The history of acupuncture dates back over 4000 years ago in China. To our knowledge, there was no school where it was taught, instead it was learned through family tradition. It is a part of the Chinese philosophy of the yin and yang…how one nourishes and balances the other. Acupuncture works on the vital energy which is found in every living cell of our body. This energy circulates through a channel system called meridians and contributes to the proper functioning of both the nervous and muscular systems, as well as digestion and circulation. When the body expresses symptoms, an acupuncturist would say that our body is telling us that the circulation in the meridians is obstructed. This necessary flow of energy can be interrupted by different factors such as stress, diet, lifestyle, medication, pollution, accidents, just to name a few.
The physical benefits of acupuncture include:
*Activates the circulation of the chi
*Reduces inflammation
*Improves blood circulation
*Balances the nervous system
*Improves the immune system
*Helps the body heal itself
The effects on mental health include:
*Improved focus
*Reduces insomnia
*Relaxes and calms the mind
*Helps to balance the para sympathetic and sympathetic nervous system
An acupuncturist will regulate the energy circulation by stimulating acupuncture points with very fine disposable needles, along with Chinese herbs that can complement the treatment. Most sessions begin with a health history form to see where the weaknesses are. Usually a series of treatments provides the best results, but it all depends on the severity of the health problem. Receiving an acupuncture treatment is not painful and does not bring about any side effects. Most people feel relaxed both during and after the treatment.
After speaking with an acupuncturist , I learned that some people choose to have acupuncture treatments every season for preventive health to be in synergy with the five elements of fire, water, earth, wood and metal . Because an acupuncturist is able to evaluate your energetic condition, he/she can even notice the imbalance before the symptoms appear. This provides us with a great tool for prevention of some health issues.
