At Avena Natural Health, we believe in the body’s incredible ability to heal itself, especially when given the right support. One of the most effective tools in our holistic toolkit is acupuncture, an ancient healing practice that continues to offer profound benefits for modern-day wellness. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, stress, or ongoing health conditions, acupuncture can play a powerful role in your healing journey.
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the gentle insertion of very fine needles into specific points on the body, called acupoints, to stimulate natural healing responses. These points lie along meridians or energy pathways believed to influence various bodily systems.
But you don’t need to believe in ancient energy maps to experience the benefits. Modern science shows that acupuncture works by activating the nervous system, releasing endorphins, improving circulation, and reducing inflammation.
Natural Healing, Tailored to You
No two bodies or healing journeys are exactly alike. That’s why our San Diego naturopathic doctors customize each acupuncture session to fit your unique needs. Whether you’re coming in with neck tension from too many Zoom meetings, recovering from an injury, or managing a chronic condition like migraines, spinal cord injuries, or digestive issues, we look at your whole health picture before designing a treatment plan.
How Acupuncture Supports the Healing Process
Here are just a few of the ways acupuncture can help your body heal:
1. Pain Relief Without Medication
Acupuncture is well-known for its ability to relieve both acute and chronic pain without pharmaceuticals. It can be especially effective for:
- Back and neck pain
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Migraines and headaches
- Menstrual cramps
- Post-operative discomfort
Acupuncture stimulates blood flow and reduces inflammation, helping the body repair injured tissues more quickly and comfortably.
2. Stress Reduction and Emotional Balance
Healing isn’t just physical, your emotional well-being plays a big role too. Acupuncture helps calm the nervous system and can reduce cortisol (your body’s main stress hormone). Many patients report feeling deeply relaxed, centered, and even uplifted after a session. This can support recovery from anxiety, depression, and burnout.
3. Improved Digestion and Gut Health
The gut is often called your “second brain,” and its health is closely linked to immunity, mood, and energy levels. Acupuncture can support healthy digestion by regulating the vagus nerve, promoting peristalsis (the wave-like movement that moves food through the digestive tract), and reducing inflammation.
4. Immune System Boost
Regular acupuncture sessions may help strengthen your immune response by enhancing white blood cell activity and balancing immune function. This makes it a great preventive tool, especially during cold and flu season or when your body is under extra stress.
5. Better Sleep and Energy
Many people find that after a few acupuncture treatments, they sleep more deeply and wake up feeling more refreshed. Improved sleep helps your body heal faster, supports cognitive function, and improves overall quality of life.
What to Expect at Your First Acupuncture Appointment
If you’ve never tried acupuncture before, we know it can seem a little intimidating, but there’s no need to worry. Most people find the experience relaxing, and the needles are very thin, about the width of a human hair. At Avena Natural Health, our licensed naturopathic doctors will walk you through the process and make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.
We take the time to listen, understand your goals, and create a treatment plan that integrates acupuncture with other natural therapies.
Start Your Healing Journey Today
If you’re ready to experience the healing power of acupuncture in San Diego, we’re here to help. Whether you’re looking to relieve pain, boost your energy, or find balance in your body and mind, acupuncture is a gentle yet powerful way to support your well-being.
Contact Avena Natural Health today to schedule a consultation and discover how acupuncture can help your body heal naturally.
Dr. Laura Kostrzewski, a San Diego native, completed her undergraduate degree at California Polytechnic State University, earning a BS in animal science with minors in Spanish and Psychology. She then earned her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and taught fifth grade in the central coast of California for two years. After being extremely involved in her grandfather’s journey with Parkinson’s disease and end-of-life care, Dr. Kostrzewski decided to move back to San Diego and enroll at Bastyr University California. Dr. Kostrzewski received her doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University California in June of 2019, and then went on to complete her residency at Bastyr. Before AVENA Wellness, DR. K started her own private practice, focusing on management of neurodegenerative conditions, and continued teaching at Bastyr as adjunct faculty, until founding Avena Health.