Acupuncture Woollahra

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for Woollahra

Acupuncture Sydney » Locations » Acupuncture Woollahra

Josephine is a registered acupuncturist & Chinese herbal medicine practitioner based in Lane Cove and Frenchs Forest. If you're willing and able to travel from Woollahra to either of these locations for TCM consultation, acupuncture and herbal medicine services, Josephine looks forward to meeting with you.

Acupuncture for Arthritis
Acupuncture for Muscle Pain
Acupuncture for Joint or Back Pain
Acupuncture for Stress or Anxiety
Acupuncture for Male and Female Fertility
Women's Health (All Seasons)
Acupuncture for Sleep Issues
Digestive Health
Hormone Imbalance Issues
Children's Health

Acupuncture for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder causes depression, fatigue, social withdrawal, and carbohydrate cravings during autumn and winter months when daylight decreases. In TCM, SAD relates to Yang Qi deficiency exacerbated by the seasonal decline of environmental Yang energy. The body's Yang fails to rise and circulate, leading to stagnation and the characteristic heaviness, withdrawal, and low mood. Liver Qi stagnation further impairs the smooth flow of emotions.

Treatment focuses on raising Yang Qi and moving stagnation. GV20 (Baihui) at the crown is the primary Yang-raising point. GV14 (Dazhui), where all Yang channels meet, is needled with moxibustion to powerfully boost Yang energy. LR3 (Taichong) moves Liver Qi and lifts mood. Yintang (Hall of Impression between the eyebrows) calms the spirit. SP6 (Sanyinjiao) and ST36 (Zusanli) strengthen the body's overall energy production.

A 2013 study in the Journal of Affective Disorders found acupuncture comparable to fluoxetine for depression, with fewer side effects. For SAD specifically, treatment ideally begins in early autumn before symptoms fully develop and continues weekly through winter. Moxibustion is especially important for SAD — the warming therapy directly counters the cold, dark conditions triggering the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should acupuncture for seasonal depression start?

Ideally, begin treatment in early autumn before symptoms fully develop. This preventive approach strengthens Yang Qi before the seasonal decline. Weekly sessions through winter maintain the benefit. Patients with established SAD often notice improvement within four to six sessions.

Why is moxibustion important for SAD?

Moxibustion provides warmth and Yang energy, directly countering the cold, dark environmental conditions that trigger SAD. Applied at GV14 (where all Yang channels converge), it powerfully boosts the body's Yang Qi. The warming sensation itself is often experienced as comforting and mood-lifting.

Make a Booking

Josephine Zhuo (TCM) is an AHPRA registered health practitioner — acupuncturist and herbalist.

Frenchs Forest Clinic

Shop 7, 55 Sorlie Road, Frenchs Forest

Book Online

Or call to make a booking

TCM Lifestyle

Root-cause diagnosis for each patient's body constitution and health condition.

Children & Women's Care

All seasons of women's health, from menarche through pregnancy to menopause.

Qualified Practitioner

AHPRA registered. Individualised care through acupuncture and herbal medicine.

Multiple Treatments

Acupuncture, cupping, moxa and herbal medicine used in combination.

Disclaimer

All information on this website is provided as general health information. While we have exercised due care in ensuring the accuracy of the material contained on this website, the information on the site is made available on the basis it does not constitute providing professional medical advice on a particular matter. This website is not a substitute for independent and separate professional medical advice. Nothing contained in this site is intended to be used for specific diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of any symptoms, diseases or conditions, nor should it be a substitute for your own health professional's advice. We do not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information provided on this website.

Ready to Feel Better?

Book your appointment with Josephine Zhuo today