Acupuncture is an effective therapy used for the treatment of a wide range of health conditions. It is one of the oldest treatment procedures to ever be in existence. The history of acupuncture can be traced back to its root in China, over 2500 years ago. And it was first mentioned in documents dating from a few hundred years leading up to the Common Era. Acupuncture philosophy is based on the traditional teachings of Taoism, which promotes harmony between humans and the environment around them, and a balance between yin and yang.
How & Where Was Acupuncture Used?
According to the history of acupuncture, the practice used sharp-edged tools and stones to puncture and drain abscesses. The stones were not inserted into the skin but instead pressed against it by physicians who understood they could trigger a healing response in the body by stimulating specific points. Over the years, stones gave way to bones and finally, to hair-thin metal needles.
Acupuncture has played a significant role in traditional Chinese medicine and for the health care of the Chinese people. The practice spread from China to other parts of the world through traveling physicians, scholars and pilgrims. Nearby countries like Korea, Vietnam, and Japan began to experiment with acupuncture therapies learned from practitioners of Chinese medicine.
A Timeline of the History of Acupuncture in the US
Acupuncture became popular in the United States in the 1970s when President Richard Nixon visited China. During his trip, President Nixon learned about acupuncture, and upon return, interest in acupuncture treatments in the United States began to take off. An article in the New York Times also helped increase awareness about acupuncture treatments in mainstream America.
The acupuncture theory holds that energy flows within the human body and this energy can be channeled to create balance and health. The energy flow also known as qi moves throughout the body along 12 main pathways known as meridians. Acupuncture treatments were used to restore the natural qi flow, which could be disrupted by disease, injury, or illness and still do.
Now That You Know the History of Acupuncture, Choose Strength & Vitality for Your Acupuncture Needs.
Today, modern acupuncture has been tested, researched and refined to give us an intricate and detailed understanding of the body’s energetic balance. It is an effective method of treatment that offers a host of benefits with the most popular being pain relief. Acupuncture can provide relief from a variety of diseases, illnesses and injuries. At Strength & Vitality Wellness Center, we provide the highest quality nutritional care, movement, and acupuncture treatment procedures to improve your overall physical and emotional well-being. Get in touch with us today to schedule your free consultation and health evaluation. Feel a balance with your life in the New Year with Strength and Vitality.
Strength & Vitality Wellness Center is a Mt. Washington wellness clinic providing nutritional family care and acupuncture in Baltimore, MD. We are led by a licensed Baltimore acupuncturist, whole foods nutrition counselor and certified personal trainer Cara-Michele Nether, who has over a decade of experience in acupuncture treatments, alternative medicine and health coaching.
Based in the Mt. Washington area of Baltimore, we offer acupuncture to those in the Baltimore, Towson and surrounding areas. Many of clients come from Baltimore, Timonium, Hunt Valley and other parts of Maryland and Pennsylvania, some traveling as far as Annapolis.
Sources:
Columbia College, “History of Acupuncture”
