Martes, Nobyembre 19, 2013

Myths Associated with Acupuncture


Acupuncture is today considered as one of the finest and most effective alternative therapies for treatment and relief from various ailments.



Acupuncture, the ancient Chinese art of healing has been curing millions of people around the globe. However, even after being known as one of the most effective alternative medicines, acupuncture is marred by several myths that cause people to shy away from this ancient art. Here are some of the most prominent myths associated with acupuncture –

Myth 1:  Since it is an old Chinese art, only people of Chinese decent can perform it effectively
Most people are of the view that since acupuncture originated from China, only Chinese people can practice it and westerners practicing it do not know much about it. However, there are several trained and certified Del Mar acupuncturists who are not necessarily from Asia. It is a science that can be learned through proper and professional training.

Myth 2: Insertion of needles cause extreme pain
A lot of individuals prefer to stay away from acupuncture owing to the prevalent fear that acupuncture needles causes pain. However, trained acupuncturists know exactly how and where to insert the needles that only cause a slight pressure.

Myth 3: Needles used in acupuncture are not hygienic or safe to use –
Another prevalent myth is that the needles used in acupuncture treatment are unsanitary and can lead to several diseases and infections such as AIDS or Hepatitis. However, needles used in acupuncture are sterilized and come properly wrapped. Moreover, just like the syringes and acupuncture needles are meant for individual sittings only and are not used after one sitting, ruling out the risk of any contamination.

Myth 4: You need acupuncture sessions daily –
As every patient is different, there is a difference in how the body will react to acupuncture. Normally Del Mar acupuncture sessions are required once a week or bi-weekly. Most of the patients do not need acupuncture therapy daily and you might require the acupuncture session as per your condition.




Myth 5: Acupuncture is not backed by any scientific study –
Being an alternative art form of healing, most people question the authenticity of acupuncture. However, there have been numerous studies that showcase that acupuncture has therapeutic effects on the patients. Backed with other medications, acupuncture helps in alleviating various health conditions. As the scientific data about the efficacy of acupuncture is increasing everyday, western physicians have started recognizing acupuncture as an effective alternative therapy.

Myth 6: Acupuncture only treats chronic pain –
Although it is true that acupuncture offers amazing results in treating chronic pain, it is completely false that it is used only for providing relief from pain. Acupuncture works on the principle of the allowing free flow of energy through the different meridians of the body. Therefore apart from treating muscular pains, joint pains and headaches, acupuncture can be an amazing treatment for certain health issues such as depression, allergies, infertility, fatigue, digestive problems, respiratory troubles, menstrual disorders and menopause, and as a supportive alternative therapy for various health conditions as well.

Acupuncture is today starting to be considered one of the finest and most effective alternative therapies for treatment and relief from various ailments. By allowing the free flow of energy (Qi) through the different meridians in the body, acupuncture finds the root cause for the disease and eradicates it completely. Do not let these myths create a barrier in reaping the benefits of acupuncture. Consult a professional acupuncturist and ensure sound health.

 

Lunes, Nobyembre 18, 2013

Staying Healthy during Cold and Flu Season



This year it is predicted that there will be 1 billion colds and 95 million cases of the flu in the United States alone. While the misery of cold and flu season might be inevitable, one thing is changing: where we look for relief.

The easiest way to protect against the flu is to have a healthy immune system. However, that doesn't mean you still won't come into contact with airborne virus particles. That's why your first line of defense against the flu, or any other illness, is to strengthen your immunity.

When it comes to staying healthy during cold and flu season, acupuncture and Oriental medicine have a lot to offer. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help prevent colds and flu by strengthening the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body's energy pathways.

In Oriental medicine, disease prevention begins by focusing on the protective layer around the exterior of the body called Wei Qi or defensive energy. The Wei Qi involves acupuncture points known for strengthening the circulation of blood and energy to boost your body's defenses.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can also provide relief and faster healing if you have already come down with a cold or the flu by helping to relieve symptoms you are currently experiencing including chills, fever, body aches, runny nose, congestion, sore throat and cough. While bringing some immediate relief, treatments will also reduce the incidence of an upper respiratory tract infection and shorten the length of the illness.



Boost your Wei Qi and Stay Healthy

"To treat disease that has already developed is comparable to the behavior of those persons who begin to dig a well after they have become thirsty, and of those who begin to cast weapons after they have already engaged in battle. Would these actions not be too late?" - Huangdi Neijing

Seasonal changes affect the body's environment. With wind, rain and snow come the colds, flu viruses and the aches and pains that accompany them.

If you catch colds easily, have low energy and require a long time recuperating from an illness your Wei Qi may be deficient. Through the process of evaluating subtle physical signs as well as the emotional condition of a person, practitioners of acupuncture and Oriental medicine can detect health problems in their earliest stages, before a person becomes gravely ill.

Once the nature of an imbalance has been determined, a customized program can be created for you. Your treatment may include acupuncture, herbal therapy and Tui Na, as well as food, exercise and lifestyle recommendations.

Schedule a Seasonal Tune-Up:
Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can prevent colds and flu by building up the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body's energy pathways. These points are known for strengthening the circulation of blood and energy and for consolidating the outer defense layers of the skin and muscle (Wei Qi) so that germs and viruses cannot enter through them.

Wash Your Hands:
Good lifestyle and hygiene habits are also proven to reduce your risk of getting sick. Studies have shown that one of the main reasons that we catch colds and flu in cold weather is that we are indoors and in closer vicinity to others. Protect yourself from picking up germs by washing your hands regularly and remembering not to touch your face.

Sleep In:
The Nei Ching, an ancient Chinese classic, advised people to go to sleep early, rest well and rise late, after the sun's rays have warmed the atmosphere a bit. This preserves your own Yang Qi
for the task of warming the body. Even busy, working people can boost their health by sleeping in on weekends.

Stress Less:
Find a release valve for your stress. According to Oriental medicine, stress, frustration, and unresolved anger can play an important part in throwing the immune system off and allowing pathogens to affect the body. Find a way to relax and release stress on a daily basis. Such methods may include yoga, meditation and exercise. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression.