Breeze Academy

In this episode of the Breeze Academy Podcast, Carl Clarkson dives deep into one of the most frequently asked questions in the clinic and on courses: What’s the difference between acupuncture and dry needling? Carl breaks down the key distinctions in terms of purpose, technique, and physiological impact. From short-term pain relief and performance enhancement with dry needling to the broader, long...

Dopamine plays a massive role in how we move, feel, connect, and stay motivated — but most of us don’t realise how much it’s driving our day-to-day decisions. In this episode, we dive into the complex relationship between dopamine and acupuncture, exploring how acupuncture might influence the brain’s reward pathways, regulate mood, reduce addictive behaviours, and even impact hormonal balance. We...

Overactive Bladder (OAB) affects millions — yet it’s rarely talked about. In this powerful episode, Carl sits down with pelvic health physiotherapist Dr. Emma Hargreaves to shine a light on a condition that can quietly impact everyday life, relationships, and confidence. But this conversation isn’t just about the symptoms — it’s about real solutions. From physiotherapy to acupuncture, we explore h...

Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PPGP) affects between 20% and 50% of pregnant individuals, with up to 25% experiencing severe pain that impacts daily life (Vleeming et al., 2008). Yet despite its prevalence, PPGP is often underdiagnosed or dismissed as a "normal" pregnancy symptom, leaving many women without the care they need. In this episode, we explore: - The real causes of PPGP...

In this episode, we explore how acupuncture influences the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, the system that controls stress, metabolism, and immune function. We break down:- How the HPA axis responds to stress- What happens when it’s overactive or underactive- How acupuncture can help regulate cortisol, improve sleep, and support overall well-beingReferenced Research:Trevizan-Baú & M...

Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 people assigned female at birth, costing economies billions and stealing careers, health, and quality of life. With an average diagnosis time of eight years, sufferers endure chronic pain, fatigue, and infertility—often without proper support. In this episode, we break down the real impact of endometriosis, why it’s so misunderstood, and how acupuncture might offer re...

Menopause can bring challenging symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety, and fatigue—but acupuncture offers a natural way to find relief. In this episode, we explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Acupuncture approaches menopause, the role of the Kidneys, Liver, and Spleen, and how acupuncture can restore balance to the body. - How acupuncture helps with menopause symptoms...