The Basics of Acupuncture Part 2 (Berkeley Acupuncture) 

How does Acupuncture work?

In Chinese Medicine, each organ has a set of symptoms (ie. headaches, insomnia, anxiety, low energy, etc) that will manifest when that organ is “out of balance”. Each organ also has a meridian or pathway. Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles along pathways that send a signal back to the organ rebalancing it. When the organ is back into balance, the symptoms disappear.

Do I have to believe in Acupuncture for it to work?

No. Acupuncture is used successfully on cats, dogs, horses and other animals. These patients do not understand or believe in this treatment, but that does not prevent them from getting better.

What is Electrostimulaton Acupuncture and some of the other Chinese medicinal practices I have heard of, like Cupping and Moxibustion?

In addition to the basics of Acupuncture, there is Electrical Acupuncture. Electrical Acupuncture is the practice of small clips hooked on to certain needles during an Acupuncture treatment, these clips are connected to an electrical source that generates a light pulse of electricity. This runs through the needle into the muscle, pathway, or most importantly the circulation. This technique is used to relax a tense muscle, move the Qi and blood faster within the meridian or move the Qi and blood in the local area to relieve pain. Cupping is another traditional practice where the practitioner uses suction cups to move blood or phlegm stagnation, typically in the office we use this for back pain or chest congestion. Moxibustion is an herb called, Ai Ye, which is burnt over certain points to move Qi or blood, this can be used for many things, pain, diarrhea, to warm the body or to turn a breech baby right!

Much love,

Christina “Mei Wen” Martin, L.Ac., Dipl.AC, MTOM, FABORM.

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Christina Martin is the founder of Tao to Wellness. She is an Acupuncturist, Chinese Herbalist and Teacher and has been in practice for fifteen years.  She holds a Master’s Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is a fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine.  Christina entered Acupuncture school without ever having an Acupuncture treatment. She simply felt it was her calling.