Acupuncture is our oldest form of medicine still in use, and its origins can be traced back to China approximately four thousand years ago. Over this course of time, observation along with trial and error led the Chinese to develop a map on the body of channels or meridians. Within these channels, our ‘qi’ (energy, pronounced ‘chee’) is able to move through our bodies. This movement of qi serves to energize, nourish, and support every aspect of our body. Our qi helps move our blood, digest our food, keep our immune system strong, deal with everyday stresses, and much more.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) understands that every cell in the body knows what it is supposed to do. When the body is given too much or not enough of something then changes occur. If these changes occur faster than the cell is able to handle, or over an extended period of time, then dis-ease starts to develop. Once disease begins to take root, the flow of qi is altered, and various symptoms start to develop.

There are several ways an individual interacts with their body which help determine a person’s own level of health. What is put on the body such as perfumes, make-up, deodorant, and soaps; what is put into the body including foods, drugs, and medications; what is done with the body such as level of exercise and environmental exposure; and even one’s thoughts in dealing with daily situations. All of these factors contribute to a person’s overall well-being. An overabundance of stress, mental or physical, may cause headaches, irritability, high blood pressure, insomnia, or even depression for example.

All of these daily aspects have an effect on the movement of qi through the body.  Acupuncture’s goal, therefore, is to help strengthen the body and support the flow of qi in order to stimulate that self-healing property innately found in each of us. This ancient form of medicine may also be used to help maintain balance within our body which in turn helps to prevent future illness and disease.

Currently, more and more people are seeking out safe, effective, natural treatments for various diseases. The World Health Organization recognizes acupuncture as proven effective for numerous health concerns which include, but are not limited to: pain, stress, asthma, headaches, menopause, the common cold, insomnia, indigestion, fibromyalgia, arthritis, sciatica, PMS, and many many more.

The benefits of acupuncture are now available in Massena, Canton, and Malone. All appointments can be scheduled through Light Touch Acupuncture & Apothecary.