ACUPUNCTURE
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the practice of inserting very fine, disposable needles in to specific points along your body's energetic pathways or meridians. This regulates the flow of qi, blood and body fluids that course along the meridians.
What are meridians and how do they work?!
The pathways refer to the Meridians or Channels that connect the body's organs and physical structure to one another. I like to imagine the body as a globe. The globe has latitudinal and longitudinal lines that cannot be seen by the human eye, but we are aware that they exist. They are used as a mapping system, just as the Meridians of the body.
Now pretend that the continents represent they body's organs. Organs such as the lungs and heart lying above the equator, stomach, liver and gall bladder along the midline, and the intestines and urinary bladder below. Along the Meridians lie very important points to help each "continent" or organ speak with one another. The major cities within each continent may represent acu-points that are key players in moving qi and blood, while smaller "cities" or acu-points represent those that are not used as often, though no less important than the rest.
What should you expect when receiving an acupuncture treatment?
Each treatment is approximately one hour in length, with the exception of the initial visit. You will discuss your general health history, along with the reason you are seeking treatment. Your practitioner will diagnose you within the parameters of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which may include tongue, pulse and abdominal palpation.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
The experience and sensation of the acupuncture treatment varies from patient to patient. Generally speaking, sensations vary from none at all, slight pinch upon insertion, tingling, warmth, etc. Each Acupuncturist has their own unique style of needling and methodical approach to healing. This is why it is important for you to find a practitioner that you feel comfortable with.
