What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a system of medicine involving the insertion of very fine needles into the skin. It originated in China, probably around 3000 years ago, although the first document to systematically describe it is the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine, dating from around 100BC. It is based on the meridian system – a series of pathways running throughout the body – by means of which ‘Qi’, the vital energy, is distributed. These meridians can be accessed at various points along the pathways.
Sometimes Qi can become blocked, due to physical or emotional trauma. The compromised flow can lead to some areas of the body or functional systems becoming deficient in energy, while other areas/functional systems suffer from an excess of Qi. Acupuncturists stimulate points along the pathway in order to clear blockages and improve the circulation of Qi, thereby restoring balance to the system.
People’s energy reserves can also become depleted as a result of stress, lifestyle or prolonged illness. Acupuncturists use the meridian system and acupuncture points to encourage the body to restore itself to optimal functioning.
Why have acupuncture?
Gillie does not believe that acupuncture can or should replace allopathic medical services. If people are experiencing acute illness or very troubling symptoms, she would encourage them to contact their general practitioner.
However, as many people contend with conditions that significantly compromise their quality of life, yet struggle to get any support from mainstream medical services, she feels that acupuncture has a growing role to play in our society. It is able to address issues such as insomnia, anxiety, menopausal symptoms, as well as the pain associated with arthritis or back strain, without the risk of side effects or dependence associated with some medications. It can also support individuals with the side effects of medication when they do need the support of allopathic medicine, either as a result of cancer or other acute or chronic illnesses. It can fill the void when conventional treatment ends, and individuals are left to deal with the psychological and physical consequences of traumatic illness or injury.
Unfortunately, medical services are overstretched and can often seem unresponsive to health care issues that are not immediately life threatening. There can also be a frustratingly long wait for treatment. Acupuncture is a relatively affordable and readily available form of therapy that can make a significant difference to people’s health and sense of well-being.