Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your first visit. Still have questions? Get in touch.
Everything you need to know before your first visit. Still have questions? Get in touch.
TCM is a holistic medical system dating back thousands of years. It views the body as an interconnected system of energy (Qi) that flows through meridians. When Qi is blocked or imbalanced, illness occurs. TCM uses acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, and dietary therapy to restore harmony.
No referral is needed. You can book directly with us. Many patients self-refer for conditions like chronic pain, stress, anxiety, digestive issues, and fertility support.
Yes. Ingrid is fully registered with the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians and holds full professional indemnity insurance. Her core training was at the School of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Lisbon, in partnership with Nanjing University.
Your first session begins with a thorough consultation (60-75 minutes). We'll discuss your health history, lifestyle, diet, sleep, and emotional wellbeing. Ingrid may also examine your tongue and take your pulse — both key diagnostic tools in TCM. This allows us to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your unique constitution.
Acupuncture uses ultra-fine, sterile needles that are much thinner than injection needles. Most patients feel little to no discomfort on insertion. You may feel a mild dull ache, warmth, or tingling as the Qi activates — this is a positive sign that the treatment is working.
This depends on your condition and how long it has been present. Acute issues may resolve in 3-6 sessions, while chronic conditions often benefit from a course of 8-12 sessions. We'll discuss a recommended treatment plan after your initial consultation.
Yes, acupuncture is widely used to support fertility and pregnancy. It can help with morning sickness, back pain, breech presentation, and labour preparation. Please let us know if you are or may be pregnant so we can tailor the treatment accordingly.
Cupping uses suction cups to draw blood to the surface, promoting circulation and releasing deep muscle tension. The circular marks are expected and they will disappear within 5-7 days.
Absolutely. Acupuncture complements conventional medicine very well. Many of our patients receive both approaches. Please bring a list of any medications or supplements you are taking so we can ensure there are no interactions, particularly with herbal remedies.
Side effects are rare. Some patients feel deeply relaxed or slightly drowsy after treatment — this is a normal healing response. Occasionally there may be minor bruising at needle sites. Serious adverse events are extremely uncommon when treated by a qualified practitioner.
Our retreats are designed for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves, or anyone that feels they need to pause and rest with intention. No previous experience with acupuncture or yoga is required — just an openness to healing and self-discovery.
Accommodation, all meals, daily movement classes, varieties and treatments such as massage and acupuncture, sound healing, postural analysis and correction, and pool access. Flights and airport transfers are not included but an airport shuttle can be arranged on request.
Absolutely. Most of our guests arrive solo. The small group setting (up to 12 guests) makes it easy to connect with others while also having plenty of space for personal reflection and rest. It is on shared accommodation based, 2 people per room and if you wish to have your own room there would be an extra charge.
A deposit of £350 secures your spot (£700 for two retreats). Payment plans are available — pay in 3 or 4 interest-free instalments. Deposits are non-refundable and you can cancel up to 3 months before the retreat and get your remaining balance refunded. After 3 months there would not be refunds taking place. Please see our booking page for full terms.