Biography Illya Borreson, R.Ac

Illya began his studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1998. He obtained his Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diploma at the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Victoria, B.C. (2002).  He concluded his studies with an internship at Tianjing Second University Hospital in Tianjing, China.  His intensive experience there sparked a profound appreciation for Chinese culture, philosophy and tradition.  Illya’s residency in China also fostered a strong commitment to Chinese Medicine and he has been devoted to his practice ever since. 

Illya began his studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1998. He obtained his Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diploma at the International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Victoria, B.C. (2002).  He concluded his studies with an internship at Tianjing Second University Hospital in Tianjing, China.  His intensive experience there sparked a profound appreciation for Chinese culture, philosophy and tradition.  Illya’s residency in China also fostered a strong commitment to Chinese Medicine and he has been devoted to his practice ever since. 

Upon Illya's second trip to China in 2006, he worked at the reputable Shanghai East International Medical Hospital.  After a year and a half of observing a wide variety of health modalities there - including physiotherapy and chiropractic medicine - he then moved to southeast Thailand where he joined the team at Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa Resort.  Recognized for its outstanding Traditional Chinese Medicine department and signature health retreats, Kamalaya is one of the leading holistic medical spas in Asia.

While practicing in Asia, Illya worked together with doctors from Naturopathic, Ayurvedic and Western medical backgrounds to achieve the health goals of his clients. He learned specialized techniques for traditional and cosmetic acupuncture under the mentorship of esteemed Chinese Medicine Doctors.

Upon returning to Canada in late 2008, Illya brought his unique experience to Victoria and started developing Acusculpting® - a cosmetic acupuncture protocol to treat the whole body. He founded Victoria Community Acupuncture + Spa in 2011, and dedicated five years to building a multi-disciplinary clinic which he sold in 2016.

Illya then opened his independent private practice in Victoria, Aculoft, where he currently practices today. He joined the faculty at Pacific Rim College (PRC) in 2015, where he supervised the student clinic on campus and at the Victoria Native Friendship Center for three years. He enjoys returning to PRC as a visiting instructor to teach Acusculpting® workshops.

As an NCCAOM Professional Development Activity Provider, Illya is passionate about mentoring other practitioners and building healthy and inspired communities. He has reached hundreds of acupuncturists across the globe, and he looks forward to growing Acusculpting® which is now NCCAOM approved.