Dr. Yoko Masuda is a master practitioner – skilled in the rare craft of Japanese style acupuncture – where she incorporates and tailors gentle needling, moxibustion (specific deep heat), therme (heat massage) and cupping into her treatment plans. These skills, as well as her reputation for delivering tangible results, make her a sought-after provider, especially in the areas of pain management, sports injuries, orthopaedic injuries and emotional health. Yoko firmly believes that the mind and the body are intertwined in healing and she continually advocates for a healthy lifestyle alongside of the care she provides.

Yoko received her acupuncture degree in Japan and, after working at several clinics in Tokyo, she accepted a staff acupuncturist position with the world renowned Cirque du Soleil touring show. For nearly twenty years, she went on to travel the far reaches of the globe, working on several other productions, and earning the respect of an international group of artists, staff and athletes before eventually selecting Edmonton for her permanent clinical practice. As a former high school physical education teacher, and also as an alumnus of the Japanese national rhythmic gymnastics team (where she competed internationally on numerous occasions), she has amassed an impressive background in sports therapy and physical education, uniquely positioning her to address all manner of orthopedic and performance related concerns.

Outside of work, Yoko enjoys travelling, the outdoors, and spending time with her husband and two elementary-aged daughters.

Education:

• Diploma of Acupuncture, Hanada College, Tokyo, Japan

Licensure:

• RAc, College and Association of Acupuncturists of Alberta (CAA)

Shannon has a background in Psychology, is certified in Holistic Nutrition, has completed her level III Reiki training, and is on her way to becoming a Registered Massage Therapist as well. She uses this combination to form a multi-disciplinary approach to help her clients achieve holistic health, with an emphasis on mental health.

Mental Health is becoming increasingly important to prioritize as stress levels and mental health concerns continue to rise. Having struggled with her own mental health in the past, she has experienced this firsthand and continues to explore and learn new ways to practice self-care. This has led to a passion for helping people in supporting their mental health, ADHD, nervous system, gut, and hormone regulation.

Shannon believes that pain and other bodily symptoms, whether it be physical or mental, has a root cause and she uses this as a guide when treating her clients. With that in mind, she found a passion in nutrition and fell in love with Reiki. She believes that it is a powerful healing practice that is beneficial to everyone, always.

Shannon’s ultimate goal is to draw from her personal experience as well as her education to offer support and make a positive impact in the wellbeing of others. By cutting through the noise of what works and what doesn’t, she is able to provide her clients with effective tools and resources to help them help themselves more efficiently, whether that be through Reiki, Nutrition, or a combination of both.

In her nutrition practice, Shannon’s plans are tailored to each client as an individual. She understands that a cookie-cutter approach to nutrition is not realistic or effective for many people, especially those with mental health concerns.

Shannon’s priority is providing a safe space for you so that you can fully relax and let go. This means your time with her will be free of judgment, and full of kindness and support. Shannon genuinely looks forward to meeting you, and to learning from each other in her sessions with you.

Education:

• CERT – Certified Holistic Nutritional Consultant

Licensure:

• C.H.N.C, Canadian School of Natural Nutrition