Spa Therapies Of Japan
Acupuncture (Hari) And Moxibustion (Kyu):
Acupuncture (Hari) and moxibustion (kyu) are imported from China, and the principles behind both treatments are the same as those of TCM. However, the application of both treatments and the equipment used are different in Japan. The Japanese techniques are generally more subtle, and they use finer equipment. It is believed that the insertion of needles and the burning of moxa herbs at precise acupoints will stimulate the flow of ki, and replenish or disperse it.
Acupuncture in Japan has evolved to become an almost painless therapy; the needles used are generally finer than Chinese ones; shorter needles are preferred and guide tubes are used to tap the needles in quickly. Unlike the Chinese treatment, where a strong needle sensation is felt both by the practitioner and recipient, Japanese acupuncture treatment is gentle and the needling is much more superficial, so the patient may not feel anything at all.
The use of moxibustion is widespread in Japan for the relief of pain and common ailments. Self-help packaged moxa is readily available. The most popular moxibustion technique involves direct contact with the skin. Tiny rice-sized moxa pieces are placed on appropriate acupoints and lit. They are then allowed to burn right down to the skin, or extinguished just before, with the process repeated until there is a feeling of warmth. Indirect moxibustion is also practised, and the techniques used are similar to those used in TCM.
