Acupuncture has its origins in China, but as it spread to neighboring countries, it developed new and unique techniques based on local beliefs, culture and existing medical practices. Japanese acupuncture may share many similarities with the traditional Chinese form, but its less intrusive nature, including finer needles and the use of palpitation as a diagnostic technique, reflects different philosophies.
Traditional Chinese acupuncture
It is unknown exactly when acupuncture began in China, but it likely dates back thousands of years. The physical aspect of the treatment involves inserting and manipulating fine needles just under the surface of the skin at particular points of the body. The philosophy and spiritual aspects are about unblocking and rebalancing the flow of qi, or energy, through channels in the body known as meridians. Modern acupuncture draws on these ideas whilst also attempting to trigger the body’s natural healing mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins and the production of collagen. Acupuncture has been used for a variety of medical purposes, but is most often found as a form of pain and/or stress relief.
How acupuncture spread to Japan
Travelers from China brought acupuncture with them to Korea and Vietnam. A Chinese monk known as Chiso was responsible for bringing it to Japan in 562 BC. Japan would later send acupuncture students back to China to study. Over time, Chinese acupuncture was adapted to fit with local practices and philosophies, such as the use of herbal medicine (known as kampo). This was especially true after Japan sealed its borders to all outside influences in the 1600s. For 200 years, Japanese culture, including acupuncture, developed in isolation, allowing it to acquire its unique style that continued even after the borders were reopened and Western medicine entered the country.
Unique aspects of traditional Japanese acupuncture
One of the leading figures in the development of Japanese acupuncture was a blind man named Waichi Sugiyama. In Japan, being an acupuncturist is still considered a particularly appropriate profession for the blind. Sugiyama created guide tubes to ensure he could accurately insert acupuncture needles. These tubes are still used today, even by acupuncturists who are not blind, to aid in precision.
Guide tubes also help with a more general principle of Japanese acupuncture, that it should be gentle and minimally intrusive. Simplicity is the aim. The needles used in Japanese-style acupuncture are finer than those in Chinese acupuncture; they do not penetrate as deeply into the skin, and they are not left in place for so long. Any manipulation of the needles once inserted is minimal. All of this is easier with guide tubes. This minimizes any pain and makes it more suitable than other forms for patients who have discomfort or fear around needles.
Another aspect of Japanese-style acupuncture that has been influenced by blind practitioners is the use of palpitation. Most acupuncture sessions begin with a medical history and the diagnosis of any issues to identify the most appropriate direction of treatment, the same as in any regular doctor’s appointment. In Chinese acupuncture, diagnosis often focuses on the pulse and the tongue. In the Japanese tradition, the pulse may be examined, but the main part of the diagnostic process is palpitation, known as hara. It is touch-based, with practitioners feeling the abdomen to detect any imbalances in your energy, or yin yang, as well as any other issues that could be causing your problems. The aim is to identify the underlying cause of any pain or distress, rather than just treating visible symptoms. This allows for a more complete treatment of physical, emotional and spiritual issues.
Acupuncture and moxibustion
Traditionally, acupuncture is not practiced on its own but alongside another therapy known as moxibustion. This is also originally a Chinese practice, but it has become a prominent part of Japanese-style acupuncture. Moxibustion involves the burning of moxa, made from a herb known as mugwort or Artemisia. The heat from this burning herb is then applied, directly or indirectly, to the skin, generally in the same places where you would insert acupuncture needles. The warmth does not just provide comfort but also stimulates blood flow. Moxibustion is used for similar purposes as acupuncture, such as relaxation and pain relief, as well as in more specific circumstances, such as when trying to turn a breech baby.
Conclusion
Today, acupuncture is practised all around the world, and it is possible to combine different philosophies and techniques. It is still important to understand the specific form of acupuncture performed by your practitioner, including their use of the Japanese style, so you can make informed decisions about your treatment and its suitability for you.
