The Living Needle

The fundamental principles of the art of needle technique for acupuncturists

A thorough explanation of needling techniques for acupuncturists, from the basics of how needles work to the teaching of essential methods, through to the energetics and tips to improve technique. Includes online video demonstrations of practice, with further tips and advice.

This fully illustrated guide to modern acupuncture technique explores the foundational skills of the craft from a primarily energetic perspective, showing how perfecting these skills can have a profound effect on the practice of Chinese Medicine. The goal is for the clinician to be able to fully grasp what they are doing on the channels and the tissues with each of the classic manipulation techniques in a way that has hitherto been unexplored in technique textbooks, which tend to focus on the simple mechanics of technique.

Organised around the structure of an actual patient encounter, the book begins with the basics of needle selection, moving through patient and practitioner position, to insertion, and then on to the various mechanical actions taken on an inserted needle, ending with the withdrawal of the needle. The skills discussed and described in this book can help expand any acupuncturist's practice through their application. Further advice and information is provided through supplementary online video demonstrations.