Do-in, the formal name for the stretching postures practice during a Dahn Yoga class, means, ‘pushing and pulling’ of the meridian channels’. So, what is a meridian 
channel, anyway? We asked a local expert, acupuncturist William Kellar, to shed a little light on the subject in this article. He answered some of our questions below.
What is a Meridian Channel?
‘The human body has a lattice of meridians or energy channels that course through it. The meridians are responsible for moving the Qi (pronounced “chee” in Chinese) or Ki (pronounced ‘key’ in Korean) and balancing the Yin and Yang. Meridian theory assumes that disorder within a meridian causes disharmony and pain. For example, a disorder in the Stomach meridian may cause an upper toothache, because the stomach meridian passes through the upper gums.’
With this question answered, another basic one asked to be addressed. What is acupuncture? Why does it seem to help some people? Again, William Kellar:
What is acupuncture?
‘Acupuncture is designed to unblock stagnant Qi in the meridian channels and restore the body’s natural balance. The role of the acupuncturist is to observe all signs and symptoms and to determine what acu-points would best resolve the presenting disharmony(s) when treated. One of the oldest forms of medicine, acupuncture was first practiced in China over 3000 years ago. In modern times, acupuncture has been in the news quite a bit lately. As one of the fastest growing forms of complementary or integrative medicine, more people are learning about and responding to this form of treatment.’
What will I feel during an acupuncture treatment?
One commonly asked question I get is: ‘what do patients feel during an acupuncture treatment?’ Probably the biggest fear people have, getting stuck with a needle, is usually resolved upon the initial insertion. Because each needle is very fine, most people report feeling little or no discomfort. Many feel being in a state of deep relaxation during their session. Modern Western medicine can not explain precisely how acupuncture works. There are many theories, some supported by clinical research. But for over 3000 years, this medical protocol has helped people with a wide range of health conditions. In fact, the World Health Organization recognizes over 40 conditions for which acupuncture can be effective in treating.
Another question I commonly get asked is, what kind of conditions can be treated by acupuncture. The most common conditions I have seen and treated in my seven years a practice are: Stress and anxiety, neck and back pain, arthritis and joint pain, migraine and other headaches, infertility, facial pain and TMJ disorder, insomnia, allergies and sinus problems, and mood disorders.
Have you tried acupuncture or meridian stretching? Did it help you? Share your experience below.
~Dahnyogama.com editorial team
Thanks to William Kellar, M.Ac., Licensed Acupuncturist, for contributing to this article.
Mr. Kellar’s acupuncture clinic is located at 42 Pleasant Street in Arlington Center.
To learn more about acupuncture or his clinic, please visit: http://www.HealingWithAcupuncture.com
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Tags: Acupuncture, Andover, Arlington, Bill Kellar, Brookline, Cambridge, Dahn Yoga Reviews, MA, Meridian Stretching
