Acupuncture is an ancient system of medicine which defines illness or disease as having its origin in the development of imbalances in the flow of energy in the body. Over time, these imbalances can develop into symptoms in the mental, emotional or physical body.

An acupuncturist works on re-establishing the balance in the energy body. This life force energy is called “Chi “or “Qi.” This life force energy which helps with the circulation of blood and body fluids has an effect on the nervous system, as well as the rest of the body systems and functions. When Chi energy is deficient or excess it can create blockages. These blockages can affect our functioning depending on many factors; our genetics, diet, medicines, exercise routine, lifestyle issues, acute emotional or physical trauma and situational crisis.

This Chi energy present in the body cycles through energetic pathways or meridians. Along these pathways which run superficial and deep, there are specific places where the energy can be accessed. These areas are known as acupuncture points. The pathways are associated with certain organs and functions in the body and are so named (ex. Heart meridian, Kidney meridian, etc.) An acupuncturist works to assist the body to rebalance itself by inserting thin, fine, sterile and disposable needles into specific acupoints with the intention of moving the chi to effect a positive change.

The Theory of the Five Elements is based on natural laws and demonstrates how energy cycles in nature. Through the study of this phenomena, ancient physicians learned how nature renews and heals itself. This theory is utilized in Chinese Medicine to assist the body to heal.

The elements are: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.

Each element has many associations with the body. The emotions are assigned to the different elements as well.

Depending on the individual’s history, current health status and lifestyle, these emotions can show up as unexpressed or in excess. Anger can be absent when it would be appropriate or seen in excess as an explosive or violent nature. The ability to express joy can be missing in one’s life, or an excess joy which can be hyperactivity, mania and/or psychosis. Sympathy can be lacking, expressed as cruelty or betrayal, or in excess be obsessive and overbearing. Grief too can be unexpressed or denied, or a person can be overwhelmed with grief and unable to move on. Fear can be absent and dangerous behaviors exhibited without regard for safety, or one can be paralyzed with fear, panic, anxiety. These are some examples of elements out of balance with emphasis on mental emotional changes.

As a Five Element Practitioner, the focus of this classical style of acupuncture is to treat the cause of the initial imbalance. Seeing the body as one system and treating from this focus works very well for people struggling with unresolved emotional issues. Most of our deepest wounds in life stem from our childhood years, and treating the cause of imbalance can then begin to unwind the layers of imbalance that have developed over our lifetime.

With this approach, the body will take the energy to where it is most needed to begin the healing process. The symptoms will be monitored and taken into account with the treatments. Many clients report a sense of wellbeing as well as feeling calmer, more focused and centered within themselves. They report improvement in sleep patterns, lowering of anxiety and mood improvement as the energy begins to rebalance itself. Acupuncture is a great adjunct to counseling as it helps to move the emotions up and out, allowing for more insight and freedom of expression for some.