There are literally hundreds of methods for losing weight, some inspired by diet, others by exercise, some relying on medications, and yet others relying on eastern-style treatments. Of the latter group, acupuncture is a popular option. Acupuncture can be used for a wide variety of health issues, and done anywhere on the body, but there is a discipline that focuses on the ear for losing weight.
What is it?
Acupuncture is not a miracle cure to solve weight issues. It is a treatment to be used in addition to other measures to assist with weight loss. It can involve needle insertion into key points on the body, or it can include electrical stimulation with some practitioners.
Origins
Historically, the practice of ear acupuncture originated with the Chinese who claimed the ear was one of the "microsystems" of the body. This means the ear contains points relating to all the major bodily organs and parts. It was the French, specifically Nogier, who identified several other points in the ear that are more relevant to a Western medical discipline. The points he discovered relate largely to the endocrine system, such as thyroid, adrenal, pituitary and ovary.
Treatment
Your practitioner will determine your pattern of overeating and whether you have any digestive difficulties. She will check your pulse and examine your tongue for any clues as to what may be causing weight gain.
Key Points
Within the ear, there are key points to trigger for weight loss, depending on what the particular reason is for overeating. These include points for the mouth, stomach, lung, endocrine, adrenal and ovary, spleen, kidney, thyroid, and even "hungry" and "shenmen," a calming point for anxiety or insecurity.
After
The number of treatments required varies by individual and will be determined by your practitioner. He may also choose to put adhesive pads on the areas of puncture afterwards, which allows you to press on them or rub them if you have an urge to eat, and thus continue the treatment and reinforce your willpower while on your own.
Tags: losing weight, weight loss