I have found acupuncture to be extremely effective in combating my IBD symptoms lately. While my diet focuses on my gut health, I sought acupuncture as a holistic supplement to diet & exercise this fall after a 3 week battle with vertigo. I cannot praise the practice and specifically Chapel Hill’s acupuncture healing center enough. After 3 visits and 6 weeks, I am feeling more energetic, hopeful, healthful, and focused than I have in a long time.

Acupuncture approaches IBD and autoimmune diseases from a perspective we often forget, reminding us that our organs and organ systems are totally intertwined in symbiosis. Those of us who struggle with gut and digestive health see dramatic ramifications in thyroid and liver function, especially. I know what you’re thinking–Seriously? SO unfair that because you suffer with one ailment you are more prone to others? It’s sadly true though. There’ an equilibrium we have to keep up and when one organ system MAJORLY fails, then the others are put upon. Because of my GI disease, I need liver balance and thyroid balance and because those are out of whack, so are my adrenals. It can get overwhelming!

Enter, Chinese Medicine. acupuncture is a key tenant of traditional Chinese medicine. It is used for balancing the key life force known as qi (or chi) that is believed to flow through Meridians or pathways in the body. The small needles are inserted along these pathways, stimulating movement or “life force.” It’s beautiful in its simplicity. When you suffer from issues affecting your thyroid, digestion, gut, and immune system you can get so bogged down in the fatigue and lethargy of it all. Acupuncture leaves me feeling lighter and more energetic.

Needlephobic? The needles rarely hurt. The exception for me are times like this morning when my qi grabbed at the needle in my throat as it gained energy and movement through my body. I just look at it as proof that it’s working!