Acupuncture is, in fact,
one of the oldest forms
of healing in the world
and has been practiced
for thousands of years.
Although the Traditional
Chinese Medicine (TCM)
practice is often viewed as
an “alternative” therapy,
even modern medical
organizations such as
the National Center for
Complementary and
Integrative Health tout their
ability to restore health and
wellness in the body. In TCM
practitioners look at the
body in the form of energy.
If you have low back pain,
for example, an MRI might
not show the source of your
pain if there are not any
structural issues to be found.
The acupuncture philosophy
is that if you’re in pain, there’s
stagnation in the body ... and
fi nding balance is key.
Acupuncture/acupressure
was the earliest form of
medicine practiced in China:
It is considered to be the
primary source of traditional
Eastern medicine. In the
United States, however, it is
still considered an alternative
and complementary
medicine. Clinical symptoms
of various illnesses have
There are six primary meridians that
contain acupuncture points on the head.
Two major energy vessels also contain
points on the head.
continuously proven to
be effectively relieved, or
even cured, through using
the acupuncture discipline
alone.
Acupuncture has made
a signifi cant contribution
to modern medicine
throughout the ages. It can
help you release energy by
putting the body back into
balance and can induce a
state of relaxation.
Acupuncture points are
believed to stimulate the
central nervous system. This,
in turn, releases chemicals
into the muscles, spinal
cord, and brain. These
biochemical changes
may stimulate the body’s
natural healing abilities
and promote physical and
emotional well being.
Of course, each point
is different, and if you’re
needling into an area of pain
it might be more sensitive.
Even then, though, it’s
nothing like getting a shot at
the doctor’s offi ce.
The needles usually stay in
place for about 20 minutes.
The needle depth varies
depending on location
and what is being treated.
Generally the needles are
inserted approximately ¼- to
½-inch deep. They are as
thin as a strand of hair and
bendable. If you feel a pinch,
it will feel like an eyebrow
hair pluck. Once the needles
are in, you’ll likely feel
relaxed, and some people
even fall asleep.
You will be left to rest for
60 minutes. If your goal is
relaxation, that may require
a longer amount of time; if
you’re looking to strengthen
an area, it may take less
time. You may experience
a decrease in pain and will
likely feel calmer and more
relaxed during the next few
days.
The stomach meridian is called a “window of the sky” or
“window of heaven” point.
September/October • 2021 • GASPARILLA MAGAZINE 35