The Basics of Chinese Acupuncture
Chinese acupuncture is a method of healing that has been around for thousands of years. The practice began in Asia, and slowly moved across the globe, hitting Europe first and then the Americas. Today, Chinese acupuncture is an accepted method of alternative medicine that works well with many forms of Western medicine or stands alone. This article will cover the basics of acupuncture, including the purpose of treatments and what it can be used for.
Understanding Qi
According the traditional Chinese medicine, qi is the energy force that flows through the body for optimal wellness. Normally the qi flows through imaginary channels within the body, known as meridians. There are 12 main meridians in the body; six are yin and six are yang. There are also numerous minor meridians that also carry qi throughout the body. Certain points along the meridians, known as Chinese acupuncture points or body points, occur when the qi flows closer to the body’s surface. These are often the points of focus during Chinese acupuncture treatments.
Certain factors can cause the qi to become blocked, such as extreme emotional responses to situations or environmental factors like temperature fluctuations, humidity and dryness. When the qi cannot flow freely through the body, physical distress occurs in the form of disease, illness or uncomfortable symptoms. When the body is not operating at optimal wellness, the meridians must be unblocked so that the qi can flow freely once again. This is done with a series of fine needles inserted into the body points to unblock the meridians and release the flow of qi. Chinese acupuncture treatments focus on releasing qi so the body can heal itself and regain a state of wellness.
Chinese acupuncture can be used to treat a whole host of ailments, from recurring headaches to digestive problems. It is also used on occasion for cardiac ailments, mental disorders and reproductive issues. Treatment involves locating the body point responsible for that particular body function and applying Chinese acupuncture treatments to release the flow of qi in those areas. Because the treatments must be precise in terms of choosing body points, it is important to use an acupuncturist who is very experienced in this method of traditional Chinese medicine. The procedure is not terribly painful, and many patients see relief from symptoms relatively quickly.
Chinese acupuncture has been found to be particularly effective when used in tandem with Western medicine methods. It can be very helpful in aiding the body’s own healing processes and can be effective in pain management. Because Chinese acupuncture has grown in popularity in the United States it is not terribly difficult to find experienced acupuncturists in nearly every community from coast to coast. If Chinese acupuncture sounds like an alternative treatment that you would like to try, check the Internet for qualified, experienced acupuncturists in your area.
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