Acupuncture
The word "acupuncture" comes from the Latin terms *acus* (needle) and *punctura* (puncture), meaning "treatment through needle insertion." Unlike Western medicine, which often treats the body like a machine, acupuncture integrates both the body and spirit, offering relief for conditions that conventional treatments sometimes struggle to address. With a rich history spanning over 5,000 years, acupuncture is both a traditional practice and a scientifically proved treatment.
Modern research using radioisotope injections has demonstrated that in addition to arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels, the body contains channels called meridians, which have been mapped in Traditional Chinese Medicine. These meridians correspond to specific organs, and life energy, or *chi*, flows through them. Blockages in these pathways are believed to lead to illness.
According to acupuncture philosophy, health is maintained through balance. When this balance is disrupted, diseases arise. The primary goal of acupuncture is to restore this balance and activate the body’s natural healing processes.
How Acupuncture is Applied?
Sterile, single-use, fine steel needles are inserted into points along the meridians where blockages are identified. The patient rests for 20-30 minutes while the needles are in place. For some conditions, small permanent needles may be placed in the ear for up to a week. A typical course of treatment involves 8-10 sessions, though this varies depending on the individual. Acupuncture is recognized as a complementary therapy by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Conditions Treated by Acupuncture:
- Weight loss
- Smoking cessation
- Panic attacks
- Migraine
- Depression
- Asthma
- Digestive disorders
- Allergies
- Sleep disorders
- Exam stress
- Facial paralysis (within the first three months)
- Urticaria and eczema
- Allergic rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Menopause symptoms
- Post-chemotherapy and radiotherapy (nausea, fatigue, weakness)
- Decreased milk production during breastfeeding
- Infertility
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Cosmetic Acupuncture (Mei Zen)
Mei Zen Cosmetic Acupuncture provides a natural way to combat aging without the use of chemicals, biological agents, or devices.
The Mei Zen system begins with pulse diagnosis to identify any meridian imbalances in the body. Once balance is restored, fine needles are inserted into the face or neck for about 30 minutes. This technique directs life energy, *Qi*, to the face and neck, stimulating collagen and elastin production.
As a result:
- Fine wrinkles disappear
- Deep wrinkles are reduced
- Skin tone improves
- A lifting effect is achieved
- Sagging along the jawline is minimized
- Acne and rosacea are improved
Benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture:
By stimulating the body’s *Qi* to the facial region, the results include:
- Smoother skin
- Reduced signs of aging
- Enhanced jawline and chin tightness
- Healing of skin issues like acne and rosacea
Those who undergo the full course of treatment typically regain a youthful appearance similar to how they looked five years ago. With continued maintenance sessions, these results can be preserved. For instance, someone starting at age 40 can maintain the appearance of a 35-year-old, even at age 50, as long as treatments are regularly sustained.
Additional Benefits:
Cosmetic acupuncture doesn’t just enhance appearance—it also addresses internal health issues. By balancing the body through pulse diagnosis, it helps to:
- Reduce hot flashes and night sweats
- Brighten the eyes, a reflection of spiritual energy
- Relieve moderate depression and mild anxiety
- Improve digestion
- Alleviate headaches
Treatment Schedule:
The Mei Zen protocol typically involves 10 sessions over five weeks, with two sessions per week. Maintenance sessions can be customized to the individual, scheduled monthly, bi-monthly, or every few months.
Who Should Avoid Cosmetic Acupuncture?
- Pregnant women
- Those on blood-thinning medications
- Individuals with uncontrolled hypertension
- Heavy smokers or drinkers
- Active migraine sufferers (migraines should be treated first)
Side Effects:
The only common side effect is mild bruising, with no significant risks or complications.
Acupuncture, both therapeutic and cosmetic, provides a natural, holistic way to address physical ailments, restore balance, and promote overall well-being.
