The "Wikipedia" description - Acupuncture is a collection of procedures which involves the stimulation of points on the body using a variety of techniques, such as penetrating the skin with needles that are then manipulated manually or by electrical stimulation. It is one of the key components of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and is among the oldest healing practices in the world. According to the TCM approach, stimulating specific acupuncture points corrects imbalances in the flow of “Qi” through channels known as meridians.
Keeping an open mind on alternative medicines certainly paid dividends for me recently. Since moving to the Southern Highlands I developed asthma which is not that unusual in this area. Since the initial diagnosis, I had visited my doctor on three subsequent occasions and each time I was issued with another script for stronger drugs!
Feeling rather defeated, I was elated when a friend recommended to Him that I try a local Acupuncturist. "What did I have to lose"? I was on the phone to make an appointment in a flash. Surprisingly I did not need a "referral" letter from my local GP and I was covered by my Health Care Fund.....we are off to a good start!
On arrival at said appointment my mood was more curious than nervous about the "needles". Peter (the Acupuncturist) was a delight. "Typical" of Asian cultures he was softly spoken and considered as he assured me that Acupuncture could greatly assist, if not cure my condition. I lay on the consultation table as about 20-30 needles were inserted (none of which I felt at any time ) at various "Qi" points. A low heat lamp was turned on and I was left to have a rest for about half an hour. Feeling, warm and very relaxed I went to sleep. After removal of the needles I walked home, surprisingly I no longer felt "heavy" in my chest and I was not wheezing. It would appear that my initial consultation cured me!! I have since had two more visits with Peter as he assists me with a range of health issues including a bad back.
I stopped taking the prescribed strong drugs after the first consult and I no longer suffer the multitude of side effects. I don't know how Acupuncture works but then I didn't know how the prescribed drugs worked either! My advise is to "keep and open mind" where your health is concerned.
Since talking with friends about my experience there has been the inevitable question "How do I find a quality qualified Acupuncturist"? Peter helped here too.
The Australian Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine Association Ltd is the governing body in Australia. They can be contacted: and you will be able to search for professionals in your area.
...and remember...have a fabulous retirementLIFE!
