Classical Five-Element Acupuncture

For thousands of years, the Chinese have recognized that five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water – exist in everything and everyone. They are essential for life. An imbalance in the natural functioning of these elements becomes the root cause of illness in body, mind and spirit. Classical Five-Element Acupuncture strives to create balance among the five elements.

Each of the five elements has a corresponding color, sound, emotion and odor, which a trained Classical Five-Element Acupuncture practitioner can detect when the element is out of balance. Once the root cause of an imbalance is identified, tiny acupuncture needles are inserted at specific points to enhance the flow of energy ("chi") along a set of pathways ("meridians") that govern how different parts of your body function and relate to one another. Also, using an ancient method of pulse diagnosis, the Classical Five-Element Acupuncture practitioner can detect blockages in the flow of chi. With this information the practitioner is then able to do a treatment to remove the block and establish the free-flow of the body’s natural intelligence. Once internal balance is restored through acupuncture treatments, your symptoms subside, allowing your life to flourish on every level.

Classical Five-Element Acupuncture is unique because:

• It treats the underlying causative factor of disease, rather than targeting the meridian that is associated with the symptoms
• It tailors each treatment to your unique needs, as well as the season and time of day
• By removing the blocks that restrict the flow of chi, it harnesses the body’s natural ability to heal itself
• It addresses every aspect of your well-being – mind, body and spirit

Jim is a trained practitioner of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture. He received his training at the Institute for Classical Five-Element Acupuncture in Santa Monica, CA. He practices in conjunction with his daughter, Sarah, who is a licensed acupuncturist.