Korean Massage is a form of therapy that has the potential to reach and penetrate nearly every inch of the body, inside and out. Similar to foot or hand reflexology, this method was created in the early 1970s by an established practitioner of acupuncture.
However, unlike acupuncture, this method does not involve needles. Instead, it incorporates the concept of targeting very specific pressure points on the hand that connect to various associated areas on the body, more similar to acupressure.
Similarities are common amongst various forms of massage and physical therapy but Korean Massage, also known as Korean Hand Massage, does differentiate itself from the common hand massages often given at nail salons and typical hand reflexology. Nail salons often include brief hand massage prior to the shaping and painting of nails because it promotes deeper client relaxation. Hand reflexology greatly expands on this, by using the hands as a way to focus on the entire map of the body and its complex systems. Korean Hand Massage takes this one step further, using the complete acupuncture meridian energy system as a guide.
The therapy is performed fully-clothed and can include massage and stimulation of pressure points on the arms as well as hands. Although this massage is used to reduce stiffness, increase mobility, balance hormones, and improve the body’s overall functioning in a very holistic manner, it’s considered one of the top relaxation forms of massage. Because of this, it can often be paired nicely Reiki or other energy work, and Facial Massage.
Its origins come from TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and it is therefore also effective to use in conjunction with herbal teas and tinctures, as well as Aromatherapy Massage. Korean Massage is very useful to people who type on computers 8-9 hours a day, or otherwise use their hands all day long. It’s also an effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s also greatly beneficial for any hand, wrist, and/or arm pains or medical conditions.
Because the hands and feet are believed to carry connections to the entire map of the body, this form of massage is also a quick way to balance out your entire system. A brief glance at any reflexology chart will show the connections of most organs can be accessed via either the feet or hands. Since the hands are typically exceptionally busy throughout the day—whether you are a dishwasher, office worker, or doctor—it makes sense to spend some time pampering and refreshing them.
Original article and pictures take www.massageprocedures.com site
Estimula el metabolismo celular y permite reequilibrar y armonizar el rostro a nivel global
El Kobido tiene sus raíces en la medicina tradicional china, cuyos orígenes se remontan a los tiempos del Emperador Huan Di (2697 – 2597 a.c.). Hacia el año 1300 a.c. los conocimientos de la medicina china llegan a Japón, fue especializándose y adquiriendo características propias. Kobido (en japonés, 古美道, "antiguo camino de la belleza") era un tratamiento reservado únicamente para la familia Imperial, y/o las familias más nobles y adineradas de Japón. Este tipo de masaje pertenece a una rama del Anma, el sistema tradicional de masaje japonés. Se utilizaba en la medicina tradicional, y su método se ha ido perfeccionando durante 200 años.
Anma, literalmente, se traduce como presión más fricción, y era una práctica habitual de los antiguos Samuráis, para restablecer la libre circulación energética en su cuerpo, a través de técnicas de manipulación, manteniendo así el equilibrio físico y mental antes de cada pelea.
La belleza surge del equilibrio entre la salud física, emocional y espiritual, y todas las técnicas que buscan restauran la armonía entre las tres ramas, tendrán un resultado efectivo y duradero. Por ello, no solo hablamos de estética, sino de salud.
Esta técnica de masaje también es conocida por su efecto "lifting", el cuàl se consigue con un tratamiento continuado, y atendiendo a las recomendaciones profesionales que abarcarán no solamente las sesiones de masaje, si no una recomendaciones saludables en cuanto a hábitos de vida.
El Kobido combina técnicas y puntos de Shiatsu
El shiatsu es una antigua terapia de la Medicina Tradicional Japonesa que basa sus beneficios en conseguir la correcta canalización de la energía vital (Chi) mediante la presión, en ciertos puntos clave de nuestro cuerpo, ejercida con los dedos y las palmas de las manos.
Aplicado en el rostro, hace que éste tenga una mayor vitalidad; libera bloqueos energéticos en la musculatura facial y del cuello, relajando las zonas tensionales y reequilibrando el tono muscular, lo cuàl elimina, reduce y previene las arrugas; tiene un efecto global de rejuvenecimiento facial, debido a su acción reparadora del tejido, previniendo y reduciendo el impacto del proceso de envejecimiento. El resultado en la piel es fácilmente visible, aportando luz e hidratación, y eliminando las posibles inflamaciones, como las bolsas bajo los ojos o las secuelas del acné
El kobido mezcla maniobras estimulantes, delicadas, sensitivas, aplicadas de forma sútil, rápida y rítmica sobre la cara, se consigue una gran relajación, similar al que se siente tras un profundo sueño reparador. Es ideal para las personas que viven en ciudades, con alto grado de estrés y contaminación
Estimula el metabolismo celular, lo cual oxigena la piel, porque mejora la circulación de la sangre y el flujo de la linfa, favoreciendo un mayor trofismo tisular y acelerando los procesos de cicatrización, así como la eliminación de toxinas.
Permite reequilibrar y armonizar el rostro a nivel global, modelando los rasgos faciales de ambas hemicaras, con un resultado tensor que favorece la frescura, la luminosidad y en definitiva un rostro sereno y radiante.
La idea es mejorar el flujo del Ki -energía vital- en el rostro para conseguir un bienestar interior completo; un efecto similar a la acupuntura pero sin utilizar agujas. Es el equilibrio de dicho flujo, el que evitará la aparición de la enfermedad y su restablecimiento, ayudará al cuerpo a potenciar su sistema inmunológico.
Estará indicado tanto para hombres como para mujeres; independientemente del tipo de piel, y no tiene ninguna contraindicación. Es tremendamente efectivo en la prevención o mejora de dolores de cabeza, migrañas, dolores faciales, parálisis faciales, bruxismo, cefaleas tensionales, neuralgia del trigémino, sinusitis, y otras dolencias craneo maxilo – faciales.
Kobido es más que un masaje facial, es un masaje completo para tu bienestar: su objetivo era y sigue siendo, dar confort, fuerza, armonía y tranquilidad para mantener inalterado en el tiempo, la propia energía y la belleza, el auténtico secreto de la longevidad.
Original article and pictures take www.wellness-spain.com site
Function: Tonifies yin, clears heat, subdues wind, subdues empty-heat, calms the mind, restores consciousness, clears the brain.
Indications: Headache, blurring of vision, dizziness, sore throat, dryness of tongue, loss of voice, dysuria, infantile convulsions, feverish sensation in the sole, loss of consciousness.
Indications: Pruritus vulvae, prolapse of uterus, irregular menstruation, nocturnal emission, hemoptysis, thirst, diarrhea, swelling and pain of the dorsum of foot, acute infantile omphalitis.
KI 3: tai xi / Great Ravine
Function: Tonifies the Kidneys, benefits essence, strengthens the lower back and knees, regulates the uterus.
Indications: Sore throat, toothache, deafness, tinnitus, dizziness, spitting of blood, asthma, thirst, irregular menstruation, insomnia, nocturnal emission, impotence, frequency of micturition, pain in the lower back.
KI 4: da zhong / Large Goblet
Function: Strengthens the back, lifts the spirit.
Indications: Spitting of blood, asthma, stiffness and pain of the lower back, dysuria, constipation, pain in the heel, dementia.
Indications: Amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, prolapse of uterus, dysuria, blurring of vision.
KI 6: zhao hai / Shining Sea
Function: Nourishes yin, benefits the eyes, calms the mind, invigorates the Yin Motility Vessel, cools the blood, benefits the throat, promotes the function of the uterus, opens the chest, cools heat, calms spirit, benefits throat.
Indications: Irregular menstruation, morbid leukorrhea, prolapse of uterus, pruritus vulvae, asthma, frequency of micturition, urine retention, constipation, epilepsy, insomnia, sore throat.
KI 7: fu liu / Recover Flow
Function: Tonifies the Kidneys, resolves damp, eliminates edema, strengthens the lower back, regulates sweating.
Indications: Edema, abdominal distension, diarrhea, borborygmus, muscular atrophy of the leg, night sweating, spontaneous sweating, febrile diseases without sweating.
KI 8: jiao xin / Intersection Reach
Function: Removes obstructions from the channel, stops abdominal pain, removes masses, regulates menses.
Indications: Irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, uterine bleeding, prolapse of uterus, diarrhea, constipation, pain and swelling of testes.
KI 9: zhu bin / Guest House
Function: Calms the mind, tonifies Kidney yin, opens chest, regulates the Yin Linking Vessel.
Indications: Mental disorders, pain in the foot and lower leg, hernia.
KI 10: yin gu / Yin Valley
Function: Expels dampness from the Lower Energizer, tonifies Kidney yin.
Indications: Impotence, hernia, uterine bleeding, dysuria, pain in the knee and popliteal fossa, mental disorders.
KI 11: heng gu / Pubic Bone
Function: Boosts the Stomach and disinhibits damp.
Indications: Fullness and pain of the lower abdomen, dysuria, enuresis, nocturnal emission, impotence, pain of genitalia.
KI 12: da he / Great Manifestation
Function: Supplements Kidney Qi, regulates the Penetrating and Conception vessels.
Indications: Nocturnal emission, impotence, morbid leukorrhea, pain in the external genitalia, prolapse of uterus.
KI 13: di xue / Qi Hole
Function: Tonifies the Kidneys and essence, removes obstructions from the channel.
Function: Fortifies the Spleen and harmonizes the Stomach, regulates Qi dynamic and frees abdominal Qi, regulates the Penetrating and Conception vessels.
Indications: Courses the Liver and rectifies Qi, fortifies the Spleen and harmonizes the Stomach, clears abdominal heat.
KI 22: bu lang / Corridor Walk
Function: Diffuses the Lung and suppresses cough, downbears counterflow and stops vomiting.
Indications: Cough, asthma, distension and fullness in the chest and hypochondriac region, vomiting, anorexia.
KI 23: shen feng / Spirit Seal
Function: Tonifies the Kidneys, calms the mind.
Indications: Cough, asthma, fullness in the chest and hypochondriac region, mastitis.
KI 24: ling xu / Spirit Ruings
Function: Tonifies the Kidneys, calms the mind.
Indications: Cough, asthma, fullness in the chest and hypochondria region, mastitis.
KI 25: shen cang / Spirit Storehouse
Function: Tonifies the Kidneys, calms the mind.
Indications: Cough, asthma, chest pain.
KI 26: yu zhong / Lively Center
Function: Loosens chest and promotes smooth flow of Qi, calms dyspnea and relieves cough.
Indications: Cough, asthma, accumulation of phlegm, fullness in the chest and hypochondriac region.
KI 27: shu fu / Shu Mansion
Function: Stimulates the Kidney function of reception of Qi, subdues rebellious Qi, stops cough, calms asthma, resolves phlegm.
Indications: Cough, asthma, chest pain.
Primary Functions
Influencing the reproductive organs, growth of the body in general and bodily development.
Controlling the production of bone marrow, brain material and fluids, and the health of the bones in general.
Aiding the production of blood cells.
Dominating water and fluids throughout the body.
Controlling the reception of chi energy.
Influencing the health of the ears.
Dominating the anus and urethra.
Common Uses
Aiding in the removal of pathogens from the head.
Treating night sweating.
Treating excessive thirst.
Treating wasting disorder (excessive deterioration of muscle and fat).
Aiding in the treatment of headaches and dizziness caused by Liver meridian energy disruption.
Balancing Kidney fluid levels.
Reducing restlessness, insomnia, poor memory, palpitations, epilepsy, mania, and susceptibility to fright.
Aiding the lungs in the treatment of cough, coughing up blood, dyspnoea (difficult breathing), asthma, wheezing, and other lung-related illness.
Strengthening the kidneys in the treatment of edema (swelling caused by fluid retention), and urinary disorders.
Strengthening Kidney meridian energy to increase sexual libido, and to treat impotence, seminal emission issues, and other sexual disorders.
Strengthening Kidney meridian energy to improve body heat in the lower torso, legs, and feet.
Strengthening the lower spinal area.
Improving the health of the teeth.
Increasing the health of the ears, such as while treating tinnitus and hearing deficiency.
Treating diseases of the uterus such as infertility, menstruation disorders, uterine prolapse, post-partum disorders, and other reproductive problems.
Improving the function of the bladder and intestines to treat difficult urination, retention of urine, painful urinary tract, overly dark or discolored urine, diarrhea, dysentery, hernia, and more.
Treating itching, pain, or swelling of the genitals.
Treating pain of the lower abdominal area.
Removal of constipation caused by dryness or fluid imbalance, related to the kidneys' ability to regulate the body's fluids.
Kidney Meridian Channels & Sinews
The Kidney meridian is the only acupuncture meridian that features a point on the bottom of the foot.
The meridian begins here at acupoint KI1 and travels up the leg, until it reaches near the center of the torso, where it continues up the body until it ends near the collarbone area on the upper chest.
But the Kidney meridian also features several extraneous channels of energy that branch off of it and influence nearby parts of the body.
Let's take a look at the Kidney secondary energy channels.
The Kidney luo-connecting channel
First up we have the Kidney luo-connecting channel, which begins on at acupoint KI4 on the side of the foot.
From the ankle, the luo-connecting channels goes two directions.
Part of it circles behind the ankle and connects with the Bladder meridian near acupoint BL60 on the back of the ankle.
But the main portion of the luo-connecting channel travels up the leg alongside the primary Kidney meridian.
Once it reaches the groin area, it travels up the center of the torso until it hits the center of the chest slightly below the pericardium (the tissue surrounding the heart).
From there, the Kidney luo-connecting channel goes back into the middle back portion of the spine.
The Kidney divergent channel
Next up is the Kidney divergent channel.
This energy pathway appears at the back of the knee area, where it disconnects from the primary Kidney meridian near acupoint KI10.
It travels up the back of the leg, through the buttocks, and up the back all the way until it reaches the neck.
On its way through the leg, it connects with the Bladder divergent channel.
It also passes through the physical kidney in the torso area, as well as the Girdling vessel near the waist.
At the top of the pathway, it reaches inside the neck and passes through the base of the tongue.
From there, it emerges on the back of the neck where it ends by connecting with the primary Bladder meridian near the acupoint BL11.
The Kidney sinew channel
Finally, we have the Kidney sinew channel.
This pathway of muscle and tissue begins beneath the little toe of the foot, near the first primary Kidney meridian acupoint KI1.
At this starting point, the Kidney sinew channel is partially connected to the Spleen sinew channel, which also begins on the foot.
The Kidney sinew channel binds to the ankle bone, then travels up the back side of the leg until it also binds to the knee bone area.
On its way up the upper leg, it partially rejoins with the Spleen sinew channel as it makes its way towards the genitals.
From the genital area, a branch of the Kidney sinew channel separates and traverses internally to the base of the spine, where it then travels up the entire spine.
Near the top of the spine, the Kidney sinew channel ends by converging with the Bladder sinew channel.
Keep Pressing This Point For 2 Minutes! Then See What Will Happen To Your Body!
This point can be very important for you and is located on the webbing between the big and the second toe. What you need to do now is keep pressing this point for about 2 minutes a day. by pressing this point on both of your feet, you are helping in regulation and refreshment of the liver. Stimulating thin point can also help you in treating vision problems, menstrual cramps, headaches, lower back pain, sleeping disorders and insomnia.
This point is located three finger-widths above the inner ankle bone along the back of the tibia. Applying pressure on this point on both of your feet will lead to a proper energy and blood flow throughout your whole body. By stimulating this point you will be able to reduce your knee pain and your lower back pain. Also this point will help you in the treatment of many gynecological problems like PMS, painful or irregular menstruation, insomnia, dizziness and it will also reduce the stress levels.
Very Important Note– This point should not be stimulated during pregnancy.
Ever heard of Ayurvedic medicine? Curious about your dosha? Don’t know what I’m talking about? Read on, my friend, read on!
Ayurvedic medicine is centered on the belief that each person has his or her own unique constitution and that understanding our unique qualities is an essential component of our health and happiness. The idea is that we are comprised of three vital energies (doshas): vata, pitta, and kapha. You may demonstrate one dosha strongly or you may be a combination of two doshas. Your dosha could also change based on a phase in your life. For example, children tend to demonstrate kapha more strongly, pitta in adolescence, and become vata in old age. An undisturbed doshic balance means a happy, healthy person! When sick, understanding what is throwing off your dosha can help you get back to health.
Ayurvedic medicine started in India about 5,000 years ago, but the tradition is recently gaining recognition in western culture. The first step is understanding your dosha, then learning how your body changes in relation to your doshic balance and how to prevent sickness based on the Ayurvedic principles.
I’m borrowing some of the information from a great book called The Book of Ayurveda: A Holistic Approach to Health and Longevity. Here are the basics (and I will say, these descriptions are not particularly flattering!):
“Vata skin is thin, dry, darkish, and cool, and vata hair is thin, dark, coarse, and either kinky or curly. The face is long and angular….the neck is thin and scrawny. The vata nose is small and narrow, may be long, crooked, or asymmetrical. Vata eyes are small, narrow, or sunken, dark brown or gray in color, with a dull luster. The vata mouth is small, with thin, narrow, or tight lips.”
ambition, concentration, confidence, courage, enthusiasm for knowledge, happiness, intelligence
“Pitta skin is fair, soft, lustrous, and warm, and tends to burn easily in the sun. The skin has many freckles, many moles, and a tendency to rashes. Pitta hair is fine and soft, either fair or reddish. The face is heart-shaped, often with a pointed chin. The neck is average and in proportion. The nose is neat, pointed, and average in size. Pitta eyes are average in size, either light blue, light gray, or hazel in color, with an intense luster. The pitta mouth is medium with average lips. Teeth are medium sized and yellowish.”
caring, centeredness, compassion, contentment, faith, fulfillment, groundedness, patience, sense of being nourished, stability, support, tenderness
“Kapha skin is thick, oily, pale, white, and cold. Kapha hair is plentiful, thick, wavy, lustrous, and generally brown. The face is large, rounded, and full. The neck is solid, with a tree-trunk quality. The kapha nose is large and rounded. Kapha eyes are attractive and large, blue or light brown in color. The kapha mouth is large, with big, full lips. Teeth are big and white, set in strong gums.”
kapha pitta vata
Ready to stop guessing which is you? Take this quiz to find out what your dosha is! This is a great time of year to find out your dosha because the seasons are changing, which is a good time to evaluate your health and recalibrate for autumn. Anyone else getting wiped out by a terrible cold? Daggone kapha got me again!
Which one are you??? Firy pitta? Watery kapha? Breezy vata?
Original article and pictures take secure.gravatar.com site
Determining an appropriate Kampo formula requires a sho. Sho is a Kampo diagnosis based on a given patient’s symptoms and patterns of disease.
Sho is far different from Western diagnoses. Patients with the same disease can reflect a different sho and be prescribed different Kampo prescriptions. Conversely, the same Kampo formulas may be used on patients with different diseases, if they reflect the same sho.
Each patient’s sho is determined within the context of an Eastern view of human anatomy and physiology as well as illness. Just like TCM, Kampo uses a unique cognitive paradigm, making extensive use of tools such as:
Yin and Yang,
Exterior and Interior
Cold and Heat
Vacuity (deficiency) and Repletion (excess)
Five organs (heart, lungs, spleen, kidneys, and liver)
In Western nutrition, the individual approach will primarily focus on analyzing the nutritional values of each portion or meal. Kampo and TCM, by contrast, emphasize the characteristics of whole foods, reflecting how they consider that every food has specific thermal characteristics, known as nature and flavour. Foods can be hot, warm, neutral, cool, or cold. Acupuncturists consider these characteristics as elements that will affect an individual’s constitution. The main diagnostic criteria for patients include signs of repletion/vacuity, heat/cold, and dampness/dryness.
For example, a Western nutritionist may recommend a salad containing ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, and oranges simply as a source of vitamins to a broad range of patients. According to the thermal nature of foods in Kampo and TCM, however, foods such as lettuce, tomatoes, and oranges are considered cold or cool. Thus, the over-consumption of such vegetables and fruits is not recommended for certain group of individuals (e.g., cold/spleen vacuity types). Conversely, if clients are expressing heat constitutional patterns, they may be encouraged to eat those foods that are cold or cool in nature. Ginger provides another interesting contrast. From a Western nutrition analysis point of view, ginger can be seen as simply a source of potassium. In Kampo and TCM, however, ginger is extremely valuable as both an herb and a medicinal food. The warming effect of ginger is highly valuable for patients with a cold constitution, and when combined with other herbs, it is able to enhance the effects of other warming herbs and decrease the undesirable side effects of herbs with cooling natures.
Examples of Thermal Natures of Foods and Beverages
In general, it is considered extremely important that the digestive tract always be kept warm, especially in vacuity- and cold-type individuals. Many people, especially young females, overeat raw vegetable salads and fruits. Eating a large bowl of vegetable salad may be good for replete body types that tend to accumulate heat(typically, individuals with such constitutions tend to develop heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke). On the other hand, for individuals with other constitutional types, such as vacuity with cold, consuming large amounts of raw vegetables and fruits may not be beneficial. A patient’s constitution can be determined by reviewing his/her health history in conjunction with assessing other physical signs (the pulse, tongue, abdomen, and so on).
The main tenet of the Kampo and TCM diet is concept of balancing the Yin (cold) and the Yang (warm). Traditional East Asian medicine practitioners provide general dietary guidelines based on each patient’s constitutional pattern. For patients with a Yin constitution, it is recommended that they consume more Yang foods and minimize their intake of foods with a Yin nature. For Yang patient the opposite is recommended: their practitioner will recommend that they eat more Yin foods and decrease their intake of foods with a Yang nature. This balance is integral to understanding the Kampo diet.
Call to Arrange Your Nutrition Consultation
Original article and pictures take www.pacificwellness.ca site
Indications: This herbal formula has been used for patients with following health conditions and symptoms:
Cold
Cough
Poor appetite
Fatigue
Nausea
Abdominal bloating
Loose stools
There are many other health conditions that may respond well to this herbal formula, in particular patients exhibiting indicative traditional diagnostic signs and symptoms.
Herbs in This Formula
Note: Suggested dosages of each herb in Kampo formulas are often smaller than those of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Individual dosages of herbs may be adjusted depending on each patient’s condition, constitutional patterns, quality of the herbs, and other factors involved.
Japanese Points Japanese Acupuncture Fertility Points
As indicated on Fertility Enhancing Points used in Traditional Chinese Medicine page, traditionally trained acupuncturists use different acupuncture points depending on each patient’s exhibiting symptoms and constitutional patterns. In addition, many Japanese acupuncturists further modify their treatment based on acupoint reaction at the time of needling, instead of simply inserting the needles at the pre-prescribed sets of acupoints. Since the treatment is highly individualized, selections of acupoints are very wide and vary greatly between practitioner to practitioner, patient to patient, and treatment to treatment.
In terms of treatment frequency and duration, a Japanese clinical acupuncture protocol typically involves series of regularly scheduled treatments. In particular to acupuncture for IVF patients, an acupuncture protocol used at advanced IVF medical center in Nagoya, Japan involves 2 treatments per week, minimum of 21 treatments before IVF procedure [1], which is quite a bit more treatments than the one used in most IVF research studies that involve only 2 treatments at the time of embryo transfer.
Commonly used acupuncture points for infertility indicated by Dr. Haruto Kinoshita, a pioneer of modern Japanese acupuncture [2]
Fundamental acupuncture points used for fertility problems
Japanese Acupuncture Model The Naito Museum of Pharmaceutical Science and Industry, Kakamigahara, Japan
This particular Japanese acupuncture model had been owned by the Sasamata family, Tsukushi style abdominal massage practitioners until 1903. The creator of this acupuncture model, Dr. Doetsu Ihara, was a colleague of renown doctor and author, Ippo Okamoto (1654-1716), who had devoted himself to acupuncture education.
The Naito Museum of Pharmaceutical Science and Industry, Kakamigahara, Japan The Naito Museum of Pharmaceutical Science and Industry, Kakamigahara, Japan Original article and pictures take www.acupuncture-treatment.com site
Ishimpo: Volume 22 Obstetrics, Naito Museum of Pharmaceutical Science, Kakamigahara, Japan
Ishimpo (also spelled as ishinpo ) was written by Yasuyori Tamba, Acupuncture Doctor and Imperial court physician. It is the oldest surviving Japanese medical text, which contains 30 volumes in length. It is a compilation of medical knowledge and theories that were prevalent during the Sui (589-618 A.D.) and the Tang Dynasties (618-907 A.D.). The Ishimpo quotes from hundreds of ancient Chinese medical texts, many of which had already been lost in China, and have only survived to the present day through their inclusion in the work. Therefore, Ishimpo is not only considered highly valuable among philologists in Japan, but also scholars in China and other countries. The oldest and most completed copy of Ishimpo is collected by the Tokyo National Museum and is designated as a National Treasure of Japan.
Ishimpo focuses primarily on clinical medicine and the structural organization of the text is as follows:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain, cramping, excessive bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea. As many as 20 percent of the adult population, or one in five Americans, have symptoms of IBS, making it one of the most common disorders diagnosed by doctors. Information on IBS and acupuncture treatment has been uploaded on AcupunctureMoxibustion.com
Original article and pictures take www.pacificwellness.ca site
Most of us never consider the link between diet and chronic fatigue or insomnia. A body produces negative warning reactions when it has too much or too little of any given thing. Most of us lack vital nutrients like the B vitamins, which are found in most vegetables. They are weakened by cooking, and they are destroyed whenever they are microwaved.
Iodine is an element that is found in trace amounts throughout the human body. It is the foundation of all nutrition, since cells need it to regulate their metabolism. When lacking iodine, people are known to suffer from swollen glands in the throat, thyroid diseases, increased fluoride toxicity, decreased fertility rates, increased infant mortality rates, sugar regulation problems, and (with severe deficiency) mental retardation. It has been theorized as a cause of A.D.H.D. for newborns of iodine deficient mothers. Iodine is the only substance known to neutralize fluoride stored inside the body, and it can shield against some radiation damage.
A New York Times syndicate reported:
“Besides causing unsightly goiters, iodine deficiency slows all the systems of the body: The digestive system becomes sluggish, nails grow more slowly, skin and hair become dry and dull, tendon reflexes stiffen, sensitivity to cold increases, and the pulse slows. Iodine helps form who we are to such an extent that a deficiency can lead to a dulling of the personality, deterioration of attention and memory, increase in irritability due to fatigue and extreme apathy.”
Iodine deficiencies, soy consumption, and fluoride exposure are all causes of the hypothyroidism epidemic. Hypothyroidism generally strikes women, causing fatigue, weight gain, and cancers amongst many other problems. Therefore, we recommend topical applications of iodine, because there is no known toxicity when it is absorbed through the skin into the blood. No person anywhere understands why, but it is a verifiable fact that low to moderate amounts of iodine are harmless when absorbed transdermally.
Organic iodine is found in some foods naturally, including eggs, sea salt, cheese, asparagus, garlic, beans, spinach, and beef. As is usual with all of the critical minerals, iodine is found in higher amounts in organic foods, and there is no comparison between organic iodine and the chemically synthesized versions of iodine found in retailer products and or those so often sold by quacks. The difference is a glaring example of the difference between God-made and man-made foods.
The Iodine Speed Test / Iodine Patch Test
Most people are deficient in iodine, and there is a simple test that can be used by anyone to determine if he is deficient. This is the test that was once used by the establishment, and from our studies of it, we still believe that it is more reliable than the modern blood tests. Here is the simple procedure:
Apply standard 2% topical iodine in a circular area that is about the size of a silver dollar (2 inches) on the abdomen, and allow it to completely dry before redressing.
Check to see if it disappears within 12 hours.
If the iodine disappears within 12 hours, then the test subject is iodine deficient. This test works due to the fact that the skin absorbs iodine at the rate at which it is needed. We do not pretend to understand the whole process, but the results accurately and reliably reflect iodine consumption in the diet. Whenever a person is ill, transdermal iodine will absorb especially rapidly because iodine helps to produce the hormones which fuel the immune system. In our own testing, we have witnessed a 4 to 5 times absorption increase during periods of high stress or illness.
Apply the iodine cautiously, for real iodine is brown and it will stain almost anything. Always avoid the harmful substitutes for iodine, such as clear iodine and povidone iodine.
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
There is a lot of conflicting information on the Internet regarding the application of iodine for those with Hashimoto’s, with much of it being entirely wrong. Iodine dosage is especially important in Hashimoto thyroiditis cases, since an overdose can destroy the patient’s thyroid. However, a small amount of iodine does actually help this condition. Problems tend to occur for those who consume potassium iodide supplements, and those who internally consume iodine drops. There is greatly reduced risk with iodine applied transdermally, as we generally recommend. Remember that transdermal application allows a body to better self-regulate iodine absorption.
If you feel that you must consume iodine orally, then get it through supplementing with red marine algae. It is the safest natural source for oral iodine supplementation, but other underwater vegetation generally contains toxins such as heavy metals and PCB’s. You can also get iodine safely by eating fish. The oral intake of potassium iodide is a much safer alternative to iodine amongst those who are careful not to overdose, but people should beware of additives such as sodium benzoate. Potassium iodide should never be used by those with Hashimoto’s disease.
The Insanity of Ingesting Iodine
Lugol’s iodine is a special formulation of iodine that is sold by quacks who proclaim it to be a supplement for internal consumption. They suggest that it is a medicine for an endlessly growing plethora of diseases, but they are careful to never actually call it a medicine, lest they risk imprisonment. They present Lugol’s iodine as the gold standard of iodines for drinking. The formulation is 5 g. of chemically extracted iodine, and 10 g. of potassium iodide per 100 milliliters of distilled water. There are rogue people who advocate drinking as much as three teaspoons of such chemically-extracted iodine daily; to supposedly cure and prevent countless illnesses. What it really does in the long term is damage the liver and obliterate the thyroid, awhile producing a very high risk of heart attacks. In some cases, these people are even feeding it to small children in what is blatantly child abuse.
Dr. Guy E. Abraham and his close partner Dr. David Brownstein have been repeatedly quoted and cited by the quacks of iodine drinking as “the experts” on this topic; so it is worth a moment to discuss them. Brownstein wrote an entire book about drinking iodine, and Abraham’s faithful point to his credentials as a professor and a former M.D. However, their therapies are not even endorsed by their own establishment. In previous times, they were both a willing part of a medical system that routinely gives children radioactive iodine to virtually destroy any chance of them having a long and healthy life.
“Want to join the experiment? If you are already taking iodine click here to become a member, or Order a bottle for $40 to try it out for yourself!”
— Dr. Guy E. Abraham
Elemental iodine is quite useful as a topical antiseptic, and topical applications eliminate a plethora of health issues that are wrought by iodine deficiencies. However, elemental iodine can quickly become toxic when it is orally consumed, for it is difficult to not overdose. However, it is always safe when it organically occurs in foods, such as fish. The effects of an overdose with elemental iodine mimic the central nervous system problems that are caused by well-known poisons; for instance, the metallic taste that is caused by arsenic poisoning. The iodine that is found in typical retailers is always toxic in any amount when it is taken orally, and Lugol’s is not much safer.
The poisonous short-term effects of ingested iodine are well known, but the consequence of tiny amounts being ingested over a period of years is unknown. We have written this hoping that those who are considering following moronic advice about drinking iodine will research enough to find the truth prior to hurting themselves, or their children.
Symptoms of Iodine Toxicity and Overdose
Abdominal pain
Coughing
Delirium
Diarrhea
Fever
Metallic taste in mouth
Mouth and throat pain
Inability to urinate
Seizures
Shock
Shortness of breath
Stupor
Excessive thirst
Profuse vomiting
Death
Other misguided followers of Abraham and Brownstein allege that ingested iodine from chemical sources is not toxic, and that the toxic effects only result from methanol being inside the over-the-counter products. They usually follow with boasts about how Lugol’s iodine lacks methanol, while ignoring all the other toxicity facts about it. However, the National Institutes of Health specifically cites Lugol’s iodine as being poisonous, and even its fumes are dangerous whenever it is heated. The official medical term for toxic overexposure to iodine is “iodism”, and this condition is virtually always the result of oral consumption. No other ‘supplement’ requires environmental protection suits in its production process, as iodine synthesis is a dangerous and chemical-laden process.
Some of those who are consuming synthesized iodine (and even giving it to their children) believe that it must be safe because iodine is added to salt and bread. This is actually false. It is normally trace amounts of potassium iodide (not iodine) that is added food items. It is a significantly less toxic chemical relative of iodine that somewhat helps to compensate for iodine deficiencies. While the safer iodide can be found inside the Lugol’s solution, and inside of other ‘supplemental’ iodine solutions, it is still dangerously easy to overdose. It is so risky that it is absolutely irresponsible to supplement with it, or to recommend it as a supplement.
It is worth noting that iodine is much safer when combined with carbohydrates like bread, because starches are known to neutralize it. Thus, even if real iodine were actually inside breads, then the breads would neutralize that iodine. The excessive carbohydrate consumption of our Western diets is one of the many reasons why so many of us are lacking iodine. For this reason, victims of iodine consumption are recommended to eat bread by iodine manufacturers and poison control centers.
There has been a philosophical debate that has raged for eons about whether laws should protect people from themselves. However, there is no debate about whether children should be protected from bad adults. All of us in society have a shared duty to protect children from harm. It is our moral duty to report any parent who is poisoning a child with iodine, or any other toxic substance, to child protective services or other relevant governmental agencies. Contact us if you know of this happening to a child, but you are too afraid to get involved yourself. Poisoning a child is a symptom of the mental illness, Munchhausen by proxy, so the abuse will only get worse in time if there is no intervention. For some really bad parents out there, the book from Brownstein is the excuse that they need.
Safe Ingestion Methods
The safest oral supplement for iodine is red marine algae, which can be purchased in capsule form. Other marine plants have toxins, such as heavy metals and PCB’s. The ideal food source for iodine is baked fish. Beware of bottom feeders and shell fish, for they have the same toxins that most underwater vegetation does, in addition to toxins that they produce themselves. Pure potassium iodide is an acceptable solution for those who are careful not to overdose, but people should beware of impure products that include additives such as sodium benzoate, or even iodine. Potassium iodide should never be used by those with Hashimoto’s disease, nor should they use any other oral iodine supplements.
The potassium iodide that is added to table salt is not adequate to compensate for most iodine deficiencies. It is usually sufficient to stop goitrous boils from swelling in the neck, which are caused by an extreme deficiency. However, not enough iodine can be obtained from table salt to maintain optimal health, unless a dangerous amount of it is consumed. Naturally-occurring iodine is present in unadulterated sea salt with naturally-occurring complimentary minerals, but even the vastly superior and healthier sea salt might not be enough for people who have extreme iodine deficiencies that are caused by fluoride toxicity and other mitigating factors. The safest way to intake more iodine is to increase the amount of healthy seafood in the diet, but this excludes (non-kosher) bottom feeders.
Original article and pictures take www.corespirit.com site
Insomnia Visiting an acupuncture clinic to have needles inserted under your skin doesn’t sound like a good way to get a good night’s sleep; however, first impressions can be deceiving
Visiting an acupuncture clinic to have needles inserted under your skin doesn’t sound like a good way to get a good night’s sleep; however, first impressions can be deceiving. Like most traditional Asian treatments, acupuncture not only focuses on treating the body but also the mind. It is one of the most well-known therapies for restoring proper balance to the mind and body.
Sleeping disorders, specifically insomnia, is the hyper arousal (fight and flight) of the nervous system and this is why acupuncture is effective in treating the condition.
What Is Insomnia
Insomnia is one of many sleeping disorders characterized by the inability to fall or stay asleep for an appropriate amount of time. The two main types are primary and secondary insomnia. Primary insomnia occurs as a result of sleeping problems that are not related to other health issues, while secondary insomnia is a result of existing health conditions, such as: cancer, asthma, heartburn, arthritis and depression. Substance abuse, excruciating pain and prescription drugs can also lead to secondary insomnia.
Seeking assistance from a trained acupuncture professional not only helps insomniacs to gradually resume a regular sleep pattern, but it will also limit mood swings and improve your ability to concentrate and combat fatigue.
How Acupuncture Helps to Combat Insomnia
Acupuncture helps to improve insomnia in two main ways. Firstly, it helps to regulate human physiology which is grounded on how body organs, muscles, and cells interact and work together to accomplish a specific task. Based on traditional Chinese teachings, one common cause for insomnia is an imbalance of energy in the body which prevents it from relaxing and cooling down as it should. When the body is sleep deprived it becomes agitated and energy cannot flow freely – much like when you’re hot and can’t seem to cool down.
Secondly, treatment at an acupuncture clinic can help to regulate the body’s Autonomic Nervous System (ANS). The ANS controls body functions like digestion, breathing and the heartbeat. It’s further subdivided into two systems known as the parasympathetic and the sympathetic system. Both systems regulate the same bodily functions, however the effect they have on each function varies.
The sympathetic system is responsible for preparing the body for extreme physical actions hence the name fight-or-flight response. Resting becomes difficult when the sympathetic system is activated due to an increase in the heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and the cortisol and adrenaline levels in the body.
The parasympathetic system as an opposite effect on the body allowing it to relax by decelerating high energy functions and is often referred to as the ‘rest and digest’ response. For treating insomnia, as acupuncture specialist, the aim is to get the body into parasympathetic mode faster.
One visit to an acupuncture clinic will not make all your symptoms of insomnia disappear. The acupuncturists will likely encourage you to visit the clinic frequently over a specific time frame depending on the severity of your insomnia. Most people indicate that they feel more relaxed and calmer after their first session with a skilled acupuncturist. Your medical or naturopathic medicine doctor should be able to recommend you to reputable acupuncturists who can help you.
Original article and pictures take www.acupuncturemoxibustion.com site
Cupping (Ba guan), an ancient Chinese medicine modality that dates back to 218 AD, is a practice used to promote healing via suction.
Cupping is much like the inverse of massage because rather than applying pressure to push muscle and tissue, the cups use gentle suction to pull muscle tissue upward.
In ancient times, animal horns were used as cupping tools in treatments for chronic pulmonary diseases. As cupping techniques evolved, it began to be used in conjunction with acupuncture for the treatment of common colds, back pain, knotted nerves and muscles, and arthralgia. The indications for using cupping have grown through the centuries but the basic principles and techniques of cupping remain the same as they were originally practiced in ancient China.
Modern cupping techniques use small glass cups or bamboo jars as suction devices that are placed on the skin. The most common approach to creating this suction involves igniting an alcohol-soaked cotton swab, placing the flame in the cup, and quickly removing the flame before placing the cup on the skin surface. The suction created by this “fire cupping” method provides a firm grip on the skin. The practitioner uses the glass cup to monitor the tension created by the suction. Sometimes a pump is attached to the cups to create suction.
Cupping is one of the best deep-tissue therapies. The suction and negative pressure provided by cupping can loosen muscles, encourage blood flow, and sedate the nervous system. It is sometimes used to clear toxins and blockages in tissues as much as four inches beneath the skin.
The round yellow, red, or purple mark, the petechia, caused by cupping represents the much-needed relief that it produces. While the petechia may look painful, it will normally heal within a few days, just as a bruise does.
The cups are positioned on acupuncture points or local areas of muscle tension, and the practitioner may leave them in place or manipulate them to produce the desired effect. If a stationary method is used, the cup rests for 10-20 minutes on a specific location to drain damp, cold, or heat and improve circulation in the acupuncture channels.
However, a practitioner may also use flash cupping, where the cups are rapidly applied and removed over acupuncture points and tense muscles to provide stretch and flushing of areas that require vigorous relief from congestion and stagnation. Gliding cups is another method where cups are applied on top of therapeutic oils with quick rhythmic strokes to stretch tissue and promote circulation.
Cupping is used to relieve back and neck pain, stiff muscles, facial paralysis, anxiety, fatigue, migraines, rheumatism, indigestion, constipation, and common cold symptoms. It is also very effective for treating common pediatric complaints including anxiety, hyperactivity, constipation, indigestion, asthma, cough, and troubled sleep. Generally, cupping is combined with acupuncture but it can also be used alone.
Cupping requires training, so find a practitioner who has the appropriate credentials. Enjoy all that cupping has to offer.
Original article and pictures take www.corespirit.com site
Improve Your Digestive Health with Acupuncture Acupuncture can be an excellent choice to naturally treat digestive disorders and maintaining digestive health.
The digestive system runs downwards through almost the entire body. Its tissues, glands and organs work closely together and with other organs throughout the body.
Problems in any part of the system can have negative consequences for the individual’s overall health.
What Digestive Health Means
Digestive health refers to efficiently processing nutrients and eliminating undigested material from the body. To do this, the digestive organs, which include the stomach, liver, pancreas, gallbladder and intestines, must be functioning properly. Digestive health requires a nutritious and balanced diet, physical activity and maintenance of appropriate weight.
Factors that undermine digestive health include poor nutrition and eating habits, lack of activity, smoking and stress. Symptoms of digestive ill-health include indigestion, heartburn, gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain. Approximately 40% of people are experiencing at least one of these at any given time. Pharmacy remedies provide a short term relief, but quite often the symptoms return, and in some cases they become chronic. Digestive health problems are often warning signs of a serious illness elsewhere in the body.
Effects of Acupuncture on Digestive Health
The holistic approach of Chinese medicine is perhaps one of the reasons for acupuncture being so effective in regaining and maintaining digestive health. In addition to the needle treatment, the acupuncturist seeks to understand your lifestyle habits that impact your physical health.
Chinese medicine views the body as having 12 primary meridians and 8 extraordinary meridians. Energy or Qi must flow freely along these meridians to maintain a healthy balance within in the body’s systems. Acupuncture is the practice of promoting the flow of Qi by stimulating specific sets of 362 acupuncture points along the meridians.
To treat digestive problems, the acupuncturist may select points on the torso, and points that may seem unrelated to your digestive system (on the arms and legs, for instance). This is done in an effort to remove blockages along the meridians allowing health-giving Qi to flow. This promotes the smooth downward movement that is necessary in the digestive tract.
Chronic heartburn and other problems affecting the upper parts of the digestive system respond very well to acupuncture. Acupuncture enhances digestion and helps control secretion of stomach acids, thereby causing less acid to back-up into the esophagus. Furthermore, acupuncture lessens the perception of pain in the esophagus and GI tract.
Acupuncture helps the body to absorb nutrients and then to assimilate them. It also enhances the elimination of waste products. In so doing, acupuncture plays a role in stemming the occurrence of digestion related issues such as anemia, loose bowels, constipation, bloating and excess weight. There might be a reduction in the instances of gallstones, kidney stones, autoimmune disorders and chronic inflammation.
Acupuncture can be an excellent choice to naturally treat digestive disorders and maintaining digestive health.
Original article and pictures take www.acupuncture-treatment.com site
If Western Dermatology Has Failed You, Try Acupuncture
Acupuncture can become part of your regular skincare routine. (Photo: Getty images)
Growing up with relatively severe acne, my parents shuttled me from dermatologist to dermatologist, trying everything from photo facials that burnt my skin to prescription lotions that made my skin flake to extractions that exacerbated the swelling. Thousands of dollars and many years later, I still suffer from acne on a daily basis. Jaded and (sometimes literally) scarred by Western medicine, I looked to my roots and sought Chinese traditional medicine, namely acupuncture, to see if it could clear my skin, and maybe even give me a health boost beyond the face. I consulted two different Manhattan-based acupuncturists, Shellie Goldstein of Hamptons Acupuncture and Su-Jung Lee of Truing Acupuncture, to teach me about skincare beyond Western medicine. Before you decide to stick needles all over your body in the pursuit of beauty though, here are eight basic tenets to know about acupuncture, skin, and wellness.
Your tongue says a lot about you
Before my acupuncture facial with Lee began, she asked me to stick out my tongue, which is a traditional diagnostic tool. “The body of the tongue can fall on a spectrum of deeper, darker, purplish reds to a light pink,” Lee explains to Yahoo Beauty. “The tongue body reflects the overall physical systems. Bright red for instance will reflect excess heat in the system. Purples could mean there is stagnation of blood or a blockage in circulation.” By checking the tongue coating and body, the acupuncturist can confirm a diagnosis. Goldstein agrees: “According to Chinese medicine, the tongue is the visible end of a long tube that extends from the mouth to the rectum,” she writes in her book, Your Best Face Now. “Your tongue can also say a lot about your Qi,” Goldstein tells Yahoo Beauty. “The Qi is a force of energy that you can’t see, but it affects the way you look and the way you feel. Many of my patients don’t just have skin issues. They are also fatigued.” It’s all connected — and it starts with your tongue.
Acupuncture needles are not one-size-fits-all
There are more than 365 points in your body, but don’t worry — the needles don’t go everywhere. This is great news if you have a fear of needles. In her office, Goldstein presented to me a variety of needles from Japan, China, Taiwan, and elsewhere. They come in different diameters and types of metal, and the Chinese needles tend to be thicker than the Japanese needles. They are pre-sterilized, single-use, and disposable (leave immediately if your acupuncturist is re-using needles). Unlike hypodermic needles, these don’t hurt because they’re extremely thin, solid (versus hollow), and have finely tapered points. You shouldn’t really feel the needles, but you may experience a slight pinch in certain areas. It’s not an unpleasant feeling, but if you already have an aversion to sharp things, this is your warning. You may actually find it relaxing: Many people claim to fall asleep during acupuncture sessions — I know I do.
Chinese medical cosmetology dates back thousands of years
“Used by the ancient Chinese Empresses and the concubines of the Emperor, this system was designed to improve the quality of the skin, reduce signs of aging, and maintain lustrous radiance,” Goldstein explains. She mentions a text, Huang Di Nei Jing, that recommends acupuncture, facial massage, and qi gong as anti-aging and acne treatments, and explains how your diet affects your appearance. The Empress Lu Zhi of the Han Dynasty, for example, is said to have started each day with a soup made of edible jelly fungus, which was supposed to minimize facial pigmentation and freckles, reduce fat absorption, and promote gut health. And Yang Guifei, the famously beautiful concubine of Tang Dynasty Emperor Xuanzong, had her own almond skin cream recipe.
An acupuncture facial requires needles all over your body
I was surprised when the needles went on my feet — the farthest points away from my body. Apparently, the points on your feet can affect parts of your head, whether you’re seeking treatment for chronic migraines, acne, or sallow skin. “As the tongue can reflect an imbalance in the overall physiology, so can the face and skin,” Lee explains. Treating the whole body, as well as locally on the face, synergistically improves the general health of the person.” For example, as Goldstein explains, the point on top of your foot between your first and second toes can be activated to treat wrinkles between the eyebrows and around the eyes, and to reduce and irritation in the eyes. Activating the point on the inside of your foot, directly below the ankle bone, can help treat dry lips, thinning hair, and ringing in your ears. Everyone has an individual experience with acupuncture, but the point is to restore the balance in your body.
Acupuncture has a cumulative effect
As with most skincare treatments that aren’t surgery, you don’t get instantaneous results — much to my dismay. “For a ballpark of number of treatments for facial acupuncture, I’d recommend working once a week for three months since acupuncture has cumulative results over time,” Lee advises. “Then, a maintenance schedule of once a month should do in most cases.” Goldstein agrees: “It’s not just acupuncture. You have to gradually change your lifestyle habits, like diet, if you want to see results.” The cost can add up, though, and even the most premium of health insurances don’t cover cosmetic acupuncture. Luckily, there are many community-oriented holistic acupuncture centers that only cost $50 per session, as long as you’re willing to get treatments done with other people in the room.
According to Eastern medicine, you can temporarily delay the signs of aging
“The muscles of your body attach from either bone to bone, or from bone to tendon or ligament,” Goldstein explains. “Contracting these muscles moves your bones.” But your facial muscles are different — on one end, they’re attached to a bone or muscle, and on the other end, they’re attached to a muscle or your skin. So, when you contract these muscles, you’re moving muscles and skin, not bone. Wrinkles are going to inevitably happen if you have facial expressions, but Eastern medicine says you can delay aging by focusing on balancing your Qi energy levels, starting with your kidneys. Kidneys perform a variety of vital regulatory and balancing functions in your body, from waste removal to blood filtering to enzyme production, and in Eastern medicine, they are also said to possess a special kind of Qi called Jing, which is passed down from your ancestors. When your kidneys are unhealthy, your mind and body suffer, from yellowing skin to memory loss. Another organ that matters a lot is your lung. “Eastern doctors believe we can all have normal skin,” says Goldstein. “All it takes is good Lung Qi.” If your lungs, which regulate moisture and air, aren’t functioning properly, your skin can be too dry, which can enhance signs of aging.
You can do acupressure at home
Goldstein’s book, Your Best Face Now, is a thorough guide to giving yourself the benefits of acupuncture without the actual needles. Acupressure uses the firm pressure of your hands, instead of needles to stimulate vital points on your body. Acupuncture is technically stronger and supposedly more effective, but you also need to see a specialist for it. Goldstein invented the 20-day AcuFacial Acupressure Facelift technique as a non-invasive way to shave years off your face, but you can also consult your own acupuncturist about the pressure points that are most effective for yourself. “Just because someone else has acne, doesn’t mean they have it for the same reasons [as another person] or that it is the same kind,” Lee explains.
You need to live a healthy lifestyle to reap the benefits
Acupuncture is all about restoring balance into your body, but a 60-minute session once a week won’t make a difference if you’re not eating well, sleeping well, wearing sunscreen, and exercising. Both Goldstein and Lee require their first-time patients to fill out an extensive multi-page questionnaire about their lifestyle habits and schedules, from coffee consumption to skincare products to menstrual cycles. It borders on TMI, but here’s the thing: It’s your body, and it requires self-healing. “To really improve and maintain a healthy body and face, we have to work together by addressing lifestyle choices and habits,” says Lee. “With regular acupuncture and herbs, if necessary, you can expect to see a healthier complexion and better overall health by calming stress, and improving digestion and quality of sleep.”
Original article and pictures take s.yimg.com site
Acupuncture/ Acupressure Points Commonly Used for Digestive Complaints (Back)
Note:
The above-mentioned points are just a few examples of the acupuncture points that can be used to treat IBS patients. Many other important points exist on other parts of the body, including the upper and lower limbs. In clinical practice, acupuncture points will be selected based on each patient’s signs and symptoms as manifested on the day of the treatment.
The location of the acupuncture points described in the figure and in textbooks should be considered rough locational guides. Experienced acupuncturists will locate effective points through palpitation.
Both traditional theory and scientific research show that stimulating exactly the same acupuncture point can elicit entirely different responses at two different times. In other words, effective acupuncture treatment does not depend solely on the selection of acupuncture points, but equally or more so depends on how those acupuncture points are stimulated by using acupuncture and moxibustion.
It is important to receive treatments from qualified acupuncturists who have the knowledge and skills to locate effective meridian points and induce favorable physiological responses through acupuncture.
