 cient Chinese method of treatment involving the insertion of fine needles into various points on the body to treat a wide range of illnesses and disorders. There are at least 365 acupuncture points, located on 14 invisible channels known as meridians, which relate to specific organs. The philosophy is that health depends on the flow of vital energy, or 'qi', through these meridians, and that illness is related to a blockage of qi. It is the aim of the needling process to unblock the qi, and thereby allow the body to function properly. A TYPICAL CONSULTATION In a typical consultation, a series of questions will be asked relating to personality, lifestyle, work, family background and previous medical history. The practitioner will observe the appearance of the patient, the colour of the face and various peculiarities as they may relate to the function of the body, according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine ( TCM ). The examination of the appearance of the tongue, in particular, is used to further understand the state of disharmony in the body. The colour, coating, texture, markings and the overall appearance of the tongue are all significant - a yellow coating for instance, may indicate that the body is retaining heat and congestion, while a cracked tongue may mean dehydration. The pulse is also examined carefully. There are six pulses, three on each hand and each connected to a specific major meridian. Although the procedure for taking the pulse is the same as that in Western medicine, the interpretation of the pulse is more complex. Such aspects as the strength or weakness, regularity and flow of the pulse need to be considered.  PHILOSOPHY and PRINCIPLES Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on an organic conception of the human body, viewing its various parts as forming an organic whole. The practitioner will, therefore, see that a particular ailment will affect you on every level. For instance, a physical illness may upset the mind and emotions. Similarly, a mental anxiety may affect a specific organ. The idea that the world and everything in it is comprised of universal opposites, known as yin and yang, is integral to the theory of TCM. Yin and yang are seen only in relation to each other, such as light and dark, male and female. Occurrence of disease is seen in relation to the imbalance of qi within the yin and the yang, and the aim of the acupuncture treatment is always to bring about its balance once again, as well as to promote the circulation of blood and qi. TREATMENT  During an acupuncture treatment, fine sterile needles are inserted at relevant points to clear energy blockages and to bring about a balance in the system. Generally, some sensation is felt when a needle is inserted. Some people and some points are more sensitive than others, but a skilled practitioner should be able to manipulate the needles so that discomfort is minimal or absent. Most people find acupuncture a relaxing experience. The depth to which a needle is inserted varies according to the condition being treated and the position of the chosen points in relation to the anatomy of the body. The benefits of acupuncture treatment may be felt immediately in some cases, or it may take several treatments before changes are seen. Jennifer Chalmers is available for acupuncture treatments at the Phoenix Holistic Centre. For more information or to make an appointment please call 02-93861225 or email phoenixholistic@bigpond.com |