Be Happy – Mind Mapping Can help You Have a Better Life.

Technically speaking, a mind mapping is a process to make a kind of diagram that is used to represent different tasks, ideas, words and other stuff linked inside your head which radically centralizes around your nerves revolving around a central idea or picture. Mind mapping is usually used to visualize, classify, generate and structure different ideas going inside a person’s head. It is useful in helping someone to organize, solve problems, make decisions, write and study.

Everyday, you have to deal with a lot of information. If you don’t gather or catalog them, the loads of information will be meaningless. Even if you try to sort out all the pieces of information, you will find it quite hard. There are lots of information resources such as books, magazines, abstracts, websites, and even multimedia sources (CDs, DVDs, and video tapes). If you want to have an easier life, try to make use of mind mapping.

Is it really possible to assimilate the loads of info you gather everyday? That would be possible through mind mapping. Through mind maps, you can easily organize all the pieces of info in such a way that it all makes perfect sense.

An overload of disorganized information is not very good. If you’re in this kind of situation, it would be best to try mind mapping the digital way. It’s just like the traditional mind maps developed by Tony Buzan; however, there are some slight differences. The mind maps can help in unlocking the fullest potential of the brain. If you have a paper and some colored pencils, you can already make a mind map.

Let’s take a look at digital mind maps. A number of companies nowadays utilize mind mapping in digital form. The digital maps can make business processes a lot easier. This is because you can create mind maps quickly and not only that, you can draw and edit your new ideas later on through your computer. Business presentations are usually conducted in conferences where there are several important people. The mind maps can be easily shared to the group with the use of the computers and the internet.

If you try to browse the internet, you will notice that there are lots of software programs that businesses and even individuals can make use. Some of the software is free and you can just download them but more complicated mind mapping software is available at a reasonable price.

Brainstorming in the office is usual and with the introduction of the mind mapping tools, the task has become much easier. New possibilities pop up because the brainstorming participants are quite enthusiastic during their sessions.

Time management is also an issue in most companies and so companies are finding out ways to make use of mind mapping for efficient time management.

Mind mapping is not only utilized by companies but also by ordinary individuals. Simple sketches, drawings, and lines can already create mind maps and perhaps you’re doing that too; unknowingly, you’re creating mind maps to solve some of your problems.

If you plan to write a book, you can also utilize mind mapping. You see, it will be easier to get an overview of some interesting topics through the mind maps. Choose your main topic and then put inside the circle at the middle of the blank page. New topic ideas can branch out from the main topic to create sub topics.

Don’t collect your new ideas and information in textual form. Instead, try to jot them down in a simple yet comprehensible mind map. Soon you will notice that your mind is more stimulated and you can even recall all your new ideas without difficulty. With just a glance, you can already understand what it is all about. Try creating mind maps now and make your life much easier.

Elements of mind mapping depend accordingly to the intuitive approach of arrangements from the importance of different kinds of concepts through grouping, areas or branches covering goals or semantic representation and other side connections related to portions of the entire information. Mind maps also aids in recalling memories that duly exist.

Through ideas being represented in a form of a graphical, non-linear and radial manner, mind maps are somewhat encouraging brainstorming in the unorthodox approach wherein ideas are generated with regarding hierarchal and formal system of organization. Mind maps are kind of similar to cognitive maps or semantic networks which are structured rigidly and yet imposing individuality and freewheel.

Origins of Maps made by the Mind

Similar concepts or mind maps are used for centuries now. It is evident in brainstorming, problem solving, memory, learning and visual thinking by psychologists, educators, engineers and other professions that need intensive thinking before conclusion prevails.

Network semantics was developed late 1950s which was just a basic theory in order to understand the demonstrations of how human beings develop learning. This concept was made by Quillian and Dr. Collins in the early times of the 1960s. Dr. Collins was considered as the Father of Modern Mapping because of his extensive commitment to publish researches about his creativity, graphical thinking and learning.

A famous psychologist, Tony Buzan, claimed that he have invented a modern way of mapping out the mind. According to his claims, his idea was due to the inspiration he got from semantics which are popularized in novels of science fiction. He stated that instead of scanning an entire page “traditionally”, one can scan it in a non-linear new fashion way. Buzan was the one responsible for assumptions about the different hemispheres of the brain that needs to be utilized in order to promote an exclusive form of taking dire notes.

This concept is used in some aspects of applications though sometimes others don’t recognize it. Fields include education and learning, engineering, and even planning. If compared with the usual concept map, the structure is quire radial but is more simplified by having just one keyword put in the center and let all the patent information to rush around it.

Some of its important uses are concerned primarily in business (brainstorming and note-taking), education and family and even in your personal aspect of life. General clarification of thought, summarizing and even revising of figures is also within the scope of mapping. People can use this as a structuralized system of involving one topic to a central idea and let the flow of associated information line along it.

Mind mapping is created around a single text, word or idea that is placed in the center of the page. Then, ideas, concepts and words associated to it will be added. This shows that everything is connected with one another under a single idea. It’s more like deriving from one truth with several leaks.

Mind Mapping – A Tool for Creative Thinking

Very few people are gifted with innovative thinking. These people can take advantage of mind mapping because it suits them perfectly since mind maps consume skills found in imagination, creativity, flexibility, and organization of ideas. According to many psychological researches, creative thinking has 4 elements which include the use of shapes, colors, unusual elements, and dimensions. Aside from hat creative thinking can also adjust conceptual positions and create response to appealing objects. If you want to promote creative thinking, mind mapping is a very effective tool.

Mind mapping can aid in completing the thinking process. Mind map is considered as an essential tool for mnemonic principles and creative thinking. If you can apply the appropriate techniques and facilitate them correctly, individuals can create lots of innovative ideas; more than a group brainstorming session can generate. Creative thinking has five stages, and they are as follows:

• Mind mapping burst (Quick-Fire) –

Choose an interesting topic and draw a central image to represent it. You can use a blank paper or any other material that you can write on. The ideas that radiate from your mind should be indicated on the page. Try to generate ideas for twenty minutes. Even if some ideas seem absurd, jot them down because there are times when these ideas serve as the key to breaking bad habits and coming up with new perspectives.

• 1st Reconstruction and Revision –

Don’t over exercise your brain. You can take a break and then try to integrate the idea you’ve generated. Create another mind map but this time, try to categorize the preliminary ideas. You can build hierarchies and identical ideas should be given attention. Through mind maps, individuals can explore and grow.

• Incubation –

When you’re at rest, running, or sleeping, there are times when you experience sudden realizations. In this stage, the thinking process can create probable breakthroughs.

• 2nd Reconstruction and Revision –

Do another mind map burst because at this stage, you have a fresher perception. Integrate all the ideas and info found in the initial mind maps and try to create final comprehensive mind map.

• Final –

After you’ve created a comprehensive map, you can now look for the realization, decision, and solution since this was your original goal.

These are the five stages in the creative thinking. So you see, mind mapping is really an essential tool in creative thinking. In the resent years, mind mapping has become easier as compared to the time it was first introduced. There is now software focused mainly on mind mapping. The software is widely available online and you can purchase them anytime. Computer-based mind mapping is just like the traditional method of mind mapping. it is up to you whether you will make use of the traditional way or the modern way of mind mapping.

Hurry and try to experience the 5 stages of creative thinking. You will surely be surprised with the explosion of innovative and creative ideas. For those who don’t have any experience with mind mapping, you can consult the experts online or you can find a local mind mapping expert.

This may be the answer to your problems. Let mind mapping help you in uncovering your creative thinking so that you can use it in your everyday life. Search the internet now for some mind mapping resources.

Mind Mapping and Delivery Metrics

Everyday, people encounter a lot of complex situations. Most of them can’t find the right solution to their problems but there are also a few who are able to successfully deal with their problems through mind mapping.

In the traditional mind maps, certain keywords are drawn and individuals inter-relate them with related ideas. After that, brainstorming sessions are conducted and the results obtained will provide the best solutions for a certain company or individual.

Companies who need to develop delivery metrics might find it hard to do the task but with mind mapping, the process can be done faster. Through the brainstorming sessions, you can obtain efficient and accurate metrics set. So, how will you some up with a good delivery metrics for your company?

Mind maps are not that hard to create. You can either use a clean paper or a board for writing the mind maps. Draw the origin and remember to keep things simple. Make sure that you seek ideas from colleagues and the ideas should be related to the origin or key point. The mind map will slowly progress as you add the ideas of your colleagues. Write them down as supplementary symbols on the paper or board.

Suppose you’re attending a lecture and you need to jot down notes. Your task will be simpler if you make use of mind maps. You can draw different shapes to symbolize key points. Related ideas and concepts should be interconnected to the key points. The process may differ depending on the individual creating the mind maps.

Since you’re trying to come up with a good delivery metrics for your company, you will present your mind maps to your colleagues. Therefore, your colleagues should be able to understand the various shapes in your mind maps. Familiarize them with everything that’s on the map.

Delivery metrics are company issues that regularly occur from time to time. Throughout the company’s lifetime, it undergoes changes and experience growth. Because of this fact, the company needs to reformat its delivery metrics. Different companies have their very own strategies and schemes in developing the delivery metrics. Even if the company follows complicated or advanced strategies, mind maps still plays an important part.

All in all, mind maps help companies and individual in determining solutions. For many times, mind maps have helped in creating the best solutions for complex situations. According to the experts, mind mapping can generate brilliant ideas from an individual’s brain. It draws out good intuition and mental potential so that others can scrutinize it. You can hold a company conference so that you can conduct mind mapping to develop delivery metrics. You can gather all the best minds in your company so that you can come up with a solid delivery metrics. The company can expect a smooth flow of operations once the new delivery metrics are implemented.

Start organizing the conference for your company now. Pick all the brains in your company so that only the best ideas can be generated. You’ll see that in no time, the company will have a new delivery metrics. Mind mapping has been used for many years now and it has definitely helped a lot of companies and people in resolving complex situations.

Make use of mind mapping now and help yourself and your company grow in the coming years.

Be Happy – Mind Mapping Can help You Have a Better Life.

Be Happy – Acupuncture Can Cure Many Diseases.

As you may be aware, acupuncture is a form of holistic healthcare that is used to prevent and treat certain diseases as well as relieve pain and anesthetize patients for surgery. Research shows that this began in China and has been practiced for more than 5,000 years.

The earliest account of this is found in the book called Nei Jing which in English means the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine. The contents of this book date somewhere around 200 BC. Back then, they did not use metal needles and instead used those made out of stone and herbs to treat a patient.

Acupuncture prevents and treats diseases by inserting very fine needles into the skin specifically at the anatomic points of the body.

The principle behind this concept is that illnesses occur because there is an imbalance in your life force known as Qi. It is believed that this flows in 14 channels in the human body known as meridians which branch out to bodily organs and functions. If there is a blockage or obstruction in any of them, this is when you succumb to a disease or an illness.

The imbalance in the Qi may go one way or the other because of Yin and Yang. The person can only be normal if there is harmony between the two which is what acupuncture is trying to achieve. This can only be restored by stimulating these acupuncture points so your Qi can be adjusted, balanced and harmonized.

Apart from using needles, practitioners also use friction, heat, impulses of electromagnetic energy and pressure to stimulate these points in order to balance the movement of energy in the body to reduce one’s health. An example of this is sonopuncture where an ultrasound device that transmits sound waves is applied to these points in the body. Some use a tuning fork and other vibration devices.

According to the World Health Organization or WHO, acupuncture is used for treatment of acute bronchitis, the common cold, cataract, toothaches, gingivitis, hiccups, ulcers, constipation, diarrhea, headache and migraine, Meniere’s disease, osteoarthritis and a lot more. In the US, acupuncture is often used to treat chronic pain conditions and mind body disorders. Studies have been conducted and it has been proven to treat ear, nose, throat, respiratory, gastrointestinal, eye, nervous system and muscular disorders.

Commonly used to treat bodily pains, acupuncture actually has a wide range of uses that range from addictions, injuries and disease prevention.

But it is merely an alternative and not a proper form of medical treatment. This means you should still be examined by a professional in the medical field who can determine the severity of your illness or disease.

Meeting Acupuncturist

The acupuncturist is the specialist who conducts acupuncture. He or she may use needles or some other instruments depending on the type that will be used to create harmony and balance in the body.

When looking for an acupuncturist, you should also ask where they got their training, how long they have been in the practice and most importantly, what experience the specialist has had in treating the condition you are experiencing. They should also be able to present their credentials like where they graduated and their state board license. If you live in a state that does not require a license, make sure they have something to show which certifies that they can practice their profession.

Before the needles are inserted, you need to undergo a physical examination and answer a few questions. There are risks involved even though it is a painless procedure because the needle might hit something vital inside but if the specialist is good, then there is nothing to worry about.

You may notice a spot of blood when the needles come off. But if you are concerned about it, talk to your acupuncturist so he or she can prescribe something.

Some patients will experience immediate relief after the first session but others will not experience anything at all. This is the reason that an average session should be done 12 to 15 times at least 2 to 3 times a week.

If acupuncture works for you, then the only thing you need are follow up sessions. This can be done twice every 2 weeks or monthly. It is really up to you. But don’t forget to also see your regular doctor so he or she can also monitor the progress of your condition.

Types of Acupuncture

There are different types of acupuncture.

1. TCM based acupuncture.

It uses eight principles of complementary opposites to create harmony in the body. These include yin/yang, internal/external, excess/deficiency, hot/cold.

2. French energetic acupuncture.

This is often used by MD acupuncturists. Meridian patterns are emphasized here particularly the yin-yang pairs of primary meridians.

3. Korean hand acupuncture

It is another as practitioners believe that the hands and feet have concentrations of qi, and that applying acupuncture needles to these areas is effective for the entire body.

4. Auricular acupuncture

It is believed that the ear is a microcosm of the body. This means that acupuncture needles are placed on certain points on the ear so it can treat certain addiction disorders.

Myofascially-based acupuncture is often utilized by physical therapists as it involves feeling the meridian lines in search of tender points before applying needles as this is where abnormal energy flows.

5. Meridian Therapy

It is Japanese styles of acupuncture and tends to put more emphasis on needling technique and feeling meridians in diagnosis.

Impulses of electromagnetic energy can also be used as the body generates tiny but electrical discharges which influence the function, growth and maturity of certain types of cells. By inserting the needles in these areas, it stimulates and alters the neurotransmitters in the body thus making the patient feel better after treatment. This is also sometimes used for diagnosis and testing.

6. Sonopuncture

This method does not use needles. For instance an ultrasound device is used that transmits sound waves to points in the body to treat a patient. Some practitioners use a tuning fork or other vibration devices.

7. Acupressure

Here, the professional will use their hands to relieve the pain. This can be used on it sown or with other manual healing techniques.

The number of treatments you will need depends on the patient’s condition. On average this could be from 10 to 5 treatments and 2 to 3 times a week. How much it will cost also varies as this could be from $40 to $150. Some insurance companies and HMO’s now cover that or partially so you should check if this is included in your policy.

Anyone can try acupuncture to relieve pain or prevent one but many practitioners decline to see someone during pregnancy. But if you have already started, it is generally safe to do so until the infant is born.

Some acupuncturists may ask you to take in some herbs as part of the treatment. Since you have no idea what it can do, have this checked first by your local doctor to make sure this is safe as this could interact with the drugs you are taking causing side effects.

Which type of acupuncture should you try? That is up to you. All of them are effective so discuss this with your doctor and do some research so you know what you are getting yourself into. Each of these is painless so just relax and let the professional do the rest.

Method of Treatment

Before this person does anything, you will first have to answer a few questions. You will then be given a physical exam to check your pulse and observe the shape, color and coating of your tongue. Other things that are checked will be the color and texture of the skin and your posture as this will give clues to your health.

Only then will you be told to lie down on a padded examining table and the needles are inserted to the skin. The difference with this kind of needle is that they twirl and jiggle each time they are pushed further into the body.

The needles used in acupuncture are very small and you will probably feel a slight twitch when the needle goes in. They will be inserted carefully to ¼ or an inch in depth and will stay there from 45 minutes to an hour depending on the condition of the patient. If inserted properly, you should feel some cramping, distention, electric sensation or tingling which means that the treatment is working.

Needles used for acupuncture especially in the US are clean because they are required to be disposable. This prevents any chance that those who go for treatment will be contaminated by a communicable disease like hepatitis or HIV.

You may not feel them at all and if you do, it will only be a twitch that soon goes away. Once they are in place, this will be left there for 15 to 60 minutes that may make you feel very relaxed and sleepy that you may even doze off. Once the session is complete, the needles are removed and you will be on your way.

In some cases, acupuncture is more effective when the needles are first heated. This technique is known as “moxibustion.” Here, the acupuncturist lights a small bunch of the dried herb called moxa or mugwort and holds it above the needles. The herb, which burns slowly and gives off a little smoke and a pleasant, incense-like smell, will never directly touch your body.

Another variation is electrical acupuncture. Here, electrical wires are hooked up to the needles and a weak current runs through it which may cause no or little sensation at all.

It is also possible that herbal medications will also be prescribed by the acupuncturist for your treatment to be successful.

When looking for an acupuncturist, make sure that person is licensed. Before he or she can obtain one, they have to complete 4 years of training at an approved college of oriental medicine. In the state of California, one governing body that gives the person the title is the California Acupuncture Committee.

If they get this from another organization, a copy of their license must always be clearly displayed in the practitioner’s office. One example is the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

When choosing an acupuncturist, there are a few things you should ask aside from their credentials. You should know what styles of acupuncture is used as there are some techniques that do not use needles to treat a patient.

Although there are no studies which prove that one technique is better than the other, some patients are more comfortable with one type over the other.

Length of the treatment.

Patients who are suffering from a chronic illness will have to be treated over a period of months before any improvements can be seen. This will help you plan your schedule since you need to go to the clinic 2 to 3 times weekly. The acupuncturist just like a medical doctor is there to help you get better. If you don’t see any progress with this person, perhaps you should seek the help of another specialist.

The duration of your treatment varies depending on the nature of your problem. Some are easy to fix compared to others especially if you are dealing with something long term. For instance, alcoholics and drug users may quit their vices after 3 or 4 months while those suffering from a disease like autism will take years as there is no know cure yet for the this illness.

Diseases which can be cured with Acupuncture

If you are thinking about trying acupuncture, the following will give you a better idea of its many benefits.

1. Pain

Acupuncture is most commonly known to treat bodily pains such as muscular pains and arthritis. There are many types of arthritis, and each have a different acupuncture procedure. However, the healing effects may vary from person to person. Acupuncture for arthritis usually takes several sessions and takes a lot of cooperation your therapist for best results.

Other pain related ailments that can be cured by acupuncture are severe headaches and migraines, acute backaches, shoulder and neck aches, leg pains, trapped nerves, muscle related injuries, after surgery, carpal tunnel syndrome, sports injuries, menstrual pains, tooth aches, abdominal pains, and rheumatic pains.

2. Depression

Acupuncture is widely recommended for symptoms of depression and anxiety such as irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, loss of interest in social activity and suicidal tendencies. Acupuncture is thought to relieve stress and improve flow of energy that may be causing the depressive symptoms. Improvement in symptoms can be seen as early as the first session. Experts have found acupuncture to be a beneficial complement to other forms of depression therapy such as psychological counseling, and healthier than chemical alternatives such as anti-depressants.

3. Insomnia

Acupuncture has become a popular alternative to common remedies such as sleeping pills. It works at the nerve levels, relaxing and soothing your senses. Acupuncture is thought to be a safer route for insomnia because it brings back your natural sleeping cycle through natural means and not through chemicals, which can turn into an addiction. Using acupuncture for insomnia usually starts working after the very first session. The treatment is usually stretched out for a period of time, until your body returns to its natural sleeping cycle.

4. Infertility

Studies show that acupuncture is a beneficial form of complementary therapy for women who are having undergoing treatments for fertility problem. Acupuncture is believed to relieve the anxiety of women undergoing fertility treatment. Also, acupuncture's success in aiding fertility is more pronounced in in-vitro fertilization. In addition, the rate of miscarriages has been found to be lower for women who do acupuncture.

5. Others

The following are other ailments that acupuncture has been known to remedy:

1. Menopausal problems such as hot flushes, infertility, and premenstrual tension.
2. Bladder or bowel problems, difficulty or pain in urination, and urinary infections.
3. Digestive disorders including nausea, indigestion, heartburn, and diarrhea.
4. Respiratory problems such as rhinitis, hay fever, prickly heat, rashes and ulcers, eczema, and some types of dermatitis and psoriasis.
5. Conditions of the eyes and mouth such as cataracts, dry eyes, conjunctivitis, retinitis and toothache, and post extraction pains.
6. Heat problems such as poor circulation, stroke recovery, and hypertension.
7. Addictions such as smoking, drinking, or other harder drugs.

If you as suffering from any of the ailments mentioned above, acupuncture may just be the remedy for you. Acupuncture is harmless, and is known to promote health and a sense of well-being. It is a healthy, chemical-free alternative to traditional forms of medical treatment.

Is it risk free?

Acupuncture is not risk free. Hematoma may develop if the needle punctures a circulatory structure. It is also possible that pneumothorax may occur if the needle is inserted too deep. There is also the risk of HIV and hepatitis if the needle was not properly sterilized.

Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that has been practiced for thousands of years. Given that this has been practiced for more than 2000 years, various styles of acupuncture have been developed. So, before you decide to go for a session, you should know what technique is used so they can explain to you what happens.

Acupuncture can cure a number of diseases as I submitted above but it depends upon your choice of the specialist, his/her qualification, training and experience, methods of treatment chosen and the proper diagnosis. Just like conventional medicine, don’t expect an improvement overnight as this takes time so just keep an open mind.

Kindly Be Careful And Be Happy - Acupuncture Can Cure Many Diseases.

Be Happy - Acupuncture Can Help You Quit Smoking

It is a well known fact that smokers live an average of 15 years less than non-smokers. Since smoking is an addiction, not easy to give up, the tobacco used for smoking being the high yield business is being cultivated increasingly in agricultural land of poor countries, as observed in the third edition of The Tobacco Atlas brought out by the American Cancer Society and the World Lung Foundation.

Tobacco is the only consumer product that harms every person exposed to it and kills half of its regular users. Approximately 650 million smokers are alive today – 10% of the current world population – will eventually succumb to tobacco-related disease and die at an earlier date than their normal death if they had not been smoking.

The risk of dying from lung cancer is more than 23 times higher among men who smoke cigarettes and about 13 times higher among women smokers, when compared with non-smokers. Tobacco causes up to 90% of lung cancer cases and is a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. It is silent killer too. Exposure to second-hand smoke kills 2,00,000 workers every year and at home, it kills thousands of infants, children, foetuses and adults. The passive effects increase their risk of getting heart disease by 25 to 30% and lung cancer by at least 20 to 30%. In spite of these facts, global tobacco production has almost doubled since the 60s increasing 300% in low and middle resource countries while dropping over 50% in developed countries.

In 2006, world tobacco production totalled nearly 7 million metric tonnes, with 85% of the toxic leaf grown in underdeveloped countries. Tobacco is grown in more than 120 countries on almost million hectares of agricultural land, as much land as the world’s banana plantations. It is welcoming fact that higher educated men are abandoning tobacco addiction but poorer and less educated men are still pursuing.

The facts cumulatively make us aware how much this addiction costs us. We need to kick the butt. All over the world, we need to propound the concept of creating a smoke-free environment. We need to explore out innovative ways to fight against the rampant problem of nicotine addiction. To lessen the passive affects of smoking, we need to enforce ban over it at public places.

It has been emphatically noticed that it is not difficult to kick the butt in case we develop strong determination to do so. We must do it to remain happy. We may give up but slowly and slowly. We should commit to ourselves that their quantity of use will not go up once that is reduced.

The effects of addiction on society vary considerably between different substances that can be smoked and the indirect social problems that they cause, in great part because of the differences in legislation and the enforcement of narcotics legislation around the world. As tobacco is also not an illegal drug, there is no black market with high risks and high prices for consumers.

Smoking is a hard habit to break because tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive. Like heroin or other addictive drugs, the body and mind quickly become so used to the nicotine in cigarettes that a person needs to have it just to feel normal.

God has gifted to us a smart body. It goes on the defense when it's being poisoned. For this reason, many people find it takes several tries to get started smoking: First-time smokers often feel pain or burning in the throat and lungs, and some people feel sick or even throw up the first few times they try tobacco.

But smoking has bad effects on us. Smokers not only develop wrinkles and yellow teeth, they also lose bone density, which increases their risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes older people to become bent over and their bones to break more easily. Smokers also tend to be less active than nonsmokers because smoking affects lung power. Smoking can also cause fertility problems and can impact sexual health in both men and women. Girls who are on the pill or other hormone-based methods of birth control (like the patch or the ring) increase their risk of serious health problems, such as heart attacks, if they do smoke also.

The consequences of smoking may seem very far off, but long-term health problems aren't the only hazard of smoking. Nicotine and the other toxins in cigarettes, cigars, and pipes can affect a person's body quickly, which means that teen smokers experience many of these problems:

· Bad skin

Because smoking restricts blood vessels, it can prevent oxygen and nutrients from getting to the skin — which is why smokers often appear pale and unhealthy. An Italian study also linked smoking to an increased risk of getting a type of skin rash called psoriasis.

· Bad breath

Cigarettes leave smokers with a condition called halitosis, or persistent bad breath.

· Bad-smelling clothes and hair

The smell of stale smoke tends to linger — not just on people's clothing, but on their hair, furniture, and cars. And it's often hard to get the smell of smoke out.

· Reduced athletic performance

People who smoke usually can't compete with nonsmoking peers because the physical effects of smoking (like rapid heartbeat, decreased circulation, and shortness of breath) impair sports performance.

· Greater risk of injury and slower healing time

Smoking affects the body's ability to produce collagen, so common sports injuries, such as damage to tendons and ligaments, will heal more slowly in smokers than nonsmokers.

· Increased risk of illness

Studies show that smokers get more colds, flu, bronchitis, and pneumonia than nonsmokers. And people with certain health conditions, like asthma, become more sick if they smoke (and often if they're just around people who smoke). Because teens who smoke as a way to manage weight often light up instead of eating, their bodies lack the nutrients they need to grow, develop, and fight off illness properly.

Smoking is one hard habit to break. If nicotine patches and gum doesn’t work, perhaps you should try something else like an alternative form of healthcare like acupuncture.

Acupuncture is an ancient practice involving the use of needles. This instrument is inserted into the skin to allow you energy or Qi to start flowing freely around your body and thus help you quit smoking.

When you go visit an acupuncturist for the first time and tell him or her that you want to quit smoking, after answering some questions, the specialist will carry out an examination of your ears and search for areas where the energy is low.

Once these spots are identified, these sharp needles are then inserted. Usually 5 needles are placed in various acupoints.

The treatment is finished after an hour and when the needles are removed, you are advised to wear ear magnets so your session continues even when you leave the clinic. While acupuncture itself is a painless procedure, some smokers have claimed that they felt a prick or get sleepy.

Most smokers will have to come to the clinic 4 to 6 times before seeing any significant results. Just to give you an idea, one study shows that the respondents reported a decrease in the number of cravings to smoke just after one or two sessions. Seven out of 10 of the respondents were able to kick the habit after 5 or 6 sessions.

Because the number of test subjects is small, there are some who doubt the effectiveness of acupuncture. This is because although there are positive signs with regards to the short term effects of this technique, its effects were not sustained. This is why some medical journals have stated that it is unclear what acupuncture can do in smoking cessation.

But you have to remember that acupuncture is not permanent. It merely starts something that you have to finish on your own. Some smokers who go 2 or 3 times a week to the clinic will need to come back for follow up sessions in the future.

At the same time, you have to find ways to prevent yourself from picking up a cigarette. You can do this by staying away from people who smoke since you will be tempted to ask for a stick. You can create your own personal mantra which you repeat to yourself every time you have an urge.

Remember that this craving is only short term and will last only for a few minutes. You have worked so hard to leave this behind so stick to the path and stay smoke free.

Acupuncture treatment for smokers should only be done by a license professional. You can do some research online to find out if they are accredited by the National Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, ask how long they have been in the profession, find out how many smokers they have helped and how much will they charge.

Once you have found one, you have to commit yourself to the program because both you and the acupuncturist have to work together to give up this habit.

Acupuncture can help smokers in the same way that it has helped addicts and alcoholics quit their addictions. You just have to try it even if you may not believe in it.

Be Happy - Acupuncture Can Help You Quit Smoking.

Be Happy - Acupuncture Can Help Treat Migraines.

Migraine is a debilitating condition characterized by moderate to severe headaches, and nausea, about 3 times more common in women than in men. The typical migraine headache is unilateral pain (affecting one half of the head) and pulsating in nature, lasting from 4 to 72 hours; symptoms include nausea, vomiting, photophobia (increased sensitivity to light), phonophobia (increased sensitivity to sound), and is aggravated by routine activity.

Tension headaches are the most common headaches, and generally cause infrequent mild to moderate pain, but in a considerable number of patients, tension headaches are so frequent that they require treatment. Migraine headaches, on the other hand, can be disabling and severe. Accompanying symptoms can include nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light. Treatment for tension-type and migraine headaches typically consists of over-the-counter or prescription medications, respectively. The aim of the systematic reviews was to determine whether acupuncture is also an effective treatment option for these conditions.

Acupuncture therapy can provide patients who suffer from tension and migraine headache an alternative treatment for their pain. Acupuncture involves penetrating the skin with thin, metallic needles at specific points. It is one of the main medical treatments in traditional Chinese medicine, where it came into being more than 2,000 years ago.

In Germany, acupuncture is frequently used for headache. Most private health insurances, in fact, reimburse for acupuncture, although they cover only about 10 percent of the population. The practice has also gained popularity in the United States. A 2002 National Health Interview Survey of complementary and alternative medicine use found that about 8.2 million U.S. adults had ever used acupuncture in their lives, and an estimated 2.1 million had used acupuncture the previous year.

Brian Berman, M.D., director of the University of Maryland Center for Integrative Medicine in Baltimore, confirmed that acupuncture is definitely becoming a more popular treatment option for Americans. There is more evidence coming out showing acupuncture is safe and often effective and should be considered as part of a multidisciplinary approach for chronic pain.

If you suffer from migraine headaches, you know how debilitating the pain and discomfort can be. According to Statistics Canada, one in every 12 Canadians–more than two million people–regularly get migraines. These throbbing headaches, which can affect every aspect of life, may be prevented and treated with acupuncture.

Acupuncture for migraine is the most common reason that physicians refer their patients to doctors of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). In 1979 in Beijing, the World Health Organization recognized acupuncture as an effective migraine treatment.

Getting to the Root

The purpose of using TCM is to treat the root cause of the migraine attacks, rather than provide a temporary solution. Acupuncture in combination with traditional Chinese herbal medicine aims to treat the migraine headache (the branch) as well as the underlying imbalance (the root).

Sometimes the flow of the body’s vital energy (chi) and blood from the liver is blocked, and whenever blockage occurs, pain happens. The liver is easily affected by stress and anxiety. Hence the pain of migraine headaches whenever emotions such as anger, worry, fear, shock, frustration, and resentment overwhelm or when we work excessively, both physically and mentally. Energy can also be blocked and lead to migraine headaches because of traumatic injury; external pathogenic factors, such as wind and dampness; and hormone fluctuations (the menstrual cycle).

Pins and Needles

In the treatment of migraines, fine stainless steel acupuncture needles stimulate specific points that help your body regulate blood flow in the small vessels that typically become constricted in a migraine attack. Acupuncture treatment also helps the body balance levels of serotonin, a blood compound that constricts blood vessels and acts as a neurotransmitter. Numerous studies, including a Thai study published in the January 2006 issue of Headache, have found that low serotonin levels make people more vulnerable to migraine headaches.

In addition, acupuncture releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Most important, acupuncture relaxes tense muscles, which can also help to relieve migraines. A typical acupuncture treatment lasts from 30 minutes to an hour and is a comfortable and relaxing experience.

A study led by Dr. Baischer of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Vienna showed that the improvements achieved by acupuncture therapy are stable over a long period of time. During a five-week observation period, the frequency of migraine attacks immediately after treatment was significantly reduced and remained low in a three-year follow-up period. Use of pain medications was reduced by half.

Acupuncture can help migraine sufferers take charge of their health. You shouldn’t have to suffer with migraines anymore.

Acupuncture can help treat migraines. This was discovered after a comparative study was done with conventional medical care. In some cases, it even prevents it from happening which helps improve the quality of life for the patient.

To understand how acupuncture helps migraine sufferers, you have to understand that in traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed that an imbalance in the flow of blood and energy causes this to happen.

In order to treat it, the specialist must relieve the tension by inserting needles into the body to improve the blood flow to the brain thus reducing the pain experienced during an attack.

The needles used helps the body balance the serotonin levels since it is a neurotransmitter that affects blood vessels and has a role to play in migraines. In fact the more frequent these sessions are the better. It may even come to a point where the specific point of contact is no longer needed but the general stimulation itself.

The end result of undergoing acupuncture is amazing. If you experience 15 to 20 days of agonizing pain, this may be count down to only 8 days. You won’t even need to use that much medication anymore as before.

For those who are working, this is good so that they are not absent from work that much and there won’t be that much deductions in their salary.

But how well acupuncture does for one patient may vary with another. This depends on the condition of the attack and the individual.

The best part about acupuncture is that there are no side effects and it is painless. Skillful professionals can do this so you don’t suffer from hematoma or pneumothorax. Another disease is potentially dangerous is HIV or hepatitis which can be prevented of course as long as the needles used are properly sterilized. It will be much better if the person uses disposable needles.

Acupuncture has been practiced in the United States for more than 2 decades. Although tests have shown how effective it can be to treat chronic conditions and certain addictions, more studies need to be done to see where else it can be useful.

Although one test has proven that acupuncture can help migraines, other tests will also have to be done to prove if this is true. Until such time that other results are published, patients will have to rely on conventional medicine that is prescribed by a doctor.

But you don’t have to wait for the results to come out. If you think it is worth a try, go for it. Just ask for a referral from your doctor as there are many practitioners who have accepted the fact that alternative forms of medicine can also help a patient.

You can also find someone online. You can be sure they are certified if they are recognized by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Aside from that, you should also make some lifestyle changes as there are trigger factors that have been known to cause migraines. Stress is number one on the list so you get enough rest and exercise as well as a balanced diet.

Patients who are suffering from migraine should also check if acupuncture is covered by their HMO. Most insurance providers and HMO’s these days cover all or part of the cost but there are restrictions so you should check what is covered by your policy.

Be Happy - Acupuncture Can Help Treat Migraines.

Be Happy – You Can have Acupuncture for Weight Loss

When in terms of medicine, health or physical fitness, we talk about Weight loss, we mean reduction of the total body mass, due to a mean loss of fluid or body fat etc to get rid of body fatness, overweight or obese state responsible for many diseases.

Overweight or Obesity is a medical condition in which excess body fat has accumulated to the extent that it may have an adverse effect on health, leading to reduced life expectancy and/or increased health problems. It increases the likelihood of various diseases, particularly heart disease, type 2 diabetes, breathing difficulties during sleep, certain types of cancer, and osteoarthritis. Obesity is most commonly caused by a combination of excessive dietary calories, lack of physical activity, and genetic susceptibility, although a few cases are caused primarily by genes, endocrine disorders, medications or psychiatric illness.

Health conscious people never like overweight or obesity. To get rid of overweight, they attempt a number of efforts like Dieting and physical exercise. Moreover, it is important to improve diet quality by reducing the consumption of energy-dense foods such as those high in fat and sugars, and by increasing the intake of dietary fiber. To supplement this, or in case of failure, anti-obesity drugs may be taken to reduce appetite or inhibit fat absorption. In severe cases, surgery is performed or an intragastric balloon is placed to reduce stomach volume and/or bowel length, leading to earlier satiation and reduced ability to absorb nutrients from food

For them who can afford, perhaps surgery is the best option but for those who can’t, they can try to see if acupuncture can help take out the excess weight.

Acupuncture is a form of holistic healthcare that uses needles to help treat a patient. Unlike the cartoon where the balloon will pop and all the air will go out, the needles that are inserted into the vital points will stimulate the body to release endorphins thus helping the person control their appetite.

But before needles are inserted, the specialist will first ask the patient some questions and perform an examination. This is needed to understand the main cause for the person to be overweight. Part of examination is to help the acupuncturist figure out where the needles will be inserted. Your pulse will give the person an idea on your general state of energy and the general health of your stomach.

You will also have to open your mouth and show your tongue to check for cracks, peelings or puffiness on the stomach area as this provides clues to why you are overweight. Once he or she knows the reason, this is the time that the needles are inserted into different parts of the body. One way is called the multi-targeted approach which is designed to lower the body’s weight by increasing the output of the pituitary gland.

The areas where the needles will be inserted will be in the ear and in two of three body points. These areas could also include the mouth, the stomach, the lung, the endocrine, the spleen, kidney or thyroid. During the initial treatment, the “Four Gate” points would be used to circulate energy throughout the entire body. It is also possible that electro simulation will also be done to increase endorphin release and stimulate metabolism.

These needles will be kept in place for 30 to 45 minutes depending on how much support is needed. These are then removed and replaced with ear tacs with adhesives to make sure they are in the same spot as the needles. These ear tacs work by applying mild pressure whenever he or she feels hungry. It causes a mild endorphin release and helps the patient relax making it possible to use their willpower and resist the temptation to eat.

The patient will also have to reduce cravings on certain food by cutting down the intake. Some studies suggest that this can also lower insulin levels or lipid levels in the blood.

The best part about acupuncture is that there are no harmful side effects and no chance for an addiction to occur. The patient will have to come back for regular treatment and have to pay attention to one’s diet and exercise regularly as needles can only do so much to control one’s weight.

The number of treatments for someone who is overweight varies depending on how many pounds they want to lose, the speed at which they want to lose it and their commitment to sticking to the plan.

The average patient on the other hand who wants to lose 5 to 10 pounds will have to come for treatment every three days or twice a week then once this is attained, once every two weeks. It is up to the person until when the treatment will be done which shows that acupuncture can help you lose weight.

Be Happy – You Can have Acupuncture for Weight Loss.

Be Happy – Acupuncture Can Help You to cure Autism.

What we understand generally, Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. Usually, these signs begin before a child is three years old. Autism affects information processing in the brain by altering how nerve cells and their synapses connect and organize but how this occurs is still not well understood. It is a matter of further exploration.

You can tell that it is one of three recognized disorders in the autism spectrum, the other two being Asperger syndrome, which lacks delays in cognitive development and language, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified, which is diagnosed when the full set of criteria for autism or Asperger syndrome are not met. Studies have shown that there is an increase in the number of children that have been diagnosed with autism.

Autism causes children to experience the world differently from the way most other children do. It's hard for children with autism to talk with other people and express themselves using words. Children who have autism usually keep to themselves and many can't communicate without special help. They also may react to what's going on around them in unusual ways. Normal sounds may really bother someone with autism — so much so that the person covers his or her ears. Being touched, even in a gentle way, may feel uncomfortable.

Children with autism often can't make connections that other children make easily. For example, when someone smiles, you know the smiling person is happy or being friendly. But a child with autism may have trouble connecting that smile with the person's happy feelings. A child who has autism also has trouble linking words to their meanings. Imagine trying to understand what your mom is saying if you didn't know what her words really mean. It is doubly frustrating then if a child can't come up with the right words to express his or her own thoughts.

Autism causes children to act in unusual ways. They might flap their hands, say certain words over and over, have temper tantrums, or play only with one particular toy. Most children with autism don't like changes in routines. They like to stay on a schedule that is always the same. They also may insist that their toys or other objects be arranged a certain way and get upset if these items are moved or disturbed.

If someone has autism, his or her brain has trouble with an important job: making sense of the world. Every day, your brain interprets the sights, sounds, smells, and other sensations that you experience. If your brain couldn't help you understand these things, you would have trouble functioning, talking, going to school, and doing other everyday stuff. Children can be mildly affected by autism, so that they only have a little trouble in life, or they can be very affected, so that they need a lot of help.

A child with autism may not be able to manage the smells of the lion house at the zoo. But they may well be able to quietly watch the reptiles in the scent-free reptile house, with no need for shouting, bolting, or banging on the glass. A child with autism may not be able to manage a 45 minute grocery trip. But they may well be able to handle a quick trip, helping select a few items and put them in the cart and on the counter. A child with autism may not be able to sit through an entire puppet show, story hour or concert. But they may well be able to sit through a portion of the presentation - and then indicate that they are ready to leave without disrupting the entire venue.

While there is no established cure for autism, there are many treatments. Some help manage symptoms, other teach social and behavioral skills, and still others are intended to cure autism altogether. Before you plunge into selecting an autism treatment (or several treatments!), it's important to know what your options are, and how to evaluate whether a treatment is working.

There are many theories regarding the causes and "core deficits" of autism. As a result, there are many different types of therapies and treatments developed specifically to alleviate symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. On the upside, that means you have a range of options to try. On the downside, it means you never know whether you've tried the most effective option for you or your child.

Because there are so many choices -- and no "one best choice" -- most families try at least a few types of treatment. And most find that some combination of treatments make a real difference.

Traditional Therapies To Treat Autism

Plenty of therapies are designed specifically to treat autism. But older, more traditional therapies are also helpful for treating symptoms of autism. Sometimes, these therapies are "tweaked" to support specific symptoms -- but basically, these are tried-and-true techniques that have been researched over many years. Some parents may prefer recreational and artistic therapies for autism. These treatments like Music Therapy, Art Therapy, Drama Therapy aren't offered by schools or regional autism centers, but they're often creative, fun, engaging and effective.
Acupuncture Treatments for Autism

New and alternative treatments like Auditory Integration Training, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, the Rapid Prompting Method and DAN Protocol etc. have also come out to hold some promise but some of them are expensive too.

Until now, doctors have not yet found a cure to this illness which is why some parents want to experiment with alternative forms of treatment and one example is acupuncture. Acupuncture is a holistic approach in treating and preventing certain diseases. Its main tools are very thin needles that are inserted to targeted points in the body. The body has about 400 of them linked through a system known as meridians or pathways. Once these are stimulated, these are supposed to create balance in the body.

Autism on the other hand is a brain disorder that is long term. This disease is characterized by deficits in language, social communication and cognition. Children who are diagnosed with this illness may also suffer from secondary problems such as aggression, irritability, stereotypes, hyperactivity, negativism, volatile emotions, temper tantrums, short attention span and obsessive-compulsive behavior.

Preliminary studies have shown that acupuncture may provide symptomatic relief to children suffering from autism. Although difficult at first, it is believed that it is rewarding in the long run. This is because while conventional therapy and treatment requires that the child stay still, acupuncture doesn’t. Some say it’s a quick prick at the vital points in the body.

A group of children in the US participated in a test to see how effective acupuncture is among children. There are 22 respondents and each of them was given the treatment once every other day for four months. After the treatment 20 out of the 22 respondents showed remarkable improvement. In fact 2 of them has cerebral blood flow. The only thing that did not change prior to treatment and after was the blood flow between the left and right cerebrum as it showed no differences.

Aside from traditional acupuncture to help children with autism, a preliminary study in Hong Kong is trying to see if tongue acupuncture can produce better results. Results have showed that of 30 respondents in the test, majority showed functional improvement of various degrees depending on the age and severity of their disabilities. Some improvement was noticeable within a few TAC sessions, especially for drooling, spasticity (scissoring or tiptoeing), ataxia, and poor balance in walking. Functional improvement was noted after one to two courses of TAC. Most children tolerated TAC well, with only occasional pain and minor bleeding in some patients.

The reason why tongue acupuncture is being experimented with is because there is a connection between the tongue and the heart through the meridians that spread to all the organs in the body. It is believed that the points on the tongue can influence the state of the other body organs thus giving relief to the one suffering from autism.

Since autistic patients can have a difficult time following directions and being cooperative, body acupuncture is not always an ideal method. However, during scalp acupuncture procedure, children do not need to lie down and stay motionless. While the needles are in place on their head, they can play, learn to read, speech and walk. So scalp acupuncture is a safe and easy way to needle autistic children.

Scalp acupuncture is also known as head acupuncture. All meridians will reach the head, so the head is also called the Sea of Meridians. In TCM, nearly 365 acupuncture points on the body surface (approximate 18% on the head) are interrelated to various zang and fu (organs or viscera) functions. Except the connections with meridians based on the foundation of Traditional Chinese acupuncture, scalp acupuncture also has developed on modern anatomy, neurophysiology and bio-holography theory. Acupuncture is applied to specific areas of the head, using a precise needling technique, to deal with various diseases. Scalp acupuncture has been proven to be the most effective technique for treating central nerve damage. In recent studies, the effect of acupuncture was hypothesized and proven in animal and human studies to be due to direct neural stimulation, changes in neurotransmitters such as endorphin, immunological markers and endocrinological signals, including autism.

If you feel that your child can be cured with acupuncture, you need to ensure that your child's team of doctors--acupuncturist, physician, psychologist or behavioral specialist, physical or speech therapist should work together to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Acupuncture may be an effective way to treat some issues related to your child's autism, but it is unlikely that it will cure the disorder completely. Having a cohesive team dedicated to helping your child is the best kind of medicine since many believe that acupuncture alone cannot help autism sufferers. It has to be combined with other things like maintaining a certain diet to help improve one’s mood and communication schools. Although it is only short term, it is better than nothing until a cure is found.

When will the cure be found? Only time can tell as there are many other questions that have to be answered in order for doctors to further understand neurological disabilities. Doctors who are conducting research believe that an interdisciplinary approach is needed given that acupuncture has shown positive results in helping children with autism.
Be Happy – Acupuncture Can Help You to cure Autism.

Be Happy - Acupuncture Can Solve Some of Your Health Problems.

Have you ever had an uncontrollable urge to be pierced by a dozen needles? This is the image most people get when someone mentions the word “acupuncture”. It comes as no surprise that most view this technique with suspicion, even downright horror. The fact is, however, that this relatively painless ancient Chinese technique has helped relieve the symptoms of millions of people. Properly used, it can help in the management of many medical conditions including chronic pain and fatigue.

How does needle puncture work?

Practitioners of Chinese traditional medicine believe in energy flows. This energy, called Qi, circulates around the body using pathways called meridians. Meridians run very close to the surface of the skin in certain areas and can be accessed by needles. Much like plumbing, these pipes can get blocked or go the wrong way, causing health problems. The insertion of needles at these points is aimed to help loosen blocks and normalize flow.

It sounds like a made-up explanation with no basis in reality, but there are numerous scientific studies which support the effects of acupuncture. Although the exact scientific basis is still unknown, recent theories seem to suggest involvement of complicated neuro-chemical effects in the brain, nerve to spinal cord impulse modulation, and microscopic connective tissue changes.

What risks and side effects are of concern?

The use of things not completely understood for the treatment of medical conditions is nothing new. Penicillin and aspirin were used for decades solely on the basis of their beneficial effects, without doctors knowing exactly how they worked. Results are what are truly important. However, it is equally important is to ensure that the technique is used safely.

Like other strategies used in treating health conditions, acupuncture may have some side effects. Medications have side effects and allergic reactions, surgeries have risk of infection and complications. For needle puncture, there is a risk of injury, rare infections, minor bleeding, small bruises, and some dizziness.

You can minimize the possible side effects by choosing a licensed acupuncturist. Most countries either have government licensing in place or have professional organizations with very strict rules and regulations.

How do treatments go?

An acupuncturist will do an initial evaluation of your medical history and your body’s current state. Multiple pressure points are palpated, and a regimen of treatment is formulated. Most courses involve a series of 10 to 20 treatment sessions, each lasting 30 to 90 minutes. Needles will be carefully placed at the required points and kept in place for some time. Most patients report a feeling of mild sensation at the site of the puncture, but no real pain.

Right after each acupuncture session, you will feel a bit tired and may need to rest. Some people feel an increase in their energy levels. The response to acupuncture is very individual. In some cases there is immediate relief of symptoms. For some patients, the beneficial effects may only be noticed after undergoing a few sessions. Do not be alarmed and keep your acupuncturist updated on what you are feeling to ensure everything is going as expected.

You need never fear the thought of needles ever again. Acupuncture is a beneficial treatment with a long history of effectiveness. It is used to complement current medical therapy and should not replace currently existing medications or treatments.

The safe application of this once exclusively Chinese therapy can now be experienced by chronic disease sufferers worldwide.

A Quick-Start guide to Acupuncture

Using needles to adjust bodily functions to optimum levels is the principle behind acupuncture. Both ancient Chinese and modern Western practitioners have used this technique to relieve many sufferers of chronic disease. Needling is a relatively safe, beneficial treatment strategy that can be used to reduce pain, improve healing, and increase general well-being. But exactly how is this procedure done and what sort of benefits can be obtained?

Procedure for Needle Puncture

There are two broad categories of acupuncture practice today, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and medical acupuncture. Both have their merits, so the choice is individual. The decision for most people hinges upon which philosophy appeals more to them and which technique holds the least apprehension.

In TCM, practitioners adhere to the concept of Qi, or energy flow, and the meridians in which they travel. They use longer needles and insert them deeper in order to reach the acupuncture points. Modern science has found little evidence to prove the existence of these energy channels, but this is the technique that has been used effectively for thousands of years.

In medical acupuncture, the practitioners are graduates of western medical schools. Their application of needles is not based on the traditional acupuncture points, but on anatomic data. These acupuncturists use shorter needles and the insertions are shallower. They also tend to use fewer needles and leave them inserted for shorter periods of time. Adherents to TCM feel this is a watered-down version of the real thing. Nevertheless, many patients have felt relief of symptoms through this method.

Conditions for Puncture Application

There is a broad and extensive list of ailments which can be treated with acupuncture. The conditions run the gamut from asthma to constipation, anxiety to weight loss. Most TCM practitioners believe that any health condition results from an imbalance in Qi flow, therefore amenable to needle therapy. Western acupuncturists tend to have a more limited list of indications, the most common of which is undoubtedly control of pain.

Control of pain is the most well researched of all of the indications for acupuncture. There is a definite beneficial effect for a majority of patients using this method. Migraines, premenstrual syndrome, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and neuralgias are but a few examples. The theory behind its effectiveness is also medically accepted and well researched, called the gate-control theory of pain. It states that the needles can stimulate nerves so that they block the impulses from pain triggers.

Expected Puncture Session Result

It is important to emphasize that acupuncture is used only on top of existing medical therapy. At no time should a patient discontinue medication or ignore medical instructions in favor of needle puncture. After undergoing a needle puncture regimen, the primary care physician can make an evaluation with regards to decreasing dependence on other therapies.

A course of acupuncture therapy will last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. This depends upon the complexity of the particular medical condition. Results also vary, so it is important to have a frank discussion with the acupuncturist regarding expected results and their time frame. In general, the patient will begin to feel beneficial effects after three or four session. Certain specific conditions will actually get a little worse before improving so keeping informed is key.

In modern medicine, the use of traditional techniques with proven results has become a widely accepted practice. Acupuncture has proven its worth time and again. Modern practice guidelines make it effective, reproducible, and safe. It is a gift of healing form ancient sages that has the potential to bring relief to millions of people.

You too can try this therapy but do it under expert medical advice and supervision only.

Be Happy - Acupuncture Can Solve Some of Your Health Problems.