The Benefits Of Acupuncture: A Holistic Approach to Wellness

Acupuncture often conjures up images of needles inserted all over your body. And while it does involve needles, the insertion is a strategic placement of hair-thin needles at certain acupoints, not multiple needles covering the entire body. It’s an ancient Chinese medicine practice that offers a holistic approach to health and well-being that extends beyond the act of needle insertion. Acupuncture aims to balance your energy and activate healing.

First developed over 2,500 years ago, acupuncture has withstood the test of time. In the past few decades, this ancient Chinese medical technique has surged in popularity in the West as scientific research continues to demonstrate its safety and efficacy.   

About 1.5% of the U.S. population has utilized acupuncture in their life at some point. But what exactly does acupuncture do, and how does it promote wellness? Read on to unveil the varied benefits of this holistic healing art.  

 

So, what is acupuncture all about?  

Acupuncture is based on the idea that all humans have a life force energy flowing through their body called “qi” (pronounced “chee”). This qi runs through pathways called meridians that connect to all your important organs and body parts. When your qi gets weak, blocked, or out of whack, it can cause dysfunction or health issues.   

Acupuncture uses super thin needles inserted into specific points along your meridians to get your qi moving properly again. By stimulating these points, it opens up blocks, strengthens your qi, and activates your body’s natural ability to heal itself. Acupuncturists may also use gentle heat, pressure, or mild zappy sensations along with needles to amp up the effects.  

This concept may sound strange or new to you, but it won’t hurt to try one for yourself, right? If you’re thinking of acupuncture and other holistic wellness options, you can check out services offered by Shen Adelaide or other holistic health clinics that offer traditional treatments. A standard session lasts about 30 to 60 minutes.   

What are the benefits of acupuncture?

So, what can getting poked by tiny needles really do for you? A lot, actually! Acupuncture has been known to provide all kinds of health perks beyond just treating pain. Keep reading below:  

  • Reduces chronic pain 

If you deal with ongoing aches and pains, acupuncture may help reduce chronic back pain, neck pain, knee pain, headaches, and more. According to 20 studies involving 6,376 participants, people with painful conditions (e.g., neck pain, back pain, headache, etc.) reported that the benefits of acupuncture lasted for a year post-treatment.  

Acupuncture can assist in releasing your body’s natural painkillers called endorphins to block the pain signals to the brain. It may also help increase blood flow, which brings healing nutrients to damaged tissues. So, if you’re tired of constant pain cramping your style, consider giving acupuncture a try. The needles may seem scary, but the pain relief can be worth it!  

  • Improves mental health 

If you struggle with depression or feel stressed to the max, acupuncture may help zen you out. Studies show acupuncture is believed to reduce depression by balancing your brain chemicals like serotonin to boost your mood and help you relax. It can also help individuals recover from addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.   

  • Enhances immunity 

Do you wish to fend off colds, flu, and infections? Acupuncture is believed to give your immune system a natural boost. It increases disease-fighting white blood cells and antioxidants to help your body heal itself.   

And even if you already feel a cold coming on, acupuncture may help decrease the severity and duration of your sickness. The needles may temporarily leave tiny marks, but not getting the full-on flu is worth it!  

  • Eases migraine symptoms 

If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from migraines, acupuncture may help ease those beastly headaches. The National Library of Medicine reports that 41% of patients who’ve had acupuncture experienced a reduction of migraine frequency by at least 50%. That’s way better than getting no treatment at all!  

Acupuncture may help manage migraines by stimulating nerve fibers to block pain signals. The needles may not completely stop migraines in their tracks, but acupuncture helps you function when pain strikes. So, if you frequently deal with migraines, you can give this treatment a try. The relief is worth a few tiny needle pokes. 

  • Promotes gut health 

For people dealing with digestive issues like heartburn, nausea, constipation, or bloating, acupuncture may get your gut back on track. Acupuncture helps regulate gastrointestinal function by promoting blood flow and restoring nerve signals in the digestive tract. Even if you don’t have chronic stomach problems, acupuncture is known to optimize digestion and nutrient absorption.  

  • Improves sleep 

Do you have insomnia or other sleep troubles keeping you up at night? Acupuncture may help you get the quality shut-eye you need. According to some research, acupuncture helps improve insomnia symptoms, leading to better sleep. Yet more studies may be needed to back this up. Acupuncture is also believed to ease pain and discomfort that can disrupt sleep.   

Although more research is needed, initial studies indicate acupuncture can be beneficial for insomnia or other sleep disorders, improving your sleep quality. Some medical professionals suggest trying acupuncture as a natural option before prescription sleep aids, given the limited side effects.  

 

Takeaway  

There you have it! As you can see, this ancient Chinese medicine offers multiple health benefits, from chronic pain relief to enhanced immunity and better sleep. While more studies are needed, the research so far shows acupuncture can improve overall well-being as part of a holistic approach to health. So, if you’re looking to balance your energy and give your body a tune-up, give acupuncture a shot.