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What is acupuncture? |
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Like all genuine knowledge pertaining to the inner world, acupuncture probably rippled on the sea of universal consciousness and appeared almost simultaneously in several places. Archaeological findings show that forms of therapeutic treatments using pointed tools were already in use 5,000 years ago in various parts of the world including Europe. Nevertheless, it developed into comprehensive systems of medicine mainly in Asia (India and Sri Lanka) – within the Ayurvedic tradition from which it has now virtually disappeared – and in the Far East, mostly China. The ancient Chinese are usually credited with the ‘invention' of acupuncture because of the extensive corpus of knowledge nourishing a tradition still thriving. They formulated several potent systems, mapped the body with a network of energy pathways (or meridians) and points, and recorded many indications. Chinese texts compiled 2,000 years ago are still used today as reference for most genuine systems, such as the Five-element acupuncture system. The word ‘acupuncture' was coined by the first Europeans who visited China to describe the form of therapy they had observed which used silver and gold needles. Its Latin roots means acus -needle and punctura -puncture. The Chinese term actually reads needle and moxibustion. |
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Though acupuncture is more and more often offered by some national health bodies, it still defies comprehensive scientific explanations. The debate about ‘how it exactly works' soon appears irrelevant to those experiencing its achievements. Has acupuncture really survived five millenniums because of its placebo effect?
The ancient Chinese found that the human body carries a dense network of energy (qi) pathways, including some running at the accessible range of a needle. They identified points along these pathways which –stimulated, could affect and rebalance the whole energy system, very much like a connective system of water pipes working through pressure and gravity principle. Indeed, genuine acupuncture is based upon close observation and deep understanding of the inescapable laws of nature. Life flows freely and healing occurs when these laws are given full attention and utmost respect. By doing so, acupuncture promotes homeostasis, the body's own ability to heal and rebalance itself. |
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All fully trained acupuncturists work according to strict standards of practice and hygiene . For each point treated, they use only disposable sterile needle immediately safely discarded, infections are unheard of. The needles are as fine as a human hair and the puncture does not leave any entry for external pathogens. As member of the British Acupuncture Council , Christian adheres to their Code of Practice and Ethics which has very high professional standards. Full confidentiality is guaranteed. |
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Those who never had acupuncture imagine unpleasant sensations such as caused by injections. It does not compare at all. Acupuncture needles are extra-fine , ultra sharp and not hollow, since no product is injected . When the needle is inserted, the sensation is often described as a tingling or dull ache. In my clinical experience, I have never encountered a single occurrence where pain was a problem preventing treatment.
Any discomfort a needling action may cause is gone in a blink of an eye and does not compare with the benefit it provides. For some highly sensitive patients the needle technique can nevertheless be adapted. Actually acupuncture may be the best way to treat needle phobia but there is a lot more to find you about how acupuncture can help you. |
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