Laying on a comfy table with needles inserted into various parts of my skin – definitely something you would not expect from someone with a past fear of needles. It’s one thing to have lab work done, but to actively seek wellness with needles? What leads people like me to such a therapy?
As my posts continue on, I think you will notice a trend – there was life before my dad’s last illness and death, and there is life after. Watching my dad suffer and navigate the current healthcare system was painful, and yet there I was (and still am) a part of that system. But that experience has challenged me in so many ways to look at the world differently. Is our traditional Western medicine the answer to everything? Absolutely not. Could there be some merit to things such as massage, acupuncture, meditation, etc.? I think so.
I didn’t actively seek acupuncture out, but rather it found me when a licensed acupuncturist came to my workplace to talk about what she does. I was fascinated and decided I needed to give it a try. My first appointment was a few days before my wedding, in which I had some type of “relaxation” treatment. And, what a ride it was. I felt amazing afterwards, and decided that I should go again. From then on I have been going at least monthly.
I can’t speak about any scientific evidence that supports acupuncture, but I am guessing there is some out there. However, from personal experience, I am a fan. Some examples – after my wedding, I had acupuncture treatments to prepare me for a pregnancy. There was no rush to get pregnant, but it happened literally about the second all birth control was stopped. Also, I have a long history of sinus and allergy problems – after an acupuncture session focusing on those issues I tend to be less congested and feel better. Of course, I am sure you might believe it has all been wishful thinking on my part. I guess I can’t absolutely prove it, but I feel like I have only seen benefits from acupuncture. And, if it seems to help, why not?
Regardless of your initial feelings on acupuncture, I encourage you to give it a try. If you have a fear of needles, you should understand that the needles are very small and barely puncture the skin – it doesn’t really hurt. You also need to make sure you go to someone who is qualified and legit, because training and experience is important. Acupuncture can help with both active health issues and for wellness, and may just be a therapy that can better your life.