What is Acupuncture? A beginners guide..

Are you interested in Acupuncture but not sure what it is all about? You are not alone. Acupuncture is one of the foundational pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Acupuncture is the insertion of single use needles into specific points in the body called acupuncture points. The points are located on acupuncture meridians which are the “energetic rivers” of the body. Ancient practitioners discovered that stimulating these points could influence both disease and wellness. When activated by acupuncture needles, these points trigger a healing cascade that restores balance and supports the body’s natural ability to heal.

In a Traditional Chinese Medical perspective, acupuncture helps to build and balance qi, yin, yang, and blood or to move these substances through the meridians of the body. When these substances are in proper balance and flowing smoothly, we have health. When these substances are depleted, blocked, or excessive illness and disease can arise.

Western Medicine still doesn’t have all the answers to why acupuncture works in a western paradigm. But what we do know is that it is influential in stimulating the nervous system, regulating hormones and immune system, improving blood flow and circulation, modulating pain, and brain activation.

We’ll dive deeper into these Western mechanisms in future posts. Until then, take care of yourself, and remember that acupuncture is a gentle, holistic tool to help your body restore balance and wellness.

Madelyn

The Five | Acupuncture & Wellness