Having a regular acupuncture session can be like taking your body in for a car service. It helps to restore the body to optimal functioning by rebalancing the energy flow, which in turn supports self-healing, overall circulation, immunity and mental health.
Importantly, during these well-being sessions, minor issues can be identified and treated early, preventing them from becoming serious over time.
Acupuncture has a long history as a way of helping general well-being in ancient China. In the manuscript, Huang Di Nei Jing[1], it advises, “Great physicians treat with needle before the outbreak of an Illness”. Later texts documented various acupuncture points used for preventive purpose. [2] [3] [4] The theory behind this is to relax joints, harmonize Qi and blood flow, reflecting the core tenet of Traditional Chinese Medicine, In Huang Di Nei Jing it also state, “Sufficient Healthy-Qi inside the body will prevent invasion of pathogenic factors”. [5]
Recent research [6] suggests that acupuncture can modulate the body’s psycho neuroimmune system, which involves the complex interplay between the nervous system, endocrine, immune system and the mind. This modulation has been observed to alter stress-induced signals, thus helping to stabilize the autonomic nervous system, which promotes a sense of well-being.
Therefore, the benefits that Acupuncture may contribute to overall well-being are:
- Stress/Anxiety Management: Acupuncture might help alleviate stress by promoting relaxation. It stimulates the release of endorphins (feel-good hormones) [8] and reduces cortisol levels (stress hormone).[9]
- Pain Relief: It may assist in managing chronic pain conditions, such as back pain, shoulder pain, and headaches.
- Improved Sleep: Acupuncture may enhance sleep quality and duration by activating brain neurotransmitters like melatonin [10], and GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) which are essential for restful sleep [11]
- Enhanced Immunity: It has been observed acupuncture may help restore and maintain a balance immune system.[12]
Alongside the use of needles, moxibustion is another Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) modality used to support general health. This therapy involves burning a herb called mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) near specific energy points on the body to stimulate energy flow through the meridians. It promotes the body’s self-regulation that enhances overall health. Early texts, such as Bian Que Heart Book (AD1146) [13], recorded key acupoints for moxibusiton to enhance health and longevity. Although needle and moxibustion treatments can each work on their own, in combination, the results are especially powerful.
At David Lee Acupuncture, we combine both techniques to provide a holistic treatment that supports both physical and mental well-being.
Reference:
- Huang Di Nei Jing Ni Shun (Inner Canon of the Yellow Empreor)
- Bei Ji Qian Jin Yao Fang (Essential prescriptions worth a thousand in gold for every emergency)
- Zhen Jiu Sheng Jing (The Classic of Supporting Life with Acupuncture and Moxibustion)
- Zhen Jiu Ju Ying (A Collection of Outstanding Treatises in Acupuncture and Moxibustion)
- Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen(Inner Canon of the Yellow Empreor)
- Walling, Allan RN, MS, FNP-C, Lac. Therapeutic modulation of the psychoneuroimmune system by medical acupuncture creates enhanced feelings of well-being. 18(4):p 135-143, April 2006.[AANP]
- Xiang-yun Yang.Effectiveness of acupuncture on anxiety disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials[NCBI]
- Ji-Sheng Han. Acupuncture and endorphins [NCBI]
- Bijan PIRNIA. The Effectiveness of Auricular Acupuncture on the Levels of Cortisol in a Depressed Patient[NCBI]
- D Warren Spence. Acupuncture increases nocturnal melatonin secretion and reduces insomnia and anxiety: a preliminary report [NCBI]
- Wei Huang. Autonomic Activation in Insomnia: The Case for Acupuncture [NCBI]
- F Liu, Y Wang. Acupuncture and its ability to restore and maintain immune homeostasis [QJMED]
- Bian Que Xin Shu (Bian Que Heart Book)