Tarine Ute Holewa

Tarine Ute Holewa provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Pain Musculoskeletal

• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ/TMD) Dysfunction & Jaw Pain: Natural and effective relief for jaw discomfort, helping to restore normal jaw function and reduce parafunctional habits like clenching or grinding.
• Chronic & Acute Pain (e.g., Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Shoulder Pain, Knee Pain, Sciatica): Acupuncture and other TCM therapies to effectively manage various types of musculoskeletal pain, reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and accelerate healing, whether the pain is a recent injury or a long-standing issue.

Respiratory Allergy & Immune

• Allergies (Seasonal/Environmental, e.g., Hay Fever, Allergic Rhinitis) & Sinusitis: Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and TCM dietary advice to reduce allergic reactions and sensitivities, alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, nasal congestion, and sinus pain, and strengthen the body's defensive Qi (Wei Qi) to make it less reactive to allergens.
• Weak Immune System & Recurrent Infections: A proactive and preventative TCM approach to enhance your body's natural defense mechanisms, reduce susceptibility to illness, and promote robust, long-term immunity.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. TCM diagnosis is based on individual patterns, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Katarine can assess your needs.

• Moxibustion (Moxa Therapy): A warming therapy using various forms of moxa (e.g., moxa sticks, cones, moxa boxes) to promote circulation, relieve pain (especially cold-type pain like arthritis), boost immunity, and enhance the effects of acupuncture treatment.
• Gua Sha (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization - TCM): Traditional East Asian healing technique, often used for musculoskeletal pain, common cold, fever, or heatstroke, to address pain by moving stagnant Qi and Blood, clear heat, and promote tissue recovery.
• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Educating patients on the actions and benefits of their specific herbal prescription and ensuring they understand how to take their herbs safely and effectively for optimal results.
• Cupping Therapy (Fire Cupping, Sliding Cupping, Stationary Cupping): Utilizing cupping techniques to alleviate musculoskeletal pain (back, shoulder, neck), clear stagnation, support detoxification, and relieve symptoms of common colds or asthma.
• Classical & Patent Chinese Herbal Formulas: Recommendation and dispensing of pre-made, standardized, classical Chinese herbal formulas in pill, tablet, capsule, or liquid form for common conditions and TCM patterns, offering convenience, consistent dosing, and proven efficacy. (May be recommended by R.Ac within certain guidelines or more comprehensively by R.TCMP).
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Utilizing the synergistic therapeutic properties of traditional Chinese herbs, often in complex combinations, to restore organ function (Zang-Fu), balance Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood, and promote profound healing from within by addressing the root cause of illness.
• Acupressure & Meridian Therapy: Application of firm but gentle pressure to specific acupoints along the body's meridians using fingers, thumbs, or elbows to stimulate Qi flow, relieve pain, reduce tension, and promote relaxation and balance, similar to acupuncture but without needles.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Katarine, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Registered TCM Practitioners in BC and the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

At VitaCare Natural Health Clinic, Abeille Naturopathic, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Katarine frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Let Katarine help you navigate sports injuries like sprains, strains, or tendonitis needing faster healing with targeted TCM care. The goal is improved mental focus, concentration, and cognitive clarity as overall health and energy improve, so you can fully enjoy experiencing clearer sinuses and easier breathing during daily activities and exercise and other life pleasures once more.
• Understanding that pain, numbness, or tingling running down my leg (like sciatica) can be frustrating, Katarine applies TCM wisdom to help patients achieve enhanced fertility potential, optimized reproductive health, and better support during pregnancy and postpartum, making it possible to rediscover the joy in having more regular and comfortable menstrual cycles, allowing for uninterrupted daily life and activities.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from TMJ, jaw pain, or teeth grinding that causes discomfort and headaches and achieved experiencing markedly fewer and less severe menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes under the care of Katarine, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as playing a full game of recreational hockey with improved stamina and less post-game soreness with renewed vitality and ease.
• Acupuncture and TCM with Katarine can be a turning point for those affected by circulatory problems, feeling cold often, or having cold hands and feet. The goal is achieving improved mobility, flexibility, and range of motion in previously stiff or painful joints and muscles, paving the way for you to enjoy getting back to golfing 18 holes without their back acting up and a more balanced, vibrant life.

Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Katarine, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.

Located in the heart of Nanaimo's Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood, Katarine practices at VitaCare Natural Health Clinic, Abeille Naturopathic. The clinic is conveniently situated near Brooks Landing Shopping Centre and is easily accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). The environment is serene and welcoming, designed to support healing and relaxation. Parking options are typically accessible, making your visit comfortable and convenient.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qi (pronounced 'chee') is often translated as 'vital energy' or 'life force.' It’s considered the fundamental energy that flows throughout the body, responsible for all physiological processes, movement, warmth, and protection against illness. Meridians (or channels) are specific pathways through which Qi and Blood circulate. These pathways connect the internal organs with the exterior parts of the body, including muscles, skin, and sensory organs. Acupuncture points are specific locations along these meridians where the flow of Qi can be accessed and influenced to restore balance and health.

Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a Registered TCM Practitioner in BC?

Patients in BC can typically see a Registered TCM Practitioner, such as a Registered Acupuncturist or R.TCMP, directly without a physician’s referral, which is known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy to understand your coverage options.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Registered TCM Practitioner help?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Registered TCM Practitioner uses these tools to address imbalances in the body's Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, targeting the root cause of health issues to restore harmony and promote long-term well-being.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally not covered by MSP in BC. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket. Many private and extended health insurance plans may offer some coverage for these services, but coverage levels vary, so it is recommended to verify with your insurer.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, based on TCM principles. It can help manage pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, support digestive health, and alleviate various other conditions by promoting your body's natural healing mechanisms.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Most people find acupuncture to be very comfortable, with many feeling little to no sensation. The needles are very thin, and practitioners use sterile, single-use needles to ensure safety. Common sensations include a slight pinch or tingling. If you experience any discomfort, inform your practitioner immediately to ensure a safe and relaxing experience.

VitaCare Natural Health Clinic, Abeille Naturopathic
102-1001 Douglas St
Nanaimo, BC, V9S 1H8

Phone: (250) 585-2150

Tarine Ute Holewa is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member of The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Registration can typically be verified with The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are holistic therapies. It is recommended to also consult with your medical doctor for diagnosis of serious conditions and for emergency medical care. TCM can often complement conventional treatments effectively.