Friday, February 29, 2008

Acupuncture and Alternative Therapies for Chronic Fatigue

It is estimated that over 50% of the American population experiences chronic fatigue. The most common causes are stress, overwork, insomnia, depression, and various malfunctions in the major systems of the body (endocrine, cardiovascular, digestive, etc.) Western medicine is decidedly lacking in safe and effective treatment options for fatigue. Quite commonly, the first step is to use a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), such as Prozac, Paxil, or Wellbutrin, as fatigue is commonly associated with depression. Although trends are changing among the newer generation of doctors, it is still quite rare that the patient is offered lifestyle counseling that focuses on nutrition, exercise, and sleep.
There are many wonderful alternative treatment options that include acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, and exercise. Acupuncture tops the list because it tends to be so effective is supplementing the body?s energy.

ACUPUNCTURE
The majority of patients who complain of fatigue suffer from a deficiency of vital energy (Qi). Qi is the basic energy that creates optimal physiological and neurological function. Aside from fatigue, other signs of Qi deficiency are diarrhea, pallor, easy bruising, excessive sleep (more than 9 hrs. a night), scanty menses or amenorrhea, frequent urination, low libido, and shortness of breath. The strategy of Chinese medicine is to identify a pattern of disharmony that reflects the entirety of one?s symptoms, pulse qualities, and tongue appearance. Moxibustion, a topical warming therapy, is typically used as a nourishing adjunct to the needles. This entails burning mugwort on top of the needles or directly on the skin to induce a stronger supplementing effect. I recommend weekly acupuncture and moxa treatments for 4-6 weeks, then assessing for progress.

HERBS
Qi deficiency primarily affects 4 different organs: the spleen, kidney, heart, and lungs. Here are symptoms and herbal treatment options for each pattern:
Spleen: diarrhea, loose stools, bloating, bruising, fatigue, prolapse, laconic speech, internal cold Herbal Formula: Bu zhong yi qi tang

  • Kidney: low back pain, low libido, fatigue, internal cold, frequent urination Herbal Formula: Jin gui shen qi wan

  • Heart: restless sleep, worry, fatigue, heart palpitations, shortness of breath Herbal Formula: Gui pi tang

  • Lung: chronic cough, weak immunity, allergies, fatigue, shortness of breath, asthma Herbal formula: Bu fei tang

  • Adaptogenic herbs such as rhodiola rosea, ashwaganda, and ginseng may be helpful adjuncts .

    SUPPLEMENTS
    B Complex: B vitamins are warming and energizing. They build Qi and blood.

  • Tyrosine: precursor to norepinephrine (often deficient in chronic fatigue)

  • 5HTP: precursor to serotonin, for deeper sleep, weight loss, anxiety

  • Adrenosen by Health Concerns and Adrenotone by Designs for Health are both effective adrenal tonics for fatigue due to adrenal burnout.

    EXERCISE
    I recommend getting 20-30 minutes of exercise 4-5 times a week. At first, this may feel forced and difficult because you won?t want to exercise when you feel tired. After a few days, however, your body will begin to love the endorphin release and serotonin boost that exercise provides. Exercise alone can be a wonderful cure for fatigue. Your program should be a combination of cardiovascular and restorative exercise. Cardiovascular exercise involves running, biking, swimming, hiking, etc. Restorative exercise involves yoga, tai chi, or qi gong.

    IDENTIFYING WHERE YOU LEAK YOUR ENERGY
    Many people with chronic fatigue can attribute this pattern to a central theme that is stealing their energy. Perhaps you are in a marriage that is not working or a job that feels stagnant. Maybe you have set your life up so that you never have time for yourself because you are too busy caring for others. Or maybe you have financial problems that make life feel burdensome. Low energy is often a sign that we are not in control of our life, whether it is in relationships, work, with our health or with our money. Set an intention to heal any area of your life that is spiraling out of control and that feels toxic to you.

    IS THERE A PAYOFF FOR THE FATIGUE?
    Strangely enough, many people are chronically tired because it allows them to get attention from others. Fatigue becomes a way to soak up the well wishes of others, all the while avoiding our personal responsibility to show up to life and offer something helpful. It can be a touch question to ask, but I encourage you to contemplate whether or not you are being a victim to the fatigue. What is your belief system around it? Do you have an internal dialogue that supports and sustains the fatigue? What would your life look like if the fatigue wasn?t an issue? I don?t bring this up to undermine the validity of this very common health concern. In my clinical experience, however, I have noticed a rather common theme of victimization and relinquishing personal power in cases of chronic fatigue. There are many wonderful treatment options for chronic fatigue. This article is not intended to cover this issue in its entirety, as there can certainly be other factors involved in fatigue (immune dysfunction, low level pathogenic influences, etc.) The key is to be proactive in treating this condition.

    Kevin Doherty, L.Ac., MS is a licensed acupuncturist in private practice in Superior, Colorado. To learn more about Kevin, visit his websites at http://wwwbouldercountyacupuncture.com and http://www.mindfulnesscd.net

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  • Acupuncture for Endometriosis - Cure or Pacifier?

    For practitioners and enthusiasts of acupuncture, endometriosis is simply another illness to deal with and cure. For scientists, however, acupuncture may be a pacifier, or a means for patients to believe that they are being cured. The thinking is that women may be seeing results from acupuncture treatments due to the consequent positive thinking that a prospective cure can bring. Is acupuncture for endometriosis a real solution?

    In order to understand if there is a link between acupuncture and easing endometriosis pains, one needs to understand the underlying concepts of acupuncture.

    A component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture works with a universal store of energy known as chi. Chi is present in all nature, and flows through our bodies.

    Uninterrupted, chi can bring good health and can put humans in harmony with their environment. When the flow of chi through our body, or in nature is disrupted however, illness and destruction can result.

    Acupuncture seeks to allow chi to flow through normal channels once more and, in so doing, reverse sicknesses or bring relief to those in pain. Acupuncture does this through the use of tiny needles, which are inserted in strategic points of the body where the chi flow can pass undisturbed.

    If chi balance is restored, acupuncture promises, healing can begin. This promise has long drawn the busy Western World to this medicine of the East; in fact, enthusiasts of acupuncture testify to its ability to make them relax and think better, even lead healthier lives. In order to see what acupuncture can do for endometriosis, it will help to understand how endometriosis happens.

    During a woman?s monthly cycle, her uterus forms an inner lining called the endometrium, which is designed to nurse a fetus should incoming sperm fertilize an egg. If no fertilization occurs, the endometrial lining will pass out of the body during menstruation.

    In some cases, however, the endometrial lining passes to other parts of the body, causing internal bleeding, scarring and disruption to normal bodily functions. This condition is known as endometriosis, and those who suffer from it also experience intense, progressive bodily pain. Doctors can treat endometriosis by controlling the levels of estrogen in the body, or by prescribing pain medication so those women can deal with the pains that come with the disorder. Surgery is another option that can remove the misplaced endometrial tissue and associated scarring and adhesions, although this may only offer short-term relief and a number of surgeries maybe required.

    Due to the lack of comprehensive medical and surgical treatment a number of women seek alternative means to treat their condition or to compliment other treatments.

    When attending a session with a TCM practitioner they will ask you many questions regarding your menstrual cycle and also about your life. The treatments are very much targeted to each individual and the acupuncture points chosen will vary from person to person. Common points are on the neck, ears, back, abdomen and legs.

    Alongside the acupuncture sessions, herbal remedies will be given too. These are also tailored for the individual and act in conjunction with the chosen acupuncture points.

    By rerouting the chi, the inserted needles can supposedly make people with endometriosis feel better and stronger - strong enough to deal with the pains of their disorder. In other words, acupuncture helps endometriosis, but does not heal it.

    It is thought that acupuncture helps in a number of ways, it can relax a woman and make it easier to deal with the pain and discomfort, increase blood flow to the abdomen which promotes healing and may act as a pain reliever by releasing endorphins into the system. Discover more information on natural alternatives for treating endometriosis by signing up to the newsletter below.

    If you are interested in using acupuncture for endometriosis pain relief, then consult with your doctor first and talk about what other therapies are available. If you are given the go ahead for acupuncture, look for licensed acupuncturists in your area, or consult with fellow endometriosis patients on the acupuncturists they have gone to.

    Sign up for Shelley Ross' free Endometriosis newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you discover more about endometriosis treatment. In the newsletter you'll receive regular information like this article on overcoming Endometriosis along with additional natural treatments to help alleviate pain.

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    Wednesday, February 27, 2008

    Acupuncture Treatments

    The treatment of acupuncture involves the concept of using what is called trigger points in order to promote healing and general overall wellness of individuals using one of the oldest healing techniques this universe has ever known. Using TCM which is Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture promotes wellness through these trigger points which are considered to by some to be the points of ?ouch? or where pain is likely to be felt.

    The person who will initiate your acupuncture treatments are said to be acupuncturists and in order for the acupuncturist to gain a clear understanding of the medical problem, most will take a complete medical history on the individual seeking treatment. Often, this is the same medical history that any doctor or modern day medical professional would take and often it is not. It is more a history which a Chinese herbalist or acupuncturists would need in order to offer individuals the best care using the most knowledge known about the individual and their ailments.

    Acupuncture should be a relatively painless treatment for skilled acupuncturists. Usually, your ailments will get worse before they get better right after treatment much like what you would expect after attending physical therapy or a chiropractor. When the acupuncture treatment takes place, you will likely be inserted with needles which will be left in place from 15 to 30 minutes. You will likely feel numbness or dull burning of the point of entry during the acupuncture treatment. Even though it doesn?t sound like a whole lot of fun, you will likely notice that the treatment is something you will be able to live with and you will notice that most of the time it isn?t at all something that you don?t want to face but instead, will look forward to because of the end results.

    Acupuncture has a long history of successful treatments of many different ailments and a long history of treating hundreds of thousands of people. Coupled with other traditional Chinese medicine, patients notice marked differences in their overall health and well being by the treatment they receive through acupuncture. Traditional Chinese medicine suggests there are many points of entry for acupuncture which are individually designed to cure all sorts of problems. Finding an acupuncturist with the golden touch is the real key for painless acupuncture treatments. Acupuncturists can be located in most cities across the world by checking your local area listings or by logging onto the web to find acupuncturists practicing in your area.

    Peter Vermeeren is the owner and webmaster of: Ropa Militar | Chaquetas M65 | Camuflaje - Yeast Allergy | Acupuncture Risks | Deodorant Allergies

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    Tuesday, February 26, 2008

    Acupuncture Risks

    When a trained acupuncturist takes to the needle and patient a treatment for preventive and curing methods, then acupuncture is usually a successful process. However, if you have an acupuncturist who has not been properly trained, or who is really not a skilled acupuncturist, then problems can and will happen.

    Acupuncture is a safe process when performed by someone who knows what they are doing. However, if not, then things can get a bit sticky. A punctured lung or spinal cord injury can occur if someone doesn?t know what they are doing. Though these occurrences are indeed rare, they do happen. A person who hasn?t been trained to utilize the proper delivery of acupuncture can damage another person permanently which is why it is so important to know who you go to for acupuncture treatments.

    A trained acupuncturist knows the dangers of sharing needles and will always dispose of them after every use. If you find someone who doesn?t do this then naturally, you shouldn?t just leave but you should also report them due to the dangers and risks of Hepatitis and the risk of HIV and AIDS. The risks are very real if the acupuncturist is not using clean, NEW needles on every person.

    People from around the world can just refer to themselves as acupuncturists because at present it is not recognized as a field which would mandate a license to practice. However, you can do your own research and discover where these individuals receive their training and hopefully discover the person is someone you can place your confidence in for treatment.

    There are several links you can follow on the internet to discover where the better acupuncturists are located around the world and discover where most of them were trained. The UK has some significant support sites for people interested in acupuncture and for those interested in the people who practice acupuncture.

    Acupuncture is very beneficial to the people who are treated using this treatment. However, if you don?t find a practicing trained acupuncturist, then the risks associated with acupuncture are real. The risk of infection is a real possible if the acupuncturist uses unsanitary needles and if the needle has been used before, and then the obvious are risk factors with Hepatitis being most realized.

    Acupuncturists, for the most part, are very ethical and follow practices to ensure client safety. However, for your better assurance, only go to an acupuncturist who is recommended by someone you trust who also has web credibility.

    Peter Vermeeren is the owner and webmaster of: Ropa Militar | Botas T?cticas | Camisetas Militares - Yeast Allergy | Latex Allergy | Allergy Medicines

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    Acupuncture Treatment for the Narrowing of the Spine

    Any spinal problem is a serious health issue and narrowing of the area is no different. Acupuncture can provide relief to people suffering from such a condition.

    The condition known as Spinal Stenosis results from the narrowing of the spaces between the vertebras through which the spinal cord passes. The condition can be present at birth or it can sometimes be the result of undue strain on the back or traumatic injury. More often it is caused by degenerative aging and is most common among men and women over the age of 50. The one thing that is completely certain about the condition is that it causes a great deal of pain and discomfort.

    The treatment for the problem is mostly based on the management of the pain and discomfort levels. The accepted view is that there is not much that can be done about it other than relieving the symptoms. The results and complications from invasive surgery procedures have made this approach impractical and uncommon in dealing with it.

    Whenever Orthodox Medicine is faced with a problem that it really does not seem to have a good handle on, alternative medicine is more likely to be suggested. Chiropractors approach the problem of a narrowing spine from what is almost an engineering viewpoint. They use manual manipulation to attempt to rearrange the way the spine, vertebra, and spinal cord line up. Acupuncture is also a natural match. One reason for this is the very high success rate of acupuncture in the relief of lower back pain.

    When this high success rate is coupled with the equally low success rate of dealing with chronic back pain by Western Medicine, acupuncture becomes more than a simple alternative. In many clinics in the West today, insurance will cover acupuncture treatments for the treatment of back pain. This is true even though there is still so much uncertainty about exactly why acupuncture success rates are so high in the management of back pain.

    Of course, the acupuncturist who is well versed in the theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine understands the reasons for the success of his treatments. It involves a complete understanding of the underlying principles of acupuncture from the Chinese prospective to understand exactly how the practitioner is approaching the treatment. The Western researcher might be looking at the almost accidental release of chemicals into the body via the acupuncture treatment, or even seeing it as a mental and placebo type of reaction. To the sufferer of pain from narrow spinal spacing or other forms of chronic lower back pain, this ongoing debate is not as important as the relief they receive from acupuncture.

    Read more acupuncture information at AlternativeHealthCompanies.com

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    Monday, February 25, 2008

    Acupuncture and Natural Therapies for Arthritis

    Approximately 44 million Americans have been diagnosed with arthritis. Many of these people are being treated with Western medications such as steroids and anti-inflammatories, while many others? symptoms are left untreated, as they do not want to pursue conventional Western treatment options.

    In my clinical practice, I have worked with people with all forms of arthritis and I have helped many of them get off of pain killers and steroids. This is possible by using a combination of acupuncture, herbs, nutritional supplements, and possibly techniques such as yoga or meditation. I am always pleased (as is the patient) when we can use natural therapies for pain management because they do not have any side effects, unlike most of the Western medications for pain relief, which can cause a host of complications. Many of these medications weaken the body over time, which, in my opinion, causes premature aging and general debility.

    Below are several natural herbal and nutritional supplements that have proven effective in overcoming the pain and inflammation of arthritis. It is always best to seek out the services of a healthcare professional if you are interested in using these products.

    Nutritional Supplements

    Fish Oil: Taking a high quality essential fatty acid complex can be very helpful for reducing pain and inflammation and increasing synovial fluid in the joints. Fish oil can also help any depression that accompanies the chronic pain. Start with 3,000mg daily.

    SAMe: This is a naturally occurring metabolite found in the human body and plants. The active ingredient is methionine. SAMe has been shown to alleviate depression, reduce appetite, and improve neurotransmitter synthesis and receptor binding. I will often use SAMe when there is a combination of depression and chronic pain, as it reduces inflammation and regenerates joint tissue. It is excellent for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Start with 200 mg early in the day on an empty stomach, increase to up to 1,000 mg over a period of a few weeks as needed.

    MSM: 2 grams daily prevent cartilage breakdown

    Vitamins and Minerals: Key nutrients that manufacture synovial fluid are vitamins A, B complex, C, D, and E. Calcium, selenium, magnesium, and zinc are also crucial. Vitamins C and D are most important for nourishing bones and connective tissue.

    Cetyl myristoleate: This is a form of fatty acid that has extraordinary qualities for joint lubrication. It needs to be taken constantly at a dosage of 500-1000mg/day. It is useful for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.

    Herbs

    Evening Primrose Oil: This wonderful herb has been found to reverse cases of mild to moderate arthritis.

    Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang: This is a formula used for systemic blood stagnation characterized by sharp and severe pain throughout the body. It is useful for muscle spasm, inflammation, and pain that is fixed in nature.

    Juan Bi Tang: This is a classic formula for arthritis. In Chinese medicine, Bi is a syndrome that is characterized by certain elements such as wind, damp, or cold lodging in the body causing pain. This formula is helpful for achiness and stiffness primarily in the upper body.

    Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang: This formula is useful for Bi syndromes that affect the lower back, legs, and knees. It helps to relieve achiness and tension.

    SPZM: This is a Health Concerns formula that is useful for muscle spasm, particularly in the upper body.

    Channel Flow: This is a Health Concerns Formula that is useful for pain anywhere in the body. It can help with moderate or severe pain.

    Nutrition

    The following basic dietary tips will be very helpful for managing the symptoms of arthritis:

    Start eating an organic whole foods diet that is rich in fish, chicken, vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. This diet is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber.

    Avoid refined sugars and carbohydrates: These foods promote inflammation and pain and weaken digestion and vitality.

    Avoid synthetic additives and sweeteners and genetically modified foods.

    Avoid coffee and alcohol: Both of these are irritants to the liver, colon, and stomach. They can exacerbate pain and emotional ups and downs.

    Acupuncture

    Acupuncture is one of the greatest therapies available for healing arthritis. It has been clinically proven to reduce pain and inflammation, improve circulation, and trigger the rest and restore mode of the nervous system. Acupuncture should be painless and deeply relaxing. I recommend getting weekly treatment for 6-8 weeks for chronic arthritis, then assessing for progress.

    Meditation and Yoga

    Meditation and yoga have been practiced for thousands of years in many different cultures. They have stood the test of time because they have enormous healing benefits for the mind and body. If practiced appropriately, meditation and yoga can offer profound support for managing chronic pain, overcoming fatigue, and improving flexibility.

    Kevin Doherty, L.Ac., MS is a licensed acupuncturist in private practice in Superior, Colorado. To learn more about Kevin, visit his websites at http://www.bouldercountyacupuncture.com and http://www.mindfulnesscd.net

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    Wednesday, February 13, 2008

    Does Acupuncture Work For Acne, Psoriasis And Allergies ?

    Acupuncture is supposed to be very effective in treating a wide range of conditions, But does it work on conditions like acne, psoriasis and allergies ? If you have been wondering about this, then you might see something helpful in this article ...

    Acne is a very, very common skin condition that millions of teenagers endure. And since teenagers are usually very concerned with how they appear, acne can have undesirable impact on their social lives. Acne can serious impact self esteem. But teenagers are not the only ones who may be affected by acne - even adults and babies can get acne too. It's also not common for pregnant women to start breaking out with acne.

    If you are not keen on using one of the several topical medications for acne, then acupuncture may be a good way to deal with acne and many people do seem to respond well to acupuncture. However, you might require several sessions before you see any noticeable improvement.

    And you might also want to try making some changes to your diet when you are trying to get rid of acne. A diet very rich in fresh fruits, raw vegetables and nuts might be what works best. You might want to eliminate dairy products, milk, meats and if possible all processed foods.

    Acupuncture also does seem to work fairly well on allergies.

    But the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating psoriasis does not seem to be well documented. Controlled studies studying the effect of acupuncture on allergies do not seem to strongly indicate that this is a effective way to treat psoriasis and its symptoms.

    In case you are planning to use acupuncture in treating any skin condition to may be having, you may want to consult a qualified acupuncturist in this regard.

    Do you know how exactly to use a Acne Face Wash Or for that matter, do you know that washing your face too many times is not a recommended part of Acne Treatment There May Be More To Acne Care Than Many People May Believe

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    Acupuncture and Pimples

    Chinese medicine is unique in its totally different approach to treatment compared to western standards. The use of acupuncture for pimples evidences this difference.

    A pimple is a general term given to several types of skin disorders that usually result from clogged pores. The most severe forms of the condition can lead to large and painful cysts that often leave scarring. Aside from this, the condition rarely poses any other health threat. It does cause a bit of a self esteem problem especially in younger people. Although the lesions often appear on the back and chest areas, the face is the most common area for acne outbreaks.

    Western style medicine and Traditional Chinese medicine are in agreement that a healthy lifestyle and good diet are helpful in the prevention of diet. There is, however, the common lack of depth in Western medicine when looking into the root causes of the problem. There are many cases where proper diet and healthy living are not enough to prevent outbreaks. Western style medicine sees certain causative factors such as stress and greasy makeup as contributing to pimple outbreaks, but the focus is on the topical treatment of the pores themselves and not on the underlying factors.

    Traditional Chinese medicine sees pimple outbreaks as usual as a disharmony in the natural order of the body. Often the cause is seen to be the accumulation of heat. This damp heat rises from the organs and causes the blockage and subsequent eruptions of acne. Therefore, acupuncture treatments that target the causes of the heat accumulation can be effective in clearing up the condition and preventing its return. There are several acupuncture body points that are useful for cooling of the blood, and these are often the targets.

    The acupuncture treatment is usually a long term process that addresses the chronic conditions. The treatments will often need to be repeated two or three times a week over a period of time to effect a complete reversal of the disharmony. In some cases, the condition has become so severe that steps are taken to address the more acute issues first. In these cases, the treatment regime will consist of diet restrictions and possibly even herbal supplements to the acupuncture sessions.

    In very severe cases, the lesions themselves can be treated with acupuncture needles directly. There are two approaches to this that are used. One is to surround the lesion with small needles. This is a process known as ?surrounding the dragon.? Another approach is more a process similar to lancing a cyst. A very small needle is inserted directly into the lesion until pus or blood appears. This process is very much a merger of Western treatment and acupuncture, but to the acupuncturist, it will only be useful when coupled with the long term treatments that address the underlying causes.

    Get more alternative health information at AlternativeHealthCompanies.com.

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    Tuesday, February 12, 2008

    The Acupuncture Facial - Beauty From the Inside Out

    Chinese Medicine dates back over 3,000 years, and its longevity alone is testimony to its effectiveness. Acupuncture continues to gain recognition as a resource for health & wellbeing--from arthritis and back pain, to insomnia, migraine and PMS. Celebrities Gwyneth Paltrow, Sandra Bullock, and Sex in the City?s Kristin Davies, are known fans of Chinese Medicine and acupuncture, and clearly radiate vitality and an inner-glow. The acupuncture facial draws on this ancient tradition?s success in cultivating wellbeing by directing that inner-glow of health onto your face.

    What is it?
    Acupuncture activates your body?s natural healing intelligence by tapping into seas and rivers of energy, or ?Ch?i?, through ?acupoints??areas on the skin where Ch?i is accessed. Much like a river valley, made lush, fertile, and pristine by nutrients and moisture of its passing river, the flow of Qi and Blood nourishes all of our organs and tissues, including the skin.

    Unfortunately, the strength & flow of these energy rivers wane and become sluggish as we age. Collagen production slows, circulation becomes less efficient, and our skin sags, wrinkles, and dulls. And stress, lifestyle and environmental factors just compound these effects. Acupuncture, in general, helps re-establish and safeguard clear, abundant, and free-flowing Ch?i energy within us --so we can enjoy health and vitality, and slow the ageing process down instead of it slowing us.

    Does it work?
    Facial acupuncture is nothing new. The World Health Organization and National Institutes of Health have long recognized acupuncture as effective treatment for sagging facial paralysis like Bell?s Palsy. One study showed that among 300 cases treated with facial acupuncture, 90% had market beneficial results with only one course of treatment (International Journal of Clinical Acupuncture, 1996). Given the powerful lifting effects clinically demonstrated on facial paralysis, acupuncture facial clients may reap similar benefits? without the risks and telltale signs of facelift surgery or Botox. As with any procedure, genetics, environment, and lifestyle will influence overall outcome and longevity of results. Due to such factors, ?booster? treatments are occasionally suggested to extend results.

    How long before I see results?
    Single treatments are beneficial, however, because our body?s natural collagen synthesis occurs over 3-5 weeks, synchronizing a series of 10 facials within this timeframe is strongly recommended to optimize results. Facials incorporating Chinese herbal medicinals and micro-current are often combined for even greater results.

    What results should I look for?
    The acupuncture facial activates key acu-points on the face and body to supplement and direct Ch?i to your face and the systems that support your skin. Specifically, you may notice:

    • A lifting effect from ?waking up? key facial muscles, like the jaw and brow-line.
    • Diminishing of fine lines, deeper wrinkles, & puffiness
    • Improved elasticity & facial colour
    • Improved acne conditions
    • Reduced stress & enhanced wellbeing

    Does it hurt?
    A common question. The answer is not much---at most, people feel something akin to a good eyebrow plucking. Some find it extremely relaxing, especially when combined with a pampering herbal facial.

    What about side effects?
    Tiny bruises can occasionally occur due to the large amount of capillaries naturally occurring on our face. Bruising risk and duration can be minimized by using arnica, a homeopathic remedy. Other reported side effects are overwhelmingly positive? improved sleep, digestion, energy and a deepened sense of wellbeing and total health. Considering recent reports of disastrous side effects from expensive cosmetic procedures, facial acupuncture seems increasingly deserving of attention. Less risk and expense, and you still look like ?you.? Just more vibrant and glowing?inside and out.

    WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER OR PUBLICATION? YOU CAN, AS LONG AS YOU USE THIS INFORMATION WITH IT:
    A member of the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance, Michele Fry, L.Ac., holds a Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine, is a certified practitioner of Mei Zen Cosmetic AcupunctureTM, and attends ongoing post-graduate and professional studies at the Institute for Classical Five Element Acupuncture in Santa Monica, CA. She currently practices in Solana Beach, California. For more information:

    TELEPHONE: 858.354.5924
    http://WellnessElementsWest.com/

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    Does Acupuncture Help With Impotence?

    As the population of the United States ages, age related health issues arise. As you know from the onslaught of television commercials, impotence is one such issue.

    Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine have been involved in the treatment of male impotence since the time of the Chinese Emperors. It was a condition of concern to those poor emperors who often had as many as 3000 wives. Although the common Chinese male did not have a similar problem, impotence treatments designed to help the emperor would have certainly filtered down to his level.

    Impotence is often called erectile dysfunction. It is defined as the inability to have a successful sexual encounter due to the inability to have or maintain an erection. There are three basic physiological changes that must take place in order to have a successful erection. The first is basic arousal. The arousal must signal the nervous system to increase the blood flow to the penis. Finally, the blood vessels of the penis must relax in order to allow the increased flow of blood. If any of these three functions do not take place, an erection can not be maintained. Stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and even the effects of drugs may have an impact on these functions.

    Chinese Medicine divides the condition into two different conditions. The first is called ?The Decline of Mingmen Fire?, and the second is ?The Downward Flowing of Damp Heat.? Each of these conditions has symptoms that are uncovered in a complete examination of the patient. The Decline of Mingmen Fire is marked by dizziness and frequent urination and Downward Flowing of Damp Heat is accompanied by a bitter taste in the mouth and thirst. These symptoms are an example of the holistic approach of acupuncture treatment. The Chinese view the kidney as the source of the problem. Male Impotence is sometimes called Kidney Failure in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

    The acupuncture treatments would be based on which of the two conditions is suspected as the culprit. Many people fear acupuncture treatments for this condition because of the sensitivity of the areas involved. This is a common misconception because the acupuncture body points that are used in the treatment are located on the extremities, the abdomen, and the back. These acupuncture body points are concerned with increasing qi flow to the kidneys or preventing the flow of damp heat.

    Recent studies on acupuncture as a treatment for impotence have compared the effectiveness of the treatment with the use of such chemical substances as Viagra. The acupuncture treatments have been shown to increase the flow of certain hormones and biological enzymes into the nervous system. These studies have been done on animals for the most part. Although Western Medicine still does not completely understand the reasons for the high success rate of acupuncture treatment for impotence, it is admitting that these treatments tend to treat not only the sexual dysfunction as well as chemical substances, but also the physical and psychological causes. It does this with a great deal less adverse side effects.

    Get more alternative health information at AlternativeHealthCompanies.com.

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    Monday, February 11, 2008

    Can Acupuncture Really Help You To Lose Weight?

    You?ve probably tried many of the diets you?ve read about ? and there are a zillion ones out there ? and at the end of it all, realized that even if you did lose weight, you put it all back on and then some as soon as you got off the diet. So why don?t you look at something that?s worked for over a hundred years? We?re talking about acupuncture. Maybe you?re not so hot on the idea, but all other things failing, why not give it a shot? You?ll be pleasantly surprised if you do. Though the idea of getting needles stuck into you to get rid of all that extra flab might not be very appealing, you might find that it?s definitely much better than all the fad diets that you?ve read about or tried.

    Acupuncture is a technique of healing that began way back many centuries ago in China. And it could just be what you are looking for if you are thinking of a weight loss method. It was a few years ago that this method of losing weight became popular in the US and this was mainly due to the fact that CNN carried a report on China?s weight loss clinics and how acupuncture was used there. In China, obesity was said to be due to an imbalanced digestive function so acupuncture brought back the balance, and weight loss was the result. It strengthens the person?s digestion and this controls the appetite. What it probably also does is to increase the metabolic rate so the calories get burned off faster.

    How does it work? Needles are put into various points in the body called meridians and then moved around by the acupuncturist. Electrical stimulation can also be used. Sometimes, acupuncture goes hi-tech and lasers are used! Each session is usually around half an hour. During the time that the needles are inside, there might be feelings of tingling, of heat, or a numb sensation. The strange thing is you?ll find that you went in to lose weight and many women also find that their periods get more regular and their mood swings get better. Many have experienced their fatigue disappearing as well.

    Let?s look at the way the acupuncturist goes about it. First, he might prescribe some herbal supplements. Then comes a course of treatments, and probably after the fourth one, the stimulation will be increased. There might be a revision in the prescription as well. What happens as far as you are concerned is that you will slowly start feeling full earlier than you did before. Usually after a 10-session course, you will be asked to look at your exercise and diet while you take a break from the acupuncture. The weight loss happens slowly so you must be patient. The great thing is that it?s slow but sure and the pounds stay off. This happens as the craving for food gets less and you find that you?re not eating that much at each meal.

    Which are the points in the body that are targeted? Acupuncture specialists have listed some of them. The mouth is here it?s at for the person who might smoke, is an impulsive eater and talks a lot. For the ones who constantly nibble or keep eating even after they are full, it is the stomach. The lungs are for the food addicts and those who love sweets and chocolates. If water retention is the problem, then it?s the endocrine which is the control system for ductless glands. The ovaries and the adrenal are the points if the weight gain is due to PMS or menopause. The spleen is for those who suffer from hormonal or sugar imbalances. The kidney is for those who are nervous, suffer from hormonal imbalances and have a water retention problem. The thyroid is the point for those with a slow metabolic rate.

    There are some acupuncturists however, who feel that there should be more than just acupuncture in a weight loss program. It should, they feel, be accompanied by diet, exercise and certain foods. If you are interested in losing weight and you are looking at acupuncture as a means to do it, you should find an acupuncturist who is certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine or the NCCAOM in the US. You will probably have to pay $50 to $125 to the doctor when it is your first visit and around $30 to $50 subsequently. The thing is that this treatment is not covered by your health insurance so you will have to bear these expenses yourself.

    It is common to have a few side effects when you are undergoing acupuncture treatment. You might experience headaches, nausea or dizziness. Do discuss these with both your doctor and acupuncturist just to be sure that they are harmless where you are concerned.

    For more information on acupuncture for weight loss and other acupuncture benefits visit http://www.acupuncture-benefits.com/

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    Acupuncture Weight Loss - Not As Scary As You Might Think

    Acupuncture has its origins in China and is one of the most commonly used medical procedures in the world. Acupuncture weight loss became popular in 2003 when CNN reported success stories from weight loss clinics in China.

    China has experienced an increase in obesity with the introduction and popularity of Western diet choices. The Standard American Diet often consists of too much protein, too much fat, too much sugar and not enough fruits and vegetables. Even when Americans eat fruits and vegetables they are frequently canned and over cooked leaving them without any nutritional value and no live enzymes.

    Acupuncture weight loss has worked for a couple of thousand years in the Asian cultures who routinely practiced acupuncture medicine before it was made popular in the West. Chinese medical theory says that overweight people have an unbalanced digestive system.

    Acupuncture weight loss has been shown to strengthen the digestive system, control the appetite and may also improve metabolism causing you to burn calories more quickly. Weight loss has always been a balance between burning more calories than you eat. Acupuncture offers a system to decrease your intake and burn more calories.

    During the procedure a trained practitioner will use thin stainless steel needles under a sterile environment. The needles are sometimes combined with lasers or electrical stimulation. Other times the practitioner will manipulate the needles manually to produce the desired results. The needles are then left in place for up to 30 minutes.

    Clients often report feeling heat, tingling and perhaps some numbness in the area where the needles are inserted. Other common side effects are dizziness, headaches and nausea. These side effects are minimal compared to the potential side effects of using other drug related diet supplements to help with appetite suppression and metabolism boosts.

    Along with the acupuncture weight loss treatments the trained practitioner may recommend some herbal supplements. These treatments are not believed to be enough to maintain weight loss. Medical studies show that daily exercise, diet choices and dealing with food issues are also an important part of the process.

    It can take sometime for the body to adjust to acupuncture for weight loss but clients report that with patience food cravings and overeating do disappear. Acupuncture weight loss also helps to reduce stress which can be a huge boost to stress eaters.

    Before going to a practitioner do your homework. Look for referrals from people who are satisfied with their experience. Practitioners should be certified doctors who hold certifications through the National Certification Commission For Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. The costs will vary with the area of the country and the experience of the practitioner. Not all insurance companies will cover the costs.

    Acupuncture weight loss is becoming more and more popular as a weight loss option to the diet supplements and making it on your own. It appears to have the least number of side effects of any of the diet ?helpers? and has thousands of years of documentation and case study to prove its? effectiveness.

    The choice is yours, but those needles are not as scary you might think!

    Vanessa Youngstrom, a nurse practitioner, enjoys writing and educating on health and wellness topics. You?ll find more articles at http://www.PathToYourHealth.com

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    Saturday, February 9, 2008

    Do Acupuncture Weight Loss Treatments Work?

    Nowadays, I have noticed that many of us are looking towards alternative therapies instead of traditional solutions for improving our health. A study in 2004 showed that 35% of American adults are obese and that figure looks like it will be climbing to alarmingly dangerous levels. Acupuncture weight loss treatment is one such solution, and in this article I intend to discuss the effectiveness of acupuncture weight loss treatments.

    Believed to have originated more than 2,000 years ago in China, the ancient medical practice of acupuncture is now available all over the country. In fact, a study conducted in 2002 shows that 8.2 million adults in the United States reported to have tried acupuncture, but the question is do acupuncture weight loss treatments really work, or is acupuncture weight loss treatment yet another weight loss scam?

    I believe it can be easier to lose the weight with regular acupuncture weight loss treatments, but note that said it can be easier. This does not mean that it is a one-stop solution, especially since it doesnt result in direct weight loss. Also realize that you only maintain weight loss by changing your lifestyle and eating habits, and this doesnt change whether you decide to take acupuncture weight loss treatments or revert to another method for losing weight.

    Acupuncture weight loss treatment works by inserting thin sterile needles in specific points on the body which release hormones know as endorphins that have a calm and relaxing, effect. It is believed this makes it easier for you to deal with stress, frustration and anxiety which trigger bingeing and overeating at meal times. These endorphins also affect the digestive system which is why its also believed that acupuncture weight loss treatment could help rebalance your metabolism.

    Like I said earlier, to keep the weight that you lost off for life will require lifestyle changes and this means you must commit to being more active and eating healthier. Regardless of what some say, acupuncture weight loss treatments by themselves are not enough. You may even get basic nutritional advice from your acupuncturist, but many acupuncture weight loss treatments claim to help you lose the weight without you having to do regular exercise or change your diet.

    One good point to note is that when beginning acupuncture weight loss treatment you may be offered an individualized supplement program which includes vitamins, minerals, herbal antioxidants, nutraceuticals and phytochemicals that will support your diet and balance your blood sugar levels so your body has the optimum nutrition to maintain a healthy lifestyle if you make the effort.

    The reason it is said that acupuncture weight loss treatments can help you lose weight is because it is believed to boost your energy levels, and this can help you exercise, and can reduce your cravings, and improve your circulation. Whats more, even with patients who were suffering from fatigue and chronic pain for as long as 40 years, surveys showed that acupuncture helped a lot to increase energy levels.

    Acupuncture weight loss treatment does have a few negative side effects. These include bruising or slight swelling and soreness. You may feel a slightly sedated feeling, and some experience a wooziness or fainting as a result of the very calming effect on the bodys energy while having an acupuncture weight loss treatment. You should always discuss possible side effects before beginning acupuncture weight loss treatments. You should also be sure that needles are either disposable or have been sterilized.

    In conclusion, I always like to advise that while acupuncture weight loss treatments may help aid you in losing weight, whats most important is changing your lifestyle and eating habits. Stress, level of activity and eating habits are important factors which contribute to your weight loss according to The North American Association for the Study of Obesity and if you want the best results focus on improving these. Sure, acupuncture weight loss treatments may help you, but if you want to reach your weight loss goals it will require work on your part too.

    Joseph Cole has blown the whistle on the weight loss industry. Find out why 95% dieters fail within one year, why fat burning pills are a complete waste of money and why you don't need to count calories to lose weight. Download his brand new revealing industry report for FREE right now at: http://www.theantidietplan.com/

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    Thursday, February 7, 2008

    Weight Loss through Acupuncture, All the Facts

    Recently you might have noticed that there is a seemingly endless amount of products announced on TV and magazines that claim to be the best method when aiming to lose a few pounds. There are advertisements regarding diets, creams, exercising machines, even hypnosis and suggestion; however there is one method to do this that has not been advertised that much, and that many people claim to be the most outstanding and effective weight loss procedure, acupuncture. But, how much is true about what?s being said about this method? Is it true that weight loss through acupuncture is really the best method available today?

    Acupuncture is by no means a recent discovery; it is actually a technique that has been around for centuries. In the past, acupuncture was used in several different healing procedures, and it is one of the only methods that has endured the passage of time, and one that continues to prove its efficiency throughout the world. The acupuncture method consist in placing needles strategically in different parts of the human body in order to stimulate certain nerves that will balance the body energy, and therefore alleviate different illnesses, both physical and mental. When talking about weight loss, acupuncture helps the patient by allowing him or her to burn calories faster; weight loss through acupuncture is great, because it provides the necessary energy to perform different exercise routines and it also accelerates the metabolism of the patient, which allows him or her to dispose the excessive amount of body fat in a very short period of time.

    One of the most attractive issues regarding weight loss through acupuncture is that this method works even if you are not really exercising your body. Given the fact that acupuncture accelerates your blood circulation, you will be burning fat even by sitting idly on your couch just watching your favorite TV show. However, weight loss through acupuncture requires discipline as well as any other method, you will have to endure the placing of needles throughout your body for at least 2 times a week.

    If you combine your weight loss through acupuncture process with a healthy diet and frequent exercise routines, it may take no longer than 6 months to reach your desired weight goal, which is, by far, one of the lowest amount of times available today. If you are planning to turn to acupuncture alone when trying to lose some weight, then you will have to be very patient, because weight loss through acupuncture alone may not be as fast as you wish. Visit his weight loss obesity website for lots of articles about losing weight. Also check out the weight loss eBook that will give you tips for your weight loss problems.

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    Wednesday, February 6, 2008

    Losing Those Extra Pounds with Acupuncture

    Cutting pounds is a goal for most Americans given our every expanding waist lines. Acupuncture may offer a unique way to battle the bulge.

    Acupuncture is a very effective treatment regime for the very common problem of being fat. Excessive poundage presents one of the most classical examples of what is similar and what is different in the treatment approaches of Tradition Chinese Medicine and Western Style Medicine. They are similar in that they both recognize that a person has a problem for a large variety of reasons. They are similar because they both recognize that any type of treatment must be accompanied by diet and lifestyle changes in order to be effective. They differ greatly in how to deal with condition from a clinical standpoint.

    The acupuncturist will use a regime of treatment that is designed to remove the underlying disorder that has resulted in the extra pounds. This regime will vary from patient to patient depending on factors that would never even be considered by the Western Medicine practitioner. It is interesting that the skeptics of acupuncture very rarely deny that the treatment is effective in the treatment of excessive pounds. They usually concentrate their criticism on explaining alternative reasons for why the treatment works. One thing that is often cited is that the actual needle insertion releases endorphins into the body. These ?feel good? chemicals are credited with appetite reduction.

    There may be some truth to this because many of the acupuncture treatments are followed by the placement of a small pad on the acupuncture point that can be manually subjected to a small amount of pressure in between treatment sessions. This pressure is applied when an urge to overeat is being felt and helps in resisting the urges and maintaining the proper diet. Regardless of the reason for the good results, even the most vehement of skeptics admit that acupuncture does no harm. Unlike many forms of chemical diet treatments, there is no chance of addiction or adverse side effects.

    The acupuncture treatments themselves will vary on the exact diagnosis that is made by the practitioner. The first step will be a complete physical examination. This examination will appear strange to someone who does not understand that principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It will examine the tongue in great detail, for example, and involve palpation of internal organs. It will also involve a complete history of the patient and his lifestyle. It should be remembered that there are different schools within acupuncture itself. Classical Five Element acupuncturists will examine lifestyle issues at an even greater depth. This form of acupuncture seeks to treat the body, soul, spirit, and mind of the patient in order to restore harmony.

    Acupuncture treatments for cutting pounds usually involve a long series of sessions. In some cases, results can be seen very quickly. In other cases, more time may be needed and sessions must be repeated over a long period of time to maintain any success. In order to be completely successful, the acupuncture treatments will be combined with the application of various herbal supplements. The treatment plan will involve other health issues such as diet and exercise. This is both the advantage and disadvantage of acupuncture as a means to trimming your waist. On the one hand, when it is done properly and with a complete adherence to the entire program, the chances for success are very high. On the other hand, it is not the ?quick fix? that too many overweight people often seek.

    Get more alternative health information at AlternativeHealthCompanies.com.

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    Tuesday, February 5, 2008

    Will Acupuncture and Weight Loss Work For You..

    Losing weight is not always as easy controlling your diet or exercising because there are some of us that are overweight because of various other reasons such as a health condition that does not allow us to get on a strict diet or exercise excessively. Here is how acupuncture for weight loss has helped in the past and how it can work for you too. Acupuncture is an ancient treatment that originated in China centuries ago; it is practiced by using a variety of extremely thin needles of different sizes, which are inserted in different areas of your body depending what type of treatment you are looking for in order to stimulate your nerves and senses to produce the desired effect.

    In the case of acupuncture for weight loss the needles will be used to control your hunger and does achieving weight loss in the process. However, acupuncture for weight loss does not work overnight, in fact it almost always will consist of several sessions, which you must not miss or else your treatment can be compromised.

    How Fast Can You See Results through Acupuncture for Weight Loss

    You will notice changes in your metabolism and appetite from the first session of acupuncture for weight loss however, to loose the desired amount of weight and most importantly maintain the weight you desire will take a few sessions depending on your present weight and health state.

    While acupuncture for weight loss will help greatly by using your own body, you need to be committed and help yourself too; you need to stick to a balanced diet and try to have as much physical activity as possible. There are simple yet very effective exercises such as yoga and Pilates, which can be done in the comfort of your home, whenever you have time.

    Helpful Tips

    It is important you set some rules for yourself to follow at all times and here are some guide lines: never eat when you are distracted such as, in front of the television or while working on the computer as almost always you will over eat; always place small quantities of food in your plate and eat slowly because the brain takes approximately 20 minutes to register that the stomach is full and some of us take about 10 minutes to eat a full meal.

    Make eating an enjoyable experience not something you do on the run where you don?t pay attention to what and how much you are eating. Any diet or treatment will only work if you are committed to it so take charge of your body and mind and start a new life by getting fit and healthy for life with acupuncture for weight loss

    Visit Ezyweightloss.com for reliable acupuncture resources.

    Weight Loss Made Easy

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    Monday, February 4, 2008

    Acupuncture And Hypothyroidism

    Acupuncture is a Chinese medical practice. In this practice, definite parts of the anatomy, associated with peripheral nerves, are pierced with fine needles. The purpose is to eliminate pain. There are many patients of hypothyroidism who have found relief by adopting the use of the acupuncture treatment, in addition to other alternative therapy.

    Hypothyroidism is a situation in which the thyroid gland does not generate enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid is a gland in front of the windpipe and just below the voice box. It is responsible for producing, storing and releasing thyroid hormones.

    Acupuncture has conventionally been applied in China to treat most illnesses effectively. It is certain that acupuncture is an effectual therapy for this condition. There are several studies suggesting that acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine are helpful in the cure of hypothyroidism.

    The kidney is the organ that has to be treated. Treatment involves long-term acupuncture and herbal medicine. They believe that the functional disorder is the result of a weakened immune system or the 'Western' medication administered.

    There are different symptoms exhibited by the patients of both hypo as well as hyper thyroidism. It is observed that there are low levels of TSH in the blood stream, in case of secondary hypothyroidism and very high levels of TSH in primary hypothyroidism. The onset of hypothyroidism is detectable only through a biochemical analysis of the levels of thyroxine in blood. The typical western treatment involves life-long hormonal replacement therapy, with synthetic hormones or animal protomorphogens. In the case of oriental medicine, the treatment involves long-term acupuncture and use of herbal medicine.

    Herbal medicines and acupuncture have been found to play an important role in the successful treatment of hypothyroidism.

    Hypothyroidism provides detailed information on Hypothyroidism, Symptoms Of Hypothyroidism, Cause Of Hypothyroidism, Hypothyroidism Treatments and more. Hypothyroidism is affiliated with Thyroid Disease.

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    Friday, February 1, 2008

    How to Build the Acupuncture Practice of Your Dreams

    You decided to become an acupuncturist because you have a passion for health and healing and you genuinely want to help others live optimally. If you are like me, you thought that this passion would create an effortless explosion of interest in your services that would keep people knocking down your doors in droves. If this has been the case for you, then that is truly great.. Keep doing what you are doing. Unfortunately, the truth is that the vast majority of the acupuncturists out there are struggling to make a living. In fact, 50% of them are no longer practicing within 5 years of graduation from Chinese medicine school.

    This really is an unnecessary tragedy. I bet that most of the people that quit would LOVE to stay with it, but they just don't know how to build a successful practice. Because of this, they are forced to initiate a new course in life. Trust me, it doesn't have to be this way. You CAN have a wildly successful practice that is both financially and personally thriving. How do I know? Well, let me tell you a little story...

    I began acupuncture school in 1998 and graduated in 2001. For 3 straight years, I heard numerous teachers expound gloom and doom prophecies on the impossibility of making decent money as an acupuncturist. In fact, the whole environment was so entrenched in a poverty mentality that I felt deeply depressed about my ability to provide for my family with this career choice. My wife and I had our first child in my 2nd year of school and I was stressed out beyond belief about how I was going to provide a good life for this child.

    After I graduated from school, I was lured out to New York to set up a holistic medical practice with a medical doctor. Did I really want to move to New York? Not really. But I was convinced that I could not set up shop where I was living (Boulder, Co.) because there were so many other practitioners.

    RULE #1: Set up your practice where you truly want to be. You are the only competition you will have to face.
    Through a series of serendipitous circumstances, I signed up for a 2 year continuing education program with Lonny Jarrett, M.Ac. to study 5 element acupuncture. Now I see that the universe had guided me to the East coast not to set up a practice with this doctor, but to have this opportunity to study with a great teacher. During this program, I saw in Lonny a role model of success that showed me it is indeed possible to create an amazing practice.

    RULE #2: You need at least one role model of success. Your brain has to conceptualize what is possible before it will materialize. Without this experience, I NEVER would be where I am now.
    After spending one year in New York, I mustered up the courage to move back to Colorado to set up a private practice on my own terms. (No, I never did end up working with the medical doctor. Instead, I worked in a pain clinic for the year. This allowed me to treat a high volume of patients AND witness firsthand how I did NOT want to set up my own practice). When I returned to Colorado, I made a commitment to myself to learn as much as I could about business and marketing. It was frustratingly clear to me that there were precious few resources available that were directly relevant to my situation. So, I created my own way of building a practice.

    RULE #3: Building an acupuncture practice is all about building relationships. The conventional marketing tactics that work well for other professions are generally useless for the acupuncture profession. Creative marketing is the essence of my success. This means free or low cost marketing techniques that are targeted only to a captive audience.
    Now, 4 years after starting my practice, I see as many patients as I want. This ranges from 35-50 depending on the week. That is the most I would want to see. I have done this just outside of Boulder in an area said to be saturated with acupuncturists. I make a comfortable 6 figure income working 3.5 days a week in my practice. I now believe without a shadow of a doubt that there are far more people out there who need my services than I could ever see. The demand is enormous. Why? Because the majority of Americans are struggling with their health. A small percentage of this majority is interested in doing something about it. I can only see a tiny fraction of this small percentage in my practice. Therefore, my mind only sees an overflowing practice.

    RULE #4: You will attract what your mind perceives. If you believe in scarcity, you will find that it is difficult to bring in new patients. You really have to work for them. If you believe in abundance, then you will find that you will always treat just the perfect number of people every week. Your practice will grow without resistance and struggle.
    There is far more to creating the practice of your dreams than I can outline here. If you are serious about taking your foot off the brake and achieving your potential for a lucrative acupuncture practice, then click on the link below to learn more about my consulting service . There is NO reason why you can't earn a comfortable 6 figure income in our profession. You just may need some solid guidance to show you how!

    Kevin Doherty, L.Ac., MS is a licensed acupuncturist in private practice in Superior, Colorado and a business coach for alternative healthcare practitioners. He has a passion for helping serious practitioners achieve the numerous rewards of a thriving practice that they so richly deserve. To learn more about Kevin's coaching services, go to http://www.buildyourdreampractice.net

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    How You Can Use Acupuncture For Endometriosis To Ease Your Pain

    When therapists and enthusiasts are asked about the effectiveness of acupuncture for endometriosis the topic of pain relief often comes up. This is because endometriosis pains are so varied and differ wildly from woman to woman.

    Endometriosis is often difficult to treat even with today?s advanced pain medication. According to acupuncture therapists and enthusiasts, however, although acupuncture will not treat endometriosis entirely, it can help relieve the pain that comes with the disorder.

    Women who suffer from endometriosis often report severe abdominal cramps, a feeling of heaviness especially in the pelvic area, and disabling, crippling pains in the lower back.

    This is because endometriosis involves the migration of endometrial tissue normally found in the uterus, to other parts of the body. Each month as hormonal changes encourage the tissues to swell and then shed, instead of being expelled as menstruation, the blood and tissue lodge in various organ systems, causing internal bleeding, intense pain and even disruptions in normal bodily functions.

    Because the cause of endometriosis is unknown, it is difficult to treat with only one form of therapy. Physicians will often recommend various drugs, including those that can help manage pain, and those that can lower the levels of estrogen in the body. Acupuncture contributes to therapy by allowing patients to relax better, and to deal with pain more effectively without resorting to medication.

    If you are suffering from endometriosis and do not want to take more medications to relieve your pains, then you may wish to consider acupuncture.

    Acupuncture makes use of tiny needles inserted into strategic parts of your body, with the aim of redirecting the universal energy field, called chi. When redirected, chi can allow you to be healthier and more relaxed. With greater relaxation, you can perhaps learn how to handle your pain better.

    Before you go to an acupuncturist, however, you will need to consult with your doctor first about what other therapy options are available to you. This is especially advisable if you have a fear of needles, or if you are highly skeptical about acupuncture. If you do undertake acupuncture therapy, however, then these tips can help in your search for an acupuncturist.

    ? Ask your physician for referrals. Many obstetricians and gynecologists will be in touch with acupuncturists who offer relaxation or pain relief therapy. These acupuncturists will also be licensed and legal, so you can be sure that you are receiving treatment from a qualified practitioner.

    ? Join an email group or forum for people suffering from endometriosis, and ask around about acupuncture therapy. There will most likely be people present who have undergone the therapy to deal with their own endometriosis-related pains, and they can offer you tips on where to go, who to see, and what to do.

    ? When you arrive at the acupuncturist, ask as many questions as you can. This is a good way to do research on acupuncture. Besides, a good, licensed acupuncturist will be happy to answer your questions, offer reassurance and be more than willing to help you. Try and find a practitioner who has knowledge and experience of dealing with endometriosis.

    ? Share your good experiences with members of your email group or forum. You can help other endometriosis sufferers in dealing with their own conditions.

    Discover more information on natural alternatives for treating endometriosis by signing up to the newsletter below.

    For those who practice acupuncture, endometriosis is not necessarily easy to treat. The many pains can blind patients to the possibility of being able to deal with the difficulties of the disorder. However, with positive experiences, and with more acupuncture for endometriosis therapy sessions, the pains of endometriosis may lessen significantly.
    Sign up for Shelley Ross' free Endometriosis newsletter - Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you discover more about acupuncture endometriosis.

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    Will Acupuncture And Weight Loss Work For You.....

    Losing weight is not always as easy controlling your diet or exercising because there are some of us that are overweight because of various other reasons such as a health condition that does not allow us to get on a strict diet or exercise excessively. Here is how acupuncture for weight loss has helped in the past and how it can work for you too. Acupuncture is an ancient treatment that originated in China centuries ago; it is practiced by using a variety of extremely thin needles of different sizes, which are inserted in different areas of your body depending what type of treatment you are looking for in order to stimulate your nerves and senses to produce the desired effect.

    In the case of acupuncture for weight loss the needles will be used to control your hunger and does achieving weight loss in the process. However, acupuncture for weight loss does not work overnight, in fact it almost always will consist of several sessions, which you must not miss or else your treatment can be compromised.

    How Fast Can You See Results through Acupuncture for Weight Loss

    You will notice changes in your metabolism and appetite from the first session of acupuncture for weight loss however, to loose the desired amount of weight and most importantly maintain the weight you desire will take a few sessions depending on your present weight and health state.

    While acupuncture for weight loss will help greatly by using your own body, you need to be committed and help yourself too; you need to stick to a balanced diet and try to have as much physical activity as possible. There are simple yet very effective exercises such as yoga and Pilates, which can be done in the comfort of your home, whenever you have time.

    Helpful Tips

    It is important you set some rules for yourself to follow at all times and here are some guide lines: never eat when you are distracted such as, in front of the television or while working on the computer as almost always you will over eat; always place small quantities of food in your plate and eat slowly because the brain takes approximately 20 minutes to register that the stomach is full and some of us take about 10 minutes to eat a full meal.

    Make eating an enjoyable experience not something you do on the run where you don?t pay attention to what and how much you are eating. Any diet or treatment will only work if you are committed to it so take charge of your body and mind and start a new life by getting fit and healthy for life with acupuncture for weight loss

    Visit Ezyweightloss.com for reliable acupuncture resources.
    Weight Loss Made Easy

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