Acupuncture

Acupuncture is one of the main healing modalities used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It dates back over 2,000 years and is a common form of treatment today. Acupuncture was first documented in the “Huang Di Nei Jing” or Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine around 200 B.C. The practice of acupuncture came to the West in the early 1970’s, and has since become a very popular alternative form of medicine for treating many different ailments.

From a Western scientific understanding, studies have shown that acupuncture regulates the nervous system, improves circulation, and boosts the immune system to help fight and prevent illness and disease. Studies have also shown that acupuncture alters brain chemistry by releasing endorphins, neurotransmitters, and neuro-hormones to aid in pain relief.

Qi (pronounced chee), is the “vital energy” that circulates in all living objects and is essential to the health of the being. According to traditional Chinese belief, disease and illness occur when the qi of the body is imbalanced and disharmonious which can be caused due to a dis-regulation in the body, mind, and lifestyle of the individual.

Acupuncture theory of TCM states that there are 12 main meridians in the body as well as other unique meridians. These meridians are channels and pathways that act as a network to connect the main organs and when all is balanced and well then qi, blood, fluids, and nutrients flow undeterred and nourish the body. Along these meridians are specific acu-points which a practitioner can access during treatment to promote healing.

Acupuncturists insert very fine and sterile needles into specific points along the meridians allowing the practitioner to access the qi of the channels and organs to nourish and harmonize the body, creating balance and harmony of the mind, body, and spirit. The acupuncture needles used are much thinner than the hypodermic needles used by doctors and cause minimal to no pain upon insertion. Many patients report a peaceful, relaxed feeling and even fall asleep during the treatment.