Shonishin is more commonly known in layman’s terms as pediatric acupuncture. It is still called “acupuncture” even though needles are not typically used and none of the varied Shonishin techniques actually penetrate the skin. Shonishin literally translates as Sho = “little”, Ni = children”, and Shin = “needle”. Needles do not penetrate the skin in children under age 2 since the meridians and points are not fully developed and thus are more susceptible to injury. The non insertion techniques of Shonishin is the perfect remedy for pediatric conditions.
The Shonishin method traces its roots back to 17th century Osaka, Japan. This specialized acupuncture technique was developed specifically for infants and children up to the age of seven. Shonishin offers an excellent alternative to Western medicine and pharmaceuticals in the treatment of childhood health problems. It has been used with success in treating infants and children with the following conditions: colic, indigestion, GERD, constipation, diarrhea, allergies, asthma, cough, ear infections, nightmares, tantrums, eczema, hives, bedwetting, muscle and joint issues and even stuttering. It has even shown some success in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other emotional or stress disorders. Children as young as one month old can be seen and effectively treated.
To understand how Shonishin works, one must first understand that a young child’s energetic system is in the “yang” / “active” or “hot” phase and not fully developed, which means their energy (qi/ki) moves very quickly. Due to their rapidly growing bodies, infants require and consume large amounts of qi. This energy demand often weakens the organs most responsible for producing qi, (often the Spleen and Lungs), which can result in deficiencies of these very systems. Hence, the digestive and respiratory conditions seen frequently in children.
Shoshinin’s gentle, non-invasive treatment techniques involve non-inserted needle-like tools called the enshin, the teishin and the zanshin to name a few. Experienced practitioners rhythmically stroke, rub, tap and press the skin to produce a variety of gentle stimulation sensations. Rounded tools, rollers, and long thin “pen-like” rods of silver, copper or gold, are typically used to stimulate the points and meridian lines. Moxibustion is often used and sometimes a press seed –a tiny round ball–is taped in place and left for a few hours or days to stimulate an acupuncture point. These techniques serve to harmonize and boost a child’s vital energy.
The frequency, length and strength of therapy will depend on the individual practitioner, as well as the age, health or illness of the child. Children’s treatments are generally short in duration, usually taking only 5-20 minutes-with older children usually requiring longer treatments. Shonishin is administered quickly, with no needles left in and is typically performed with the child clothed or just wearing a diaper. The technique is most effective when given once to several times per week until the symptoms are alleviated. Once the primary health concern is addressed, treatments may continue on a maintenance schedule to prevent recurrence.
While initial treatments are administered only by skilled acupuncturists, many procedures can be performed by the child’s parents at home (a silver teaspoon or coin makes an ideal home-based Shonishin tool). The techniques are quickly and easily learned, allowing parents to perform daily treatments between visits.
It is important that the practitioner gauge each child’s personality and develop a kind and gentle healing rapport with the child. In fact, regular Shonishin treatments help strengthen the parent-child relationship and can improve the spiritual, emotional and physical development of the child.
Byron specializes in Japanese style acupuncture which is the most hands on, gentle and non-invasive style of acupuncture. He has also trained in Shonishin which has many similarities to the Japanese style roots from which it developed. The Japanese motto “less is more” and the treatment techniques are always meant to be comfortable and pleasurable. Japanese style Acupuncturists and Shonishin practitioners pride themselves with the knowledge that dramatic results can be obtained even with the lightest stimulation. The beauty of Shonishin is its simplicity, gentleness, and effectiveness.
In Love & Light,
Byron
Byron Barth; L.A., MSTOM, Acupuncturist, Herbalist, Zen Shiatsu Master and
Founder of Peace of Zen Acupuncture.
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