What is It?

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Shakuju is a non-insertive style of acupuncture developed by Kobayashi Sensei in Japan that uses a teishin instead of  needles for treatments. A teishin is a small blunt instrument that is made of silver, gold, or another material and is used to contact the skin. Working with a teishin helps to direct qi and assists the body in returning to a state of health and homeostasis. Shakuju treatments work directly with the superficial levels of qi which have an impact on the deeper levels of the body. What we do on the surface affects further out from just the area itself, similar to a drop of water in a pond and the resulting ripple effect outward. The main goal of Shakuju is to harmonize and supplement the underlying fundamental deficiency to clear and balance the excess. When we address the root of an issue, the branches (i.e. the symptoms) will consequently resolve. 

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What To Expect in a Shakuju Treatment

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A Shakuju treatment first involves a brief intake where we discuss your health history, present concerns, and future goals. Then, I palpate your abdomen and feel your pulse – these are important diagnostic methods that help understand the root of a person's imbalance and determine the specific course of treatment. Throughout the treatment, there are various reference points on the arms, legs, neck, abdomen, and back that will be lightly pressed to check for reactivity. We will be looking for change at these reference points (less pain/tenderness) and will obtain feedback on your body’s response to and the efficacy of treatment.

 

In a treatment session, the teishin lightly touches and brushes the abdomen and back (known as “contact needling”) and is held at acupuncture points in a specific order based on your diagnosis. Moxa is also often used during treatments. In general, Shakuju sessions are reported to be painless, pleasant, and extremely relaxing. Shakuju is for everyone and anyone.

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