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.

The Philosophy Behind Chinese Medicine

Millions of people have found Chinese medicine  to be very effective in the treatment of all sorts of chronic and acute ailments, positively affecting pain syndromes and digestive, respiratory, neurological,  immune, and psychological complaints. Here’s a brief overview of the philosophy behind Eastern medicine and how it can work for you.

Elemental Balance 
As with other Eastern philosophies, Chinese medicine subscribes to the concept of the 5 phases, or elements—fire, water, metal, earth, and wood. Each of these elements corresponds to specific organs and their related functions;  In order to be healthy, you must ensure that these elements are all in balance. According to the fundamental wisdom of Chinese Medicine, all ailments—from colds and flu to headaches, arthritis, and metabolic and stress disorders—are a result of an elemental imbalance.

Chinese Medicine Therapies 
Though there are many facets of Chinese medicine, acupuncture and herbal medicine are perhaps the most widely known. Acupuncture works to restore balance to a patient’s body by stimulating the internal organs and immune system. Herbal medicine also restores balance through the use of special healing plants, such as ginseng, astragalus, schizandra, dong quai, and many others. 

Similarities to Western Medicine 
While the philosophies and concepts of Chinese medicine impart a naturalistic cosmology and physiological framework, it is eminently practical in its clinical applications. While western medicine draws from its scientific methods, Chinese medicine relies on its own empirical knowledge of some four thousand years.