Acupuncture is believed to have originated in China around 2,500 to 3,000 years ago. Since then it has progressively developed into its current state, which is seen as an alternative medical solution to drugs and other invasive treatment. Acupuncture uses needles to stimulate key regions of the body, with the ultimate goal being overall health and well-being. Let’s find out more about it and exactly how it can help you.
Acupuncture For Modern Times
Acupuncture affects the metabolic activity throughout the entire body. Traditionally, this has been referred to as “Qi” or “Chi” by ancient Chinese medicine. However, modern science believes this ancient concept is extremely relevant to people today.
Scientists have long believed that the body functions as an overall system. A problem in one area can affect the entire body. For example, an anxious mind can cause physical symptoms through the whole body, including shaking and nausea. Another example is displayed when someone misses a meal. It is a simple thing to overlook, but the result of an empty stomach is decreased blood sugar throughout the body, resulting in fatigue and often a grumpy mood. This correlates strongly with the Chinese concepts of overall energy flow, and is a cornerstone of acupuncture treatment.
What Happens During Treatment?
The way the treatment works is that the practitioner will give the patient an overall health assessment, which can include checking the pulse, tongue color, and asking general health questions. This helps them determine the areas to be targeted. The patient then lies down on a table. Fine needles are inserted into precise points on the body. They are usually left in place for 5 to 30 minutes, then removed.
Defeat Depression
Many people suffering from depression respond well to acupuncture. This is due to its effect on the body’s hormones, resulting in improved moods.
A major factor to consider is the physical contact, and even the slight pain from the treatment. Both have been identified as ways to reduce depression. Physical contact has obvious benefits on someone’s mood, but what about physical pain? Well, consider someone who goes for a hard run. They will experience minor suffering and discomfort, but the body will release endorphins throughout the body, boosting the person’s mood considerably. Acupuncture’s insertion of the needles can help release these natural painkillers.
Manage Stress And Anxiety
The insertion of needles into the right areas can have a harmonious effect on the body as a whole, reducing stress hormones and lessening anxiety. Consider a massage for example. This is an effective way to help people relax. However, acupuncture takes it to the next level by precisely targeting specific areas to create a feeling of calm throughout the entire body.
Many people are trying to find an alternative to antidepressants. This is mainly due to the negative side effects that they can have. Acupuncture is becoming an increasingly popular solution. However, the ancient technique has also been used to treat the side effects.
Fight Off Back Pain
Heavy labor jobs, as well as office jobs where people are hunched over a laptop, regularly lead to back pain. Acupuncture is an extremely effective measure to reduce this problem. The insertion of needles into the back by a skilled practitioner, reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation. This makes it a great option for those seeking a drug-free solution to their pain.
Reduce Headaches
Many people are prone to headaches, ranging from low-intensity ones to full-on migraines. Routine acupuncture treatment has shown a reduction in the frequency, duration, and intensity of headaches assorted with stress and tension.
Improve Sexual Health
For those suffering from a lagging sex drive, this technique can offer a solution. Lessened libido is often associated with stress and other emotional disturbances. Acupuncture’s ability to improve emotional health often results in improved sexual desire.
Putting It All Together
The key concept to take away from acupuncture is that the body is one single overall system, instead of individual body parts operating independently. An imbalance in one area will affect other locations. This ancient technique’s ability, to stimulate nerves and hormones, can create a harmonious energy flow throughout your entire body, to cure ailments that you may have believed were completely location dependent.
Andrew Morrison
Andrew Morrison is a professional massage therapist who has worked in the industry for many years. He currently writes for future-focus.eu and is dedicated to his work. In his spare time he rides a bike and enjoys getting outdoors or going to the gym.
