Moxibustion

What is Moxa?

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In my practice, I often use a traditional therapy called moxa, short for moxibustion. It involves the burning of a dried herb—Chinese mugwort—to gently warm and nourish the body.

Moxa has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to support circulation, dispel cold, and strengthen the body's qi. I might apply it on its own or alongside acupuncture, depending on what your body is calling for.

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There are a few ways I work with moxa:

• Sometimes I hold a warm moxa stick just above the skin, allowing its heat to gently penetrate an acupuncture point or a cold area of the body.

• Other times, I’ll place a little moxa on top of a needle or use a warming box to bring gentle heat to a larger space, like the belly or low back.

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I often turn to moxa when I sense cold, stagnation, or depletion in the system—things like menstrual pain, fatigue, slow digestion, or cold limbs. It’s also a beautiful way to support immunity and vitality, especially during seasonal transitions.

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The sensation is deeply comforting—a slow, steady warmth that travels inward. Most people find it very relaxing, like the body is remembering how to soften.

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For me, moxa isn’t just about heat—it’s about inviting warmth back into places that have gone quiet. It’s a deeply nourishing part of the healing process.