In addiction rehab treatment, it is commonly known that many different types of addiction therapy can benefit different individuals; they provide a specialized experience to expedite and ease the path in recovering from addiction. Yoga, meditation, art forms, and other holistic healing methods have proven to be useful. Acupuncture may seem somewhat daunting at first thought, but many clinics are finding that the practice stemming from ancient Chinese practice has been very helpful to those suffering from alcoholism.
Acupuncture was believed to have helped soldiers wounded by arrows to overcome diseases and many others suffering from a myriad of ailments. Predating over 2,000 years ago, acupuncture made its way into modern medicine in the ’70s when the IRS began allowing taxpayers to write it off as a healthcare expense. Since then, acupuncture has increased in popularity.
In the practice of acupuncture, the experts insert very thin needles into the skin at energy points. Doing so balances a patient’s life force, also known in practice as “chi.” There are fourteen energy meridians in the body, which by puncturing them at strategic points, aims to increase the balance and flow of natural energy. While this may seem like a very hocus-pocus kind of practice, there is a westernized spin on the practice. Through studies performed by many institutes, it has been found that puncturing these certain areas helps in stimulating nerves, muscles, as well as other tissue. In turn, this process results in boosts of blood flow and a disproportionate release of natural painkillers.
This is exactly where acupuncture has been found to help alcoholics in the recovery process. Throughout detoxification and therapy, there is a high amount of stress, depression, anxiety, confusion, and anger that an individual may experience. Relaxation is the key to weathering the tough points in rehabilitation and allows for clearer thinking. With this in mind, it is easy to see how art forms and yoga have already been proven to be helpful forms of coping and therapy. Acupuncture may very well be added to the list since the release of painkillers and endorphins help addicts remain calm, resist the urge to relapse, and has even been noted to diminish cravings. It is even believed that acupuncture may have the ability to help release toxins, which have developed in those who suffer from alcoholism.
The best part of this therapeutic venture is that it does not involve any synthetic cure or drugs. It’s an all-natural process that has been practiced for over 2,000 years, which may be comforting to those skeptical of its effectiveness. The entire process is generally painless. It may be important to note that the needles used in acupuncture are so thin that the process of puncturing the skin is nearly painless and removal even less so. When considering acupuncture as a therapeutic practice, it is important that the patient has an open mind for this treatment. Some individuals have experienced great relief from the therapy, while others did not find it as helpful. The entire process, just like many others, can be as effective as an open-minded person.
