09/17/2025
In western culture, when we have a problem with our health, we are taught to get rid of it as soon as possible and expect it to go away as soon as possible as a result. Oftentimes we are prescribed medication that alleviates symptoms ASAP, and sometimes that medication is just masking the symptom and not addressing the underlying problem. This approach is problematic. It is like taking a piece of tape and covering our check engine light when it comes on; we no longer see the alert which is the symptom, but the engine needs to be addressed still, and sometimes immediately.
In the west we are taught to want big changes, like the caterpillar transforming into the butterfly such as in the photo. We come to dislike slow and gradual changes, such as the sunflower following the sun all day, such as also the seen in the photo.
In acupuncture, although 'butterfly' transformation happens, it is not the norm. In acupuncture we see changes more along the lines of the sunflower with each session, and over time, as the body becomes more resourced, and conditions ripen for deeper change, only then do butterfly transformations happen.
In the west we want something immediately and our culture and social media reenforces this tendency. In acupuncture, we are supporting and resourcing your bodies natural ability to heal itself, and thankfully over time the 'sunflower' changes are positive changes that are noticeable and markable in treatment.
Butterfly transformation doesn't happen just because we want it and expect it, however, with small efforts over time, it does happen. We are a part of nature and just as in nature, everything has its timing and its season. When we realize this, with a little patience and effort, we can support our bodies ability to heal which it was designed to do, we can experience butterfly changes, and acupuncture helps supercharge that process with time.