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Acupuncture is an often ill-understood, yet very important component of traditional Chinese medicine. It has been in practice, in one form or another, for roughly 2,500 years. The traditional thought process of acupuncture holds that a body’s life force or energy – called qi – is distributed via lines in the body called meridians. Disruptions in the flow of this energy result in pain, soreness, imbalance, or illness. The insertion of a very slim needle opens and loosens the meridians, bringing relief and allowing a normal flow of energy to resume. Almost all modern needles are single-use, stainless steel, and carefully sterilized to prevent any risk of infection.
Acupuncture has recently been undergoing a huge resurgence in popularity as people discover its potential for healing. It is most commonly sought to help relieve lower back pain, but can be used to address nausea, vomiting, and pain in other areas – particularly the knees. Acupuncture’s effectiveness at combating certain types of pain is detailed by some Cochrane reports, and a 2012 meta-analysis details the four types of chronic pain that it is most helpful against. Currently, every woman undergoing childbirth at the University College London Hospital is offered acupuncture to assist with the pains of the birthing process. The procedure has proven very popular in China, the US, Australia, and all of Europe – Germany alone boasts 45,000+ registered acupuncture professionals.
Acupuncture is an ancient practice that the modern day helps us to better understand, implement, and appreciate. We know now that, for instance, the insertion of the tiny needle likely stimulates a release of endorphins, which counteract the pain of the person being treated. In the hands of a skilled and licensed practitioner, this ages-old procedure becomes a potent tool to improve one’s personal health and happiness. Acupuncture perfectly fits SOHMA’s model of combining ancient wisdom with modern, enlightened practice. If you feel that acupuncture may be able to enrich your life and provide some relief, call us. SOHMA is dedicated to helping you improve your life at the crossroads between the old practices and the new.