Traditional explanation
Health is dependent on the the body's vital energy or life force (known as "Qi", pronounced CHEE). This energy must flow in a smooth and balanced manner throughout the meridians (known as channels) in the body. These channels connect to the tissues and organs of the body. When this energy flow "Qi" becomes unbalanced or obstructed symptoms begin to surface, which can result in "dis-ease" or illness.
Acupuncture works by reversing this obstruction by opening the gates for better circulation and improvement of the imbalance. With the insertion of pre-sterilized, disposable needles, the practitioner inserts the needles into points along a specific meridian (there are 14 of them) on the body, which in turn affects the flow of "QI" in various ways. This then corrects the disharmonies in the flow of "Qi" by stimulating the bodies natural healing abilities. The client will then feel a sense of deep relaxation and often naps during this time as the needles are doing their work by helping the body restore the balance of the "QI". Ultimately, the restoration of the smooth flow of "Qi" is very important first step to healing the body.
Western explanation
Western scientists have found that acupuncture points, after manipulation, will stimulate the central nervous system, which in turn release chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord and the brain. (known as activation of the opiod system). This chemical can either change the experience of the pain or have a healing response and promote physical and emotional well-being. Some recent studies confirm that acupuncture may alter the brain chemistry by changing the release of the neurotransmitters and neuro-hormones which have healing and pain reducing properties.
|
|