Exploring the Principles of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient method of healing that has existed in some form almost as long as civilization itself. Using small needles applied along energy pathways within the body, acupuncture allows the body to heal and defend against disease by stimulating the hormonal, circulatory, and immune systems. Here are some of the guiding principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine upon which the practice of acupuncture is based:

Qi: 
It is believed that a constant flowing energy is moving through all living things from plants to animals to humans. This energy called qi—pronounced “chi”—promotes interconnectivity among all life, and it is present within the blood stream to preserve health and well-being.
 
Shen: 
In western terms, shen may be thought of as one’s consciousness or soul. It is responsible for mankind’s mental abilities, and it is represented through an individual’s personality and thoughts.
 
Jing: 
All living beings are thought to have a specific quantity of jing from birth. As one ages, jing is slowly used to help the body grow and develop. If one leads a life of apathy or negativity, jing is consumed faster.
  
Five elements: 
The five elements represent all the matter that surrounds people in the universe. They are earth, fire, metal, water, and wood. Each element is meant to show the phases through which all things pass in a lifetime. They should remain in balance to create a healthy living environment and promote well-being.

What is Acupuncture? A Brief Overview of Its Uses & Benefits

Acupuncture is a form of holistic medicine that has been practiced for over 2,000 years. If you’re interested in a non-invasive or non-pharmaceutical way of managing pain, acupuncture may be your solution. You don’t have to live life with pain or stress. A tough question to answer is what are the benefits of acupuncture, as there are many unique benefits. Learn more about the uses and benefits that acupuncture treatment can create down below.

What is Acupuncture? 

Acupuncture refers to a technique in which small, fine needles are inserted just under the skin into specific acupressure points along the energetic meridians of the body. The treatment works by resolving symptoms that are related to the body’s immune system, hormonal system, and even the internal organs. However, acupuncture can also be used to treat the causes of pain and stress on a deep physiological level. There have been hundreds of clinical studies that have shown clear benefits of acupuncture, successfully treating problems such as depression, insomnia, migraines, anxiety, among others.

Uses and Benefits 

Acupuncture can be used to alleviate pain and treat a number of medical conditions. Some of the most common uses of acupuncture include:

 Alleviating the symptoms of asthma and allergies by influencing the various activities of cells within the body; namely the transport and breakdown of bioactive mediators. By regulating bioactive mediators and boosting the immune system, acupuncture has been shown to provide anti-inflammatory effects to help the body combat symptoms associated with both allergies and asthma.
Reducing the occurrence of headaches and migraines by inducing potent muscle relaxation effects on the upper trapezius muscle. 
Reducing stress that leads to hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary—adrenal axis that leads to a number of women’s health conditions, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual cramps, and infertility. 
Combating low back pain by stimulating localized muscles, correcting distortion, and reversing biomechanical imbalances of the autonomic nervous system.

The Olympus Center for Holistic and Integrative Medicine is proud to serve all of Manhattan, providing licensed acupuncture help for those seeking a perfect course of treatment to help you feel your best.