Its that time of year again. Almost everyone is on a health kick and trying to incorporate a healthier lifestyle, which is great. But there could be something missing from your new found health adventure...Acupuncture!
As you may have already read on my previous blog post, Acupuncture can treat many different diseases, illnesses and injuries. But what if you are already relatively healthy, but just have a few small niggly issues that need smoothed out?
Acupuncture is a fantastic way to put these issues straight.
Wear and Tear injuries
Are you a runner? A footballer? A crossfitter? Then chances are you have dealt with a minor injury at some point or another. Acupuncture strengthens body function and helps to speed up the recovery process. It also increases blood flow and circulation which allows you to train harder with less wear and tear on your joints, muscles and ligaments.
Stress
Stress is a 21st century epidemic. Almost everyone is dealing with stress on varying degrees. Learning how to “manage” stress is one thing, but it should be something we shouldn't have to deal with at all – in a n ideal world. In my clinic, no matter what a patient presents with, stress is almost always a factor. More-often that not, stress is a precursor to anxiety and depression. So tackling it before it gets it of hand is of utmost importance. Acupuncture is a wonderful way to destress. A recent study has shown that Acupuncture really can reduce stress levels as it reduces the levels of protein linked to stress1
Low Immunity
Being constantly struck down with colds and flu is a sure sign that your immune system is struggling. If you are one of those people who just seem to catch everything going, then acupuncture is for you. Acupuncture boosts Wei Qi, which is the body's first line of defense against the pathogenic factors which cause disease.
Low Energy
If you feel tired and drained, you are not alone. This is one of the major complaints I hear at my clinic – especially at this time of year. The ancient Chinese believed that we should live in harmony with nature, with winter being a time to rest and reflect. Unfortunately, the ancient Chinese didn't take into account the modern world and everything that goes along with it. The school run, that demanding job, bills to pay and mouths to feed doth not allow time to “rest and reflect”. Acupuncture, however is here to help! There are specific points on the body that boost energy levels. One point in particular, Zusanli – directly translated to English means “leg three miles”, meaning you will be able to get up and run for 3 miles after receiving acupuncture on this point. My patients swear by this point, with some asking for it specifically!
Difficulty sleeping
In Chinese Medicine, we refer to the mind as the Shen. If the Shen wanders at night, then sleep will be disturbed and inadequate. The Shen must be rooted in the heart to maintain good sleep. While this sounds a bit “out there”, let me explain it like this:
If you have a lot on your mind, but instead of expressing it, you keep it in and don't express it, the you are injuring the heart. If the heart is compromised then it cannot house the Shen, which wanders at night, manifesting as insomnia.
1 https://nhs.georgetown.edu/news/eshkevari-acupuncture-stress-study
- If you are suffering with any of the above, or want to discuss further, please get in touch.
- Call or text: 0857349390
- mail: info@harmonydonegal.com
- Private message: facebook.com/harmonydonegal
By Elaine McMenamin Lic. Ac Dip. Ac. C. Ac. (Nanjing)
Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncturist www.afpa.ie
