Category Archives: Acupuncture
The History, Types, And Uses Of Acupressure
Even as far back as 5000 years, the use of acupressure was already known and practiced in India, but it was abandoned by practitioners and went to Ceylon (now called Sri Lanka) where it took the form of Acupuncture. Nomadic Aryans and Buddhist monks brought it to China and Japan from Sri Lanka, and today, it is China that’s propagating acupuncture to the world. In the 1600’s, acupuncture was known to be practiced by the Red Indians in the North American continent. Studies done in the United States in the 20th century, has made a major impact in the development of this treatment. Acupuncture is practiced by a lot of naturopathic and allopathic physicians in that country, and the World Health Organization, has deemed this therapy as a valid, easy, and simple system of healing for various health problems.
Acupuncture is made up of two words, “Acu” which means needle and Puncture which means to prick. It is a healing technique that treats illnesses by sticking needles into specific parts of the body. Acupressure is a healing technique of treating illnesses by the application of pressure on specific body parts through a rubber or wooden stick (jimmy) or figure, or the thumb.
Objective
Acupressure is often used to stimulate the natural healing powers of the body. When strategic acupressure points on the skin surface are pressed, it eases muscular tension boosting the flow of vital life energy or chi and blood in the body. Acupressure may be utilized to address various conditions; among which are back pain, anxiety, fatigue, menstrual disorders, allergies, pains & aches, shoulder and neck pain, headaches, stress, etc.
Risks
The use of acupressure is contraindicated for certain conditions that necessitates medical attention, such as serious as infections, ulcers, or severe burns. In the use of stomach acupressure points, care should be taken, more so when the patient is ill. When the patient is pregnant or has a potentially deadly illness, such as intestinal cancer the stomach area should not be treated with acupressure.
Description
When applying pressure, acupressure therapists usually use a jimmy device, their fingers or thumbs. The obstruction in the flow of chi along the energy pathways or meridians can result is stress, tension, pain, and physical discomfort. Applying pressure on the acupoints can help eliminate blockage by easing the muscles that enables blood to flow more smoothly. Acupressure can also release pent up tension liberating an emotional block. The pressure can also free up lactic acid that has built up in the muscle tissues. During an intensive exercise, the muscles produce lactic acid. It is usually taken out from the body by the liver through the blood. However, it can build up in the muscle. Different systems of acupressure are in use today In the West. They include:
1. Shiatsu: This forceful massage involves the measured pressing of acupressure points.
2. Do-In: This form of self acupressure entails the massaging of muscles and acupoints as well as stretching, and exercises and deep breathing movements.
3. Jin Shin Jyutsu: Another type of self acupressure that entails the gentle touching of the body instead massage types movements.
4. Acu-Yoga: This massage technique involves a series of yoga postures and whole body stretches that presses and stimulates acupoints on the meridians.
Mild to medium pressure spun in a tight circle is administered on acupressure points during an acupressure therapy. This technique is mainly done with the hands, thumbs, and fingers. The knees and elbows are occasionally for important acupressure points. Because there are extremely sensitive or tender acupoints when pressed, the reaction can help pin down the correct location. If there is no reaction, either the pressure may not be strong enough or the acupoint location may not be the right one. During an acupressure procedure the felt sensation should fall some-where between pain and pleasure.
The Benefits of Acupressure
Diagnosis: Proper and immediate diagnosis – medical checkup without any examinations.
Cure: Address illnesses including bran/cancer conditions.
Prevention: Thwart all forms of illnesses including paralysis, heart conditions, and even cancer.
From a health perspective, the World could be divided into:
1. Approximately 15 percent – These people need surgery, medicine and medical attention. The world has enough hospitals and practitioners that can provide help for these people. Later on, with the use of acupressure, they also can be prevented from becoming sick.
2. Approximately 25 percent – These are people who are presently suffering who can be cured very affordably with acupressure and prevented from falling ill again.
3. Approximately 60 percent – These are people (including babies about to be born) who are healthy but can fall to illness. Their illness can be thwarted by getting acupressure treatment on a regular basis.
Risks: We do not recommend acupressure used as a substitute for necessary conventional medical treatment although acupressure can be combined with other types of treatment.
Thrive Wellness Center
1244 S Federal Hwy
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Phone: (954) 713-6118
http://thrivewellnesscenter.com
The Five Easy To Learn, Slow, And Gentle Falun Dafa Exercises
Falun Dafa consists of five easy to learn, slow, and gentle exercises. To get a broad overview of each exercise, continue reading this article.
Falun Dafa has five sets of easy- to-learn and gentle exercises to help improve your body. You can perform them anytime and anywhere without restrictions. For folks living in the modern world who are always on the go, this is an ideal exercise that can boost their health and well being.
If you want an easier way to learn Falu Dafa is to find a practice class near your area and perform the exercises there.
Exercise No. 1 – Fo Shan Ch’ian Shou Fa
The stretching of the body is at the heart of this practice. The stretching exercises release the parts in the body wherein energy is blocked. They also activate the energy under the skin and inside the body enabling it to circulate robustly throughout the body and naturally imbibe a significant measure of energy from the cosmos. As a result, all the meridians within the body of the practitioner are opened up at the onset.
Exercise No. 2 – Falun Shuang Fa
Exercise number two is a peaceful standing meditation exercise made up of four wheel-holding postures. People frequently doing this exercise will be able to speed up the opening of their whole body. The Falun Shuang Fa is an extensive way of cultivation practice that boosts your divine powers, elevates your energy levels, improves gong potency, and increases wisdom.
Exercise No. 3 – Guan Tong Liang Ji Fa
This exercise taps into the energy of the universe and blends it with the qi within your body. This exercise will force you to spew out a significant level of negative energy which can lead to the purification of your body within a short period of time.
Exercise No. 4 – Falun Shou Tian Fa
Exercise four enables your body to transport energy over wide areas. Your qi or energy does not only flow in a few or a number of energy channels, but from both the yin and yang sides of your body, continuously and to and fro.
Exercise No. 5 – Shen Tong Jia Chi Fa
Exercise five a peaceful cultivation workout. It is higher than an intermediate level exercise. It is performed in a sitting position with both legs crossed. During this exercise, the energy field surrounding the practitioner enlarges. Practitioners achieve better results the longer their legs are crossed.
Vickery Health & Wellness
18455 Burbank Blvd #306
Tarzana, CA 91356
(818) 578-6730
http://www.vickeryhealth.com/
What Is Chinese Bonesetting Therapy?
Bonesetting is a Chinese treatment that relies on the philosophy of acupuncture in Bellmore to locate and repair injury to any part of the body: the nervous system, veins, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and bones. Treatment is performed based on the cause of your condition instead of the symptoms manifested. Address the cause and symptoms will eventually be cured.
On the patient’s initial visit, the therapist/practitioner will search and locate the cause of pain and where the pain radiates, as is can travel and change direction. This can cause confusion and be quite distressing as to its cause. Hence, it is important for the practitioner to dispel the patient’s fears. The practitioner may ask how long the patient has had the injury, the patient’s state of health and age and other factors that can help determine the outcome of treatment.
Everyone, including children, is urged to take responsibility for their health by reporting their problems to a reputable practitioner who can offer treatment that can help the patient make an informed decision on the type of health care he needs.
In bonesetting therapy, any injury that has bruising is treated with great care. Practitioners refer to this bruising injury as ‘dead blood’ and they take this problem very seriously. In Chinese medicine, when your body has been hurt that area of your body becomes bruised.
The buildup of dead cells can lead to more a severe condition as it can go down deep in the body where it has accumulated. The consequence of the buildup and penetration may lead to newer problems even years later. If this problem is left untreated, it may eventually lead to issues related to walking and sitting, and if you are past 50 years of age, the pain can become chronic.
How can this bruising be treated? It may depend on how deep the body has been hurt.
For instance, you may hurt your spine, elbow, bone, or muscles after a fall. The practitioner needs to find out where exactly the problem is and sort it out by palpating the injured body part with his fingers. It may take a while to locate the injured body part because the pain is usually not at the exact point of the problem.
Bonesetting involves the clearing out of the dead blood, water, and substances that cause inflammation, swelling and pain, and then setting the nervous system, blood vessels, ligaments, tendons, bones, and muscle back into their respective positions. This is usually a slow process more so when the injury is an old injury. The slow approach ensures a safer way to set things properly little by little as an incorrect position may lead to permanent pain. In certain instances, it may even be a good idea to leave things as they are and just focus on taking out the pain and the inflaming substances. This decision may depend on the patient’s health and age and on the age of his injury. Each case is different and the treatment approach will be based on the injury and the other aspects of the patient.
Chinese Medicine Treatments To Boost The Natural Beauty Of Your Face
Thousands of years ago, practitioners of Chinese medicine were giving female members of the Chinese royal family natural beauty treatments to maintain and enhance their looks. In Chinese medicine, beauty care is based on various methods and theories and practitioners realize that real beauty emanates from the inside out.
Your Body’s Condition is Mirrored in Your Skin
The color of your skin reflects your body’s current state of health. For example, people who have acne may indicate an underlying problem in one or more of their organ energetic systems.
Each part of your body has a different form of imbalance within:
Chin: Any skin issue in the chin may indicate a problem with the reproductive organs. This usually happens to individuals who suffer from endocrine disorders or are under severe stress or pressure.
Area around the lips: Skin problem in this area may mean a disorder in your digestive system and large intestine. Usually happens to people that have constipation issues or suffer from diarrhea quickly.
Right cheek: May suggest an underlying lung disorder. Usually happens if you have problems with your respiratory system or if you are hypersensitive.
Left cheek: May indicate an imbalance in the liver; can also occur on people who have liver detoxification problems or people who from mood swings.
Area around the nose: May suggest heated lungs or stomach, usually seen in people who have a weak digestive function.
Forehead: May suggest a heated heart; often seen in people who stay up too late/all night or who suffer from lack of sleep.
Rather than availing of strong medications and antibiotics, allow a Chinese medicine practitioner to examine your facial skin. He can ascertain the body organs that aren’t functioning well.
How Does Cleveland Chinese Medicine Work in Enhancing your Facial Skin?
You practitioner will first examine your body constitution and see what symptoms are already there. He then performs an exhaustive examination and then may suggest a plan of treatment uniquely designed to address your symptoms and underlying problem. Treatments are designed to remove body imperfections and regulate the meridians, organs, and the flow of blood and vital energy called qi to foster the beauty of your face, hair, and skin. Treatments used may include medicated bath, herbal masks, diet therapy, gua sha, cupping, and acupuncture.
Based on your personal preferences and body type, your practitioner can offer treatments for one to three months and may prescribe herbs to assist with your skin problem. Common forms of underlying skin conditions include:
- Phlegm resistance body form
- Stagnant qi body form
- Deficient body yin form
- Stagnant fire qi body form
The most popular Chinese medicine therapy for treating skin conditions is acupuncture. It has been proven to improve skin texture and skin color, lift sagging skin, remove fine lines, and reduce wrinkles. Acupuncture can also help stimulate regeneration by strengthening the flow of blood resulting in an increased distribution of nutrients and oxygen in your body. At the same time, it also supports your immune system and decreases the level of inflammation in your body. A beauty treatment may be done on the face or on the entire body. Some magazines have claimed that a lot of celebrities prefer a weekly 20 minute acupuncture treatment over more expensive beauty enhancing techniques.
To add to your internal beauty, your practitioner may also prescribe specific Chinese herbal teas. They may help slow down or reverse the aging process and provide you with an amazing glow. The tea’s effect can improve the self-healing abilities of your body, and so can be another proactive and preventive approach to increasing physical beauty. After an exhausting and long day, these teas can be served to help your body relax and rebalance itself.
Soothing herbal tea to treat stagnant fire
Ingredients: 3 pieces red dates, 3 grams Moutan, 6 grams Rose, three grams Prunella, and 5 grams Chrysanthemum.
Mix together the ingredients into a teapot then add boiling water. Allow the ingredients to simmer for 10 minutes and enjoy drinking the tea while hot.
Relaxing and Nourishing herbal beauty tea
Ingredients: 5 pieces of Chinese licorice, 5 slices tangerine peel, 10 goji berries, and 10 Rose buds.
Mix together the ingredients into a teapot then add boiling water. Allow the ingredients to simmer for 10 minutes and enjoy drinking the nourishing and relaxing beauty tea while hot.
Detoxifying herbal tea for stomach body and heated lung type
Ingredients: 5 grams raw licorice, 6 grams honeysuckle, and 6 grams dandelion
Mix the ingredients together into a teapot and add hot boiling water. Let the ingredients blend in for 10 minutes and enjoy your nourishing and relaxing beauty tea. This herbal tea has a detoxifying effect on the body.
Healthy Tips to Improve Your Facial Skin
1. Exercise and movement can increase the flow of Qi and Blood as well as clear dampness from your body. In Chinese medicine, dampness can result in obesity and other health issues. You can do qi gong or yoga instead if you don’t want to do heavy exercising.
2. Cook your own meals with quality ingredients. Also do more exercising and less smacking. If you want a snack, eat fresh fruits and nuts.
3. Avoid skipping breakfast. If you skip your breakfast, your digestive system may be affected and may be unable to covert food into Blood and Qi well. With a clear, clean, and good Blood and Qi, your skin and hair will become more radiant and your eyes will shine brighter.
4. Give yourself a break from stress and get 8 hours of sleep each night. Inadequate sleep and rest may result in awful eye bags. Be getting adequate quality sleep you will be able to manage stress well and will be more alert.
Chinese medicine can promote hair growth and weight loss. It also can correct dull complexions, pigmentation and acne and help reverse the aging process of the skin.
The Benefits of Chinese Medicine Include:
- A lower cost compared to other treatments
- No side effects and mild treatments
- Treatment of the root cause of a health problem with results that last for several months
- Natural tailored therapies uniquely designed to address your specific problem
Acupressure Shiatsu Massage Is A Preventative And Healing Therapy To Treat Psychological And Physical Health Conditions
Most psychological and physical ailments are better addressed by being treated by a qualified doctor; however, alternative treatments and medicines may be a viable option for the healing of these problems. In truth, alternative therapies like acupressure massage in the form of shiatsu massage are becoming a reliable and well-trusted choice by a lot of people in the West. Even Hollywood personalities and celebrities visit alternative practitioners, therapists, and doctors to boost their general health and well being.
Acupressure shiatsu massage is one among many applications that individuals actually depend on to help uplift their spiritual condition and overall health. So, if you have certain psychological and physical issues, acupressure shiatsu massage therapy can be an excellent way to better your condition.
This type of massage does not wholly resolve but relieve various body disorders like headaches, cramps, pulled muscles, nausea, stiffness, stress, depression, and anxiety. It has been seen to be helpful by applying pressure on certain acupuncture points on the problematic areas of the body.
A type of Chinese healing practice acupressure, shiatsu massage balances the energy in your body. The word shiatsu is actually made up of two Japanese words “shi” (which means finger) and “atsu” (which means pressure). Sometimes, it is referred to as Zen shiatsu and aims to unite the spiritual, medical, and philosophical levels of the body.
Zen Shiatsu Massage Therapy
Western societies have fully embraced this ancient type of massage therapy. Actually, several massage techniques have evolved from this therapy, which combines the philosophy of chi or life energy that circulates throughout the body along energy pathways called meridians. If this chi flows freely along the meridians, it transports strong energy in the body and takes out wasted energy and toxins out of the body.
However, the flow of chi oftentimes becomes blocked or diverted which throws off the natural balance of energy: the Yin and Yang. This causes the body to become psychologically and physically ill. To treat this negative state of health, the meridians that are blocked needs to be cleared and the chi flow return to its smooth normal movement. This is achieved with acupressure shiatsu massage.
According to Oriental Medicine, problems such as indigestion, swollen joints, sleeplessness, depression, and headaches are not seen as the reason for the discomfort; it sees these problems as signs or symptoms of an underlying hyperactive or underproductive chi, both of which are deemed negative conditions. It considers acupressure shiatsu massage therapy as an effective way to cure these conditions.
How Is Acupressure Shiatsu Performed?
Before your therapist administers acupressure massage therapy on you, he or she will first need to make a diagnosis of your problem, in this instance, to locate and evaluate where the chi or energy may be siphoned or blocked or where it circulates healthily. Your therapist may ask you what type of ailment you are suffering from. After that, he/she will begin performing light massage to determine where the stiff or tender acupoints are. After establishing a diagnosis, your therapist will apply firm pressure on the acupoints running along the fourteen meridians of your body using his/her fingers, palms, thumbs, palms, knees, knuckles, feet, and elbows.
Since acupressure shiatsu massage is usually administered with the patient’s clothes fully on, it is recommended that your wear clothing that is thin, comfortable, and loose, like cloth or linen. During an acupressure procedure, expect manipulating, rotation, and stretching of your acupoints, and to perform some deep breathing as well. You probably may feel a slightly uncomfortable feeling after the therapy, which is normal.
When you combine acupressure shiatsu massage therapy with a healthy lifestyle and diet, and a good physical workout it can lead to an enhanced state of well being. If you receive the therapy on a regular basis, it can be a preventative measure to specific psychological and health conditions.
Eastern Healing Solutions, LLC
10875 Grandview St #2200
Overland Park, KS 66210
(913) 549-4322
http://www.overlandparkacupuncturist.com
Acupressure On The Ht 7 And Pc 6 Points For Treating Insomnia In Dementia Patients
Many of us have real difficulty sleeping at night. There are different reasons for this: stress, drugs, hormones, worries, and many others. Not getting enough sleep can be a potentially serious problem as it can inflict damage on our health. It can cause us to gain weight, weaken our immune system, negatively impact our ability to adapt to the everyday challenges of life, and sullen our mood.
For people with dementia disorders such as Alzheimer’s, insomnia is a very common problem. These people tend to experience what is termed as “sundowners,” which means that they become increasingly confused later in the day or evening as their dementia symptoms exacerbates.
For caregivers of people with dementia, acupressure can be a drugless and safe way to help their patients sleep better. Acupressure works on the same principles as Jacksonville acupuncture therapy but is a much preferred therapy than acupuncture because it is a manual procedure that does not use needles. To massage gently specific pressure points on the patient’s forearm, the caregiver only needs to use their fingertips.
To relieve nervousness, agitation, and anxiety, and to treat insomnia, the caregiver needs to apply pressure to the Heart 7 (Ht 7) and Pericardium 6 (Pc 6) acupoints. These two are the least invasive and easiest to use acupoints. In Chinese medicine, they are respectively known as “Inner Gate” and “Spirit Gate” points. (The spirit refers to the patient’s mood instead of the Western concept of the spirit).
The Ht 7 and Pc 6 acupoints are best used when the patient is getting ready to go to sleep and already lying in bed. After getting the permission of your patient to touch him/her, pull a chair and sit down next to him/her. While using your dominant hand to massage the acupoints, take his/her forearm into your non-dominant hand.
The Ht 7 point can be found on the wrists’ underside, on the first crease where the wrist meets the hand. At the pinky part of that crease, you can find a bony protuberance with the acupoint located just towards the middle or medial to that bony protuberance. Your finger will feel what seems to be a hole or divot if you start at the inner wrist’s pinky side (outside of the wrist), and palpate with your finger over that bony protuberance (toward wrist’s thumb side). That hole or divot is where the Ht 7 is located.
The Pc 6 acupoint is also found on the wrist’s underside. If you search for the inner wrist’s center point, on the first crease where the wrist meets the hand, move towards the inner elbow crease about three finger widths. That is where you’ll find the Pc 6 point. This point has small tendons and it’s located just between the two tendons that can be felt and seen. Due to the position of these two points, using your thumb to the massage them while using the other fingers on the wrist’s opposite side is easy and more comfortable.
After locating the Ht 7 and the Pc 6 points, gently massage one point at a time by using a circling massaging movement whilst staying on the point or applying steady pressure on the point. It doesn’t matter which point you massage first
When performing this technique, you should avoid pain on the patient as much as possible, but the patient will oftentimes report a feeling that can be described as a strong pressure or a “good and gentle hurt” sensation. You should be extra careful on how much pressure you use on a dementia patient. They may not be able to tell you whether the technique has too much pressure or whether it hurts “good,” or they may not be totally in touch with what you are doing. Proceed slowly and little by little increase the intensity of the pressure as tolerated.
For three to five minutes, hold or massage with gentle pressure each point. Urge the patient to take few deep and slow breaths, tell them to relax, and close their eyes.
For dementia and elderly patients, sleeping pills can have serious side effects. They make the patient drowsy at an inappropriate time and can increase their risk of falling. They can also make it difficult for the patient to perform their activities of daily living and self-care.
Acupressure on the Ht 7 and Pc 6 for treating insomnia is a very effective and easy treatment that can help dementia patients fall asleep and stay asleep for a long period of time.
Reducing Acid Reflux With Acupressure
Acupressure follows the same healing principle as acupuncture but without the use of needles. Specific areas and organs of the body are successfully treated through the application of pressure on the pressure points indicated in ancient Chinese medicine. By means of this technique, the energy or chi flowing through the energy channel system (aka meridian system) is brought into balance, facilitating the healing process of the body.
For over two thousand years, traditional Chinese acupuncture in Bellingham has been used to address various types of digestive disorders. Recent research shows that electrical acupoint stimulation, acupressure, and acupuncture treatment on the P6 (Pericardium 6) acupoint induces relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). LES relaxation is one of the major causes of acid reflux. A clinical study involving electrical acupoint stimulation led to a 40 percent decrease of these relaxations in a majority of the cases studied. This is an impressive accomplishment and could herald the start of one of the most important findings ever made in acid reflux treatment.
The Pericardium 6 or P6 acupoint, which is also known as Neiguan, is situated between two tendons on the wrist’s underside. This point is found about two finger-widths from the folding where the arm and hand meet (if you stretch out your hand and twist it toward you).
The lower esophageal sphincter or LES is the valve found between the abdomen and esophagus and is made of muscles. Normally, this valve only opens to allow liquids and food to enter into the abdomen. A properly functioning LES should shut tight to restrain the gastric fluids from flowing back into the esophagus. When it relaxes when it shouldn’t acid reflux is the result. Various factors can bring about acid reflux. They may include stress, chocolate, alcohol, carbonated drinks, acidic foods, and others.
Applying acupressure to the Neiguan has been an age-old treatment in China especially in relieving nausea and vomiting. It is now sometimes used to relieve sea sickness, traveler’s motion, postsurgical nausea, and morning sickness in pregnant women. This healing ability has led to the invention of acupressure wrist bands or “sea bands”, as they are sometimes called, to treat sea sickness and traveler’s motion. A small plastic button is built in the wrist band that bears pressure to the Neiguan. Some people have said it is also capable of mitigating acid reflux.
But even without wrist bands, you can treat acid reflux with use of only your fingers. It’s important to note that you should never feel a sharp pain, only a slight numbness whenever you apply pressure to the P6. All acupoints are either in between or beside tendons, ligaments, and bones. They are never located on arteries, blood vessels, and bones, only beside or between them.
The P6 is a very versatile point. Aside from treating acid reflux, vomiting, and nausea, it can also help treat migraines, fever, epilepsy, chest pain and insomnia. When this acupoint is stimulated, the entire body can benefit in various ways.
According to ancient Chinese medicine theory, the acupoints or pressure points connect to the internal channels of energy conduction, and by stimulating these points the movement of chi or energy is increased and accelerated. Allopathic medicine, on the other hand, is seemingly just beginning to understand ancient healing system. Western medical researchers suspect that acupuncture works through chemicals and nerve signals that are secreted by the CNS or central nervous system, although they still can’t explain how it all works. Hopefully, over time, modern medicine may be able to fully grasp the concept and knowledge of these ancient healing systems.
There is no doubt that both acupuncture and acupressure works in varying degrees of effectiveness. They are both pain free and relaxing methods. In acupuncture, the needles used are as thin as the hair in your head that they hardly generate any sensation when inserted into the skin. Acupressure is even a more non-invasive type of procedure in that pressure is applied with use of the hand, fingers, elbows, or even the feet, not with needles. It is also very simple to learn and perform. All you need is an acupressure chart that will indicate the location of the acupoints you need to massage. Even animals and pets can benefit from this type of therapy. Actually I know some veterinarians who have adopted this technique and use them on their animal patients, whenever needed, to avoid the use of drugs.
Some of my patients who suffer from acute GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) have reported using the P6 wrist bands to try to relieve their condition. Most of them said that the wrist band do actually work in decreasing acid reflux, but only if it is placed exactly on the P6. Some online companies recommend wearing two wrist bands, one on each wrist, while other companies say that you only need to wear one. Well, people respond differently from the effects of these devices and so I say, whatever works for you is fine.
If you interested in trying these wrist bands, you can purchase them on health food stores or online at reasonable prices. You can also opt for a massage clinic that employs a therapist specializing in acupressure and have them perform acupressure on the P6. Where you seek treatment is up to you but it is always wise to keep an open mind about healing in general and to learn how to perform acupressure the right way. This therapy gives you the ability to heal yourself. Regarding acid reflux, you can always avail of natural healing approaches to keep it under control, or even cure it completely.
The Many Healing Applications Of Moxibustion Therapy
Moxa or moxibustion is an ancient form of heat therapy that originated in China. Its healing power is derived from the burning of the grounded leaf of a Mugwort plant (Artemesia vulgaris) and applied on or just above the skin. The plant is either pulverized and made into tiny cones or rolled into a stick called moxa. During a moxa procedure, a fulminating Moxa stick is hovered just above an acupuncture point just a few centimeters away from the skin. The practitioner carefully observes the degree of heat applied and collaborate with the patient in order that an acceptable and safe healing degree of heat is attained and maintained that’s comfortable to the patient.
A smoldering moxa emits a distinctive aroma that a lot of people find soothing. This aroma is due to the essential oils found in Mugwort which have a considerable influence as a form of medicinal incense or aromatherapy. Mugwort has been used by shamans and healers for hundreds of years to banish evil. In Europe, it has been a folk practice to place the herb into dream pillows to help ward off bad dreams and evil spirits.
In general, moxibustion has just about the same healing effect as acupuncture. Medical studies show, however, that moxibustion wields a much stronger and wider effect on general biochemical changes in the body compared to acupuncture. Moxibustion, for instance, boosts the creation of white blood cells in the body. After a direct moxibustion procedure, the white blood cell count immediately starts to rise.
Moxibustion also boosts the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells. Clinical studies confirm that prior to moxibustion subjects with a 78 percent hemoglobin ratio experienced a gradual rise in hemoglobin production that reached a peak of 90 percent within eight weeks.
Moxibustion also tends to have a general positive effect on lymph and blood circulations as well as helps increase the body’s ability to produce antibodies. Impulses from nerve endings of the skin caused by extreme heat of burning Moxa just above the acupuncture points cause the small blood vessels (capillaries) to dilate increasing lymph and blood circulations within the whole body. More often than not, this causes the patient to feel relaxed, warm, and sleepy. Moxibustion can be especially beneficial for people who constantly suffer from weak blood circulation or for those who often have cold sensations in their feet and hands.
One of the most ideal uses for moxibustion is for the treatment of severe diarrhea. For this condition, the acupuncturist places salt in the umbilicus of the lying down or supine patient and then places a moxa cone to administer direct moxibustion treatment on top of the patient’s umbilicus. The salt serves a dual purpose: to protect the skin from the heat and to facilitate the conduction of heat into the body. This therapy is extremely effective; it helps the large intestine quickly regulate the re-absorption of water.
Moxibustion Therapy of the St-36 Acupuncture Point for Maximum Oxygen Intake and to Extend Longevity
One of the most commonly targeted points in moxibustion therapy is the Hsu san Li (‘Foot Three Miles’) point or Stomach 36 (St 36) point. It is located a hand’s width below the knee cap (patella). It is usually used in indirect Moxibustion therapy to stimulate the immune system, improve digestive function, and enhance endurance.
Clinical studies now assert that oxygen Intake can be maximized by stimulating the St-36. The effect of Maximum Oxygen Uptake has been known to improve and accelerate recovery time from conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. It’s been also shown that Maximum Oxygen Uptake also reduces the rate of cancer. Hence, we may posit that the modern concept of maintaining health by boosting Maximum Oxygen Uptake follows the same principle as the ancient wisdom for extending longevity by stimulating the St 36.
The effect of stimulating the St-36 also reaches the entire stomach energy channel as well as the stomach organ system. Also, since the St 36 is located on the leg, stimulating it also benefits the leg and even the health of the entire body.
Preventing Illness and the Rise of Symptoms
The prevention of illnesses is perhaps the most important factor In Chinese medicine, including moxibustion and acupuncture. Ancient Chinese medicine healers closely monitor the early stages of health decline in their patients and try to prevent the illness from advancing any further. For them, treating the illnesses at this stage is much easier. They call this stage ‘Mi Bing’ which means ‘before sickness.’ ‘Mi Bing’ is tightly associated with moxibustion on the St-36 and the concept of longevity.
Smoking Cessation Therapy by Combining the LI 4 (Hegu) & St-36 (Hsu San Li) Acupoints
Since the St-36 is used for a wide variety of illnesses, Fort Lauderdale acupuncturists use it along with several other acupoints. One of the most frequently used combinations of points is the St 36 with the LI 4 (Large Intestine 4) point. According to the ‘Modern Clinical Necessities for Acupuncture’ combination of these points is considered a potential way of helping one halt smoking for good.
Some Of The Benefits You Can Expect To Gain From Acupressure
You may be wondering if acupressure really works the same way as acupuncture. Is it as good as acupuncture and does it hurt? Well depending on where you get your information, you may either be interested in it or terrified of it. Acupuncture is a 5,000 year old plus healing technique that can provide a lot of benefits for your health. A few of these benefits include:
1. Treatment of Indigestion: Believe it or not, acupressure has been used by the Chinese since ancient to treat indigestion and other gastrointestinal disorders.
2. Relief of tension: This is one of the greatest benefits of acupressure. This form of therapeutic massage is used to decrease tension and stress in the body much the same way as spa or massage treatment.
3. Alleviation of migraines and headaches: Studies have definitely proven that acupressure helps ameliorate migraine and headache. For people with these problems, this is definitely huge news.
4. Weight loss: Lots of people who have tried acupressure to lose weight have been successful in their endeavor. However, in order to lose weight successfully, acupressure treatment to lose weight goal should be accompanied by exercise and a proper diet. Stimulating the right pressure points on the body associated with the major organs and body functions can help lower your weight.
The benefits of acupressure benefits are well documented in several guides and books on the practice. When you do some research on the subject, you may gain a better understanding of how to administer on yourself and others. If you decide to try acupressure we recommend checking out some videos and books on the subject. This would help you avoid any pain or mistakes when trying it on others or on yourself.
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Learning the Techniques of Acupressure
Acupressure is a very practical and convenient form of massage therapy. It is very easy to learn and once learned, you can give yourself and others a great massage to alleviate tension headaches, stress, muscle aches and pain in order to foster well-being and peace.
Acupuncture is a healing therapy that originated in Asia some 5,000 years ago. It involves the use of the hands and fingers to compress key areas on the surface of the skin to accelerate healing in the body. It works on the same principles followed in acupuncture, and relies on finger pressure (as opposed to needles, in acupuncture) on predetermined pressure points on the body. Acupressure is a means to gain entry into congested or obstructed energy channels in the body and to eliminate that obstruction or congestion in order to restore the smooth flow of blood and energy. While it is not intended to be a replacement for medical care, acupressure can be an ideal form of adjunctive treatment. It can also be used as a preventative measure as well as for the treatment of fatigue. You will notice results very quickly, usually within a single to a couple two contractions, once you learn to apply the various acupressure techniques. Acupressure is associated with the very popular Shiatsu, which is a Japanese form of acupressure massage therapy. This type of massage is extremely nourishing, soothing, healing, and profoundly relaxing but gentle to the muscles, nerves, blood, tissues, and bones. It can restore or maintain hormonal balance and can benefit the entire body. When you learn acupressure, you will know what points to use that should elicit the proper healing response for the condition you want to treat.
The Pressure Points and How to Use Them in Acupressure
In acupressure, you use your thumb or fingers, or sometimes a blunt object, to massage the pressure points on the body. The massage is administered in relatively quick circular motion with mild pressure. According to Chinese medicine, the acupoints are believed to be junctures of energy channels where life energy known as chi flows. Western medical researchers have been able to map out and have actually proven the reality of these points with the use of electrical devices. Some points are more general in their effect while others are major points as they’re associated with a specific part of the body. The aim of acupressure therapy is to trigger the self-recuperative powers of the body via the stimulation of predetermined acupoints. When these acupoints are pressed, they increase blood flow and relieve muscle tension in the site of treatment that leads to healing. Both acupressure and acupuncture utilize the same acupoints, although in acupuncture treatment in Jacksonville, needles are employed, while firm but gentle manual (hand) or even feet pressure is used in acupressure. Acupressure is a practice that came earlier than acupuncture although it was somewhat abandoned by the Chinese after they developed better technological methods (needles and electricity) to stimulate the points.
Acupressure Massage
An acupressure massage therapy may last for five to fifteen minutes. Every acupoint is massaged until a feeling of numbness sets in the site of treatment. This massage therapy activates and stimulates the natural bioelectrical energy of the body to restore harmony and to cure illness. Hands, feet, fingers, knees, and elbows are commonly used to massage various parts of the body. In every instance, acupressure massage methods are utilized in combination with other relevant medical care. Sports massage is now a common way to help tune up athletes before and during and even after sporting events.
Learning the Techniques of Acupressure In Order to Heal Others
Acupressure’s healing touch enables the body to relax deeply, enhances blood flow, and alleviates tension. This fosters recuperation and causes the muscles to relax. For example, once it has been set acupressure can, accelerate the healing of a broken bone. It can also be used by cancer patients to relieve the anxiety and pain related to the disease. Each acupoint can bring about healing for a number of symptoms and complaints because the stimulation of a single point can transmit a healing signal to other parts of the body.