Meet Michael Stubblefield of Escondido

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Stubblefield.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Michael:
My journey into the healing arts began in my youth through the study of martial arts, which naturally led me to explore Qigong and yoga. This early foundation inspired a lifelong passion for traditional Eastern therapies. In 1998, I enrolled at Mueller College of Holistic Studies, where I trained in massage therapy, Acupressure (Tuina), and Traditional Thai Massage.

A personal struggle with eczema in my late teens and early twenties deepened my connection to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Searching for a natural solution, I was introduced to a Chinese herbalist and began brewing and drinking traditional herbal teas—despite their often unpleasant taste, they worked, and I’ve been devoted to this medicine ever since.

In 2000, I traveled to China to study under Dr. Xei Peiqi, an 82-year-old master of the Yin Style Bagua Medical System, gaining profound insight into classical Chinese medical theory. Four years later, I advanced my studies in Traditional Thai Massage at Wat Pho in Bangkok and the Old Medicine Hospital in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

In 2005, I earned a Master of Science in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, where I specialized in women’s health and fertility. Currently, I am pursuing a specialty certification in dermatology, with a focus on using traditional Chinese herbal medicine to treat a range of skin conditions.

Ivy:
Born and raised in Isan, the northeastern region of Thailand, I grew up in a culture where healing was deeply rooted in nature and tradition. Herbal remedies and local folk healers were part of everyday life, offering trusted care for common ailments—often more accessible than modern medicine. My understanding of holistic healing deepened when I witnessed my grandmother’s full recovery from a stroke through acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). That powerful experience left a lasting impression and sparked a deep curiosity in me about the body’s natural ability to heal.

Though I initially dreamed of becoming a medical doctor, my own journey as an acupuncture patient in my early twenties shifted my path. After two and a half years of regular treatments that brought profound healing, I felt called to study acupuncture and immerse myself in TCM. Today, I’m passionate about supporting women through all stages of life, from fertility and family-building to pain relief and overall wellness. My goal is to meet each person with compassion, helping them reconnect with their vitality and supporting their healing journey—body, mind, and spirit.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the challenges we face is balancing our patient-centered approach with the demands of running a business. Providing personalized, holistic care takes time and attention, which can sometimes be at odds with the operational and administrative side of things. Still, our commitment to quality care always comes first.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At our acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinic, we specialize in holistic, personalized care for women’s health, fertility, and dermatological concerns. Whether you are navigating hormonal imbalances, preparing for conception, or seeking natural solutions for skin conditions like acne or eczema, our treatments are tailored to support your body’s innate healing abilities. We use acupuncture and herbal medicine to regulate menstrual cycles, enhance reproductive health, and improve skin clarity and vitality. Additionally, acupuncture is a powerful tool for pain relief, offering a natural and effective way to manage conditions such as menstrual cramps, back pain, and migraines without the need for pharmaceuticals. Our goal is to help you restore balance, relieve discomfort, and achieve optimal well-being.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Acupuncture and traditional Chinese herbal medicine is still foreign too many. But, it seems to be gaining or more popularity. I can see more and more people utilizing it in the future.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sagehillacupuncture.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sagehillacupuncture
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SageHillAcupuncture
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sage-hill-acupuncture-and-herbal-medicine-escondido

Image Credits
Photos by Courtney Nightingale at floraandmoss.com