Acupuncture and Movement in Leslieville

When discomfort keeps interrupting your exercise routine, getting started again can take some thought. You may want help understanding your symptoms as well as a place to build a routine that feels manageable.

At TLC Medicine, we consider how your health concerns affect everyday life, including the activities you want to return to. Our community partnership with VIMALIFE, a boutique fitness club in Leslieville, gives our clients an opportunity to explore a local space for movement alongside their existing care. Both businesses are at 276 Carlaw Avenue, with TLC Medicine in Suite 222 and VIMALIFE in Unit 101. Through this partnership, TLC Medicine clients can enjoy a complimentary VIMALIFE guest pass, and VIMALIFE members receive $25 off an initial visit at our clinic.

Individualized care at TLC Medicine

TLC Medicine was founded by Teresa Lau, R.TCMP, R.Ac., a Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner and Registered Acupuncturist in Ontario. Teresa holds a Master of Science degree from the American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in San Francisco and a master’s degree in public health from Harvard University.

Our approach begins with understanding your health history and the way your symptoms affect you. We look at when a concern started, what makes it flare and how it influences your daily activities. Your recommendations may include acupuncture or Chinese herbal medicine, depending on your assessment. An initial consultation is an opportunity to discuss your concerns and find out what treatment could involve. The recommended number and frequency of appointments depend on your individual needs.

How acupuncture may support an active life

Acupuncture involves placing very fine needles at selected points on the body. Research on acupuncture suggests it may help with certain pain conditions, including chronic low back pain and knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. The benefits vary by condition and from person to person. For someone whose discomfort is making exercise harder, acupuncture may be one option to discuss as part of a broader care plan. At TLC Medicine, the starting point is an assessment of whether our services are appropriate for your concerns and goals.

Making space for movement at VIMALIFE

Regular movement has value throughout everyday life. The World Health Organization highlights benefits for physical and mental health, including sleep, and emphasizes that all physical activity counts.

VIMALIFE offers a gym floor for strength and cardio training, along with classes including Pilates, yoga, barre and mobility. Personal training is also available for people who would like guidance with exercise selection, technique and building a consistent routine. Having different options lets you consider what you enjoy and what you can realistically make time for. You might prefer an independent workout, the structure of a class or individual support from a trainer. Classes vary in pace and intensity, including within Pilates and yoga. Reading the descriptions and speaking with the team can help you choose a starting point that fits your experience and any guidance from your healthcare provider.

Bringing care and exercise into your routine

Care and exercise can have different roles within the same week. Your appointments provide time to discuss symptoms and review your treatment, while an appropriate exercise routine gives you opportunities to work towards your fitness goals. For example, if you want to return to Pilates after time away because of recurring discomfort, bring that goal to your healthcare appointment. Discuss what feels difficult and whether any movements or activities need to be adapted. You can then use that guidance when choosing a class and speaking with the instructor.

The right starting point will depend on your situation. If you are receiving care for pain or an injury, ask your treating healthcare professional about suitable activities and any restrictions before beginning something new. Let your trainer or instructor know about relevant limitations so they can discuss available modifications.

Explore our community offers

A complimentary VIMALIFE visit for TLC Medicine clients

As a TLC Medicine client, you can enjoy a complimentary guest pass to experience VIMALIFE. Use your visit for a gym floor workout, try a class, or enjoy both.

Browse the VIMALIFE class schedule, then email holly@vimalife.ca at VIMALIFE with your preferred class, date and time, or the time you would like to visit the gym. Mention that you are a TLC Medicine client so she can help arrange and confirm your guest visit.

An initial visit offer for VIMALIFE members

VIMALIFE members receive $25 off an initial visit at TLC Medicine. To redeem the offer, simply mention your VIMALIFE membership and the community offer when contacting us to book. Call 416-461-0581 or contact TLC Medicine to arrange your initial visit. We look forward to hearing what you would like support with.