What does acupuncture have to do with weight loss? In an acupuncture practice, questions like this one are common.
You can substitute any number of health related issues for weight loss, as many people believe acupuncture is simply a pain relief technique and nothing more.
I hope to give you a little insight as to an acupuncturist's view of weight loss and more importantly, a perspective of overall health, which is the essence of a sane life.
First let us start with the basics, such as what exactly acupuncture is.
Literally, the insertion of ultra fine needles into "points" on the body associated with the alleviation of a given discomfort.
The needles are inserted.
3.
8 of an inch deep on average and are retained for 15 20 minutes per session.
Now how does acupuncture work? From a scientific perspective, acupuncture works with the sympathetic nervous system and the circulatory system along with many other physiological systems to regulate the body in a given situation (see acupuncture NIH Consensus Statement, 1997 for more detailed scientific information).
Common acupuncture points lie on one of 14 main vessels and those points on the same vessel are related to each other through a system of electromagnetic waves known traditionally as "Qi" (pronounced Chee).
So what does all this mean in relationship to weight loss? I tell my patients that there is no magic pill or needle to help them lose weight.
The most important aspects in any weight loss program are one's relationship to food and to themselves.
In order for weight loss to be maintained, it must be based on life changes rather than changes over the next 3 months.
Nutrition and exercise will always be a focus, without which there is no healthy loss of weight.
That being said, regular acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas can be an extremely useful aid in the reduction of food based cravings, as well as a powerful spark to metabolism and digestion.
From a physical perspective, acupuncture can provide relief from nagging injuries which prevent a person from engaging in regular exercise.
Emotionally, acupuncture is widely used for stress reduction in the form of depression relief or ease of anxiety.
This is an often overlooked aspect of weight loss, though a major factor in the loss of motivation to attempt an exercise program.
Spiritually, one must have enough love and respect for themselves in order to engage in change for the better.
From an overall health perspective, we see that acupuncture will affect the entire person, physically, emotionally and spiritually in an effort to achieve wellness and open the door to personal growth and expansion (or in this case, personal reduction)! 5 Techniques to Live By -Be Mindful of your eating habits: pay attention to what you eat and where it came from -Exercise for vigor! Your life will change with 30 minutes per day -Have a practitioner or coach to help direct you.
Maps are better when they have already been written -Mindful meditation will allow you to stay focused on your goal -Remember a mantra to make weight loss an exciting experience rather than a struggle -Ask a licensed professional for herbal suggestions