Ask Yourself: What Is Acupuncture And How Can It Help You?

By Jason Miller


The question is often posed; 'What is acupuncture?' It is a ancient form of Chinese healing based on the theory that there is a vital flow of energy within all living things. A free movement of this life force is necessary for optimal health. Chi, or energy, moves along set pathways called 'meridians'. Each pathway sustains a specific organ. Balance is all important, and this centuries-old practice is designed to restore and maintain a state of well-being.

Acupressure is an even older method of healing that operates on the same theory of energy flow; it involves finger and hand pressure on specific points of the body. Instead of finger pressure, acupuncturists use needles to stimulate the 'pressure points', in order to release blockages in the energy flow. There are many of these pressure points and many meridians. The Chinese believe that the meridians should be carefully protected. For example, one meridian includes the ear lobe, so piercing the lobe is considered unwise.

It is really simple to understand, even for westerners who are not familiar with this oriental methodology. Think of the flow as circulation and the blockages as 'kinks'. This is nor entirely accurate, of course, but can help people who need a picture in their mind - like those who think of electrical current as water in a pipe rather than as a flow of invisible electrons. Acupuncture is now widely used in the United States, especially for relief of back pain and chronic migraine headaches. It can also help those with weak immune systems, stress-related problems, and fatigue.

It is a common practice to find an acupuncturist on staff at medical clinics, and massage therapists who practice 'shiatsu', another method based on the theories of acupressure. Doctors have found that some ailments can be treated with these safe and non-invasive practices, rather than pharmaceutical drugs that may have undesirable side effects. Even surgery can be avoided, if the patient responds favorable to any of these other healing arts.

There are no known side effects to a session with an acupuncturist, and no lengthy recovery period as with surgery. The insertion of the needles is painless, with the mild discomfort of the actual insertion being fleeting and acceptable even to the squeamish. Different pressure points will be used to effect alleviation of pain or imbalance.

Researchers in this field have validated the benefits of pressure-point stimulation. It is thought that neurotransmitters released during the 'un-blocking' process help block pain messages to the brain while the body heals itself. There are many natural processes to deal with pain, if the pathways of healing are kept open.

The release of endorphins probably also plays a part in restoring health. These 'feel-good' hormones fight pain and stress-related problems, like sleep disorders and stress headaches. Many experience a lift in mood during a session with the acupuncturist, who may be focusing on another health issue.

'What is acupuncture?' is a question that anyone not familiar with this ancient method of healing should ask. The health of you and your whole family might benefit greatly once you know the answer. Check out the American Association of Oriental Medicine for more information and the answers to all your questions and concerns. You can also find a practitioner near you in their directory.




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