Acupuncture (针灸) has been a treatment for countless patients for thousands of years in China. Before modern medicine came to life, stone tools     1     (use) to relieve pain. Over time, this natural practice developed into a comprehensive medical system and shaped the root of acupuncture.

Acupuncture is a treatment that is aimed     2     (promote) the body’s self-regulating functions. Its principles are in line with the philosophical concepts of traditional Chinese medicine,     3     emphasizes comprehensive treatment, meridian (经脉) adjustment and balance of bodily functions.

    4     (practice) vary in forms. Needle insertion (插入) is the most common method, which is carried out     5     inserting hair-thin needles into meridians, or specific points on the body that channel vital energy. Practitioners use needles to     6     (effective) unblock the flow of energy and restore yin and yang balance.

Looking beyond China, acupuncture has become a global treatment. Over the years, acupuncture     7     (see) many advancements in scientific research and modern medicine. According to a 2019 WHO report, acupuncture is used in 113 of its 120 member countries,     8     (illustrate) its widespread recognition and application.

Acupuncture, as     9     ancient Chinese treatment, is a reflect of a rich history and     10     (significance) Chinese culture.

5 . In the United Stated, it is reported that one in fourth nurses are obese, with nearly two-thirds being overweight.

While some have argued that obese nurse may be less productive and take more time off sick, this isn’t my concern at all. I’m just worried about the example they set to others. Yes, of course, nurses and doctors struggle with having a healthy lifestyle like everyone else. But if they stick to the basic principles of keeping a healthy lifestyle, then they have no business being on the front line. No patient is going to take them seriously unless they show that they at least try to practise what they promote.

It’s a serious professional failing, because it sends the disastrous message of “do as I say not as I do”, which is never going to result in someone changing their ways. You wouldn’t take advice about reducing your drinking from an alcoholic. So why should you be expected to listen to an overweight nurse who is telling you to lose a few pounds?

Of course, there are lots of examples when a doctor or nurse’s personal struggles can really help. I used to smoke and I find this actually helps me because I can relate to patients — I know their struggles, I know their concerns and I know the things they say to themselves to avoid quitting. Knowing that I used to smoke helps me come across as more human to my patients — I’ve done silly things but I’ve changed and so they can.