Acupuncture is often thought of as a Chinese practice, but it spread through East Asia and new variations evolved. In Japan, this meant gentler, less invasive techniques and different diagnostic methods. Japanese acupuncture also developed an increased focus on overall well-being, trying to treat mental, emotional and spiritual ailments as well as physical pain.
What is distinctive about traditional Japanese acupuncture?
Traditional Japanese acupuncture, like its Chinese ancestor, involves the application of needles at particular points of your body to try and unblock and manipulate the flow of energy, known as qi. But it is also combined with other aspects of traditional Japanese medicine and this begins with the diagnostic process. Any acupuncture session should start by taking your history, so the acupuncturist can formulate a personalized treatment plan.
An effective diagnosis looks beyond your symptoms. It considers where they come from and you as a person. Treatment is more effective and long-lasting when it focuses on the root cause, not just the visible signs. For Japanese style acupuncture, diagnosis involves abdominal palpitation, known as hara. The acupuncturist will use their hands to physically manipulate the stomach and identify any problems.
The next thing that varies in Japanese-style acupuncture is that it uses finer needles applied with less pressure. Chinese acupuncture is minimally invasive, but in the Japanese style, the needles may not penetrate the skin at all, but just press against it. They may also use guide tubes to aid in precision. This makes it a better option for those who have a phobia of needles, but for any patient, it means a more comfortable experience.
Other aspects of East Asian medicine, such as moxibustion, are often practiced alongside acupuncture to complement its effectiveness. Moxibustion involves the burning of moxa, a ground form of the herb mugwort/Artemisia. The warmth from this burning is applied to the same acupoints as the acupuncture needles. This stimulates blood flow and carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain and other organs. Other herbal remedies and mindfulness techniques/meditation may also be used.
How does it promote balance?
Part of what makes this type of acupuncture effective is its gentler approach with finer needles. It means that you are less likely to experience stress or discomfort during your treatment, and a calmer mind will allow your body to heal more effectively. It protects and enhances both your mental and physical health at the same time. These effects may be further magnified if combined with other treatments, such as moxibustion.
You may seek out acupuncture because of headaches or other chronic pain, to relieve stress, or even for cosmetic reasons. It can encourage your body to produce more collagen and regenerate your skin, improving both its texture and appearance. The overall impact, however, is to reset and rebalance. If your stress hormones are elevated, they will be reduced, while pain-relieving, mood-boosting hormones such as endorphins are released. You let go of whatever is bothering you. As your mind relaxes, so does your body. Regular sessions, even when you do not have any current health issues, can serve a preventative role, helping maintain your balance so you are less likely to become stressed and sick again.
Why is this better for your overall health?
Many medications focus on alleviating symptoms of illness, but they don’t always treat underlying causes. Stress, anxiety and depression don’t just make you feel bad internally; they can take a physical toll on your body. You may find temporary relief from some of the physical aches and pains or fatigue. But if you don’t manage the root causes, the symptoms often come back and your overall health will continue to suffer.
Holistic treatments take a different approach. They see you as a whole person, and recognize how your body, mind, and spirit are connected. This form of acupuncture doesn’t just treat you at surface level – it supports deeper healing and builds resilience throughout all aspects of your inner and outer self. It aims to strengthen you in such a way that you are less likely to become ill in the future.
Conclusion
Japanese acupuncture uses its gentle, holistic approach to try and bring your mind, body and spirit into balance rather than just offering temporary relief of symptoms. This aims to help treat the underlying cause of your issues and contribute to a more general sense of well-being. VIsit my site
