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Acupuncture & Natural Health Solutions Newsletter   Providing Natural Health Care for the Entire Family
Issue #2015-03a
Top 10 Reasons to Try Acupuncture


1) Acupuncturists view each person holistically and individually.

No two people are alike. Every cell in that person's body is interconnected to others and is functioning as part of an integrated whole. In other words, acupuncture treats the whole person, not just parts and pieces. The root causes of a symptom that two people are experiencing may be completely different. During the initial exam, a full health history is taken. Questions are asked regarding overall health and symptoms, lifestyle choices, exercise, nutrition, career paths, and other life factors. All aspects of the patient are considered when putting together an effective treatment plan.  
 

2) Acupuncture helps to re-awaken and energize the self-healing capacity of the body.
 
An acupuncturist treats more than symptoms and signs. Acupuncture activates the body's natural healing potential by treating the root causes that have led to the problem or disease. Research shows that acupuncture triggers the body's own mechanisms for manufacturing and releasing its own pain relieving chemicals. These chemicals are endorphins and dopamines, opioid-like compounds that produce the feeling of well-being and reduce pain. The body knows the exact dose that is needed at the right time. It is like a perfect pharmacy that can produce any "medication" needed for healing without any unwanted side effects!


3) Acupuncture is an effective preventative medicine with no negative side-effects, only positive ones.
 
Acupuncture is a completely natural therapy and works directly with the body's natural processes, not against them. No drugs are ever used. Invasive procedures and drug therapies used in Western treatment may produce undesirable side effects and accumulated toxicity in the body.  Acupuncture does not have these side effects. In fact, feeling great is the most commonly reported result. 
 

4) Acupuncture helps to support and strengthen the immune system.
 
The immune system works throughout our body to prevent and fight illnesses. Our digestive tract, skin, and lymphatic system are three important parts of the immune system. The immune system can be weakened at times by disease and/or certain treatments and medications. Lifestyle contributors such as poor diet, stress, and poor self care can also negatively impact the immune system. The goal of acupuncture is to find and treat the underlying imbalances that are affecting the flow of Qi (pronounced "chee"), our vital energy or power, and the immune system by addressing the root causes. Acupuncture can help you regain balance and improve your overall health.


5) Acupuncture effectively assists with recovery from drug, alcohol and smoking addictions.

With the help of acupuncture, recovery from drug, alcohol and smoking addictions can be made easier. Stress, anxiety and depression are some of the largest stumbling blocks in quitting addictive habits and behaviors. Acupuncture is successful at calming and relaxing the mind, reducing anxiety and alleviating depressive feelings. 


6)  Acupuncture is recognized by well-known and leading national and international health organizations*.

The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization are among those organizations who recognize that acupuncture is effective in the treatment of over 50 western medical diseases, disorders and symptoms including pain, infertility, allergies, depression/anxiety, migraines, digestive issues, arthritis, fibromyalgia and more.
 
 * National Institutes of Health (NIH), World Health Organization (WHO), National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM)



7)  Acupuncture is safe and painless.

When practiced by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is safe. In 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified acupuncture needles as medical instruments, assuring their safety and effectiveness. The needles are one-time use only and are sterile and do not carry any risk of infection. Acupuncture needles are about ten times smaller in size than an average hypodermic needle, approximately the size of a cat's whisker, and they are very flexible. They don't hurt in the way that hypodermic needles do, however a slight sensation may be experienced as the acupuncture needle is inserted. 


8)  Acupuncture treatment is an excellent stress-relief therapy.

Along with treating physical and emotional symptoms and signs associated with stress, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) addresses the root cause(s) of the problem. Qi is the vital energy or power that animates and supports the functions of the body. It flows through specific pathways, called meridians, and provides nourishment for the entire body. When Qi becomes "blocked" or the supply is inadequate, the body and organ systems become "stressed out" and our health is then compromised. With acupuncture and TCM, the practitioner's job is to support and restore the integrity of the various organs affected and depleted by the stress response, along with evaluating the quality and quantity of Qi.

 
9) 
Acupuncture is an affordable alternative.

Compared to some expensive Western medical therapies, treatments and medications, acupuncture is affordable and effective and it may help you avoid further medical expenses and complications down the road when it is used as a primary treatment plan or an adjunct therapy. Acupuncture can also help you make lifestyle changes and prevent future illness.
 

10) Acupuncture works!  

Acupuncture has been used to successfully treat millions of people over the past 3,000 years.  It is an effective form of medical treatment  that has evolved into a complete holistic health care system. Practitioners of acupuncture and Chinese medicine have used this noninvasive treatment to help many become well and stay well. As the old adage goes, "there is nothing to fear, but fear itself"! Acupuncture works and this safe, natural, drug-free way of whole body healing is worth a try!

 

 

 
Be Different. It's Good for You.

 


It's funny how some things come to be accepted as normal just because the larger flock is engaging in them. If you are fortunate enough to have an open mind and think for yourself, all of a sudden you are the one who is considered odd, or alternative, or irresponsible.

When did it become normal for millions of American kids to be on the mind altering drug Ritalin? What happened to the human body that all of a sudden we supposedly need flu shots and immunizations to stay healthy? How is it that medicine is a leading cause of death in this country yet we continue to consume it in absurd amounts?

When you talk about acupuncture for total body health and wellness you are a freak. If your "medicine cabinet" isn't overflowing with cough syrups and pain-killers you're odd. If you choose to use acupuncture, herbs, massage, or chiropractic you are crazy.

Who are the ones that are really off base here? Common or mainstream does not necessarily mean normal or right or the best thing for you, and it's up to you to make informed decisions about your health instead of leaving your fate in someone else's hands.

If you're thinking for yourself and you happen to be in alignment with the masses, then so be it. But don't be influenced by the flock to accept their mentality just because "everybody else is doing it".  

When you swim against the current of conventional thinking people look at you funny. Rather than taking offense to those sideways glances, take them as a sign that you are on the right track.

It's been said that as soon as you start thinking like the crowd you'll be swept up in it. Be strong enough to stand up for what you believe, for what makes sense to you, and for what you know in your heart to be right. You owe it to yourself.

 

 

Recipe Corner

  

Peasant Kasha, Potatoes and Mushrooms

 

Whole grains and vegetables have been the chief food of common people for centuries. Kasha and potatoes combine here for a rib-sticking meal Kasha is the name for toasted buckwheat groats.

  

Ingredients:  

  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil or ghee 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 medium red potato 34 mushrooms, sliced 1cup kasha
  • Freshly ground pepper

 

Instructions: 

  1. Heat the oil in a 2-quart pot. Add onions, garlic and salt;
  2. Saute until the onion is soft. Put water on to boil.
  3. Scrub potatoes well and cut into V2-inch cubes.
  4. Add potatoes and mushrooms to onions; saute 1-2minutes.
  5. Add kasha to mixture and stir. Pour in boiling water.
  6. Turn heat to low. Cover pot and simmer 15 minutes.
  7. Fluff up and serve garnished with pepper.

Top with Almond Ginger Drizzle


Preparation time: 25-30 minutes.  Makes 6 servings

 

 

Almond Ginger Drizzle 

A sensuous topping for grains or vegetables. I especially like it served over kasha. You can substitute different nut butters to create a slight variations in taste.

 

Ingredients:  

  • 1/4 cup almond butter
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • 2 Tablespoons tamano shoyu (Japanese Style Soy Sauce)
  • 1 Tablespoon brown rice vinegar
  • 1teaspoon grated gingerroot
  • 1�2teaspoons hot pepper oil
  • 1/3 cup water
Tamano Shoyu:

Instructions: 

  1. Put all ingredients in a small pan on low heat.
  2. Using a whisk, mix ingredients until smooth and warm.
  3. Serve immediately over grains, beans or cooked vegetables.

Preparation time: 5 minutes. Makes 1cup


The information contained within the  newsletter is only used to educate and inform. This newsletter is  not a substitute for the advice of a licensed and registered health  care provider. Seek prompt attention for emergencies. Consult  a health care provider for specific health concerns, and before  starting a diet, cleanse or exercise routine.
Monthly Acupuncture Column Featured in SW Florida's Health & Wellness Magazine 

Toni Eatros, AP,

Acupuncture Physician,  
is the  featured acupuncture columnist in the popular SW Florida's Health & Wellness Magazine.
   
Be sure to check out March's issue, on stands now, about how to  Alleviate Hip Pain With Acupuncture.
 
 
Click here to view
 Your Questions about Auricular Medicine Answered (Ear Acupuncture).
 
Acupressure points

 

Rubbing acupuncture points with 

your finger for 

30 - 60 seconds can stimulate and promote the circulation of Qi within your own body,  restoring health and well-being. 

---------------------------

 

Large Intestine 4 (LI4)

 Hegu

"The Master Pain Elimination" point.
 

Location: 

On the back of the hand between the thumb and first finger. In the fleshy part of the hand.

 

 

 

Functions:

 Used for common cold with sweating, fever, headache, toothache, constipation, red and painful eyes, and nasal congestion. 



 

DO NOT USE DURING PREGANCY.

 

Acupuncture Research

 

Acupuncture Can Help Athletes Recover Faster

-------------------------

 

Injury is the most dreaded possibility for athletes, amateur or professional.

 

The down time waiting for the wounds to heal can be mind-numbing and infuriating.

 

And when you

finally think that you're ready to get back in the ring, you're back in top health, your injure may flare up again keeping you from performing you best.

 

 This has caused athletes and athletic doctors and physical therapists to search for better ways to treat injuries incurred during the spot and faster ways to heal.

 

Recent studies have lent credence to the belief among athletes that acupuncture can help you recover faster from athletic injury.

 

Research included a test with three groups:

 

*a control group which received acupuncture

 

* another group which received sham acupuncture

 

* and a third which received neither.

 

 

The study tested the subject's heart rate, oxygen consumption and blood lactic acid as signifiers of the health of the athlete's performance.

 

The acupuncture group tested better in all three categories.

 

 Further tests are in the works to truly pin point the efficacy of acupuncture on athletic injury

but preliminary results are promising as thy substantiate a previously,

widely-held belief

of many athletes.

 

Click link to read the article 

 

Acupuncture Books

 

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 The Web That Has No Weaver: Understanding Chinese Medicine 

 

 

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