by Five Elements Acupressure is different from other forms of acupressure as it focusses on treating the whole person (body, mind, spirit) and addresses the underlying (often emotional) root cause of the issue not just the symptom. It incorporates the Five Elements system which relates to the seasons and organs/functions and looks at imbalances within the elements (Wood, Earth, Fire, Metal, Water).
There are 4 traditional health practices integrated into Five Elements Acupressure which are:
- Chinese Medical Theory – is based upon the movement of Vital Substances including Chi/Qi (energy), blood, essence and bodily fluids. When energy is blocked, pain or disease occurs. This theory has been used for over 4000 yrs and is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
- Japanese Bodywork – involves manual therapies including acupressure, Shiatsu, Anma (traditional massage), and Reiki. These focus on the connection between body and mind to aid in overall wellness (stress reduction, flexibility, energy flow).
- Taoist Philosophy – is based upon the beliefs and practices of the Tao or the “Way’ which focusses on living in harmony with nature/universe and also to nurture one’s inner peace, wisdom and compassion. It also has a physical component such as Tai Chi and the Eight Pieces of Brocade. It brings the ideas of Wei Wu Wei (using the least amount of intervention with no force) and that “everything changes except the fact that everything changes.”
- Western Therapeutic Principles – involves tools and strategies to help one better manage thoughts, feelings and behaviours. It is based in the understanding that emotions and (negative) thought patterns can be stored in the body and released when acupressure is applied.
For a great video/interview about the Five Elements approach (with the key developer of modern Five Elements Acupuncture/Theory, J.R. Worsley), click here.
For more, here is an in-depth article, “Classical Five-Element Acupuncture: The Teachings of Professor J.R. Worsley.”
