Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an East Asian medicine based on the natural laws which govern the movement of energy in nature and in the human body. This natural life force, called Qi (pronounced chee), flows through the body in channels called the meridian system. When the flow of Qi is plentiful and flowing naturally, we tend to feel our best. When the flow of Qi is interrupted or blocked, this can cause physical symptoms like pain, as well as mental and emotional symptoms such as worry, sadness, or excessive anger and irritability. By addressing the blockages with various techniques, the flow of Qi is restored which returns the body to balance.

Why Choose Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine, and there is a reason it has been utilized for centuries!

Acupuncture is often used to: speed recovery after surgery, alleviate the side effects of medication, and provide relief from the side effects of chronic illness.
Acupuncture has been found effective for a wide range of acute and chronic conditions, including but not limited to: headaches, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, insomnia, allergies, back pain, digestive disorders, joint pain, sleeping problems, infertility, and menstrual disorders.

Lasting Effects of Acupuncture

Acupuncture treats the whole person, not just certain parts of the body or certain sets of symptoms. Those who receive treatment on a regular basis report that they tend to get sick less often, recover more quickly from illness or injury, have improved energy levels, see reductions in long-term health care costs, and receive a greater sense of ease in their lives.

What to Expect

Acupuncture is performed by the insertion of special sterilized needles into specific points or areas of the body. Some may feel a needle sensation- be it a small pinch, movement, or dull ache, all of which will subside almost instantly. Some may feel nothing at all (and look up to see if the needle is even there!) Many patients report deep relaxation and even fall asleep! At times, other East Asian medical techniques may be used including Cupping: a technique using glass or plastic cups on the surface of the skin with a heat created or suction created vacuum; Gua Sha: rubbing on an area of the body with a blunt, round instrument; Moxibustion: warming or indirect burning of mugwort on or near an acupuncture point; and Tui Na: Chinese medical massage. All of these modalities benefit the body, mind and spirit.

Acu-Detox

The NADA Protocol, or auricular acudetox treatment, is a very simple and powerful treatment that I enjoy offering in community and professional settings. This treatment is designed to detoxify the body, mind and spirit and also boost immunity. Acu-detox involves five small, sterilized disposable needles inserted into specific areas in each ear of the participant. Once the needles are inserted, the participants will sit quietly, alone or in a group setting, for about 30-45 minutes. During this treatment, it is common to experience a meditative state. Feelings of relaxation, stress reduction, mental clarity, emotional catharsis, increased sense of purpose and well-being, better sleep, and increased energy are some of the benefits you will receive. The repetition of this treatment is encouraged because, with acupuncture, treatments become more effective over time.

All five points in this protocol serve to balance the body’s energy and assist in our natural healing process. Each point has their own special set of benefits in addition to being extremely effective when combined

Point One:
Is associated with the Earth element and the season of Late Summer. On the body level it balances the sympathetic nervous system ("fight or flight") by instantly activating the parasympathetic nervous system (“rest and digest”), has a strong pain relieving and relaxing effect upon the internal organs and it also dilates the blood vessels, improving blood flow. For our minds, it reduces our stress hormones to promote relaxation. This point also calms the spirit, providing a sense of serenity, grounding, and inward reflection. This point brings thoughtfulness, balance, and the ability to integrate one’s life experiences.

Point Two:
Is associated with the Fire element and the season of Summer. On the body level it alleviates pain, tension, excessive sensitivity and reduces hypertension. On the level of the mind, this point calms our thoughts and relieves feelings of anxiousness, depression, insomnia and restlessness. Shen Men also opens our connection to spirit, or one’s heart, to engender the ability to love one’s self and others. This point brings ease to the process of going within and supporting what ones heart needs to be authentic and joyful.

Point Three:
Is associated with the Water element and the season of Winter. On the level of the body it stimulates physiological and hormonal functions, as well as supports the kidneys. Mentally, you may experience increased happiness and a reduction of fears. This point also has a strong spiritual influence supporting our will and deep sense of self. It allows those experiencing treatment to focus on the positive aspects of life. This point brings growth, development, and courage.

Point Four:
Is associated with the Wood element and the season of Spring. On the level of the body it stimulates physiological functioning as well as relieves muscle cramps. Mentally, this point aids in clear thinking and decision making. It also relieves frustration, depression and anger. By relieving these symptoms, it helps clear the way to connect deeply with one’s self and find a direction in life. This point is brings clear planning, vision, and insight.

Point Five:
Is associated with the Metal element and the season of Fall. On the level of the body it supports the lungs, which are important for detoxification and regulating the pores. Mentally, it helps to regulate our experience of grief and sadness, improves a sense of worldly and heavenly connection as well as self-respect and integrity. This point helps to remind us of our connection to all things and offers us the expansiveness of being inspired.

Acudetox information provided by NADA. For additional information please visit www.acudetox.com