Health: Do you get the point? (From Free Press Series)

Health: Do you get the point?

Lesley Gann practises acupuncture at the Monmouth Natural Health Centre. She graduated from The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine at Leamington Spa in 1986. This college teaches the five element system of acupuncture.

She then studied the eight principle style of acupuncture in London, between 1990-92 with the founders of the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine which opened in Reading in 1994.

She is a member of The British Acupuncture Council and follows their codes of practice and ethics.

She lives in Monmouth and also practises in Newport.

Acupuncture originated in China approximately 2,000 years ago.

It involves the insertion of very fine needles into the skin, and can be used to boost the body's natural healing energy in order to promote health and long life, or to treat specific illnesses or complaints.

A life of excess and extreme is cautioned against in Tao philosophy. Moderation, balance and harmony are encouraged, in order to enhance Chi (energy), Shen (spirit), and Jing (soul).

The acupuncturist will seek to promote this philosophy, as well as helping Chi to flow unimpeded through the body along the 12 'meridians', six of which are 'Yin', and six of which are 'Yang'.

Because the needles are so fine only a slight discomfort may be felt. Alternatively, the acupuncturist may apply pressure (acupressure) rather than inserting needles.

This way Chi is either encouraged or calmed, depending on the nature of the problem. Cupping or the application of Moxa, may be used to enhance the flow of Chi to the acupoint.

For further information, visit the British Acupuncture Council at www.acupuncture.org.uk

Acupuncture can be used for the following: o Muscle pain o Joint pain o Pain associated with inflamation o Pain of childbirth o To help control nausea and vomiting o Stress and anxiety o Giving up smoking o Depression o Insomnia o High blood pressure o Withdrawal from alcohol o Menstrual problems o Menopause