Ellie Columbine, BA (Hons), Lic.Ac., TCMP
Welcome.
I’m Ellie and I’m an acupuncturist, Chinese medicine herbalist and Reiki master practising in Exeter, Devon.
My Story
After struggling throughout my teens with various physical and mental health issues, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition in 2008. Although I originally controlled the condition with allopathic medicine, when this was no longer effective I began exploring more holistic methods. This led me to try and eventually train in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), which includes acupuncture and, in my case, Chinese herbal medicine.
I found acupuncture to have a wonderfully calming effect on the body and by experiencing this I realised that true health is more complex than simply experiencing, or not experiencing, symptoms. I believe that optimal health is really only possible when we provide the body with the best conditions we can to allow it to regulate and maintain balance. I draw on my own experiences, training and research to provide diet and lifestyle advice to support the body and, in clinic, I provide a space where the body can truly relax and enter a restorative state.
I believe that every patient is unique and I therefore continue to learn and study new techniques that might be of benefit. As well as studying EFT (which I am currently re-certifying in after a hiatus), I also practise Reiki, which allows for deeper healing and a more spiritual approach to those who feel drawn to that.
My Training
I studied Traditional Chinese Medicine at the Kootenay Columbia College of Integrative Health Sciences in Canada graduating with a dual diploma in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine.
Upon completion I undertook a further post-graduate clinical placement and was fortunate to work under Dr. Xianyi Hu, an award-winning physician who hails from a long lineage of traditional Chinese medicine physicians.
As part of my continuing professional development, I have completed a post-graduate mentorship program under the tutelage of world-renowned Chinese medicine practitioner Sharon Weizenbaum.
I’ve also completed my Reiki master certification with Reiki master Maggie Gudmundsson.
Since graduating I have practised in Exminster, Okehampton, Moretonhampstead, Chagford and Exeter.
“I welcome any client and treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions, focusing on identifying and treating the root cause of symptoms to enable the body to repair and rebalance from its foundation. When someone comes to the clinic, I try to create an environment of non-judgement where they can heal and re-establish a positive relationship with their bodies, minds and emotional wellbeing. I love unravelling complex problems and helping my clients rediscover their health.”
As well as acupuncture and reiki, I also use techniques such as tuina massage, cupping, Chinese herbal medicine, moxibustion and gua sha.
I’ve worked with clients that have developed diverse health challenges including back pain, insomnia, stress, fatigue, frozen shoulder, dizziness, fertility challenges, menstrual issues and chronic bladder infections to name a few.