What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into the body to jumpstart its ability to heal itself. In modern times it is the most recognizable modality of Chinese Medicine, a holistic system of healing that goes back 2,000 years.

In acupuncture, the body is seen as a field of energy, called Qi (pronounced “chi”), that runs in river-like channels and pools in hotspots we call points. Dis-order or dis-ease is seen as disruptions in the Qi’s flow. The needles then are like tuning forks, inserted in areas that the practitioner feels will best help correct the Qi’s flow, helping the body in healing itself.

Modern medicine is not quite sure how acupuncture works, just that it has a measurable effect on the body’s circulation (e.g. blood, lymph) and bioelectricity. Most recent research seems to indicate that it affects the body by working the intersititum. 

So what is Community Acupuncture?

At its most barebones definition, community acupuncture is simply acupuncture done in a communal setting. In this sense community acupuncture is likely as old as acupuncture itself - there has always been the situation where many were treated at once in a single space - so while it may seem novel today, it is likely just as old, if not older, than the single-table-per-room model that dominates the field now.

In a broader sense, community acupuncture is a mission statement - acupuncture for the community. As health care becomes increasingly inaccessible and unaffordable, I want to position acupuncture (and herbs) not as alternative to modern medicine but alternative to the modern health care system.

As a modern movement, Community Acupuncture dates back to the late 60’s/early 70’s. To learn more about the history behind it, check out this clinic’s site and this documentary.

This is why I’m pricing a session at $45, when the average cost of a single-table-per-room session in NJ is $120-150. I want to encourage frequency with affordability. If cost is an issue, let’s talk - I don’t want to turn people away from care.

Acupuncture is not an all-or-nothing modality - while a little treatment can go a long way (us practitioners like to talk about the coveted one treatment cure) often multiple sessions are needed to make true headway. When dealing with an acute issue, it’s often recommended to chain a series of treatments to resolve it as fast as possible. With a chronic issue, it is often suggested to front load treatment to build momentum for lasting change. 

Otherwise getting treated regularly - whether it’s once a week, once every two weeks, or once a month, depending on your health and constitution - will likely help you fend off most things.

Instead of letting things get to the point of surgery or needing to juggle a bunch of pharmaceuticals, I want to see acupuncture used preventatively. Come to acupuncture like you would go to the gym - be proactive and consistent about your health. 

Life is full of recurring stressors, fight back with regular tune-ups. Build your resilience, to the point that you never get sick in the first place. 

The best time to start is now.