Acupuncture
Acupuncture originated in China over five thousand years ago, it is an essential part of traditional Chi
nese medicine.
The healing principle of this art is based on a person’s “Qi” or vital life. This energy is believed to flow all over the body through twelve invisible channels known as meridians. Each meridian is associated with a specific organ system. If the energy is free to flow throughout the body, a person is in his best health. If the flow of Qi is blocked, an imbalance develops and person begins to go down with a disease.
Acupuncture makes use of needles as well as other physical stimulants to affect the flow of Qi, this results in the prevention and treatment of disease. Insertion of needles to specific points in the body stimulates the release of pain-relieving endorphins. It also facilitates the release of nerve impulses to the brain through neurotransmitters. This treatment also invigorates circulation and revitalizes the autonomic nervous system, influencing the electrical currents in the body.
A technique of acupuncture known as Cupping involves the application of glass cups to create suction on the skin.
It is often used to treat cough, hypertension, morning sickness, depression, bronchitis, irregular menstruation and a myriad of painful conditions such as back pain, arthritis and rheumatism. This treatment is extremely simple and is safe even for babies; however, it must be performed by a trained acupuncturist.
