How Does Acupuncture Work? :
How Does Acupuncture Work? Acupuncture is a holistic therapy . . . it treats the whole person, not just the symptoms.
Acupuncture theory states that Qi - energy or life force – runs through the body in a series of channels or meridians. If the flow of Qi is interrupted or becomes imbalanced, illness can result. By inserting needles in the right places, the acupuncturist can restore the flow of Qi to normal.
Yin & Yang :
Yin & Yang According to acupuncture theory, everything has a yin aspect and a yang aspect, in much the same way that everything has a right side and a left side.
Yang is associated with activity and with heat, while yin is calm and cool.
And, unlike right and left, yin and yang can become imbalanced.
The Role of Yin & Yang in Sleep :
The Role of Yin & Yang in Sleep In order to be able to sleep, the body’s yang energy has to move inwards while the yin energy emerges.
So things which stimulate the body’s yang (such as stress, exercise, spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine) can interfere with sleep.
Conversely, things which stimulate yin (such as soft lighting, gentle music, meditation and chamomile herbal preparations) can assist sleep.
The Meridians :
The Meridians Each pair of meridians (one on the left side of the body and one on the right) is associated with one of the organs of the body.
Three meridians where an imbalance may spark off insomnia are the Heart Meridian, the Spleen Meridian and the Liver Meridian as they are affected by anxiety (Heart), worry (Spleen) and stress (Liver).
Qi runs through the meridians in a set order over a 24 hour period and the time at which the person tends to wake up may give a clue as to which meridian needs treatment.
Treating Insomnia with Acupuncture :
Treating Insomnia with Acupuncture The acupuncturist will diagnose where the imbalance lies and will use specific points to restore the flow of Qi to normal.
Ruth Lever Kidson’s book “Is Acupuncture Right for You?” is available from Amazon.
For more information on complementary, orthodox and self-help methods of treating insomnia go to:
http://www.HowToSleepSoundly.com