Acupuncture – The Holistic Art of Balancing the Energy Flow in your Body

Get Pricked to Get Better

If the very thought of sticking needles into your skin scares the daylights out of you, we urge you to stick with us (pun intended) and continue reading.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine practice of Acupuncture dates backs thousands of years ago. And, today it’s supported by a range of scientific studies and plenty of people (from A-list celebrities like Angelina Jolie, famous athletes to regular people) swear by this treatment for curing a wide array of ailments and aches.

Here, in today’s post, you can find all that you need to know about acupuncture and its immense benefits on your overall health.

What is Acupuncture, and How is it Done?

Acupuncture has been an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for several millennia. The concept of this technique is based on the ancient practice of Qi (read as Chee). According to TCM, this is the energy that flows through our bodies connecting millions of cells.

It’s believed that the human body is made up of channels (also known as meridians) which are the points in acupuncture. These points help to transport blood, other fluids and Qi.

The goal of acupuncture is to create the perfect balance in the human body by balancing the Qi energy at the various meridians. It helps to keep a person physically, emotionally and mentally balanced.

To balance the life force in the body, tiny (disposable) needles are gently inserted into specific points in the body. This helps to increase or decrease the flow of Qi along a particular meridian.

What does Acupuncture Treat?

From indigestion to chronic pain, acupuncture is used to treat a wide array of ailments. According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture is officially recommended to treat over 100 conditions.

Here are 8 Surprising Ways in which Acupuncture can work Wonders to your Health

1. Reduces Headache Frequency and Pain

Acupuncture offers long-term relief for migraines and other types of headaches. It not only produces immediate relief, but the effects are long-lasting.

2. Alleviates Chronic Pain

Acupuncture is an effective remedy for reducing chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, upper back and lower- back. Unlike prescription painkillers, acupuncture has no side-effects. It’s also used for treating arthritis.

3. Helps treat Insomnia

Do you suffer from sleeplessness? Acupuncture may do the trick for you. It not only helps you fall fast asleep but also improves the quality of sleep. It can be used in conjunction with other sleep treatments.

4. Quickens Recovery after Chemotherapy

Acupuncture is effective in boosting immunity and in helping patients recover after intensive cancer treatments.

5. Prevents Cognitive Decline

Acupuncture helps patients suffering from Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and dementia beat the symptoms associated with the diseases like tremors, anxiety, slowness, pain, sleep and depression.

6. Improves Pregnancy, labor and Postpartum Health

Acupuncture can be used to treat several common symptoms of pregnancy. It helps to ease anxiety and pain during pregnancy and labor, balance hormones and reduce stress. When applied correctly, it can even assist in preparing the body for labor paving the way for easy childbirth.

7. Clears your Complexion

Acupuncture helps to reduce inflammation, acne and other skin issues. It improves blood circulation to the cells, thereby giving you a radiant and glowing complexion.

8. Promotes Mental Being

Acupuncture treatments boost energy and help you release pent-up stress. It makes your body feel relaxed and ready to tackle the challenges of daily life. It makes you productive and open-minded to new ideas and suggestions.

Are there any risks associated with Acupuncture?

Except for the occasional aches and sores, acupuncture has no proven side effects. However, ensure that you get your treatments at a trained acupuncturist who knows the human body and uses sterile needles.

When can you see the Results of Acupuncture Treatments?

Usually, you can feel a change in your mindset and overall health after a single session. For specific ailments, the results are visible after 3-4 weeks. For chronic issues, you may need longer treatment schedules.

What to Expect during the Acupuncture Treatment?

A trained acupuncturist will examine you and assess your physical condition. He/she will then insert one or more, thin, disposable sterile needles at specific points in your body. You will be asked to lie down on your back, side or front, based on the position where the needles are to be inserted.

As each needle is poked into your skin, you may experience mild discomfort, brief tingling or stinging. However, the entire procedure is relatively painless. You may experience a dull ache at the point where the needle is inserted but it usually subsides after some time. The needles will remain in place from 5 to 30 minutes, based on your condition and treatment procedure.

Sometimes, the acupuncturist may stimulate the needles with electricity or heat them after insertion for effective relief. It’s not an invasive treatment and you can immediately resume your daily activities after the session.

Acupuncture makes you an all-around Stronger Person

Acupuncture treatments along with regular exercises, yoga, meditation and a balanced and healthy diet can indeed improve your physical and mental well-being.

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