The Benefits of Five Element Acupressure.

In early 2024 I've completed a four-day course in Newcastle to deepen my understanding of Five Element Acupressure under the guidance of John Kirkwood, a Master Acupressure practitioner I have followed for many years. It was exciting to receive my certificate, and I look forward to further my studies with him in 2025. I have just signed up for the Level 2 Course in Brisbane which includes pulse readings similar to what qualified acupuncturists do.

One of John’s book, The Way of the Five Elements, is an invaluable resource I have used in and outside of my clinic for over 12 years. Interestingly, it turns out that the hard copy I hold is a special edition as it was one of the first 1500 prints and all subsequent publications are offered only as a paperback. It is even more precious now as John was kind enough to sign my copy.

I’ve been working with the Five Elements, meridians and acupressure (acu) points for many years, yet I always wanted to explore these on a deeper level. This Five Element Acupressure course has cemented my knowledge and has given me new incredible insights, skills and perspectives so I can offer enhanced services to my clients.

What is Acupressure?

In simple terms, it is the application of pressure to points on the body to make an intervention that will balance the energy system of the body. This is an ancient method of treatment that is as old as the impulse to touch parts of the body that are hurting.

Acupressure is done with touch through the finger or thumb, rather than using a needle. It balances the energy or Qi in the meridians, our energy pathways, taking effect throughout the body, not just where the points are located. The advantage of using touch is that the practitioner can feel the energy, pulsations and shifts and determine whether to move on or stay for longer on the point.

Five Element Acupressure – Background.

The principles of Five Element Acupressure are derived largely from the system of Five Element Acupuncture by J.R. Worsley. Initially practicing physiotherapy and osteopathy, he was a British acupuncturist credited with bringing Five Element Acupuncture to the West around the 1970s.

Five Element Acupressure is different from the system known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC). Whereas the use of Five Element theory became a small part of TMC, it was dominant in the old medicine and more aligned to the ancient methods. 

The theory of the Five Elements arose from prehistoric times when people were intimately in tune with the rhythms of nature. The ancient Chinese paired Elements with seasons: Water is the Element of the winter, Wood of the spring, Fire of the summer and Metal of the autumn. There is also fifth season with a distinctly separate vibration. This season of Late Summer is paired with the Earth Element.

John Kirkwood developed a technique that is a blend of the Jin Shin Do technique - holding pairs of related points with static pressure – and the principles of J.R Worsley’s Five Element Acupuncture method as well as Taoist perspectives. 

What are the benefits of Five Element Acupressure?

The application of pressure to specific points known as acupoints has a number of effects and benefits.

Acupressure:

  • Releases muscular tension
  • Promotes blood circulation and flow of blood in the area, carrying away toxins and bringing oxygen to the tissues
  • Releases endorphins, thereby helps reduce pain
  • Relieves stress and aids relaxation
  • Aids in prevention of disease and disorders
  • Promotes health of internal organs
  • Improves immune function
  • Supports emotional balance
  • Fosters mental ease and clarity.

Kinesiology & Five Element Acupressure – a unique approach.

I can’t think of a better alignment. The beauty about using Acupressure in conjunction with muscle monitoring (the biofeedback tool of Kinesiology) is that I can uniquely tailor the treatment to each client. 

Each Acupressure treatment is completed by holding two acupressure points by the ankles for additional grounding and to help settle the treatment effects. During my course, I received and experienced the treatments firsthand by working with a fantastic group of fellow (mostly body) practitioners.

Acupressure brings many benefits including deep relaxation. This feedback is echoed by my clients. I use Acupressure every day in my clinic to support my clients during their Kinesiology session and beyond. If needed, I show clients how to hold a particular acupressure point at home to further strengthen the effects and benefit.

"We must strive to see people not only as they present themselves in illness, but more importantly as they would be in perfect health and balance, in full discovery of their true nature, unique in body, mind and spirit."

J.R. Worsley

J.R. Worsley beautifully describes the value of approaching our health and wellbeing in a holistic way. This is reflected in how I approach my work, underpinned by the principle of kinesiology in creating balance in our system – physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually – unique to each person.

To learn more about acupressure points, feel free to sign up to my newsletter. I share in each edition details about an acupoint to help support you during the season of the year.

If you need support, Kinesiology in combination with Acupressure is an effective way to identify and release stressors, gently re-balancing and stabilising you. If you like to have a chat, please email me, call or book online. 

With grace,

Lexi

Sources:

  • Course material for Five Element Acupressure 1, The Acupressure Centre and excellent lectures by John Kirkwood
  • Kirkwood, J., The Way of the Five Elements, 52 Weeks of Powerful Acupoints for Physial, Emotional and Spiritual Health, Jessica Kingsley Publishers (2018), 1st Edition.

Other resources from the Complete Connection library

Create balance and support holistic health and wellbeing.

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