Using Structural Expertise to Treat Energetic Blocks
My knowledge of the structure of human body and my experience with musculoskeletal and neurological problems guide my unique approach to Five Element Acupuncture. This can be illustrated by giving thought to the following questions:When you stand, do both feet point in the same direction? When you look in the mirror are your shoulders and pelvis horizontal? Are your left and right sides equally strong, flexible and graceful?
Hardly anyone could answer yes to all these questions. Such asymmetries often go unnoticed, contributing to musculoskeletal problems as they become more deeply imbedded in the body’s habitual function. Chronic stiffness in the hip may lead to wear and degenerative changes, like osteoarthritis or a lumbar disc herniation.
Often, physical asymmetry is a reflection of an energetic imbalance between the left and right sides of the body. Through careful measurement, I aim to determine which meridian is blocked, and on which side, and correct the imbalance with moxa or acupuncture. Usually, by restoring a balanced flow of Qi to the left and right sides, the body’s structures are balanced in turn, allowing chronic problems diminish or disappear.
Sometimes scars from trauma or surgery can block the flow of Qi through a meridian, affecting a patient on any level of the body, mind or spirit. Shoulder surgery could lead to lower back problems; a “bikini cut” in the abdomen could later manifest as depression. In such cases, it is necessary to treat the scar to restore energetic balance to the system.