What is Acupuncture, Actually?

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), our bodies are more than just flesh, bone, blood and organs. Our bodies contain qi (vital force), which moves through us along various pathways. As such, different locations on our bodies are correlated with different physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of our being. Thus, when a needle is inserted into the body in a particular point, it contacts the qi and activates the directive of the specific point being needled. For example, if an individual was suffering from chronic migraines, there are several specific points that I could target in order to relieve blockages and/or increase qi to the areas of the body that are known to correlate with this problem. Some points also include spiritual aspects to help you with your soul purpose. Additionally, an acupuncturist can employ different intentions or techniques to different needles and locations to promote different results. For example, the point at the very top of your head can be used for headaches, dizziness, low energy, and to access your crown chakra. Points are then put together in patterns to treat underlying disharmonies in the body and achieve the best outcomes in the moment and over time.

For those of you who enjoy more science-based explanations, Johns Hopkins Medicine has this to say: "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." (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-preventi...).

Whatever language you want to use to explain it, acupuncture has clear and well-documented health benefits, and given that there are over 409 identified points on the body, the possibilities for supporting your mind, body, and soul are VAST!