The Full Story
About KAI
BA Contemplative Psychology with Health and Healing Focus from Naropa University | MSOM Master of Science in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College | Dipl. Ac., NCCAOM Nationally Board Certified Acupuncturist | L.Ac., Colorado State Licensed Acupuncturist | Biopuncture and Injection Therapy with Michael Young | Apprenticeship with Imetai Henderson in the practice and principles of Kototama Medicine | Clean Needle Technique Certified | Reiki Certified | Certified Geo Love Practitioner
The Age-Old Practice
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the longest enduring medical system on the planet, and one that works with the body to enable its own healing mechanism. It requires one to view health through a a different lens than conventional medicine.
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Conventional medicine focuses on fixing the parts that are broken in order to stay alive, but many times misses the mark when it comes to seeing the bigger picture of health and the body as interrelated parts. While this system can be lifesaving and valuable in many respects, more and more people are seeking alternative health systems that go beyond just eliminating the pain.
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Chinese medicine seeks to get to the root of the pathology, as imbalance and disease stem from this place. It is for this reason that it can successfully address conditions that confound the best diagnosis of conventional medical doctors.
By treating the root, you are treating the system as one. Imbalance can upset the whole physical and energetic system. Living in a world where most of us are struggling to find external and internal state of balance, acupuncture can be a powerful tool in moving us closer to this state of harmony.
My Journey
My journey within the health and wellness world started when I was a student studying contemplative psychology with a focus on health and healing; during this time I was introduced to some amazing mentors who were integral in my desire to delve further into holistic health and various modalities. I had been faced with some health issues at this time and acupuncture allowed me to see health from a different, more complex perspective. I was able to transform my health through this journey while acquiring invaluable knowledge of the mind -body connection from a physical, emotional, and spiritual angle.
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After graduating I continued my studies of Jin Shin Tara, plant spirit medicine, and energy work. While working on a graduate degree at CU, I had the privilege of working for a nonprofit that focused on providing access to health, social, and economic opportunities for sustainability and self empowerment for women. This experience heightened my awareness of the discrepancies of access to healthcare and the life altering benefits that arise when one has autonomy in their healthcare choices.
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After raising my three kids and working in the development world, I made the decision to fulfill my dream and attend a four year acupuncture/herbal program. All of the challenges, opportunities, and experiences that I had up to this point came into alignment at this time and added relevancy and breadth to my work as a future acupuncturist.
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Since graduating from acupuncture school, I have continued to expand my education and skillset through classes, research, and mentorship. I have a tremendous passion for the medicine, and much of my work is informed by the beautiful stories and experiences that are deeply ingrained in each patient who walks through the door.