japanese acupuncture | styles Japanese acupuncture is founded on traditional theories of Oriental medicine originating from China. A versatile range of treatment approaches have been developed that are gentle, dynamic and effective. There are a number of key characteristics that are specific to Japanese acupuncture. •Japanese acupuncture is very gentle. Needles are superfine and usually inserted very shallowly beneath the skin or in some cases, not inserted at all, so treatment is well tolerated even by those people who might be anxious about receiving acupuncture. •A hands-on approach to diagnosis involves gentle abdominal and channel palpation, along with examination of the pulse. Positive changes can be felt through these feedback mechanisms and improvement to symptoms experienced during the treatment. •Japanese acupuncture always addresses the root imbalance that is seen as the cause of the presenting condition. A number of systems are used, that allows for a diverse range of approaches tailored to the needs of each individual patient. •To effectively target symptoms through branch treatment, an extensive repertoire of treatment strategies includes moxa techniques, cupping, tuina massage, auricular acupuncture, structural adjustment and channel stretching exercises. Dr Manaka’s yin yang balancing system Dr Manaka’s comprehensive and structured approach applies fundamental principles of yin and yang to the treatment process. It is a four step protocol which treats both the root (underlying imbalance) and branch (presenting conditions). Using this approach, tension in the abdomen & back are released, enabling the body to return to a more harmonious state of balance and wellbeing. This dynamic approach, with its many feedback systems, means that both the practitioner and the person receiving treatment, can experience immediate changes. Meridian Therapy Meridian therapy (also known as ‘keiraku chiryo’ in Japanese) was developed in Japan in the 1930s as a movement to preserve traditional principles within the acupuncture profession. Meridian therapy is based on the classical texts of Chinese medicine dating back 2500 years, with its emphasis on the meridian system that connects not only the musculoskeletal structure but also the internal organs. The theory of the five elements and phases explains the dynamic inter-relationship of the meridians and their associated internal organs and aims to improve the circulation of ‘Qi’ (vital energy) to bring the body back into balance, on both a physical and emotional level. Toyohari Meridian Therapy Toyohari is a form of meridian therapy that was developed by a group of blind practitioners in Japan. It is one of the leading associations of Meridian Therapy in Japan. This association now has extensive branches in Europe, the US and Australasia. It involves a unique style of needling using very fine silver needles and non-insertive needle techniques that influence the flow of the ‘Qi’ in the meridian system. cupping Cupping involves placing special suction cups on the skin. It helps to increase qi (energy) flow and is therefore effective in releasing tight muscles and is especially helpful for tension and stiffness in the back and shoulder area. Moxibustion Moxa involves the use of a herb called Mugwort, applied either directly or indirectly to the skin to stimulate the channels through its warming qualities. The pounded dried leaves of the herb are used to form a high quality golden coloured compound. This can be used in many forms including small cones, tiny half rice grain pieces and larger round balls that are placed on the handle of the needle. The heat from this herb is warming, soothing and extremely relaxing. It is very effective for releasing tightness in the muscles, relaxing tension and invigorating the flow of qi. Auricular acupuncture The ear is a micro-system reflecting in miniature, the entire human body. Each part of the body has a corresponding auricular point or area. These points reflect the physiological or pathological state of the body and can be stimulated to regulate dysfunction of their corresponding body part. Auricular therapy can be used on its own, using point prescriptions for to address particular conditions. It can also be used to complement and reinforce an acupuncture treatment. Press spheres, press tacks and intra-dermal needles In order to reinforce the effects of a treatment and to continue to give the body very low doses of continued stimulation, the above techniques are sometimes incorporated in an acupuncture treatment. These tiny press balls or sub-cutaneous needles are placed at specific points on the body or in the ear at the end of a treatment. Sotai & channel stretching exercises “to become free of pain, one must move away from pain towards comfort.” Keizo Hashimoto Taiso means exercise in Japanese. Sotai is the same two characters reversed, So meaning to work or manipulate (as in a puppet), and Tai meaning body. Sotai therefore means manipulation or movement for the purpose of restoring or maintaining health. Sotai are a series of exercises that are used to bring about structural realignment and are therefore particularly helpful for the musculoskeletal system. Together with channel stretching exercises, they can dramatically release restrictions in range of movement and improve structural imbalances. Tight muscles impair qi (energy) flow. Distortion in the body’s musculature can also affect the internal organs and vice versa
Posted on: Tue, 02 Jul 2013 22:47:43 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015