This is my very first blog and being that it is a new year, I guess it is only fitting that one of my “New Year’s Resolutions” be to remain dedicated to blogging at least once a month. I have only written two sentences, but so far this is pretty fun. The idea of being able to further educate my patients and future patients about acupuncture and other ways of improving well-being is exciting. I have so many things I want to blog about but I’ll try my best to stick to one topic or idea each time. I know myself and sometimes when the fun and novelty of things starts to wear off and life gets in the way, there is a chance my blogging may fall to the wayside. But I’m committed to making this my resolution and please don’t judge me if I miss a month 🙂
I have posted flyers around that say “A New Year, A New Healthy You!” I am hoping they are a reminder that we can put the past behind us and reflect on what changes we can make going forward to improve our lives. Whether it is to make lifestyle changes, dietary changes or develop personal growth, we can always improve and find balance in our life. I am already getting lots of calls about weight loss and stress and how acupuncture can help patients recover from a season of overindulgence and fatigue. If you are intent on improving your health this year, acupuncture may be the very thing you need to help jump start those resolutions. Here’s how acupuncture can help you achieve your goals:
Resolution 1: Reach Target Weight and Stay There
Losing weight is the most common New Year’s Resolution. Acupuncture can help you reach your goal weight and maintain it by promoting better digestion, smoothing emotions, eliminating cravings, and improving metabolism. From an acupuncture perspective, acupuncture points are chosen to influence the Earth element within our body which treats the root imbalances that are causing weight gain. From a western perspective, acupuncture has been shown to have an effect on the function of the nervous system, digestive system, endocrine system, food cravings and metabolism. When in balance, all of these systems can help to energize the body, maximize nutrient absorption, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress appetite and reduce anxiety. Each acupuncture treatment is catered to the needs of the individual patient. Acupuncture points are specifically chosen to address individual needs with a goal of balancing the body which will in turn stimulate the metabolism and calm the nervous system.
Resolution 2: Eliminate Stress
Stress reduction is always on the top ten list for New Year’s resolutions- I mean who wouldn’t want to relieve some of the stress in their life? Stress is often the cause of illness and the deterioration of health. Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress, anxiety and in lowering blood pressure. Acupuncture treatments gradually pull your body back into a state of homeostasis or balance. When our body is fine tuned and back in balance we regain peace of mind and stay healthy. From a western perspective, the important systemic effect of acupuncture is the release of oxytocin, a hormone that signals the parasympathetic nervous system. Instead of being in a “fight or flight” mode where our body is tense and our blood feels like it could boil over, the body is gradually brought back to the “rest and digest” mode where we feel relaxed and in control.
Resolution 3: Relieve Pain Naturally
If pain is keeping you from living your life to the fullest, acupuncture can help. More and more people are looking for natural and effective approaches to help relieve pain instead of relying on medications and pain pills. Acupuncture has no side effects and can be helpful for all types of pain, regardless of what is causing the pain or where it is located. Acupuncture aims at treating the root issue which means results can be long lasting with minimal maintenance. In addition to reduction or elimination of pain, acupuncture also speeds up the healing process by increasing blood circulation and attracting white blood cells to an injured area.
Resolution 4: Quit Smoking
Acupuncture has turned a growing number of cigarette cravers into permanent ex-smokers. In fact, acupuncture is effective in treating all types of addiction. The treatments focus on curbing cravings, irritability and restlessness; symptoms most people complain about when trying to quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification.
I wish everyone a happy and more importantly a HEALTHY NEW YEAR!