What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the gentle insertion of very fine needles at specific points on the body. This process stimulates movement of energy within the body, allowing natural healing to take place. Acupuncture practitioners are trained to select these points, based on over 3,000 years of experience in China.

Acupuncture helps to prevent illness by improving the overall functioning of the body's immune and organ systems. Acupuncture is helpful for:

• Treating existing illnesses and injuries
• Preventing both recurrence of illnesses and new illness
• Improving overall health
• Women's issues
• Digestive issues
• Acute & Chronic pain (including headache & migraines)
• Allergies & asthma
• Pre & Post-natal care (including morning sickness, breech baby, & labor induction)
• Stress, anxiety, depression

History: Acupuncture originated in China over 3,000 years ago. It is part of the holistic system of healing known as Traditional Chinese Medicine.

About Gina

Gina Tarara is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, governed by the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice. She is a diplomate of Oriental Medicine, certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), receiving her Master's in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Northwestern Health Sciences University, where she graduated summa cum laude. Gina is also a massage therapist, having graduated from Northwestern Health Sciences University and certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and
Bodywork (NCBTMB).

"My journey began with a bachelor's degree in law from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. After graduating, I traveled
South America for a year and found myself working in a medical post in Peru, where I fell in love with western medicine.
Chinese medicine came into my life soon after when I went in search of a solution to the migraines I'd been having since I was eight years old. Western medicine had failed to find a cause or a solution, and for 20 years, I struggled with terrible pain. A combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbs, however, cured my headaches in a remarkably short period of time, and I've
been nearly pain free ever since. Of course I still believe that western medicine is crucial and is amazing in what
it can treat. Traditional Chinese medicine looks at the body in such a different way, however, and treats the
body in such a different way. And that fresh take, albeit 3,000 years older, can yield amazing results."

"Now that I am a practitioner of Chinese medicine, as well as a massage therapist, I incorporate both eastern and western therapies and philosophies to find solutions to emotional and physical imbalances in the body. Given my educational and athletic background, I am especially passionate about giving those with musculoskeletal pain, not only a decrease in pain levels, but their lives back, no matter what the age. I believe that everyone's body has the ability to heal itself, and that I am here as a guide, support and partner in finding that balance. I look forward to working with you."