From menarche to menopause, hormones have a profound impact on our mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing. They can influence our outlook on life, how we relate to the world, our relationships with ourselves and others, and whether or not we feel anxious and depressed or happy and positive. Hormones also play a significant role in our energy levels, our digestion and microbiome as well as the health and appearance of our skin.
Not only can they influence monthly breakouts, but they can be the cause of excess sebum production (oily skin), dry skin, uneven skin texture, and loss of skin tone.
Not only can they influence monthly breakouts, but they can be the cause of excess sebum production (oily skin), dry skin, uneven skin texture, and loss of skin tone.
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The practice of needling the face for aesthetics is not new. For thousands of years, acupuncturists in China have been using needles to puncture the skin to facilitate healing and promote beauty. They also applied oils and infusions to the skin before needling so products could penetrate the deeper layers.
Acupuncture, cupping, bodywork & moxibustion are all powerful medicines that I use to help people feel better everyday. But did you know I also offer tele-health appointments using modalities that can be done in your own home? Many people choose tele-health appointments when they can't come in to my office but need help or guidance treating their symptoms.
From menarche to menopause, hormones play a huge role in our mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing. The beauty of Chinese Medicine is that it takes a whole person approach to healing. We look at factors such as your ancestral heritage, your upbringing, your environment, your mental, emotional and spiritual outlooks, how well you have treated your body now and in the past and habits that are contributing to your current state of health.
Let's face it (pun intended), your face is the first thing people see when they meet you and whether we like it or not, we are judged by the way we look. Wanting to improve your appearance is not about vanity. It is not about trying to become the next top model. It's about taking who YOU are to the next level.
If this is you it is important to know that you are not alone. Many people have symptoms of hypothyroidism with blood tests that do not reveal anything out of the ordinary. One of the reasons why it is so hard to diagnose a thyroid condition is because it is only a small part of a complex and intricate matrix called the endocrine system.
Reviews (21)
Paulina R.
Jun 14, 2021
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Jesse Flemming
Aug 15, 2020
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Dr Ara is great. Super friendly and easy to talk to. I went to see her for chronic digestive issues and anxiety. I always felt so relaxed and calm afterwards. She gave me herbs that I really think helped with my stomach issues. Anyway, if you’re looking for a good acupuncturist in Santa Barbara Dr Ara is a good choice!
Karen J.
Sep 13, 2018
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Dawna has been treating me for a variety of issues for several months now, and I am so grateful for the time I get to spend on her table!
She checks in with me at every session regarding my physical, mental, and emotional states, and each session is tailored to where I am at. She is warm and compassionate in conversation, while also being very precise and attuned in her treatments. I have experienced acupuncture with several different practitioners, and I really love the unique way Dawna brings in elements of acupressure and massage to her work...it's my favorite part, to be honest. She
She checks in with me at every session regarding my physical, mental, and emotional states, and each session is tailored to where I am at. She is warm and compassionate in conversation, while also being very precise and attuned in her treatments. I have experienced acupuncture with several different practitioners, and I really love the unique way Dawna brings in elements of acupressure and massage to her work...it's my favorite part, to be honest. She
Nicolette S.
Sep 10, 2018
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After struggling with Peri-menopause, thyroid problems, depression and anxiety and chronic numbness in my hands, a friend referred me to Dawna. Dawna made me feel very welcome and comfortable and took time to listen to me. After the first treatment I felt a bit jittery and very positive, I never felt jittery again after that first time, the positivity has stayed with me though. She also recommended me Chinese herbs which I have been taking every day since the first time. I have been seeing her every Monday for almost a year I think, and my life has changed dramatically. I normally walk in babbling
Pamela Holm
Sep 10, 2013
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Dawna Ara has given me my life back!
I went to Dawna because for two years I'd been feeling rundown, exhausted, fuzzy headed, and was unable to fall asleep. I saw two different MDs who told me these were menopausal symptoms and prescribed antidepressants.
After some testing Dawna discovered that my hormones were way out of balance. Within a month of starting treatment I began to feel better. Now, after three months I have so much energy, I've lost the weight I put on from the antidepressants, and I feel like my old self again.
I am so grateful. Thank you Dawna!
I went to Dawna because for two years I'd been feeling rundown, exhausted, fuzzy headed, and was unable to fall asleep. I saw two different MDs who told me these were menopausal symptoms and prescribed antidepressants.
After some testing Dawna discovered that my hormones were way out of balance. Within a month of starting treatment I began to feel better. Now, after three months I have so much energy, I've lost the weight I put on from the antidepressants, and I feel like my old self again.
I am so grateful. Thank you Dawna!
Cybil S.
Jul 02, 2013
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Needles can be freaking scary, but Dawna with her down to earth energy, sense of humor, and gentle hands makes sticking needles all over feel great. I went in when I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and she's made my thyroid life transition as easy and comfy as possible.
She's competitively priced, helps you use your insurance, and has ample parking right off the freeway in a quiet neighborhood. Go see her and feel better!
She's competitively priced, helps you use your insurance, and has ample parking right off the freeway in a quiet neighborhood. Go see her and feel better!
Alice S.
Mar 12, 2013
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I'm an extremely skeptical person. Acupuncture definitely helps with muscular aches and pains, but I wasn't sure it would help me achieve my pregnancy goal.
I started seeing Dawna in September 2012 for fertility. She told me that for women with no physical issues preventing pregnancy, usually her patients get pregnant within about 3 cycles of treatment. I decided to try it before resorting to clomid or spend a ton of money needlessly on IVF. For the first month, I went every week, then after that every other week (but obviously the recommended course is going to be different for everyone
I started seeing Dawna in September 2012 for fertility. She told me that for women with no physical issues preventing pregnancy, usually her patients get pregnant within about 3 cycles of treatment. I decided to try it before resorting to clomid or spend a ton of money needlessly on IVF. For the first month, I went every week, then after that every other week (but obviously the recommended course is going to be different for everyone
L. A.
Mar 05, 2013
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Barbara P.
Mar 05, 2013
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My appointments with Dawna are soothing, stress/anxiety relievers and my mental health is in order when I leave. Her passion for acupuncture and helping people is obvious. Conversation with Dawna is very casual but important because she's trying to determine what concerns you have and how she's going to treat you. I often refer to her as my miracle worker because afterward, I feel whole again and so refreshed that I cant wait for my next appointment.
I would recommend Dawna (and I have to friends) to anyone who is looking for an alternative approach to their situation/condition
I would recommend Dawna (and I have to friends) to anyone who is looking for an alternative approach to their situation/condition
Jess L.
Jul 05, 2012
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I've gotten a couple of private messages from Yelpers asking if I've experienced benefits from acupuncture. The short answer is YES! The long answer is that you have to be devoted to a way of life (and it's a simple way, so don't freak out or get a lazy). When I don't go or take the herbs (which are WAY better than the 1000's of mgs of ibuprofen I was taking) then my "issue" comes back. When I get regular acupuncture and take my herbs, it's literally like freakin' magic. Dawna has been able to fix what my very good gyno could not.
Eat well, go
Eat well, go
Rena S.
Oct 25, 2011
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I have recurring discomfort in my shoulder and upper back, which had grown to a horrible, throbbing pain. Dawna was able to get me in right away. She felt the knots in my shoulder and back, then put the acupuncture needles in.
After relaxing for about 30 minutes, she came in, removed the needles and gave me the best deep tissue massage I've ever received. I will definitely be going back to see her soon!
After relaxing for about 30 minutes, she came in, removed the needles and gave me the best deep tissue massage I've ever received. I will definitely be going back to see her soon!
Anna S.
Aug 16, 2011
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I've blabbed all over town about how awesome Dawna is. I can't believe I've neglected to do so on Yelp. Time to fix that!
Dawna has helped me with everything from garden variety stress to bizarre ailments that defied reason. Without a doubt, she's the best acupuncturist I know.
Need more convincing? Try going to her when you have a headache. I did so last week and after placing only *one* needle, it was gone. If that doesn't sell you, then nothing will.
Dawna has helped me with everything from garden variety stress to bizarre ailments that defied reason. Without a doubt, she's the best acupuncturist I know.
Need more convincing? Try going to her when you have a headache. I did so last week and after placing only *one* needle, it was gone. If that doesn't sell you, then nothing will.
Becca D.
Feb 16, 2011
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This was my first time doing acupuncture. I got my pass from Groupon, but definitely will be going back. Dawna was great - talked to me about my back and where I was hurting. She did a great job with the treatment and I felt great afterwards.
Only downside was that there is no sign on the door and since Dawna is the only one working there, I was sitting by myself in the waiting area for about 10 minute without seeing anyone. Since it was my first time, I didn't know if I was supposed to knock or ring a bell or say something ... So a sign that said, "treatment in progress. someone
Only downside was that there is no sign on the door and since Dawna is the only one working there, I was sitting by myself in the waiting area for about 10 minute without seeing anyone. Since it was my first time, I didn't know if I was supposed to knock or ring a bell or say something ... So a sign that said, "treatment in progress. someone
Pete S.
Feb 16, 2011
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No Yelp Elite member reviews yet? Hmm, okay, let me take a stab at it.
I had bought a Groupon for Dawna Ara and it was soon to expire. So I tried calling but I didn't get a response. In the voicemail, she prompted to book via the website. You check the website and the only date that was available was the day after the Groupon's expiration date.
Hmm...Plan B.
Decides to email her directly and email Groupon just in case I can't use it. Groupon responsed and said they would give me credit in Groupon money if I never used the deal. Dawna also responded and after exchanging a few
I had bought a Groupon for Dawna Ara and it was soon to expire. So I tried calling but I didn't get a response. In the voicemail, she prompted to book via the website. You check the website and the only date that was available was the day after the Groupon's expiration date.
Hmm...Plan B.
Decides to email her directly and email Groupon just in case I can't use it. Groupon responsed and said they would give me credit in Groupon money if I never used the deal. Dawna also responded and after exchanging a few
Wes C.
Dec 14, 2010
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Here is my wife's review:
"I went to Dawna for pain in both of my feet. This happened after my pregnancy. I have never had trouble with my feet. Both of my feet were sore and had shooting pains in the heels. After 3 sessions of acupuncture and an awesome foot massage, my feet felt 100% better. Dawna is really impressive as well. She is very familiar with medical conditions and informed me that my legs still had swelling and gave me suggestions about my diet. When I arrive, she always asks about my feet and energy. I have never had acupuncture before and I am hooked. Dawna really
"I went to Dawna for pain in both of my feet. This happened after my pregnancy. I have never had trouble with my feet. Both of my feet were sore and had shooting pains in the heels. After 3 sessions of acupuncture and an awesome foot massage, my feet felt 100% better. Dawna is really impressive as well. She is very familiar with medical conditions and informed me that my legs still had swelling and gave me suggestions about my diet. When I arrive, she always asks about my feet and energy. I have never had acupuncture before and I am hooked. Dawna really
Jane M.
Nov 15, 2010
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I am a huge believer of acupuncture, and easily found acupuncturist in Honolulu and Boston when I lived in each place. I have gone to an acupuncturist weekly for over five years. But couldn't seem to find a good one in Los Angeles for over a decade. Though I had gone to both Chinese and Western acupuncturists for awhile, but after a couple of treatments, none of them seem to fit.
Then I found Dawna. And really it was like that, I knew after one treatment that it was just right. Finding an acupuncturist like Dawna is like having the luck to find a needle in a haystack.
She is an
Then I found Dawna. And really it was like that, I knew after one treatment that it was just right. Finding an acupuncturist like Dawna is like having the luck to find a needle in a haystack.
She is an
Natalie T.
Aug 03, 2010
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I have received acupuncture from several doctors, and I must say that Dr. Ara (though she insists that you call her Dawna) is amazing. She is completely professional, and yet so warm and nurturing at the same time. I can tell that she really cares about her patients, and goes above and beyond the call of duty to take care of them. I feel completely at ease on her table. She uses a gentle touch to put in the needles; sometimes I cannot even feel them going in! During my last treatment, she also went out of her way to massage out some of the tension in my neck and shoulders that was contributing
Tristan E.
Jul 10, 2010
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Had a great experience! the location great, I walked in to a place that made me feel like I was on vacation it was warm & homey.
the music she played made it easy for me to get into the healing energy head space.
I felt like she really listened to what my issues were & was able to even acknowledge deeper rooted parts of the problems.
Thanks Dawna! you've really got skill. can't wait to see you again soon!
& I can't wait to tell everyone I know.
the music she played made it easy for me to get into the healing energy head space.
I felt like she really listened to what my issues were & was able to even acknowledge deeper rooted parts of the problems.
Thanks Dawna! you've really got skill. can't wait to see you again soon!
& I can't wait to tell everyone I know.
Jedi W.
Jul 05, 2010
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I hadn't had acupuncture in several years at least so it was with great pleasure that I experienced a return to it under the skilled hands of Dawna. I actually asked for a hybrid treatment of both acupuncture and trigger point massage as I really needed some tension worked out as well and the combo was a great success.
Her knowledge of herbal remedies was also a great addition and have been enjoying a new-found energy level, reduced tension and greater alertness since just the first session.
I visited her for the first time this past week and immediately booked a session for this coming
Her knowledge of herbal remedies was also a great addition and have been enjoying a new-found energy level, reduced tension and greater alertness since just the first session.
I visited her for the first time this past week and immediately booked a session for this coming
Megs H.
Jun 23, 2010
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I have a serious fear of needles, so I've never done acupuncture, but I'm pregnant and the kiddo was breech, and all sorts of legitimate-sounding people said to try moxibustion to turn the baby. So I turned to yelp to find someone who could help me.
Dawna had high ratings, a June special on pricing, and I knew how to get there, so I emailed her for an appointment. She was super fast to get back to me, even though it was after hours. When I went in, she was incredibly professional without being cold, and not at all the flaky sort of chanting-type I'd kind of envisioned in my head
Dawna had high ratings, a June special on pricing, and I knew how to get there, so I emailed her for an appointment. She was super fast to get back to me, even though it was after hours. When I went in, she was incredibly professional without being cold, and not at all the flaky sort of chanting-type I'd kind of envisioned in my head
Moxie W.
Jan 29, 2010
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I never really knew what to think of Acupuncture... It seemed like it would hurt. IN FACT, it does hurt when you get an acupuncturist that is not skilled or has terrible bedside manner. However this is NOT the case with Dawna.
Dawna was able to calm my nervousness and treat some of my ailments, which included Eczema and Anxiety. One time she had no availability and I went to another acupuncturist; that person stabbed me and it injured the muscle in my hand for a week!
I like Dawna's treatment and procedures so much, that I recommended my girlfriend to go see her as well!
Now I know what
Dawna was able to calm my nervousness and treat some of my ailments, which included Eczema and Anxiety. One time she had no availability and I went to another acupuncturist; that person stabbed me and it injured the muscle in my hand for a week!
I like Dawna's treatment and procedures so much, that I recommended my girlfriend to go see her as well!
Now I know what
