The Academy for Five Element Acupuncture offers a different take on the traditional Chinese medicine.
Unlike the more commonly known form of Chinese acupuncture, the acupuncturists at the clinic locate the Qi, which is the energy element in your body, through pulse tests and access it by pushing needles in and out of the body.
The academy, at 305 SE Second Ave., has been curing anxiety, stress and aching muscles in Florida since 1988, and about 350 students have graduated from the school.
Clinical intern and third-year student Saundra Bennett, 48, will graduate with a master’s degree in acupuncture. She said the treatments give patients an overall sense of well-being and establishes harmony in the body that promotes health, no matter the reason for the visit.
“This medicine has been alive for over 5,000 years,” Bennett said. “It wouldn’t have lasted so long if it didn’t work.”
She said the clinic “manipulates the energy in your body.” If there is a block in the energy flow, the needles remove the block and promote circulation so the flow can become balanced and maintain a better physical state.
“As a patient, you’ll feel it,” Bennett said. “It’s a different sensation for everyone, but you definitely know it’s there.”
Licensed acupuncturists, who have been in practice for at least 20 years, oversee all treatments, and there are 25 interns.
The clinic encourages students and local residents to tour the facility and receive a free 30-minute consultation. The initial fee is $45, and additional appointments are $35 each or three for $100. For more information, visit www.acupuncturist.edu.
