Acupuncture

I often get asked what acupuncture is and how it works.  Since I’m starting a new blog, I’d figure I would explain some things before going into how well acupuncture works for *insert concern here*.  

Most people know that acupuncture involves needles.  That part is correct.  I pulled a blurb from my website about what it is and how it works. 

Acupuncture is an effective form of medical treatment that has been practiced for over 5,000 years. Acupuncture is one component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM. Acupuncture is a safe, natural, drug-free and effective way to realign and rebalance the energy systems in your body. Acupuncture stimulates your body's own healing abilities and promotes natural healing. Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete holistic approach; therefore, it can be used to treat the entire person. Mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional imbalances can be addressed to improve overall health and well being.

Acupuncture is based on the belief that living beings have Qi that circulates through twelve invisible energy lines known as meridians that connect all of our major organs. An imbalance or block in the flow of qi throughout a meridian is how disease begins and an illness arises.  A western view is the insertion and stimulation of needles into specific points located all throughout the body to alter biochemical and physiological conditions to achieve your desired result. 

There are numerous theories about how acupuncture works. Some of them are:

• acupuncture stimulates the release of pain-relieving endorphins
• acupuncture influences the release of neurotransmitters, substances that transmit nerve impulses to the brain
• acupuncture influences the autonomic nervous system
• acupuncture stimulates circulation
• acupuncture influences the electrical currents of the body

When needles are inserted into acupuncture point, energy flows through the meridians to the areas of the body that are in need of healing. These points also stimulate the Central Nervous System (CNS) to help release your own natural chemicals into the body. These chemicals help to reduce pain and trigger your body's hormones to regulate your body and bring it back into balance.  Acupuncture can increase circulation, decrease inflammation, pain relief and boost the immune system. 

One last thing that tends to go into the unknown is what exactly is qi.  Different cultures have different spellings, but it all means the same.  Qi or vital (life) energy flows through out your body. Qi stimulates the body and protects it from illness, pain and disease. A person's health is influenced by the balance and quality of Qi. When Qi is out of balance, your body will send out distress signals (headaches, body pains, depression, etc.). Many things influence Qi; physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, diet, and seasonal changes.  

I hope that helps explain a little about acupuncture.  Next week, I’m thinking about writing about stress and how acupuncture can help with lowering this nasty uninvited guest.  It definitely knows how to leave a mark.  Have a great weekend.  In health and balance.