Although acupuncture is considered by many in society as a new alternative, it is in actuality an ancient form of treatment to the body. A basic definition for those who have always heard and wondered what it really is: Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine needles, sometimes in conjunction with electrical stimulus, on the body’s surface, in order to influence physiological functioning of the body.
Shen Nung theorized long ago that the body had an energy field throughout itself. The field, known simply as Qi, pronounced “Chee,” contains all of life’s essential areas. Spiritual, mental, physical and emotional are activity fields included in Qi. Needles are used in the process of acupuncture to reach the fields on the body by “needling.”
Acupuncturists can use as many as nine needles, however most commonly only six types of needles are used for acupuncture. Needles vary in shape and size. There are different types of treatment for various purposes. Acupuncture is used for relaxation and treatment of specific ailments. Electro-acupuncture is used usually to treat pain in the body by sending slight electric shocks through the needles.
Moxibustion is another well-known treatment used for diseases. Instead of sending electricity directly into specific areas, the needles instead send heat to the body. Acupuncture and moxibustion are commonly used together.
Qi Gong is the process of implementing mental purpose to express one’s internal energy through the body. This can be used for a handful of purposes: as a self-healing technique, as a technique for healing others, as a martial art and as a means by which you can enhance many other aspects of your life.
Aromatherapy goes hand in hand with acupuncture. Scent is said to be the enduring human sense. Scent can alter emotions and even heal bodies. We can practice aromatherapy with daily rituals and might not even know it. By strolling though a scented garden or lighting that favorite scented candle of ours, we can change or brighten our mood and minds. Bath and body-care products usually contain essential aromatherapy oils as well.