Uncovering Charleston’s alternative therapies

At the start of each new year, wellness is at the forefront of our minds. From juicing to cupping, we continue to seek ways to pep our step + boost our immune systems. Interested in exploring health practices that go outside those of Western Medicine? Lucky for you, Charleston is home to some amazing holistic practitioners + lairs of wellness that may just cure what ails you. (Cue: ‘Dr. Feelgood’ by Mötley Crüe).

Below is a list of spots around town committed to helping folks find relief. From easing hangovers to stomping out allergies, these pros have been known to work small miracles.

Cryotherapy

Originally developed by Japanese doctors to ease the pain of rheumatoid arthritis, this cool practice has caught on stateside. Step inside a chamber set to -274 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce inflammation, minimize migraines, + leave you with more gusto.

📍 Cryoevolution | 893 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Mt. Pleasant
📍 Chill Out Charleston | 761 St. Andrews Blvd., West Ashley

IV

A variety of à la carte vitamin drips will leave you feeling refreshed when the effects of your Sunday Funday aftermath creep into Monday or when you’re fighting off sickness.

📍 Vida Flo | 138 St. Phillips St.
📍 Renew Medical IV Spa | 442 King St.

Acupuncture

From depression to nausea, this time-honored practice has been known to help alleviate a number of both emotional + physical symptoms.

📍 Five Graces Acupuncture | 635 East Bay St.
📍 Blue Heron Acupuncture and Apothecary | 711 St. Andrews Blvd. Ste. A, West Ashley
📍 Charleston Community Acupuncture | 1307 Savannah Hwy., West Ashley

Reiki

This Japanese practice consists of using ‘hands-on healing’ to transfer universal energy through the palms.

📍 Bodhi Tree Charleston | 772 St. Andrews Blvd., West Ashley

Rolfing

A system of soft-tissue manipulation, this technique works to improve pain management, posture, + an individual’s relationship to gravity.

📍 Lowcountry Rolfing | 1739 Maybank Hwy., James Island

I admit it. If you step foot in my house, you’ll likely find a hodgepodge of essential oils, amethyst, honey calcite, + maybe even a deck of tarot or two.

What other offerings would you like to see catch on in town? Fish Pedicure? Beer Spa? Ozone Therapy? Here’s to your health, Charleston! (*Raises a Kombucha*)

– Kalene, Multimedia Producer