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Qigong as the Root of Acupuncture, part 2 |
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Last month we explored the link between the body's movement and its
dis-eases, through the practice of qigong. This link opens up maps used
to treat any human problem with physical stimulation. This month we
focus on acupuncture, and its map of the meridians, as one such method
of stimulation.
Acupuncture very likely evolved from bloodletting and massage, as the
advantage of stimulating various areas at once was realized. Imagine six
pairs of hands working on you at the same time, communicating with a
common intent; this can be accomplished with just a dozen needles. Also,
stronger and more direct stimulation could be given, allowing the
practitioner to use less force and time. While early needles were made
of stone, today's needles are solid stainless steel of various length
and thickness. Of the thickest, several fit inside a typical hypodermic
needle, while the thinnest are truly hair-like. Insertion is often by a
tube, though some practitioners prefer hand insertion; either way, there
is minimal discomfort for the client. Most notably, the low cost and
technology of this technique has maintained the focus of treatment on
the acupuncturist's skill and his or her relationship with the client.
All acupuncturists are trained to make associations between clients
dis-ease and the way they presents themselves: how they stand, move,
gesture, and talk, what colors are evident, the quality of the pulse and
temperature of the skin, etc. Even before inquiring about the history of
the complaint, a seasoned practitioner knows a great deal about the
causes of the problem. However, the treatment given may vary widely,
depending on just how the acupuncturist was trained, and his or her
interests and abilities. Needling may range from aggressive and deep
into the sinews to light and just beneath the skin.
In general, most practitioners use a combination of techniques and
theories, depending on the issue and the client. However, there can
still be significant differences between practitioners in style, intent,
and efficiency. For example, suppose a person presents with shoulder
pain, and has a history of daily computer work and also a tendency to
anxiety that binds up the chest. One practitioner may see and treat
tension that relates more to the repetitive work at the computer, while
another may focus on the emotional posture that also influences the
shoulder. The treatments will be similar, yet also different, in points
chosen to stimulate, and in how they are stimulated. The nature and
speed of result will also naturally differ, though both ways may be
effective over time.
Actually, the effectiveness of acupuncture can be quite astounding. It
can be applied in acute cases for immediate effect, e.g., for acute back
sprain, stomach spasm, or asthma. And, over time, repeated treatments
can change the patterns of behavior that lead to these symptoms, i.e.,
improving posture to aid the back, releasing deeply held obsessions
gripping the gut, or ridding the lungs of phlegm blocking the airway. In
all cases, prescribing qigong exercises to complement the treatment
greatly enhances the result.
The most cost-effective and efficient way to make use of the practice of
acupuncture is a combination of regular visits- perhaps seasonally- with
visits whenever one feels ill at ease, or when one's routine no longer
generates a lively spirit. In this way, it is possible to avoid the use
of pharmaceutical drugs, reserving their use, along with surgical
techniques, for emergency care. Also, making use of acupuncture, and
similar modalities like massage and bone setting, helps to establish
better practitioners in these fields and benefits the medical profession
as a whole.
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Quotes |
The spirit of emptiness is immortal.
It is called the Great Mother
because it gives birth to Heaven and Earth.
It is like a vapor,
barely seen but always present.
Use it effortlessly.
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