Japanese Acupuncture and Meridians -経絡 (Keiraku)
Japanese Acupuncture and Meridians – 経絡 (Keiraku)
In Classical Japanese acupuncture, the mind and body are viewed as interconnected rather than separate systems. Traditional East Asian medicine describes a network of pathways known as meridians, or Keiraku (経絡), through which Ki (Qi) flows throughout the body.
From this perspective, an imbalance in one area of the body may influence other physical, emotional, or internal processes. Meridians are therefore used both for diagnosis and treatment, helping practitioners identify patterns of excess, deficiency, tension, or stagnation within the body. According to traditional theory, this may have a flow-on effect to the internal organs, emotions and overall physical condition or vice versa.
Japanese Acupuncture Techniques
In Japanese acupuncture, treatment aims to restore heath through stimulation of specific areas along these pathways. Practitioners assess the abdomen (Hara), pulse, and meridian pathways through gentle palpation. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, treatment aims to identify underlying patterns of imbalance within the body. Japanese acupuncture is often known for its gentle techniques, finer needles, and emphasis on touch and palpation during diagnosis and treatment. Moxibustion is also used in treatment to support circulation and overall wellbeing.
Japanese Acupuncture Treatment Methods
At Ilan’s clinic, the key treatment methods include Acupuncture, Moxibustion (or Moxa) and Shiatsu. The Japanese term for acupuncture, 鍼灸, literally translates as needle (鍼) and Moxa (灸), reflecting the importance of both techniques within traditional Japanese medicine. Shiatsu is a form of Japanese therapeutic massage that may also be integrated into treatment depending on the patient’s presentation and goals.
Each treatment is tailored to the individual. Treatments may vary from session to session depending on your condition, response to treatment, and overall health.
Patients interested in broader aspects of Japanese medicine, including lifestyle, movement, breathing practices, meditation, and nutrition, are welcome to discuss these during treatment with Ilan at Ilan’s Acupuncture in Marrickville.
