Acupuncture is a natural and holistic treatment modality, the first evidence of which can be traced back to ancient China. It involves the insertion of very fine, single-use, sterile needles into specific points to manipulate Qi or ‘life force.’ The aim is to tap into the body’s innate healing capability, promoting a natural therapeutic process.
How does it work?
According to traditional Eastern medical philosophy, acupuncture points on the skin surface connect through energy systems to the internal organs. Stimulating points on the skin’s surface facilitates deep and systemic healing. The acupuncture points form channels (meridians), which act like roads on the skin surface for Qi to flow through.
Where there is a blockage or deficiency in Qi, the natural state of harmony in the body is disturbed and health problems inevitably arise. Acupuncture works to encourage free flow of Qi in order to restore a healthy balance, nourish the body and maximise its inherent capacity to restore good health.
How can it benefit your health?
Acupuncture is clean, safe and effective. It encourages healing without introducing anything foreign in the way that drugs, herbs or vitamins do. It is used to treat the full spectrum of health complaints, and may be used alongside other treatments, regardless of whether these are Western or complementary medical interventions. Based on over 5,000 years clinical experience, the acupuncture we practice today has evolved with modern medicine.
Numerous scientific research projects have been carried out in order to explain the mechanisms of acupuncture. So far, these studies have found acupuncture to have:
– A neurological influence – making it an effective and natural pain and stress management tool.
– A hormonal influence – regulating mood and reproductive hormones.
– A local tissue influence – speeding up the healing process and recovery after surgery, radiotherapy and some disorders of the muscles, tendons and bones (for example, diabetic ulcerations).
When done properly acupuncture doesn’t hurt. It’s common to feel a dull, heavy, perhaps even slightly aching sensation around each needle. Most people find acupuncture treatment to be wonderfully relaxing and leave the clinic feeling calm, centred and focused.
