Acupuncture: it’s an ancient art and energy technique which is based on the belief that ‘life force’ or energy (Qi) is carried through the body in meridians (channels). Acupuncture was thought to unblock these channels and allow Qi to flow freely through the body, bringing with it good health. However recently, it’s mystery has been debunked; no longer does acupuncture lay a claim to a place in the holistic hall of fame as an energy technique. The good news for acupuncture stalwarts is that the demystification of its properties has not done it any harm, in fact it is now recognised as a therapy by NICE, the NHS and other science based bodies, the social acceptance is growing.
So how does it work and what does it do? Acupuncture stimulates nerve receptors and neurotransmitters under the skin and in the muscles; this makes the body produce substances such as endorphins which can help to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, generate new tissue, regulate hormones in the brain. It's even been said to have great responses on allergies, helping sufferers of chronic- headache and migraine, joint pain, post operative pain and dental pain.
I pride myself in trying any technique so acupuncture, for me, has presented a challenge. I have a phobia of needles so however much I try the thought of this treatment is akin to sticking hot pokers in my back.
If, like me, you have this phobia but know that acupuncture is too good an opportunity to miss then there is hope, it is called EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques). I came across this technique around 13 years ago, it truly does have all the benefits (and more) of acupuncture without the needles and has become a staple for me since learning it – it’s changed my life. EFT works with the body and mind at once, connecting and dealing with emotional and physical response; so, it truly gets to the root cause of any pain and helps your body and mind to file and sort. The technique involves tapping on pressure points; this stimulates the mind, allowing it to absorb information into its subconscious, in turn this allows you to change your emotional response to any situation, which in turn relieves the pain that you are feeling – if you do it enough, I can promise that you will be pain free and have clarity of mind in no time. I am going to blog more about this technique – so watch this space.
Injury rehabilitation deep tissue lymphatic drainage sports massage Cambridge massage therapist cb3
Comments