Undaunted

Acupuncture is a bridge between two hemispheres and two very different cultures. It is rooted in a worldview based on elemental agriculture. I say elemental to avoid calling it primitive, for it is rich and deep with insight and poetry. Anyone who has been around a small farm knows how much work is involved, how simple systems are implemented to make things run smoothly and be productive. The body has its own series of functional relationships that work in harmony to balance its systems. These relationships are the basis of effective acupuncture.

In Korean Acupuncture Nei Jing style our reference is chapter 9, of the Ling Shu. It directs us to compare the yin and yang pulses first and foremost. If yang is bigger we should tonify yin. If yin is bigger we should tonify yang. When Yin and Yang are balanced there is no disease. We attempt to balance yin and yang, perfection is not expected or likely, there being a state of dynamic equilibrium in the body at all times.

This doesn't work with only an intellectual understanding, It is necessary to practice, just like the Buddha Dhamma, it cannot be truly understood if merely seen as a scholarly pursuit. To attain enlightenment or to become skilled one must practice with patience, persistence and diligence.

The Nei Jing includes the Su Wen and the Ling Shu. The information preserved in the text is the foundation for Korean Acupuncture Nei Jing (KAN) style. TCM eliminated much of this vital teaching and relies on rote memorization of the indications for points and point protocols which may or may not benefit the individual. Dr Kim was not satisfied with the outcomes of TCM practice and searched to find a more reliable and effective style of acupuncture, one that improves diagnosis and discovers the root of illness and can give instant feedback on the effect of treatment. KAN is the result of that search.

Balancing yin and yang alone will resolve 50% of health complaints. This can be done with the basic 4 gates, LI 4 and Liv 3. Three yin and Three yang, or the more detailed differentiation of the pulses has an even better success rate. Signs and symptoms are present because of imbalance. No matter how complicated a case we don't need to be daunted, we can balance yin and yang and improve any condition.

Distinguishing the characteristics of pulse and texture is a skill that can only come with practice. However the techniques can be taught and the skills can be learned, and the body's response provides the feedback on efficacy of both. The patients who come for treatment find a different sensation besides relief of symptoms, there is most often a sense of restoration, of harmony, and integration that feels calm, strong and at ease.