Why you should stop suppressing symptoms

We have been programmed to avoid symptoms that cause discomfort and pain.

Feeling sleepy? Drink more coffee.

Back hurts? Take an advil.

Irregular periods? Get on birth control.

Our physical symptoms are our body’s way of communicating with us.

When we don’t take the time to check in with ourself, we are not aligning with our highest good.

To have self-respect and self-care means to listen and address our body’s needs. In what ways can you be mindful and make appropriate changes to improve your health & wellbeing?

Fortunately, acupuncture facilitates healing at the root-cause. Our goal is not to mask symptoms but promote awareness & whole healing in mind, body, and spirit.

Think of healing like a tree— you have the roots and you have the branches.

Eastern medicine addresses the roots of the tree, which is the origin of disease. In contrast, western medicine treats the branches, which are like the symptoms.

We call this the root or branch approach to treatment.

If you only treat the branches (the symptoms), you are never cured. You only mask symptoms.

Here’s an example—

Let’s say you get headaches every evening before bed. Taking an advil only alleviates the pain for that night. Then the next evening comes around, the headache returns, you pop an advil, and the cycle continues…

The underlying disharmony was never resolved. Physical symptoms were only suppressed.

With acupuncture & Chinese medical approach, we dig deeper. Why someone may have a headache, or experiencing a particular symptom, is unique and different for each individual - it is not black or white.

What is causing the headache? Is it liver yang rising? Is it blood deficiency? Is it phlegm obstruction?

By asking these questions and understanding each client’s case, I am able to properly assess, diagnose, and treat the root cause so my clients are effectively treated.

I encourage you to take time throughout the day to practice mindfulness - come in to tune with the happenings of your mind & body. By understanding your symptoms, positive change can be instilled.

In gratitude,

Dr. Jessica Woronick