What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture originates from China and has been practiced there for thousands of years. Although there are records of acupuncture being used hundreds of years ago in Europe, it was during the second half of the twentieth century it began to spread rapidly in Western Europe, the United States and Canada. Acupuncture is one of the oldest and most commonly used forms of natural, traditional medicine in the world—dating back 5000 years. It is based on the ancient Chinese theory of the flow of Qi (Energy) and Xue (Blood) through distinct meridians or pathways that cover and fill the body, somewhat like the nerves and blood vessels do. Healthy, open meridians where energy and blood can flow freely are essential for optimal health. Acupuncture treatment is rendered based on Chinese medical diagnosis, which includes assessment of pulse quality, shape and color of the tongue, medical history, and whole body evaluation. Chinese medicine and acupuncture work to treat the whole patient and the root of a problem.
How Does Acupuncture work?
Traditional Chinese medicine explains that health is the result of a harmonious balance of the complementary extremes of yin and yan of the life force known as gi or chi. Qi is said to flow through meridians (pathways) in the human body. Through 350 acupuncture points in the body, these meridians and energy flows may be accessed. Illness is said to be the consequence of an imbalance of the forces. If needles are inserted into these points with appropriate combinations it is said that the energy flow can be brought back into proper balance. In Western societies and several other parts of the world, acupuncture is explained including concepts of neuroscience. Acupuncture points are seen by Western practitioners as places where nerves, muscles and connective tissue can be stimulated. Acupuncture practitioners say that the stimulation increases bloodflow while at the same time triggering the activity of our own body's natural painkillers.
How is acupuncture treatment done?
Acupuncture generally involves several weekly or fortnightly treatments. Most courses consist of up to 12 sessions. A visit to an acupuncturist will involve an exam and an assessment of the patient's condition, the insertion of needles, and advice on self-care. Most sessions last about 30 minutes. The patient will be asked to lie down, either face-up, face-down or on his/her side, depending on where the needless are inserted. The acupuncturist should use single-use disposable sterile needles. As each needle is inserted the patient should feel them, but initially without pain. However, when the needle reaches the right depth there should be a deep aching sensation. Sometimes the needles are heated or stimulated with electricity after insertion. Once inserted, the needles will remain there for about twenty minutes. ​
Health Benefits of Acupuncture
• asthma •strengthens the immune system •anxiety •fibromyalgia • improves blood circulation •depression •cystitis • overcoming certain addictions like smoking,alcohol and drugs •headaches •insomnia •irritable bowel syndrome •chronic •low back pain
Great for Fertility
It helps to regulate your cycle- this means each of the three phases of your cycle are working to their optimum increasing your chances of conception Enhanced follicle development - this means stronger and better quality eggs Thickening in the lining of the uterus - this assists in implantation Minimising stress on the body - allowing your body to function at its best Decreasing inflammation - Inflammation alone can cause so many fertility issues!
