David Gaines, MSOM, LAc

David Gaines, MSOM, LAc

I believe that when we align our own vital life force to the forces of the earth beneath our feet and the heavens above, our lives will change. In searching for the best modalities to comprehend and prescribe the healing power of nature I have found that Classical Chinese Medicine is an incredible guide. Through committed self cultivation, a compassionate heart, years of training my hands, learning ancient techniques and studying modern medical knowledge, I work to create harmony, balance and well-being in the lives of my clients.

My practice is centered on carefully listening and offering gentle treatments to help children and adults realize their optimal state of health. I specialize in working with pediatrics and with people who are suffering from pain, stress, digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, poor immunity, energy and vitality concerns, mental and emotional distress, acute sickness and chronic diseases.

 

My background

Environmental Work

As a younger man I attended the University of Montana’s Environmental Studies program with a focus in environmental education and sustainable agriculture. After graduating I helped found and teach at a K-8 community school, worked with community gardening, taught sustainable agriculture and design, immersed in yoga and studied herbal medicine for over twelve years. 

Oriental Medicine and Classical Chinese Medicine

After some time I realized I wanted to work more directly with people and with children in times of need.  I decided to complete National University of Natural Medicine’s (NUNM) four year Master’s of Science in Oriental Medicine, now accredited as a doctoral program.  I was twice the president of my class and devoted my life to the healing arts and bridging the gaps between Eastern and Western practices.

My Classical Chinese Medicine practice focuses on Toyahari Meridian Therapy, Shonishin acupuncture, Five Element Acupuncture and herbal medicine. I use these therapies to restore balance, reduce pain and negative symptoms, increase vitality and comfort for sensitive newborns, older children, robust adults, those fighting disease and elders in my Central Oregon community.

Pediatric Acupuncture

As before graduate school, I have a definitive interest in working with children. This fostered my intensive study of Japanese-style acupuncture and specifically the use of Toyahari Meridian Therapy (non-inserted acupuncture developed by blind acupuncturists over the last four centuries in Japan) and Shonishin acupuncture (Japanese pediatric acupuncture and herbal medicine). Brenda Loew, MAc, EAMP/ LAc, a leading Toyahari instructor on the west coast, defines the treatment as “painless, non-invasive needle therapy involving gentle stimulation of infant’s and children’s skin surface with specialized tools, used to strengthen and harmonize vital energy, promote wellness and treat childhood illnesses and imbalances.” In addition to studying with her I mentored with Dr. Bob Quinn, DAOM, at NUNM for two years and was a member of our Shonishin club that regularly treated newborns and young children for free at our school. Through my training and now in my clinical practice, I’ve learned that through Shonishin acupuncture, herbal medicine and extensive bodywork modalities I can help with many childhood maladies.

About Me

I am excited to be back home in Bend!  After growing up here as a child I have returned twenty years later to give myself back to this wonderful place. When I’m not working with the populace I can usually be found exploring and playing in the wilderness. As a life-long outdoorsman I enjoy just about everything that takes me, my wonderful wife Carli, our daughter Estella, and our dog Pele out into nature. You can often find me backcountry snowboarding, riding bikes, climbing on the rocks, splashing through the rivers and lakes or playing guitar beside the campfire!

 

Education & Training

 

Professional Activities