Charles Bourne
My approach
Charles practice Traditional Chinese Acupuncture according to TCM and 5 Element principles. TCM was developed in modern day China to meet a wide range of healthcare needs and is the most commonly practiced form of acupuncture around the world. 5 Element acupuncture is a more holistic approach - it is person-focused and can produce a profound sense of well-being. I combine the two approaches to form the most appropriate treatment in any given situation.
I use Tuina (Chinese Massage) alongside acupuncture, particularly when treating musculo-skeletal conditions. Tuina is based on the same principles as acupuncture but involves the use of massage techniques rather than needles to stimulate the acupuncture points and balance the body's energy
One's state of health is influenced by a wide range of factors including thoughts, emotions, habitual patterns (physical and mental), diet, exercise and lifestyle to name but a few. One of Chinese Medicine's greatest strengths is its understanding of the way in which these factors interrelate and give rise to health and disease. I will often talk through my understanding of your condition from a Chinese Medical perspective and when appropriate give advice about what lifestyle changes you can make.
Although my formal training is in Chinese Medicine I have been influenced by a range of approaches to health, healing and personal growth. These include Pilates, Yoga, Qigong, Jungian psychology, astrology and the human-centred approach to counselling.
Background
I grew up in West London and studied for my first degree at the University of Cambridge. I then trained in Acupuncture at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine, Reading, graduating with a BSc in 2007. I have been practicing acupuncture in London since 2008. Mastery of Chinese Medicine involves a lifetime of learning and I continue to study and develop my skills. In 2010 I trained in Tuina and in 2012 I spent 6 weeks in China doing further study in Tuina at Yunnan Provincial Hospital of TCM.
I am a member of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC), which is the main regulatory body for traditionally trained acupuncturists in the UK. All members of the BAcC have attained a high level of training and follow strict codes of safe practice and professional conduct.
Alongside my acupuncture practice I maintain a long-term involvement in sport. I rowed in the Great Britain Junior Team and competed at an elite level as a student. I now coach rowing and have over 30 years experience in the sport. I bring this experience to the clinic when advising on injury rehabilitation or exercise regimes and also in my general philosophy of maintaining a positive attitude and making the most of every situation.
