Lauren Howard, Licensed Acupuncturist & Herbalist, Master of Traditional Oriental Medicine
I’ve broken my back…twice. I’ve broken an arm, a wrist, and a finger. I’ve broken a foot, and a toe. I’ve dislocated my shoulder many times. I’ve had back surgery, reconstructive knee surgery, shoulder surgery, and foot surgery. I’ve had a lacerated spleen. I’ve had metal pins and screws implanted in me…some are still there! I’ve spent 3 months in a body cast, and over 2 years of my life on crutches (not all at once.) I’ve sprained and strained. I’ve smashed, and crashed. I get pain. If you’re hurting, or if things just don’t feel right, I’ve been there.
A career in medicine seemed like my destiny. But not just any type of medicine…Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine! I discovered acupuncture and quickly fell in love with its mix of ancient wisdom and healing techniques. When I began studying Chinese Medicine, I realized that its power for healing resides in the opposing yet interdependent energy of yin and yang within the body. When these forces are unbalanced, weak, or stagnant, then pain and disease can set in. When yin and yang are harmonized, and the flow of qi (lifeforce) has been restored, the body is free to return to its natural state of optimal health.
Since graduating with honors from Emperor’s College of Traditional Oriental Medicine in 2004, I have used my intensive study and training, my personal experience, along with years of clinical work, and my intuitive knowledge of the mind-body-spirit connection, to help patients recover from a wide variety of health challenges. I specialize in, and particularly enjoy complex cases that have gone unresolved in the western medical paradigm, such as auto-immune, digestive, and dermatological conditions. I am also a certified meditation instructor, and strongly believe in the incorporation of mindfulness techniques to affect powerful shifts in healing.
I take a gentle, yet common-sense approach to wellness. My treatment plans are highly individualized and flexible to ensure they are tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With sensitivity, compassion, and of course, humor, I work with people to help them regain the sense of optimism and hope they have regarding their health. I am passionate and honest, and I trust true healing and transformation are possible, whatever one’s current state of being. It has been my sincerest honor to guide people on their path, and to help them achieve the abundant health and happiness that is available to us all.
When I’m not treating patients, I love spending time with my family, especially cheering at my son Ben’s soccer games, and running after my rescue mini-schnauzer, Roxie. A true California girl born and raised, I am also an avid reader, meditator, cook, hiker, and beach-goer!
