Learning About Other Natural Protocols
I want to again reiterate the idea that many ailments can be resolved through self-care. This next section briefly explains a number of other natural therapies that can be applied to various maladies. All of us would do well to acquaint ourselves with these disciplines so we can be aware of all of our health options. The beauty of many of these is that they can be practiced at home once their particular technique is mastered, something that can offer enhanced health care for not only one individual, but their family as well. Different forms of massage, reflexology, acupressure, biofeedback, meditation, relaxation therapy, homeopathy and the use of Bach flower remedies, enemas, fasting, and visualization are all effective self-help techniques. I strongly believe that we need to become much more self-reliant when it comes to health choices and treatments. If we do, we will better the quality of both our mental and physical health. Among other therapies, I would also like to mention NAET, which is a combination of a massage, kinesiology, and acupuncture which is used to eliminate allergic reactions. If a person is interested in using this technique, the following number will provide names of practitioners in their area: Medical Academy of Acupuncture (800) 521-2262. I would like to discuss in more detail acupressure, acupuncture, aromatherapy and chiropractic, after which a brief description of other therapies will be offered in alphabetical order.
Acupressure
Discipline involving the application of pressure to certain points on the body with the fingertip or fingernail. This therapy is based on the notion that pressure helps to dissipate pain or circulatory blockages by boosting the flow of chi or vital energy. It has been used by the Chinese for thousands of years and is a respected medical protocol in China. Like acupuncture, this methodology is based on stimulating certain acupoints in order to balance the flow of internal energy which gets out of sync during disease or injury. Using the thumbs, middle or index finger is common and one can learn to apply this discipline to themselves. Pressure is applied to specific points for anywhere from one to several minutes and is repeated throughout the day. Acupressure has been successfully applied to the arm for motion sickness, above the upper lip for nasal congestion and on either side of the lower back for sciatica pain. Ailments which respond well to Acupressure include headaches, fatigue, back pain, constipation, and asthma. Acupressure is sometimes used in combination with acupuncture and is generally not considered as quick, as specific, or as effective as acupuncture. For anyone who suffers from a needle phobia however, it may serve to produce similar results. Note:
Consult your doctor before undergoing this therapy. There is some consensus that it may mask the symptoms of serious disease, thereby postponing appropriate treatment.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves the stimulation of specific acupoints by the insertion of very fine needles. Like acupressure, it is designed to augment the flow of chi thereby restoring the proper balance to affected organs. Determining the right points to target is essential. Careful evaluation of symptoms is necessary and is based on physical parameters as well as a series of questions. While acupuncture needles appear intimidating, their insertion is rapid and is usually painless. Acupuncture needles come in a variety of sizes geared toward their particular insertion point. Blood is usually not drawn if the needles are inserted correctly. Acupuncture has the distinct ability to either stimulate or tranquilize certain nerves. The acupuncturist may use pulse analysis in combination with a visual assessment to arrive at a diagnosis. I believe that it is vital to incorporate herbal medicines and good lifestyle changes with acupuncture to achieve maxim