R&Y Acupuncture

06/08/2026

This is a great news!

A significant milestone for the acupuncture profession.

The AAC is proud to confirm that, following more than six years of dedicated work, we have accomplished the removal of the long-standing blood donation deferral following acupuncture for patients treated by practitioners registered with recognised professional acupuncture organisations, with invaluable support from Tony Dickinson of BAWMA/ARA throughout this process.

This is a significant achievement for the profession, and we believe it is important to clarify the AAC’s role in delivering this outcome.

For more than six years, the AAC has initiated, led and sustained this work. We have engaged directly with NHS Blood and Transplant, JPAC, SaBTO, the Department of Health and Social Care, the MHRA and the devolved health administrations to challenge an outdated policy and ensure that modern acupuncture practice, robust infection prevention standards and patient safety were properly recognised.

This has involved extensive evidence gathering, legal advice, formal submissions, strategic meetings, ongoing negotiation and continued engagement with key decision-makers.

On 4 August 2026, JPAC confirmed to the AAC that, following extensive consultation with the Department of Health and Social Care and the devolved administrations, the definition of a “qualified practitioner” would be expanded. This means appropriately registered or licensed acupuncture practitioners operating within UK legislation will now be recognised for blood donor eligibility purposes.

JPAC also acknowledged the AAC’s engagement on this matter.

Our published timeline is supported by contemporaneous correspondence, meeting records and documentary evidence spanning more than six years. It provides a clear record of the AAC’s leadership, persistence and commitment in achieving this change.

This achievement has always been about more than one organisation. It is about securing a fairer system for the entire acupuncture profession and the patients we serve.

Read the full statement and timeline here which was published in March 2026:

🔗 https://aac-org.uk/blood-donation-and-acupuncture-a-current-update/

AAC

11/06/2026

One of the most valuable lessons I learned from this trip came from Master Bo Zhiyun:

“Traditional acupuncture forms the cornerstone.
Diverse treatment approaches serve as the tools.
Integrated clinical capability defines professional excellence.
Ongoing innovation fuels progress.
Every acupuncture technique traces its roots to traditional acupuncture.”

These words reinforced the importance of honoring tradition while embracing innovation. True mastery comes not only from learning different techniques, but from building a strong foundation, developing comprehensive clinical skills, and continuously seeking growth.

Grateful for the knowledge, inspiration, and perspectives gained on this journey. Looking forward to applying these lessons in practice and continuing to learn every day. Looking forward to bringing these lessons into my clinical practice and continuing to deepen my understanding of acupuncture.

09/06/2026

Honoured to attend the Europe-China 8th Forum on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), an inspiring event bringing together leading experts and practitioners to share knowledge, research, and clinical experience.

The forum provided a valuable opportunity to learn from renowned specialists, exchange ideas with fellow professionals, and stay updated on the latest developments in acupuncture and TCM. One of the highlights was experiencing acupuncture treatment firsthand, gaining deeper insight into its therapeutic effects from a patient’s perspective.

Continuous professional development is essential in healthcare, and I am committed to expanding my knowledge and refining my skills to provide the highest standard of care for my patients.
I look forward to applying these new insights and techniques in my clinical practice to better support the health and wellbeing of my patients.

29/05/2026

👣 Struggling with Plantar Fasciitis? Acupuncture May Help! 👣

Do you wake up with sharp heel pain or discomfort when walking? Plantar fasciitis can make everyday activities frustrating — but acupuncture offers a natural, drug-free approach to relief.

Acupuncture help by:
✔️ Reducing inflammation
✔️ Improving blood circulation
✔️ Relieving pain and tension
✔️ Supporting faster healing

Many patients experience reduced heel pain and improved mobility after treatment.

To help strengthen treatment results and support long-term relief, we also recommend supportive therapies such as:

✨ Gentle Massage Therapy
Light massage to the calf muscles can help release tension and relax the fascia.

✨ Warm Foot Soaks
Soaking the feet and lower legs in warm water may help improve circulation and promote relaxation.

✨ Stretching & Mobility Exercises
Simple calf and foot stretches, along with gently rolling the sole of the foot over a tennis ball, may help ease tightness in the plantar fascia.

✨ Healthy Footwear & Daily Habits
Avoid prolonged standing or excessive walking when possible, and choose supportive shoes with soft soles and good arch support.

Small daily habits can make a big difference in your recovery and comfort. 🌿

📞 Book your appointment
📍 R&Y Acupuncture Clinic

20/05/2026

✨ Acupuncture Point Spotlight: Touwei (ST-8) ✨

Touwei, also known as “Head Binding,” is an important acupuncture point located at the corner of the forehead. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this point is often used to help with headaches, migraines, dizziness, eye discomfort, and mental clarity. 🌿

By supporting the smooth flow of energy through the head and mind, Touwei reminds us how connected balance and wellness truly are. Ancient healing wisdom still has so much to offer in today’s world. 💫

13/05/2026

As an acupuncturist, I truly believe in using the treatments I offer to my patients — and recently I’ve been treating my own thumb joint pain with acupuncture.

After long hours of hands-on work, repetitive strain and joint discomfort can affect anyone. Using targeted acupuncture points has helped me reduce pain, improve movement, and relieve stiffness naturally.

Acupuncture is not only for back pain or stress — it can also be very effective for:
✔️ Thumb joint pain
✔️ Hand and wrist discomfort
✔️ Arthritis symptoms
✔️ Repetitive strain injuries
✔️ Inflammation and stiffness

When pain affects your daily life, early treatment can make a big difference.

If you’re struggling with hand, thumb, or joint pain, acupuncture may help support your recovery naturally and gently.

Feel free to message me to learn more or book a treatment.

05/05/2026

✨ Daily Wellness Tip from Our Acupuncture Clinic ✨

Have you heard about foot patches? 🌿

Foot patches are a simple, relaxing way to support your body’s natural detox process while you sleep. Applied to the soles of your feet overnight, these patches are believed to help draw out impurities, promote circulation, and leave you feeling refreshed in the morning.

👣 In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the sole of the foot is especially important. It’s home to the Kidney 1 point, known as Yong Quan (涌泉), or “Bubbling Spring.” This point is linked to grounding energy, calming the mind, and supporting overall balance in the body.

👣 Benefits may include:
• Improved sleep quality
• Reduced fatigue
• Support for overall wellness
• A calming nighttime routine

While foot patches aren’t a substitute for professional care, they can be a gentle addition to your self-care habits.

16/04/2026

💡 Daily Acupoint | Houxi (SI3)

Stiff neck or lower back discomfort from long hours sitting? Try this simple yet powerful acupoint 👇

👉 Houxi (SI3) — located on the outer edge of your hand, just below the little finger. Make a fist and you’ll spot it in the small groove.

✨ Benefits:
✔️ Relieves neck and shoulder tension
✔️ Eases lower back discomfort
✔️ Reduces eye strain
✔️ Promotes relaxation and spinal support

👐 How to use:
Apply firm pressure with your thumb for 1–3 minutes until you feel a gentle ache. Repeat daily for best results!

🤸‍♀️ Add gentle movements while pressing:

For your neck:
• Slowly turn your head left and right
• Gently tilt your head side to side (ear toward shoulder)
• Nod your head up and down in a slow, relaxed way

For your lower back:
• Sit tall and gently arch your lower back, then relax
• Slowly rotate your torso left and right
• Gently tilt your pelvis forward and backward while seated

📌 Tip:
Keep your breathing slow and steady as you move—this helps release tension more effectively. Great for anyone sitting long hours!