month now offer an oasis from stress for those working in the healthcare field. The Bow Acupuncture & Riverside Orthopedic Massage are teaming up to offer complimentary de-stress acupuncture treatments and 15 minute massages for healthcare professionals on the first Tuesday of every month. This ongoing monthly event will begin on Tuesday, January 6th. Treatments are drop-in and available on a first come, first served basis from 12:00-6:30 pm on the first Tuesday of every month.

Location: 2715 Oak St, Suite B, Jacksonville, Florida.

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Big News! We Are Moving to a New Location Summer 2021 (Target date August 1st)

We've Been Hinting for Awhile That Something Big Was Coming...
It's Official, We Are Moving!

Would You Like to Support Us as We Grow?

What are the Benefits of Hot Stone Massage? - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

The Benefits of Cupping Therapy - Affordable Massage and Cupping in Jacksonville, FL

How Does Acupuncture Work? - Affordable Acupuncture and Massage in Jacksonville, FL

Beyond Just the Physical: Massage for Mental Health - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

How to Use Massage to Heal Repetitive Strain Injuries - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

How to Get Lower Body Relief Between Massages - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

Benefits of Massage for Immunity - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

Benefits of Couples Massage - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, Florida

What are the Benefits of a Couples Massage? - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

Free De-Stress Acupuncture & Massage for Healthcare Professionals

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We've Been Hinting for Awhile That Something Big Was Coming...It's Official, We Are Moving!

Would You Like to Support Us as We Grow?

What are the Benefits of a Couples Massage? - Affordable Massage in Jacksonville, FL

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Archives

Categories

We've Been Hinting for Awhile That Something Big Was Coming...
It's Official, We Are Moving!