Empowering you to enable your Business to Grow Starting a new practice or growing an already established one can be an exciting yet daunting experience. For practitioners who are new to the field or looking to expand their business, having a support network can make a significant difference. JAMA has created a Peer Support Group for New and Newly Established Practitioners offering a space where you can share experiences, gain insights, and help you build a thriving practice. Our Peer Support Group is designed to help empower you with the resources you need to overcome challenges you have growing your business. Whether you’re in the early stages of setting up your practice or navigating the complexities of expansion, our community is here to support you.  From practical business advice to emotional encouragement, the Peer Support Group provides a platform for continuous learning and professional growth.  The journey of a practitioner is filled with opportunities for growth and learning. By participating in the Peer Support Group, you will have access to a community of like-minded professionals. Together, we can help you navigate the challenges, celebrate the victories, and help overcome any difficulties.  It is a space to be open and honest about your fears and uncertainties. You are an entrepreneur. Being the practitioner, you want to be requires embracing your role as a business owner. This involves some strategic planning, continuous focused learning, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of healthcare and regulation. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With the right support and a clear vision, you can build the practice of your dreams and become the practitioner you aspire to be.  Our first session starts on Tuesday April 1st at 7pm. If you would like to be considered for the group. Please email us at admin@jama.org.uk and tell us how many patients you see per week and how many patients you would like to see per week. Then please just tell us a little about your practice and the challenges you have.

A Must-Attend Event for AAC/JAMA Members As a JAMA member, understanding the legal framework for treating patients with mental illness or impairment is crucial. This free webinar, scheduled for Tuesday, January 28th at 7 PM, will provide invaluable insights to help you practice safely and ethically. Why is This Webinar Important? Key Topics to Be Covered: Presented by Clare Ward and Expert AAC Member, Phil Carter Clare will present the guidance and framework for you to use in your practice with these patients. Phil Carter, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in mental capacity and safeguarding, will guide you through these critical issues. His expertise will help you develop the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate and effective care for all your patients. Don’t Miss This Opportunity! Remember, this webinar is exclusively for AAC and JAMA members. If you haven’t registered yet, be sure to do so to secure your spot. By attending this webinar, you’ll be taking a significant step towards safeguarding your practice and ensuring the well-being of your patients. Webinar Tuesday 28th January 7pm JAMA Members – Please see the registration link in your email newsletter to join the discussion!

On Saturday, 16th November, our community gathered for the much-anticipated AAC annual conference at the charming and historic Mary Ward House in central London. The day was nothing short of inspiring, packed with enlightening presentations, valuable networking opportunities, and the shared passion for advancing our field. As Graham Steele beautifully summarized: *”Last Saturday, 28th October, saw the annual conference of the Association of Acupuncture Clinicians in central London at Mary Ward House, a charming, historical, and atmospheric building, once a former school.The MC for the conference was Kevin, who was well supported by his technical team, and by hospitality and catering. Kevin is a consummate professional who kept the programme to time. He has a natural ability to make people feel welcome and at ease with his enthusiasm and positive energy. Not only was it a great opportunity to meet up with fellow practitioners and old friends to network and share ideas, but the programme for the day was action-packed and filled with interesting and current presentations on a variety of themes, either from leaders in their fields or else specialist practitioners. Supporting the conference this year were several exhibitors with a variety of acupuncture and other clinic products on display, some on sale and some free samples. In addition, other exhibitors were there to share information on evidence-based acupuncture and volunteer opportunities overseas. The conference was a great success due to the preparation and diligence of the in-house team. Well done, team! The AAC continues to work tirelessly on several fronts, thanks to Chris and Clare, to keep it well positioned and impactful in the wider acupuncture arena, and equally serious about its helpful, friendly, and personable approach to be engaging with, and helping, members. It was sad to leave just before the end of the conference to catch my train because it was like leaving family behind.” A Day of Connection and Learning The conference provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with old friends and forge new relationships with fellow practitioners. Sharing ideas and experiences is always a highlight of such gatherings, and this year was no exception. The AAC has truly cultivated a community that feels like family. The program was a standout feature, offering a wealth of knowledge across a variety of topics. Esteemed speakers captivated audiences with their insights, showcasing the breadth and depth of acupuncture as a practice. Meanwhile, exhibitors brought a range of exciting products, samples, and resources to the event, alongside information on evidence-based acupuncture and volunteer opportunities abroad. Highlights from the Conference Clare Ward provided a heartfelt reflection on the joys and challenges of being an acupuncturist. She celebrated the profound impact acupuncture has on patients’ lives while acknowledging the importance of staying grounded and balanced as practitioners. Her talk was both uplifting and relatable, reminding everyone why they chose this meaningful path. Lara McClure held a captivating session about transforming research into actionable clinical guidelines. Her presentation delved into the challenges of integrating evidence-based acupuncture into practice and offered practical strategies to overcome barriers. Attendees found her insights invaluable, with one remarking, “Lara’s presentation was eye-opening, as always” Paul Hougham took us on a deeper journey into the philosophy of acupuncture, describing it as an act of empowerment and embodiment. He emphasized the importance of grounding and presence—not just for patients, but for practitioners too. His talk was a beautiful reminder that intentionality is at the heart of effective practice, resonating with everyone in the room. Naava Carman brought a fresh perspective to tackling complex cases. In her interactive session, she demonstrated how to simplify intricate presentations into manageable steps, helping attendees feel more confident in handling challenging cases. Her focus on creating clear treatment plans and managing client expectations was both practical and inspiring. Chris Davies added a touch of innovation with his engaging talk on incorporating magnets into acupuncture treatments. He demonstrated how magnets can be used alongside or instead of needles, offering attendees practical skills they could start using right away. His generous giveaway of free magnets was a hit, and his expertise left many eager to explore this new approach. One attendee added ‘Listening to Chris’s clinical views and experience – I get the impression he has a very impressive brain that needs it’s clinical experience to be extracted and put into a more easily accessible format!’ Sarah Budd shared her inspiring account of her humanitarian work on the Greek island of Lesvos. Sarah shared her experiences providing acupuncture to refugees and asylum seekers, showcasing the profound role acupuncture can play in crisis settings. Her dedication moved everyone in attendance and highlighted opportunities for acupuncturists to contribute to global humanitarian efforts. The day concluded with Robin Sunley and a fascinating look at his work in the NHS, where he uses acupuncture to support cancer patients and those undergoing thoracic surgery. Robin’s expertise shone as he shared real-life examples of how acupuncture can help manage the side effects of cancer treatments and aid recovery from major surgeries. His session highlighted the significant potential for acupuncture in mainstream healthcare, leaving attendees both inspired and hopeful. One member has commented that “hearing about the work being done in humanitarian crisis spots and Robin’s work were very inspiring” and another member commented the best thing about the conference was ‘the range of interesting speakers and the positive and supportive atmosphere”. Celebrating Our Impact The AAC’s commitment to supporting its members and advancing the profession was evident throughout the day. From addressing licensing challenges to advocating for acupuncture within the broader medical community, the association’s efforts were widely appreciated. Members spoke highly of AAC’s no-nonsense approach to regulation and its focus on providing practical support, whether through articles in The Clinician, resources on the website, or direct guidance on legal and professional matters. Looking Ahead As the day drew to a close, many attendees expressed gratitude for the AAC team’s hard work and dedication. The conference was a testament to the association’s vision and commitment to fostering a thriving acupuncture community. Reflecting on the event, one

Oncology Acupuncture CPD Calling all JAMA members! Are you interested in expanding your acupuncture practice to serve cancer patients? We are proud to offer two exciting Clinical Oncology Acupuncture CPD courses designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to safely treat this growing patient population.   Learn from the Experts: Led by experienced NHS acupuncturist, Robin Sunley, whose insightful lecture at the Annual Conference 2024 sparked interest in a deeper dive into cancer patient treatment, these CPD courses will provide comprehensive training on: Two Convenient Locations: Exclusive JAMA Member Discount: JAMA members are valued partners in our mission and as a special thank you, enjoy a discounted rate on both CPDs! Simply login to your account and visit the discounts and coupon page and enter this at checkout. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your practice and make a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients. Register today!

Internationally acclaimed moxibustion expert Felip Caudet is back with a brand new course: Posture Balance with Moxibustion (Kinseikyu)! Building on the success of his previous workshop, “Felip Caudet and the Magic of Moxa”, Felip delves deeper into this powerful technique, exploring its application for postural realignment. What is Kinseikyu? Kinseikyu translates to “postural balance with moxibustion” and is a unique approach that utilizes moxa to address underlying imbalances in the body’s structure. By stimulating specific acupoints and applying gentle manual therapy techniques, Kinseikyu aims to: Why Attend Felip Caudet’s Kinseikyu Course? JAMA is thrilled to host Felip Caudet once again. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a master and unlock the transformative power of Kinseikyu! This course is ideal for: Space is limited, so register today! Dates – 25-27th APRIL 2025 13-15 JUNE 2025 Start Time – 9:30 am End Time – 6:30 pm Location – AcuMedic Clinic, Camden High Street, London, UK Purchase Course

Calling all acupuncturists seeking to elevate their practice! The Anatomy & Acupuncture Cadaveric CPD Course, lauded by attendees in 2024, returns to London for two exclusive sessions in 2025. This is your chance to: Why Attend This Unique Course? This highly sought-after course offers a unique opportunity for acupuncturists to solidify their understanding of acupuncture points in relation to the underlying anatomical landscape. Here’s what past attendees had to say: Course Dates: Both sessions will be held in London. Space is limited, so register now to secure your spot! Don’t miss this opportunity to take your acupuncture practice to the next level! If you are unsure, please get in touch. Some of our team members attended in 2024 and can provide first hand knowledge.

Keeping your skills sharp! Acupuncture is a powerful and ever-evolving field. As a practitioner, staying current with the latest techniques and best practices is crucial for optimal patient care. Here at the Japanese Acupuncture & Moxa Association, we understand the importance of continuous learning / CPD. That’s why we’re excited to announce our upcoming Live Webinar: Safe Needling Refresher! This comprehensive course is designed for acupuncturists who want to: The Live Webinar: Safe Needling Refresher offers a convenient and engaging format, allowing you to learn from the comfort of your own practice / home. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with the instructor and fellow practitioners, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your practice! Purchase today for the Live Webinar: Safe Needling Refresher. Space is limited, so secure your spot now! £15 only to JAMA members! Lecturer: Kevin Young A Master of Body and Mind: Kevin Young Kevin Young is a seasoned practitioner with a deep-rooted passion for health, fitness, and the human body. His journey into the world of healing began with a strong foundation in martial arts, tai chi, qigong, and competitive sports. This diverse background has shaped his holistic approach to healthcare. After years of athletic pursuits, Kevin’s focus shifted towards helping others. He pursued formal education, earning a BSc (Hons) in Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture from the University of Westminster. His academic journey continued with a Diploma in Qigong Tui Na and a Diploma in Chinese Patent Herbal Remedies. Kevin’s commitment to excellence led him to further specialize in physical therapy, earning qualifications as a Chartered Physiotherapist, Sports Therapist, and Sports Massage Therapist. He later deepened his understanding of musculoskeletal health with an MSc in Lower Limb Musculoskeletal Studies from Cardiff Met University. As a dedicated educator, Kevin shares his knowledge and expertise as a lecturer in anatomy and structural diagnosis. He holds the position of Tui Na Course Director at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine in Reading and lectures at both Glyndwr Wrexham and Met Universities in Cardiff. His contributions to the field extend beyond the classroom, as he is a frequent speaker at national and international acupuncture conferences, sharing his insights on Chinese Medicine and Sports Acupuncture. Kevin’s unique blend of traditional Chinese medicine, modern physiotherapy, and personal athletic experience makes him a highly respected practitioner. His holistic approach to healthcare empowers individuals to achieve optimal well-being. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your practice! Purchase today for the Live Webinar: Safe Needling Refresher!

Calling all JAMA acupuncture practitioners! Are you passionate about sharing your knowledge and skills to help others excel in the field? Join our one-day pilot program and become a facilitator for a brand new network of JAMA acupuncture hubs! What is the JAMA Acupuncture Hub Network? We are launching a network of local hubs across the UK and Ireland where JAMA practitioners can gather regularly for positive collaboration and skill development. These bi-monthly, half-day meetings will provide a supportive and challenging environment for practitioners to: The JAMA Acupuncture Facilitation Framework: This unique framework is designed to be applicable regardless of your school of training. It’s not meant to replace your existing diagnostic methods, but rather to serve as a powerful tool to elevate your “detective work” in the clinic. The framework will equip you with skills in: The Pilot Program: Become a Hub Leader! This one-day pilot program will equip you with the knowledge and skills to lead your own local JAMA acupuncture hub. The day will cover: Become a Listed Facilitator and Promote Your Sessions! Upon successful completion of the program, you’ll be listed in the AAC & JAMA Members area and Journal. This prestigious recognition allows you to promote your bi-monthly hub sessions at a member rate of £50 per attendee. Join us and be part of something special! This pilot program offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of JAMA acupuncture by fostering a collaborative and supportive network across the UK and Ireland. Program Details: Don’t miss this exciting opportunity! Limited spots available. Register today!

Opportunity to Contribute to a Thriving Membership Body for Highly Skilled Acupuncturists (Association of Acupuncture Clinicians) Non-Executive Director Vacancies Unpaid Voluntary, Reasonable Expenses Paid Association for Acupuncture Clinicians (AAC) is the UK’s most dynamic and ambitious membership body for practitioners trained to degree level in acupuncture. It is passionate about providing practitioner-centric professional support, standards and guidance to promote a thriving dynamic environment for our members.  We are looking for a number of Non-Executive Directors to join our Strategic Board.  We are interested in individuals who have a passion for holistic healthcare and acupuncture to bring strong governance to the organisation and have the AAC’s best interests at heart.  Skills and experience in regulation, corporate finance & risk, accreditation and strategic relationships are of real interest. Commitment is 4 virtual meetings per year with one meeting per year in person. If you are interested in discussing the role, or applying, please send a brief note to Clare Ward at admin@aac-org.uk and to apply we will ask for a CV and a supporting statement but you may provide this in a format/style suited to you. Closing Date:  30 November 2024 Interview Dates:  Monday 11th December 2024 /https://aac-org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Strategic-Board-Role-Description.pdf Opportunity to Participate in an Exciting New Organisation for Acupuncture (Acupuncture Regulatory Authority) Non-Executive Director Vacancies Unpaid Voluntary, Reasonable Expenses Paid Acupuncture Regulatory Authority is the UK’s most dynamic and ambitious body leading workable regulation to acupuncture practitioners throughout the UK.  It brings together a multitude of professional membership bodies recognising the rich tapestry of East Asian Medicine.  It aims to raise standards with consistent high-level training offering pathways of career development for practitioners of acupuncture and increased safety to the public.  The collaborative history of ARA comes from a stakeholder group formed in 2000 as the British Acupuncture Federation.  The move to a more regulatory model is a response to the increasing popularity of acupuncture and the need to have a cohesive umbrella for all the different traditions and backgrounds.  All those using acupuncture are welcome to join the ARA.  We offer clear guidance on safe clinical practice, professional practice and conduct and guidance to protect anyone wanting to benefit from acupuncture.   We also have a passion for practitioner welfare and development and to bring affordable excellence in training. We are looking for a number of Non-Executive Directors to join our Strategic Board.  We are interested in individuals who have a passion for holistic healthcare and acupuncture to bring strong governance to the organisation and have the ARA’s best interests at heart.  Skills and experience in regulation, corporate finance & risk, accreditation and strategic relationships are of real interest. Commitment is 4 virtual meetings per year with one meeting per year in person. If you are interested in discussing the role, or applying, please send a brief note to Clare Ward at clare@ara-org.uk and to apply we will ask for a CV and a supporting statement but you may provide this in a format/style suited to you. Closing Date:  30 November 2024 Interview Dates:  Tuesday 12 December 2025

The Japanese Acupuncture and Moxa Association (JAMA) is launching a bold initiative to expand access to acupuncture through an integrative healthcare approach. We believe acupuncturists can play a vital role in the future of patient care, and your expertise is key! We believe your expertise in specialised areas can inspire a new wave of acupuncturists to embrace this powerful approach. Are you an acupuncturist who: If so, JAMA wants YOU! The Power of Storytelling By sharing your experiences with integrative acupuncture, you can: Join the Movement We’re building a network of like-minded practitioners to collaborate, share best practices, and create a stronger voice for integrative acupuncture. Here’s how you can get involved: Let’s build a brighter future for acupuncture in integrative healthcare! Together, we can demonstrate the undeniable value that acupuncturists bring to patient care and inspire a generation of integrative specialists. Please contact JAMA with your story