Natural Health

As we’ve been saying, natural health is a lifestyle choice of many who believe that the best way of keeping the body safe from illness is to prevent experiencing illness in the first place. This is preferred over treating problems when they arise. In addition to the standard practices of maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, there are less conventional practices that proponents of natural health engage in as well.  Acupuncture is one of these and is growing in popularity.

Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of alternative medicine practiced in the world today. The practice dates back to as early as 200 A.D. in China, and it involves inserting stainless steel needles at various ‘acupuncture points’ across the body in order to allow an individual to heal from illness.

‘Qi,’ or chi, is the vital energy force believed to be present within the body.  Qi flows through energy pathways, or meridians, throughout the body. According to acupuncture practitioners, when the flow of qi is disrupted along one of the meridians, illness can occur.  The placement of the needles in the specific meridians is intended to release the blockage of energy and allow natural flow to resume.

Many people shy away from acupuncture for fear that the needles used in the process are going to be painful when inserted.  In reality, acupuncture needles tend to hurt very little, if at all, and the overall experience is very relaxing.

Acupuncture has been reported as useful in treating a wide range of symptoms, from the pains associated with arthritis, bursitis, and other diseases, to more mental issues such as stress, anxiety, and drug detoxification. There is some skepticism present when it comes to the effectiveness of the acupuncture process, however, the number of clinical studies indicating its effectiveness is growing, and it is becoming increasingly accepted by the mainstream consumer.

Later on we’ll talk about Qi Gong as another alternative practice that falls within the realm of natural health and focuses on restoring unrestricted flow of chi throughout the body.