What is Traditional Chinese Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of an ancient practice of oriental medicine where ultra-fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body to bring about a therapeutic effect, be it physical, mental or emotional. The philosophy underpinning acupuncture is Daoism, which recognises the presence of an animating life force called Qi. It flows in discrete channels around the body, linking up every organ and connecting everything in a continuous system of energy. Health is a state of Qi moving freely and smoothly throughout all of the channels. The flow of Qi can be interrupted or blocked by a number of influences, including physical or emotional trauma, disease, or poor nutrition. Needles are inserted in specific points to remove blocks and restore the smooth flow of Qi and to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Acupuncture addresses the root cause of ill-health, bringing about a long-term restoration of health rather than just a short-term amelioration of symptoms. It does so through individualised treatments that recognise and celebrate the unique nature of each human being. People seek treatment to address a wide range of symptoms, as both a complementary treatment alongside conventional western medicine, or as a natural alternative.
How could acupuncture help you?
The menopause itself is a naturally occurring event and a physiologic change; the cessation of menses has few pathological symptoms when it proceeds smoothly. Unfortunately, and especially in the West, this change does not proceed smoothly and many unpleasant and debilitating conditions can be experienced over months or even years. However, they are not in themselves an inherent and unavoidable part of the menopause (1). As part of the natural aging process, the body’s ability to produce the substances necessary for reproduction declines. This is normal; however, if there is an underlying deficiency or energetic block, the decline is magnified and ensuing imbalances result in many of the symptoms experienced by menopausal women today. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat the underlying deficiencies of my patients to bring about a smooth and uneventful menopause, as well as dealing with the amelioration of symptoms for short term relief.
The ancient Chinese believed that a woman lives her life in accordance with 7-year cycles. At 49, the emphasis shifts from nourishing the womb for new life, to nourishing the woman’s spirit. The postmenopausal woman then becomes the wise woman, the sage femme, the mother of her community and the fountain of wisdom. …Menopause should not be seen as a loss of youth but the potential gaining of wisdom and spiritual power (2).
Clair Taylor-Powell Lic.Ac., B.A.(Hons), MBAcC
Practitioner of Traditional Acupuncture & Life Coach
at Whole Life Transformation
(1) Flaws B (1992) My Sister the Moon, the Diagnosis and Treatment of Menstrual Diseases by Traditional Chinese Medicine
(2) Flaws B (1992) My Sister the Moon, the Diagnosis and Treatment of Menstrual Diseases by Traditional Chinese Medicine
