Acupuncture
With Kat Harrod
Acupuncture is a traditional healing practice rooted in Chinese medicine that involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. These points, often referred to as 'acupoints', are located along energy pathways known as 'meridians', which are believed to be channels through which the body's vital energy, or 'Qi' (pronounced "chee"), flows. The goal of acupuncture is to balance the flow of Qi and restore harmony within the body, which is thought to be essential for health.
Acupuncture is commonly used to treat a wide range of conditions, including acute and chronic pain (such as back pain, neck pain, sciatica, and arthritis), digestive issues, stress, anxiety, PTSD, and even sleep disorders. The needles themselves are very thin, and most people report only minimal discomfort during insertion of the needles. Depending on the practitioner, other techniques such as heat (moxibustion), cupping, or electrical stimulation may be used in conjunction with the needles. After an acupuncture session, patients generally find a reduction in pain, greater relaxation and overall an increase in vitality.
From a scientific perspective, acupuncture is thought to stimulate the nervous system, promote the release of endorphins and other natural healing chemicals, and improve blood flow to specific areas of the body. Acupuncture has been practiced for thousands of years, and its influence has spread worldwide, with practitioners using it in both traditional and modern clinical settings.