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Leela is now in-network with Lifewise, ASH, and Providence Insurance, and can often bill other providers as well.  Call to find out what your benefits are.

Leela Longson, L.Ac.
Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, Qi Gong, & Shiatsu

Get Unstuck with Acupuncture!

As a practitioner, I value being present for you and using Chinese medicine to support your natural healing capacity. My own experience with Chinese medicine has taught me that healing simple ailments can open up new possibilities for ways of being lighter and more at ease in the world.  I am inspired by the simplest building blocks of Chinese medicine, yin and yang, which are constantly changing and transforming in cycles.  To me this means that transformation is as natural as the changing of the seasons.

An acupuncture treatment initially begins with a detailed history to fully understand your health profile. Tongue and pulse diagnosis will be taken to guide your treatment as well. Sterile, hair-thin needles will be inserted into acupuncture points to support your body’s functioning or shift blockages preventing optimum health.  Frequently needles are retained only momentarily, but may be retained for 20-30 minutes or more. Patients typically wear comfortable loose clothing for treatments, occasionally wearing a treatment gown to access important points.  You may also receive cupping, moxibustion heat therapy, or bodywork, depending on your condition. I am happy to discuss any of these procedures before doing them.  Chinese herbs may also be recommended as part of your overall treatment plan.

Taking care of symptoms and health problems can divert our energy from pursuing the life that is most satisfying.  A tree that is stressed will make less fruit. When I work with you, my vision is to keep in mind the fruit and not just the “dis-ease.” 

Read Leela's latest newsletter!

Acupuncture in Asia

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When I began studying acupuncture, I dreamed of being able to use my healing skills to help a rural community in another country. After I completed my degree, I joined a group of acupuncturists in Nepal (Acupuncture Relief Project), not knowing what a powerful experience it would be. I felt very gratified to serve people that had very little healthcare while at the same time receiving the warmth and connection of a community very different from my own.  The experience of treating over 800 people deepened my understanding of Chinese medicine and the process of healing.  In our clinic we saw a wide variety of conditions such as stroke paralysis, musculoskeletal pain, allergies, digestive issues, asthma, headaches, women’s issues, and stress.  I especially enjoyed teaching two workshops of simple yoga stretches to help my patients with back pain.

Qi Gong

I am excited to have begun teaching qi gong (“chee gong”) at the Taoist Center on 12th and Division in SE Portland.  Qi gong is a form of moving meditation that helps revitalize the body and develop greater self-awareness of how energy moves in the body.  I find that many people who are curious about meditation but unsure what to do with the “chattering mind” find that qi gong offers an accessible way to join in on the art of self-cultivation.  I have learned and practiced qi gong since beginning acupuncture school in 2005, and am certified to teach through the Ling Gui International Healing Qi Gong School.

Currently my classes run in 4-week sessions on Thursday evenings from 5:30-6:30pm.
Class cost: $35 for 4 sessions + $15 for manual  Click here to  sign up or contact Leela to get on the mailing list.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a relaxing bodywork that works on the energetic channels or meridians of the body.  While often addressing symptoms, its main focus is to promote the natural vitality and anti-pathogenic properties of the body.  Treatments last one hour and the patient wears comfortable, loose clothing.  Shiatsu can be a great alternative Eastern therapy when patients are sensitive to needles.

About Leela

Having moved to Portland from Minnesota in 1998, I almost consider myself a native!  I received my Master’s degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine.  Since setting up my own practice I have also done group acupuncture at the Washington County Corrections Center.  I love that Chinese medicine offers an endless path for growing and learning how the body and nature speak their language.  I recently moved to a lovely place in NE Portland where I plan to spend more of my free time dancing, gardening, and drinking tea.

    Contact Leela for more information or to set up an initial session. You can use this form, the "book now" button above, or call Confluence at 503.241.6505.