What
is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been
practised in eastern countries for thousands of years. It is used to treat a
variety of illnesses with a focus on improving overall well-being of the patient
rather than the isolated treatment of specific symptoms.
According to traditional Chinese philosophy, our health is dependent on the
body's motivating energy - known as Qi - moving in a balanced way through a
series of meridians (channels) beneath the skin.
Qi (pronounced 'chee') has equal and opposite qualities - Yin and Yang
- and when
these become unbalanced, illness may result.
The flow of Qi can
be disturbed by a number of factors : anxiety, stress, anger, fear or grief,
poor nutrition, weather conditions, hereditary factors, infections, poisons
and trauma.
By inserting fine
needles into the channels of energy, an acupuncturist can stimulate the body's
own healing response and help to restore its natural balance both physically,
emotionally and spiritually.
When
the needles are inserted, many people do not feel anything very much, or may
sometimes feel a small sharp sensation. This is often followed by a feeling
of heaviness, numbness, heat or some other sensation. Most people feel a pleasant
sensation during and following treatment. It is also very relaxing and patients
often feel calmer and more balanced following treatment.