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Oncology Programs
Integrative Support for Healing
TESTIMONIALS
"Matt is a gem! His acupuncture treatments go beyond what I've experienced with other acupuncture practitioners. His approach supports the health of the body, mind and spirit. He is also an exceptional teacher of Qigong. I'm so grateful for his care and its role in my recovery from breast cancer."
-Jessica A.
TESTIMONIALS
“I am thankful to have been referred to Channel Acupuncture by Ridley-Tree Cancer Center and my oncologist. Matt is very knowledgeable, calm, patient, informative and truly amazing! My experience was really wonderful in that at first of course the thought of needles was like "Yikes!" but Matt talks you through it and answers your questions. The environment is very calming and extremely comfortable so much so during my treatments I would totally fall asleep each time. I leave each appointment wanting to jump, dance and praise how wonderful I felt. Thank you Ridley-Tree Cancer Center and Matt Pesendian.”
-Alma J.
TESTIMONIALS
"Going through breast cancer is traumatizing and puts you in a vulnerable place. I totally trust Matt an have always felt safe and cared for in his treatments. He's knowledgeable, professional, respectful, experienced, and kind.
He's helped me get through a lot in my healing."
-Valerie B.
TESTIMONIALS
"I am thankful to have been referred to Channel Acupuncture by Ridley-Tree Cancer Center and my oncologist. Matt is very knowledgeable, calm, patient, informative and truly amazing!"
-Aly J.
TESTIMONIALS
“I began acupuncture after radiation and surgery. I had never had acupuncture before and I was rather apprehensive at the beginning. Matt was so wonderful in every way. He was thoughtful and caring, knowledgeable and experienced, gentle and patient, respectful and mindful of my mental and emotional state. He also dealt with the issue of recurrent migraines that I never thought I would ever be free from. Matt was instrumental in the process of my body’s healing and recovery. I will forever be grateful to him."
-Elena R.
TESTIMONIALS
"I would like to express my gratitude to the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara for your dedication and commitment to the Community in Santa Barbara County. I have been receiving Acupuncture treatment from Matt Pesendian since my Chemotherapy treatment began in November 2021. Acupuncture helped my tremendously to manage the side effects of Chemotherapy such as nausea, constipation and fatigue. I know as a native of Japan, eastern medicine has so much to contribute to this field. Mr. Pesendian is an expert in this. Lastly, I am grateful for my experience. I certainly hope this program will continue to be available to people who are going through cancer treatment. With sincere appreciation."
-Miyoko K.
In 2013, Matt Pesendian developed the first Acupuncture Oncology Program in collaboration with the Santa Barbara Cancer Foundation and Ridley-Tree Cancer Center—creating a pioneering model of integrative care for those navigating cancer treatment.
Patients referred to this program receive eight complimentary acupuncture sessions, generously supported by the Santa Barbara Cancer Foundation and local community donors.
If you’ve been referred—or feel called to explore this healing program—please call (805)452-2199 to schedule.
Want to support this program? Donate via the Santa Barbara Cancer Foundation at sb-cancerfoundation.org.
ONCOLOGY ACUPUNCTURE
Especially effective for chemotherapy-related symptoms
Post-surgical, radiation-related, neuropathy
Enhances energy and reduces cancer-related fatigue
Eases tingling and numbness from chemotherapy
Relief for head and neck cancer patients
Reduces hormone therapy or chemo-induced flashes
Helps with anxiety, depression, and stress
Improves sleep quality
Reduces bloating, constipation, and diarrhea
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Since 2005, Matt has offered weekly Qigong classes for cancer patients and caregivers, originally at Ridley-Tree Cancer Center and now at Channel Acupuncture and Bodimanda Yoga-Qigong Studio.
This program empowers patients to:
•Restore balance and vitality
•Relieve pain and tension
•Improve energy and resilience
•Find peace, calm, and community support
About Qigong:
Gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness, Qigong supports physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Participants often describe the experience as both grounding and liberating, creating a sanctuary during challenging times.
Join Us:
Weekly classes are open to those navigating cancer care and recovery. Contact us to learn more or register for a session.
LONGEVITY QIGONG
COMPASSIONATE CARE FOR CANCER PATIENTS
Cancer treatment is a demanding journey—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Our Oncology Programs combine evidence-informed acupuncture and restorative qigong to ease side effects, reduce stress, and nurture resilience.
Studio Information
Location
Channel Acupuncture
Bodhimanda Qigong & Yoga Studio
2600 De La Vina Street, Suite D
Santa Barbara, Ca 93105
Parking Note
Please note: Street parking only. Kindly refrain from using the parking lot. Thank you for your understanding.
Meet Matt PESENDIAN
Matt Pesendian is a dedicated healing arts practitioner with over 30 years of experience helping people restore health, clarity, and inner strength.
Through acupuncture, herbal medicine, yoga, and qigong, Matt blends ancient wisdom with modern insight to support whole-body wellness and personal growth.
As the founder of Channel Acupuncture Clinic and Bodhimanda Qigong-Yoga Studio in Santa Barbara, he has created a space where ancient traditions meet the evolving science of mind-body medicine—offering an integrative path to physical vitality, mental balance, and spiritual harmony.
Learn More
Slow, gentle, yet energizing, these Longevity Qigong forms are based on ancient Chinese yoga postures, movements, self-massage, and breathing techniques. They enhance the immune system by strengthening bones and organs, along with promoting optimal blood flow, lymphatic circulation, and oxygen intake.
LONGEVITY QIGONG
Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and backed by modern science, acupuncture views the body as an interconnected whole. By strategically stimulating precise points along energy and fascial channels, this time-tested therapy restores internal balance, addresses root causes, and awakens the body’s natural ability to heal.
CHANNEL ACUPUNCTURE
Explore a rare, integrative system merging the grounded strength of Hatha Yoga with the dynamic movements of Kalari, an ancient South Indian martial art. This unique, energetic practice combines martial-inspired stances, yoga asanas, breathwork, and meditation to strengthen the body, focus the mind, and open the heart.
KALARI Yoga
CONNECT
With a focus on evidence-based natural therapies, Matt specializes in acupuncture, cupping, herbal medicine, moxibustion, and nutritional guidance. His teachings of Longevity Qigong and Kalari Yoga further enhance resilience, vitality, and well-being.
HOURS & LOCATION
Channel Acupuncture
Bodhimanda Qigong & Yoga Studio
2600 De La Vina St. Suite D
Santa Barbara, Ca 93105
805-452-2199