"Paul played a tremendous role in helping me recover from brain injury and regain my health. Without him, I wouldn't have been able to return to my challenging job and normal life. After struggling for over three months with debilitating symptoms, Paul's treatments made it possible for me to read again and engage socially without negative consequences"
~ Ellen - Amsterdam
"I can get addicted to acupuncture.. it feels so good" ~ Roz - South Africa
Do the Needles Hurt?
Acupuncture stimulates the release of neurotransmitters (endorphins) which are the body's natural pain-killers and mood-enhancing chemicals. The release of endorphins create a wonderful sense of well-being, deep relaxation during and after the treatment.
The single use, sterilized, disposable needles are about the thickness of a cat's whisker. They are virtually painless when inserted. However, there might be the odd moment of mild discomfort or sensitivity at certain acupuncture points, such as a pinching, stinging sensation, what I describe as a little puppy dog nipping you. Any discomfort felt is immediately followed by a numbing, glowing, soothing sensation.
"The hospital has just confirmed I have 100% recovery from prostate problem as a result of your acupuncture treatments, and my skin is much clearer now" ~ Raymond - Almere Stad
My doctor informed me that white blood cell values (acute myeloid leukemia) are better than they have ever been.. I'm feeling great!" ~ Sophie - Amsterdam
The Essentials
Acupuncture is a time-tested therapeutic modality in which gentle stimulation is given to specific acupuncture points on the body, using super thin, single use, stainless steel/gold plated needles. The chief aim is to prevent or cure a wide spectrum of medical conditions. Officially recognized by the World Health Organization, acupuncture promotes the optimal functioning of the vital organs, balances the meridians (the power-lines of the body) and regulates the qi (vital energy) lymph and blood.
Neural Regeneration (Neurogenesis)
Research indicates that acupuncture effectively helps stimulate production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) a protein essential for the growth, maintenance and survival of neurons. By boosting NGF production, acupuncture has the potential to significantly support the regeneration and protection of nerve cells. Moreover, it has been shown to enhance neurite outgrowth, facilitating improved nerve cell communication and repair of damaged neural networks.
Spleen 6 (Sanyinjiao)
Located on the inner leg, three finger widths above the ankle, this is a master acupuncture point for transforming and transporting the lymph and body fluids. As the only meridian that flows upwards, it acts as an anti-gravity point, supporting organ placement, preventing prolapse and uterine bleeding, and countering fatigue and heaviness. It enhances blood flow, reduces stress, alleviates menstrual discomfort, boosts fertility, strengthens the immune system.
Large Intestine 4 (Hegu)
The Swiss Army Knife Point, is a versatile point located between the thumb and index finger. It is renowned for its ability to relieve pain making it effective for headaches, toothaches, muscle tension, digestive issues and regulating the bowel. Terminating at Large Intestine 20, a point near the nostrils, it effectively clears sinus congestion and eases respiratory problems.
Liver 3 (Taichong)
If God or some universal intelligence whispered in my ear "From hence on you may only use one acupuncture point, which one will it be?" my answer would be Liver 3. Located on the foot between the big toe and second toe, Liver 3 is the master reset point for heavy emotions and feeling down. This powerful point alleviates stress, releases stuck emotions and lifts the mood. It also improves liver function and aids in detoxification, making it essential for overall emotional and physical well-being.
Acupressure First-Aid
The Healing Power
of the Meridians
Acupuncture is a powerful tool that reaches down into the power lines of the body (the meridians) to ensure that the vital energy (prana/qi) flows freely to all areas in order for the body to heal itself. It was Paramahansa Yogananda, the Kriya yogi who taught Gandhi how to meditate, who once said. 'Energy, distributed evenly in the body, is what keeps the diseases from settling'
As an acupuncturist/herbalist it is my goal to assist clients in overcoming various conditions, such as chronic pain, headaches, migraine, insomnia, infertility and a myriad other conditions.
Case History: I helped restore the eyesight of a nine-year-old girl with worsening Stargardt (macular degeneration) despite ophthalmic specialists warning of a possible loss of vision.
THE ACUPRESSURE TECHNIQUE:
Use your thumb to apply even pressure to the points mentioned. You can also use the 'bus wheels' technique by rotating your thumb on the point in a clockwise direction. Ensure the rest of your body is relaxed and maintain steady breathing while applying pressure.
A good cadence is about 30 seconds of pressure, followed by a short break, and then repeat once or twice.
Alternate the technique on both sides of the body for balanced relief.