I have been going to Yuval at Life Essence for over 25 years. He is extremely knowledgeable, personable, funny, and an excellent acupuncturists! He has helped me with autoimmune challenges, a herniated disk, and many other illnesses and injuries. I feel heard, cared for and my quality of health and life is overall better. I would highly recommend Yuval at Life Essence clinic. read more

I'm tremendously pleased with my experience at life essence. Instead of steroid injections or surgery, my hip and groin area discomfort is gone. My arthritic knee, which was not one of my reasons for going in, is almost perfect now. The results have been incredible. I have learned a great deal and am very happy to recommend this service . read more

I'm happy to have finally found someone like Yuval. Someone who who, after asking you where the pain is and what you think the issue may be, puts his hands on you and feels where your body may be tighter than it should be and zeros in on what he feels to be the problem area. After physical therapy and chiropractors that went through the motions with my lower back and hip tightness Yuval moved my legs around and found the limit in my range of motion and found the culprit, got deep into the muscle to release the tightness. I have felt increased relief after each visit. When talking with friends and family about our various aches and pains he his my first recommendation. Thanks Yuval...see you tomorrow!! read more

Yuval is a very experienced practitioner and was able to provide relief for post surgical pain. He has helped with significantly increasing range of motion. In addition, my level of comfort in hand and wrist movement is appreciably increased. I would highly recommend Yuval and Life Essence clinic. read more

Yuval totally helped me heal some serious Achilles tendinitis and a neuroma and get me back to walking my miles comfortably. He also makes me laugh! Very convenient evening hours too. Highly recommend. read more

"Yuval is a wonderful acupuncturist. He has supported me through family challenges, helping me both mentally and physically. His acupuncture treatments, combined with his thoughtful listening, have made a real difference in my well-being." read more

I have been seeing Yuval on and off for around 6 years now. Whether I have an injury, need to work on relieving tension in my fascia, or just need to relax, Yuval is my go to person! He is really great at what he does. He also really gets to know his patients and there is a big sense of community there. I highly recommend him! read more

Yuval Avital is absolutely the best healer in our area. I have chronic neck pain and issues from many surgeries and his acupuncture, massage and now cranial sacral therapy ease my pain! Plus, he's funny and always makes his patients feel 100x better than they did before coming in Jane read more

After just one visit I had a huge improvement in my neck pain and shoulder pain that I've been suffering with for years. 2 visits and I was feeling more like my old self. I didn't think this chronic pain would ever change, but it turns out I can feel much better. read more

Well my back was so misaligned, walking and standing was uncomfortable. My posture was a wreck. I had used poor ergonomics for months. And I paid the price dearly. Yuval used a patient approach of acupuncture and the Hendrickson method of músculo skeleton manipulation. He fixed me. Two months later my back is excellent and I have resumed all my regular activities. Thank you, Yuval. read more

The first time I came in to Life's Essence I was experiencing extreme pain from repetitive strain injuries. My job as a skydiving instructor has me doing ten jumps a day five days a week and that leads to some serious physical stress in my rotator cuff and tendinitis in my forearms which was getting to the point of being unbearable. I didn't think I would be able to continue my job. The stress has developed for the better part of 5 years and as if by miracle, in five months of continued therapy with Yuval, I feel as though I never had an issue to begin with. The acupuncture and sports massage therapy has brought me back to life. I should also say that Yuval is more than a practitioner. He is a great person and is evidenced by the care he puts in to getting to know his clients. I feel as though I have gained a friend and someone to confide in. If you come in expecting a miracle in one session, understand that it will probably take some time, but it will be 100% worth it. Two days a week worked wonders for me and after a while although my strain was mostly relieved I still found the sessions to be a massive boost to my physically demanding work weeks. If you are an athlete or otherwise hard working individual then be sure to check out Life's Essence. Highly recommended! read more

I first came to Yuval in May 2022 after a car accident left me with shoulder/arm pain that had started to inhibit my daily functions. He started my initial appointment asking me many questions about my health history and past injuries and I could immediately tell he was concerned about my overall physical health, not just a quick fix from the accident. Each session is started with a check to see how I am - mentally, physically, and emotionally - to make sure that he can cater to my needs that day. I really appreciate that he has taken time to try different strategies (acupuncture, cupping, fascia work, deep massage, and minimal adjustments) and, once my shoulder had recovered, he helped my lower back pain that has plagued me for years and he has continued work on circulation in my legs for varicose veins. Additionally, he has been the best at suggesting supplements to keep me healthy through flu seasons, to help with some sleepless nights from stress from work/life, and to support my varicose veins. To add to it all, I have a needle phobia and Yuval takes time each session to make sure I am comfortable before, during, and after every appointment. Finally, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that Yuval has excellent stories to share while he is working with you - the conversation is never boring - and he has the best recommendations for local restaurants to check out! read more

Yuval is absolutely incredible! He is so knowledgeable and always seems to have a 6th sense as to what's going on with an injury. He understands my MRI findings and also incorporates what I'm telling him I'm experiencing with my back pain and creates his treatment plan based on all of the information and symptoms. 10 years ago I was scheduled for back surgery with a local neurosurgeon and was advised to get a second opinion at Stanford. The Stanford surgeon recommended acupuncture for 6 weeks and then he would reevaluate the situation. Thanks to Yuval I never had the surgery and was back to normal active life in less than 3 months. He is always positive and optimistic and super encouraging, which is so helpful when you're in pain. He's helping me now with a re injury and has done an amazing amount of work to help me heal. I just can't say enough good things about Yuval! I trust him with my life and would give him 10 stars if I could! read more

Yuval is amazing. I have had Bell's Palsy twice. The first time was eight years ago. I went to the emergency room and they gave me antibiotic and an anti viral and that was all. It took almost a year to recover. This time I started in the ER but decided to try something different. It's been one month and I am about 75-80% recovered. Yuval and acupuncture helped me out immensely read more

Yuval is friendly, cheerful, and compassionate. I appreciate his great sense of humor as well! He is highly knowledgeable and skilled. Yuval helped me to solve menopause-related health issues through acupuncture treatments as well as looking at the big picture and asking for further tests from my regular doctors. Thanks to Yuval, my health issues were resolved! I am very grateful. read more

I hoppled into Yuval's office almost in tears with planters fasciitis, heal spur and bad knees. My feet were in pain they prevented me from walking and exercise. My toes being so stiff I could hardly bend them and my knees were weak I felt they would give out at anytime. Over the last several months Yuval has worked with acupuncture and deep tissue massage to begin my healing process. He also gave me exercises to do at home to strengthen my knees and I had to soak my feet twice a day. Now when I wake up my feet and knees are pain free. When I walk now my stride is longer and with no pain. I no longer have to stop walking to give my knees a break. Also Yuval has a wonderful sense of humor. When I leave his office I have a smile on my face and I'm a better person. read more

I have a very challenging body due to scoliosis and spinal injuries. Yuval has changed my life by greatly reducing my pain with what seems like magical acupuncture and massage. Not only are his skills incredibly specialized, he is one of the kindest and funniest people I have ever met. I look forward to my sessions every week for pain relief and comic relief. When I came in with a bad cough, he treated my virus and asthma with a variety of Chinese herbs that gave me immense relief. Do not wait to schedule with Yuval. Your life will be changed for the better. read more

I was referred to Yuval many years ago by my PCP. He has seen me over the years for a number of concerns with success. My favorite success story is the resolution of cataracts my ophthalmologist diagnosed. When I originally received this diagnosis, I explained I would let my acupuncturist know so he could begin treatment. I also saw my ophthalmologist in follow up during this treatment so he could document the difference in the measurements of my cataracts. As my treatment continued I began to experience changes in my vision as well. I could see things more clearly and I was able to see the subtle variations in colors! After a recent automobile accident with associated head trauma, my ophthalmologist examined my eyes and referred me back to my acupuncturist for treatment of a severely thinned optic nerve. This too has resolved with acupuncture. I avoided eye surgery in both of these instances. Yuval has helped heal my mind, body and spirit. read more

I should be seeing Yuval every week. I am a nurse and because I only come in to him for emergencies he is very patient with me every time I'm in dire pain he literally fixes it to where I can function again and feel good. He is very patient and kind and he can tell when you're in a lot of distress he knows pretty much what you need to be doing when you tell him your symptoms and you just have to trust him. I feel blessed to know this practice I would have been in the emergency room today without him. read more

Yuval at Lifes Essence has been trained in many modalities and has helped me with hip pain through the use of acupuncture, electroacupuncture, physical therapy, and massage. He is a very skilled practitioner and, with his sense of humor and good personality, makes you feel very comfortable. read more

I became a client of Yuval Avital of Life's Essence in Begonia Plaza, Capitola, after seeing the amazing progress that one of my colleagues achieved under his care. I suffer from an issue with my jaw and it is difficult to find anyone who even understands the problem. Yuval has been very helpful with this and other Issues. I highly recommend him for both acupuncture and bodywork. read more

Yuval is bar none the best acupuncturist I've ever been to. His knowledge, expertise and compassion are outstanding. He cares about every patient and is an amazing healer. I've gone to him when nothing else has helped and walk out feeling better every time. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for the best acupuncturist and five stars are not enough to rate his services! read more

I was lucky to happen upon Yuval to help me with a knee issue I've been having for some time. His multidimensional approach of acupuncture, orthopedics, massage and exercises is thorough and refreshing, and he provides a very positive vibe. He has even given me excellent suggestions for outdoor activities in the area! (I'm from out of town) I've only been a few times but I can already feel my knee improving. I highly recommend Yuval Avital and Lifes Essence read more

I am so grateful to have found Yuval! I've had musculoskeletal pain for many years due to a connective tissue disorder. I've probably seen 20+ different massage therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, orthopedists, physical therapists, etc. who have been everything from helpful to harmful. Yuval is kind, funny, and highly skillful in his work. At the beginning of each appointment he checks in with me about how I'm feeling, both physically and mentally, and adjusts the treatment accordingly. My appointments are usually a mixture of acupuncture, cupping, and massage techniques. We often discuss activities and exercises that may exacerbate or mitigate my pain. He is very familiar with the complex workings of the body and connections between specific areas and issues. I often leave feeling not only physically better but also emotionally lighter. I highly recommend Yuval to anyone who is experiencing pain, whether chronic or acute. He's made a real difference in my life over the last year. read more

I am a registered nurse who works in the community so I am exposed to many diseases on a regular basis. I had a terrible flu-like virus that would not go away with any kind of western medicine. I ran a fever of 102-104 for 2 weeks, extremely swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, horrible fatigue etc. I spent hundreds of dollars looking for a diagnosis and felt I very much had to be my own advocate when I went to see my PCP. They just prescribed penicillin I scheduled an appointment with Yuval for acupuncture. He prescribed some herbs and within a few days this mysterious illness I had been fighting for over 3 weeks finally began to subside and within 4 days I was completely healed. I now see him about once a week to work on other health issues and I am very happy and confident with his treatments :) read more

I see Yuval twice a week and between the acupuncture and the Tuina Massage my whole life has begun to turn around. His positive attitude and skilled treatments have brought much hope and healing into my experience. My pain levels have dropped so much I get up in the morning with joy. I look forward to spending time with my Grandkids and doing what I love. This is something I have not had for longer than I can remember. The teaching I have received about nutrition and food allergies will help me and everyone in my family. What a gift! Yuval has given my quality of life back to me and I fully expect more miracles. I am swimming three times a week and playing with my family. I am so grateful. My thyroid levels have returned to normal as well. The doctor is amazed too as he was going to have me start taking Synthroid. Wow! The clinic is very comfortable and appointments are easy to make. The parking is great and accessible to those with different abilities. You can get your herbs there from Yuval and the clinic is centrally located. It just doesn't get any better. It is difficult to leave without a big smile. May all of you who seek healing find your way to Life Essence. read more

I was referred to Life's Essence by a close friend who received very positive health benefits. I sought treatment for a fractured calcaneous, fractured scapula and the reduced range of motion they caused me. Yuval has been tremendous to work with as he asked me about my issues and provided me with a tailored treatment plan. With the acupuncture, hendrickson massage and tuina massage my pain was greatly reduced. Yuval was able to help me get my range of motion back and speed my recovery time with herbs and ointments. Yuval is charismatic and brings positive energy with his treatment process which is a tremendous asset. I highly recommend Life's Essence as it has really made the quality of my life so much better. read more

I have been a patient at Life's Essence for acupuncture and massage for a couple of years now! It helps my condition dramatically! I think of Yuval as more of a muscle technician, he fine tunes my body so i leave feeling refreshed and much more centered. Worth every penny! I highly recommend using the Services at Life's Essence. read more

We were referred to Yuval by my sister In Law. My husband and I started going to Yuval back in Oct. of 2020, he has made a huge impact with our health. I was having constant pain on both upper arms, went for Therapy which didn't help. Started going to Yuval and made a huge difference, my pain is gong. My husband was was having some health issues (Prostate & Kidney) and Yuval has also made a huge impact. Yuval not only helped with my husbands health issues but he also helped us by teaching us a healthy eating plan which not only helped us loose a little weight but dropped our A1C's to a healthy level. I totally recommend seeing Yuval for any kind of issues you might be experiencing. Don't wait till things get out of control do something for yourself. read more

Yuval is the best. He's really knowledgeable and skilled and always leaves me with a stretch or exercise or advice about posture. He's been happy to take last minute appointments when available. Thank you, Yuval! read more

My friend Michelle referred me to Yuval for acupuncture a couple of years ago for a lower back sprain. I called and got his rates but then opted for the less expensive treatment through Communi-qi. I totally regret that decision. For the quality of care, it ended up a waste of money and a negative experience. Last November, when I tore a ligament n my shoulder, again, my friend recommended Yuval. The initial visit was a little more money because of the additional assessment and evaluation time. I was in agony and could barely use my right arm. For about 3 weeks I came twice a week. We started each session with needles and then he spent another 45 minutes doing massage and cupping and physical therapy. Sometimes I was there an hour to 90 minutes. He is amazing to work with. I regained full use of my shoulder after 3 weeks but I still go back to see him every 3-4 weeks for tune-ups and to fix other things that are starting to go on this 57 year old body. He does some amazing TMJ release work on my jaw. He is a healer. He is so knowledgable of muscles and ligaments. His office is very comfortable and quiet and clean. I feel very cared for when I walk through his doors. I recommend him every chance I get. read more

Yuval is amazing! Kind, considerate, goes out of his way to help u feel better. I have been going from doc to doc. No one Could make my pain in my feet and legs go away. Yuval has done amazing things to my feet and legs. My toes were curled under and my legs felt like they were filled with cement. I thought I was going to end up in a wheelchair for life. But, this wonderful man, Yuval, came into my life! I now am positive, he will continue to help me get better! I am so grateful!!!!! Jill Miller read more

Yuval Avital is an accomplished healer. As I progressed in age I had given up doing some of the physical and sporting things I really enjoyed. Acupuncture and body work by Yuval over the past year has re-opened all of my favorite activities. I would give him unlimited stars if available. read more

Yuval has been an incredible asset in rebuilding my health!. He has also worked with my 8 year old daugther. We went in for different things. He has helped me recover from neck and back pain from a car accident along with building my immune system as I suffer from allergies, both food and pollen. He has a great personality too which makes it very comfortable for my daughter to get treatments. Since we have seen her she hasn't been sick. Before coming to see Yuval she got sick ALL the time. I definitely think Yuval is worth giving a try if you haven't experienced acupuncture and if you have you will not be disappointed. read more

Yuval is incredible. He can zero in on where I am hurting and I always leave feeling better. He listens to you and is so knowledgeable. He has a great personality and I usually leave laughing.....although he is a bit of a trouble maker read more

Me atropelló un carro cuando iba caminando a la escuela y me dejo con fracturas en mis vértebras y mi brazo derecho. En emergencias no me quisieron hacer cirugía porque podría quedar parapléjico. En lugar de eso, me dieron medicina para el dolor y me recomendaron reposo absoluto. Esto me ocasionó problemas digestivos, aumento de peso y atrofia en mis músculos. Un año después del accidente, mi vida era totalmente diferente. No podía moverme, no tenía fuerzas para nada. Afortunadamente me recomendaron a Yuval. El me ha atendido pacientemente y le ha devuelto la movilidad y fortaleza a mis músculos. Aún sigo en tratamiento pero a este punto he ganado movilidad y con ello he bajado de peso. Yuval bo solamente me ha dado terapia de acupuntura, sino que también me ha dado masajes de tuina y consejos nutricionales. Mis dolores crónicos van desapareciendo y espero pronto tener una mejor fortaleza física incluso la que tenía antes del accidente. read more

On a recommendation, I tried Life's Essence and Yuval for a severe tendon problem. Had thought about acupuncture but was never sure how to go about finding a good practicioner. Long story short, after 4 months of treatments, I had 100% of the strength in my arm back, got turned on to Chinese herbs for healing and in turn, have recommended Yuval to others. He's really easy to get along with, has a good sense of humor and takes insurance. Just not the insurance I have, but hey, it was worth it. read more

Einav has a great Bradley class that my husband and I would highly recommend to pregnant couples. It was a wonderful resource for keeping a healthy and mindful pregnancy, learning all about the birthing process, and creating camaraderie with a lovely bunch of people. I also received pregnancy-related acupuncture from Einav and felt safe and well taken care of by her capable hands. Thanks Einav! read more

Yuval has been amazing with me. He has help me to understand my pain and what I was doing to cause the issue. I too had been going from doctor to doctor trying to get rid of the pain. I was not interested in taken prescription meds. I totally recommend his services. He truly goes out of his way to understand your needs. I feel great! read more

Yuval is a miracle worker. He truly cares about the well being of his patients. I was in constant and severe pain due to inflamed arthritis in my neck. I had been to several doctors previously and had the cortisone injection into my vertebrae and many months of physical therapy. All of this helped some but it wasn't until I went to see Yuval that I truly started healing and feeling better. I was on a strong daily ibuprofen regimen for quite some time just to get through a day and tolerate the pain. I am now free of pain med of any kind and slowly starting to get my mobility and strength back. He gave me back my life. Judy in Aptos. read more