Acupuncture

Acupuncture: A Time Tested Healing Tradition

Dee Acupuncture currently provides Acupuncture for the whole family. Specializing in two distinct forms of acupuncture—both traditional meridian style and esoteric—each treatment is carefully customized. Acupuncture is an ancient healing practice that has been used for thousands of years to promote physical and mental well-being. Originating in China more than 2,000 years ago, it is based on the belief that the body’s vital energy, or Qi (pronounced “chee”), flows through pathways known as meridians. When this energy is balanced and flowing freely, the body remains healthy. Acupuncture aims to restore harmony by stimulating specific points on the body, usually with fine, sterile needles.

How Acupuncture Works

Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms by encouraging the flow of Qi and balancing the body’s energy. This is done by inserting thin needles into specific points along the meridians, which correspond to different organs and systems in the body.

Promote circulation and reduce inflammation
Boost the immune system
Helps calm the nervous system
Release endorphins for pain relief and relaxation
Balance energy throughout the body to improve overall well-being

Benefits of Acupuncture

Chronic pain (such as back pain, arthritis, and migraines)
Stress, anxiety, and depression
Digestive issues (like irritable bowel syndrome or nausea)
Insomnia and sleep disorders
Fertility and reproductive health
Headaches and migraines
Respiratory issues like asthma or allergies

Esoteric Acupuncture

Esoteric Acupuncture, as described by Mikio Sankey L.Ac PHD, is a holistic healing system that blends traditional acupuncture principles with the ancient Indian nadi channels and metaphysical elements. It is different than the traditional Chinese meridian style acupuncture and highly effective for those ready to experience conscious change.

Esoteric Acupuncture is often used for a variety of conditions, from chronic pain to emotional imbalances, and it aims to bring clients into alignment with their highest potential, supporting overall well-being and spiritual growth. It combines the art of acupuncture with spiritual wisdom to create a powerful tool for transformation and self-healing.

The approach also emphasizes the importance of working with the individual’s energy field to clear blockages, release trauma, and enhance spiritual development.

Pictures to the right are from Dr. Mikio Sankey’s literature.

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The History of Acupuncture

Acupuncture’s roots trace back to ancient China, with the earliest written records of the practice appearing in the Huangdi Neijing (The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), a foundational text dating from around 100 BCE. Over the centuries, acupuncture spread across Asia and has become an integral part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), influencing healing practices in countries such as Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Today, acupuncture is practiced worldwide, and its long-standing tradition continues to evolve.

In the United states Dr. Mutulu Shakur along with fellow Black Panthers and the Young Lords, helped push community health to create the first acupuncture detoxification program in America in 1973 – a project that helped popularize Acupuncture in the U.S. Meanwhile Miriam Lee was practicing in California and arrested in 1974, shortly after acupuncture was legalized. We have many people to thank for access to this amazing medicine.

Tuina Therapy

Tuina literally means “push and pull” in Chinese, referring to the two main techniques that are employed during the treatment. Tuina combines a range of hand techniques—including pressing, kneading, rolling, and rubbing—along with stretches and joint manipulations to stimulate the body’s Qi, improve circulation, and address specific health concerns. Its a fantastic addition to any treatment here in Austin.

In TCM, the body is believed to have an energy system that flows through meridians or energy pathways. When the flow of Qi is blocked or unbalanced, it can result in pain, illness, or discomfort. Tuina works by using targeted pressure on acupuncture points, meridians, and muscles to restore the natural flow of Qi and promote healing. Usually it is done in a specific way in relation to the injury that the person is experiencing.

Cupping & Gua Sha

In TCM, cupping is believed to help restore balance to the body by promoting the flow of Qi and blood throughout the meridians. It is often used to address stagnation, which can lead to pain, illness, and discomfort. Cupping creates suction on the skin, drawing blood to the surface, which is thought to help release blockages, increase circulation, and enhance the body’s ability to heal itself.

According to TCM principles, when Qi is flowing freely, the body is healthy. However, when energy becomes blocked or stagnant—due to factors like stress, poor diet, or environmental changes—pain, discomfort, and illness can result. Cupping helps to clear this stagnation, allowing energy and blood to flow more freely, thereby improving health. Its fantastic or many things from a common cold to sports injuries.

What To expect

During an acupuncture session, you’ll typically lie down in a relaxed setting while the practitioner inserts very thin, sterile needles into specific points on your body. The needles may remain in place for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the treatment plan. Most people report feeling little to no discomfort, and many experience a deep sense of relaxation during the treatment.

While acupuncture has been shown to provide relief for many, the number of sessions required can vary based on the condition being treated. Some individuals experience immediate benefits, while others may need a series of treatments for optimal results.