Welcome to Central Denver’s Top-Rated Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine Clinic.

You will be heard here, in this peaceful, healing sanctuary. Serving the Denver area for close to five years, this clinic treats everything and anything. We consider ourselves generalists. Whatever it is. Whatever you might be feeling, we can help.

Owner, Acupuncturist, and Herbalist Rachel Muich, L.Ac, M.S.TCM and her associate, Dr. Anh Tran, DTCM, L.Ac treat in-person at the clinic five days a week.

Our approach.

Your wellness requires care, attention, and time. At Firewood Acupuncture, your health is in your hands just as much as it is in ours. Our mission together will be to restore your natural balance so you can find peace in all that you do. Taking control of your health and wellness allows you to feel comfortable in your body, rested in your mind, and resourced in your daily life.

We believe that knowledge truly is power. And feeling empowered about your health is a feeling that we want to cultivate with you during our sessions. For any internal disharmony, Eastern medicine provides a unique, holistic, patient-centered approach to healing. We want to spend time with you. We want to really listen to you and ask questions about your aches & pains, your worries & fears, and your unique intuition when it comes to your body. That is our goal with every patient. The gift of time and the invaluable feeling of being truly heard and understood. After all, you are in your body all day - YOU know it best.

Performing Fire Cupping

Performing Fire Cupping

Applying Moxibustion

Applying Moxibustion

Administering Needles

Administering Needles

How does it work?

  • Simply put, acupuncture is the administering of hair-thin needles into the body in specific locations meant to mobilize circulation and stimulate your body’s natural ability to heal.

    Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on “Qi,” (chee) or “Chi,” meaning our energy or life-force that flows throughout our body…This Qi, or energy, can be influenced and balanced by stimulating specific points on the body. These points are located along channels, or meridians, that connect all of our major organs. Illness and imbalance arises when the flow of Qi becomes blocked. Acupuncture helps to unblock the flow of Qi. Common examples of “stuck Qi,” are pain, headaches, PMS, GI discomfort, belching and bloating, gas, sleep disturbances, and mood swings.

  • Acupuncture has been PROVEN to regulate the Central Nervous System (CNS), which controls most functions of the body and mind. It consists of the brain and the spinal cord. The spinal cord is the conduit for the signals between our body and the brain.

    When needles are administered in the body, sensory input, information processing, and motor output are all effected. By stimulating the CNS, several other systems are activated, like an increase of blood circulation which will release muscle-tension, the release of endorphins (our happy hormones), and the activation of the parasympathetic system, which controls our “rest and digest,” mechanisms.

    In addition, you may see a reduction in systemic inflammation and in stress. By activating the parasympathetic system, cortisol (the stress hormone) drops drastically. While we need cortisol in small doses, most Americans are over-stimulated and over-stressed, which keeps our cortisol levels heightened. Consistently high cortisol levels can lead to inflammation (which can be safely called the root of all disease), weight gain, poor sleep, little to no appetite, and emotional imbalances.

    By receiving regular acupuncture, you are effectively allowing your brain and body to relax, restore a healthy connection, and fight disease. So, it’s no surprise that acupuncture also regulates and boosts immunity, keeping you from getting chronically sick by stimulating both red and white cell production.

    Visit www.evidencebasedacupuncture.org to learn more.

  • We’ll start with an in-depth intake covering each organ system. This can take up to 60 minutes.

    Afterwards, you will lay comfortably on a treatment table and we will look at your tongue and take your pulses on both wrists. Tongue and pulse readings are the most effective diagnostic tools we have at our disposal, outside of asking you direct questions.

    Once we’ve made a diagnosis, we will begin to administer needles. The sensations of the needles vary depending on the location on the body, however, at worst, what you will feel is a slight poke or a dull ache. Most likely, you won’t feel the needles go in at all.

    Once all the needles have been inserted and you tell us you are comfortable, we will leave the room and let you rest for about 30 minutes. Don’t worry, we’ll be nearby so you’ll be able to call us if you’re feeling uncomfortable.

    When time is up, we’ll re-enter the room and remove the needles. If an adjunct therapy is warranted, we will perform it before or after acupuncture, being sure to explain everything we’re doing.

    After the treatment is completely over, you’ll likely feel a little “acu-stoned” as we like to call it. It will feel like extreme relaxation with a touch of wooziness. This will pass in a brief amount of time and then you can go on about your day. But, take the time to notice any changes in your body.

    What do you feel? How do you feel? Do you notice any differences regarding the issue you came in for?

    Rest-assured, building your health and wellness is paramount. We’re always available to answer your questions and want you to feel comfortable sharing anything you’d like without the fear of judgement.

Heartfelt Reviews.

  • Amanda C., Arvada, CO

    “Rachel’s presence is a gift. Her willingness to listen and dive deep with a detailed intake to get to know her patient is not something that every practitioner comes to naturally. I felt truly heard and cared for in my sessions and have already felt the benefits of her care. She has integrated her knowledge of Chinese medicine with a deep knowing of the human spirit. This is not something that can be taught and you will feel it in the first moment that you meet her.”

  • Jodi A., Champaign, IL

    “What a wonderful experience, to be so cared for by a skilled and intuitive healer. You'll be met with warmth and a genuine kindness that radiates compassion. What a gift to leave feeling seen, heard, and treated with respect.

    She recommended cupping for chronic pain and tension in my left shoulder. I've done chiropractic, massage, yoga, you name it. Nothing really seemed to be working...until she worked her magic. My pain was gone, my range of motion increased and my body hasn't felt this good in years.

    Thank you Rachel, for your healing touch!”

  • Jake R., Denver, CO

    “I cannot recommend Rachel enough!! From the moment I walked in, I felt completely comfortable in what could be an uncomfortable environment. She asked me all the right questions and was genuinely concerned with my well being, customizing a treatment for my individual needs. The treatment itself was incredible, and I walked out feeling substantially better than when I walked in. Rachel is the best and I can’t wait for my next treatment!!”

  • Ashley C., Denver, CO

    “I cannot put into words how grateful I am for Rachel and Firewood Acupuncture. I came in with a number of things to work on – lifelong health concerns, sleep, troubled digestion and more – and she has taken the time to focus on each. Saying I have experienced significant improvement in all of these areas doesn't begin do it justice. She is, not only a wonderful human, but a true healer!”

  • Beth P., Lakewood, CO

     “I went to see Rachel to treat my anxiety and insomnia. I was nervous to try acupuncture for obvious reasons, but Rachel’s presence immediately put me at ease. She has an incredibly warm and nurturing energy and her space is beautiful. After each treatment I noticed improvements in my symptoms and an overall feeling of increased calm and balance. Highly recommend!”

  • Rebecca M., Greensboro, NC

    “As soon as you walk into the space, it's clear how dedicated Rachel is to making her patients feel comfortable, seen, and heard. She has an incredibly warm and nurturing demeanor, and she's very conscientious about walking her patients through their treatment, telling them exactly what she is doing and why, and checking in with them often to ensure they they are comfortable. She answered every question I had. If you've never tried acupuncture before, Rachel is the perfect person to see.”

  • Kristen F., Centennial, CO

    “I cannot say enough about my experience at Firewood Acupuncture. From the inviting location, warm treatment space, and exceptional practitionership, you will be in wellness bliss after your time with Rachel. She listened intently, explained clearly, and had the most wonderful bedside manner. She made me feel safe, heard, and my session exceeded my expectations. Rachel followed up with an email outlining goals and recommendations that were easy to implement and understand. I've already gone back for treatment #2! If you are looking for a Denver acupuncturist, you found her! GO SEE RACHEL of Firewood Acupuncture.”

  • Amy S., Conifer, CO

    “You are a wealth of information and I so appreciate you explaining everything so much. I am so fascinated by TCM, it just seems to make everything fall into place so much more easily than any Western medicine. I can’t get enough learning…the treatment felt amazing and I’ll be back! Thank you again for sharing your wisdom and steady hands!”

  • Donna M., Los Angeles, CA

    “As soon as I walked in to Rachel’s studio, I felt like I was in the right place. Rachel not only makes you want to bare your soul, she listened, cared and addressed every problem I said I was having. I left feeling like a new human! I can’t wait until my next treatment.”

  • Alex G., Boulder, CO

    “I read your treatment plan and will utilize it. I just want to say I felt listened to and comfortable with you, which, as a PTSD patient means a lot!”

  • Megan B., Denver, CO

    “Rachel is an absolute gem! She has such a genuine, caring soul and listens with intent so that she can properly treat your conditions. She is extremely knowledge about the human body, illnesses, disorders, etc. and she is so passionate about what she does.

    Rachel has gone above & beyond to help me with multiple issues I've had over the past year or so. I look forward to every single session, not only for the amazing, calming treatments in a relaxing environment, but also because she is so easy to talk to & we have created a strong connection. I leave each session with huge sighs of relief & feeling like I'm walking in the clouds.

    She is truly a miracle worker!”

  • Steph B., Denver, CO

    “Rachel is a great practitioner. She’s incredibly thorough, easy to talk to, and has a naturally calming demeanor. I’ve been seeing her for a variety of things and have been noticing small changes throughout the weeks. She is supportive and honest and only wants the best for her clients. I’d highly recommend giving her a try if you’re interested in TCM.”

  • Erin D., Aurora, CO

    “Rachel is an amazing acupuncturist and I have loved working with her! She is so kind and understanding of all my issues and health goals. She is thorough and goes through all the body systems to pinpoint what could be causing issues. She has helped me with multiple problems including anxiety, sleep issues and muscle tension/pain. I highly recommend working with her and cannot say enough wonderful things about her!!”

  • Shelly L., Denver, CO

    “Rachel has a gift that has changed my life. Her incredible calming bed side manner makes me feel at ease every single time. The way she describes things is so articulate and helpful and makes me want to know more. Need help sleeping? Digestion issues? Low mood? Literally anything you're going through, she's your gal! Highly recommend.”

  • Kristine G., Denver, CO

    “I cannot recommend Rachel enough! I went in for facial acupuncture, and got more than glowing skin. She took the time to review every system, connecting my body during the facial to other things I’d been experiencing. She would adjust our treatments weekly for things like stress, sleep, digestion, and energy. She truly cares and listens to what you and your body needs. Thank you, Rachel!!”

  • Darby Y., Evergreen, CO

    “Rachel is everything I never knew I needed! I went to Firewood to try out facial acupuncture and she quickly helped connect the dots on several whole body issues. She is a wealth of knowledge and is constantly teaching while at the same time allowing you to slip into Zen. I love learning from Rachel as she explains her practices how they all balance the qi. During my session she put together a wellness plan with supplement recommendations to meet my individual needs. Her facial treatments are heavenly and they work! She has helped me with my fine lines, my gut health, my sleep, mood, and skin issues….I know my day will be a great one if I have an appointment with Rachel!”

  • Paul D., Denver, CO

    “Rachel is an exceptional healer! She listens deeply, creates a safe space to share, has a comprehensive/holistic perspective of mind-body and excellence with needle placement and cupping. I would highly recommend her services for rebalancing what ails you!”

  • Hope A., Arvada, CO

    “I have been working with Rachel for over a year now. She listens and then listens some more. She is extremely knowledgeable about acupuncture and approaching things holistically. I came in with a list issues and chronic conditions. When I think about last summer to this summer, I feel so much better and it gives me hope. Her practice is calming, loving, and most of all nonjudgmental. I am so grateful I found her.”

Honoring roots.

I am thrilled and humbled to be an ambassador of this medicine that has been healing the masses for thousands of years. When I first started learning Chinese Medicine, I didn't understand the span of this type of healing and how it really is meant to be a preventative practice. This knowledge fuels me. As a practitioner of Chinese medicine, it is my privilege to not only heal but also to educate. I’d like for you to be as informed about your treatment strategy and progress as possible. I invite you to ask questions and to get clear on the new path we are carving for your continued improvement. This is something I rarely found in the Western medicine scope, and I’d like to change that way of thinking.

It’s so important to recognize where this medicine comes from and to give credit where credit is due. Learning and performing this medicine as a white, American woman comes with great responsibility that I do not take for granted. I understand that I am preserving the wisdom and practices of a culture I was not born into, and I make it a priority to acknowledge the roots of my training and philosophy. I look forward to expanding my knowledge and committing to my development as a practitioner, and I promise to use all that I have learned to make you feel heard and seen. Thank you for your trust - I will take great care to ensure I keep it.

Somethin’ on your mind?

Send me an email using the form on this page. I’d like for you to feel as informed about acupuncture and your future healthcare as possible. There are no silly questions! Please, ask away!