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This article was published on the Holistic Junction web site on January 2, 2009 under the category Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine:
13 Amazing Subjects you can learn in Acupuncture Schools
by CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd
 Unbeknownst to some, acupuncture schools do much more than teach acupuncture needling techniques. In addition to comprehensive human sciences (like anatomy, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, nutrition, pathology, pharmacology, and physiology) -- Oriental medicine students gain in-depth knowledge on a broad spectrum of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) philosophies, theories, and applications. Following are 13 typical subjects that are offered in acupuncture schools:- Acupressure (Shiatsu) - This ancient healing art (sometimes referred to as Shiatsu) has been used for thousands of years by Oriental medicine practitioners. In acupuncture schools, this course of study may be included in an all-inclusive acupuncture and Oriental medicine program, but also as a stand-alone course. There are two common variations of acupressure, which are known as Jin Shin and Shiatsu. However, Shiatsu is the most widely-used of the two, ergo the frequent namesake to acupressure. Though the practice of acupressure facilitates the same points on the body as acupuncture, it requires only finger/hand depressions opposed to needles. This natural healing therapy is known to improve circulation, reduce pain, relieve stress, and strengthen natural immunity. Classes in acupressure range in length, but can be typically completed in less than six months. Successful bodyworkers, who have finished all required education and training in acupressure, are awarded a certificate and/or diploma.
- Acupuncture - This prickly healing art does more than create sensations of a human pin cushion... Like other Oriental medicine techniques taught in acupuncture schools, acupuncture is an age-old therapy that has been facilitated in the East for thousands of years. When you think of acupuncture, visualize a world globe with lines of latitude and longitude upon it. Now, let's call these lines "meridians;" these meridians carry all the currents and jet streams from around the world. Imagine if we built a virtual dam on these meridians -- what do you think would happen to the earth's atmosphere and environment? There are points along the meridians (energy channels) of the body that carry the Qi (life force, energy) to various parts of the body. When the flow of Qi is disrupted by blockages, health can be compromised. Thus, is the basic theory of how acupuncture works. By placing fine, hair-like needles along the currents (points) of the energy channels, blockages are removed. This enables the essential Qi to flow freely to organs, and other areas of the body where needed. NOTE: Like other medical education, acupuncture schools teach a main discipline (acupuncture), as well as necessary sciences that explain the technique, and pathologies that can be helped. Total program time is typically 3,000+ clinical and classroom training hours. Additionally, graduates must take board-required exams to gain licensure to practice in the State (or Province) they reside.
- Auriculotherapy - Known also as "ear acupuncture," auriculotherapy is based on acupuncture, but represents and facilitates a smaller microcosm (the ear) of the human body and its pressure points. This particular Oriental medicine therapy can be administered via traditional acupuncture needles, as well as electro stimulation or laser therapy. Training in auriculotherapy is generally offered as a supplemental or advanced course of study to both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doctors and Western medical physicians.
- Chinese Herbal Medicine - Plant medicine is deeply rooted in many cultures and has been used as far back as Biblical times and in Ancient Egypt. In Chinese herbal medicine, herbs and other botanicals are used singularly or in formulations to prevent and treat diseases and ailments. Currently, there are hundreds of herbs that are facilitated in Chinese medicine. In acupuncture schools, students learn what these herbs are, how to cultivate them, and how to use these herbs therapeutically for various health conditions.
- Chinese Medical Language - In acupuncture schools, this portion of the curricula is essential to any future Oriental medicine practitioner as there are a number of medical terms and references that are exclusive to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
- Cupping - Like the name implies, cupping is a healing therapy that utilizes special cups, which are heated to suction areas of the body. By leaving these suctioned, heated cups on specific parts of the body for a length of time, toxins and blockage are removed. Cupping therapy is typically included in comprehensive Oriental medicine programs, or as supplemental training.
- Five Element Acupuncture - This Oriental healing art form is among the types of acupuncture taught in acupuncture schools. It is based on the Five Elements: Earth, Fire, Metal, Water, and Wood. Each element is associated with specific emotions. For example, Earth corresponds to sympathetic emotions; whereas wood is indicative of hope. When an acupuncturist is trained in Five Element Acupuncture, he learns how to facilitate the laws of nature to diagnose and treat the mind, body and spirit to restore balance and whole wellness.
- Meridian Therapy - A form of Chinese medical massage or Tuina, Meridian therapy is bodywork that is applied by touch and pressure to the energy channels of the body. It is often taught as part of the curriculum at Five Element Acupuncture schools.
- Moxibustion - This mind-body medicine pre-dates acupuncture and is generally incorporated into in-depth TCM curriculums; but may sometimes be offered as a supplemental training course. In Moxibustion, cigar-sized sticks envelop herbs like mugwort and other herbal mixtures and are lit at one end; while the other end of the stick is held either upon the skin or within inches of the skin. This therapy is believed to offer spiritual and emotional healing, as well as some physical health benefits.
- Qigong - This self-healing practice is an exercise that involves meditation, movement, and visualization to initiate the mind-body connection in the process of healing. It is known to restore balance, flexibility, and improve physical wellbeing. In acupuncture schools, Qigong is taught as part of an overall TCM program; and includes a remarkable 3,000 motions.
- Tai Chi - Like Qigong, Tai Chi is an exercise and a martial art. It is often incorporated into a Qigong training program and entails four styles: Chen, Sun, Yang, and Wu. It is rooted in Tao history and has even been approved by the Arthritis Foundation for individuals suffering from arthritis. Positive research has shown that Tai Chi is not only great for arthritis, but is also beneficial in reducing blood pressure and improved quality of life for those suffering from MS (multiple sclerosis) and other disabling conditions.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (Philosophies and History) - Rich in ancient Eastern medicine history, TCM philosophies and theories are taught at acupuncture schools. In addition to learning the fundamentals of acupuncture, students gain in-depth knowledge in the meridian system, the 12 meridians, Fundamental Substances (Blood, Body Fluids, and Qi), Yin/Yang theory, Chinese herbal remedies, TCM perspectives on bodily organs, Five Element Theory, and more.
- Tuina (Chinese Medical Massage) - Also spelled "Tui na;" this massage therapy is very similar to acupressure as it facilitates the same acupressure points to alleviate musculoskeletal health conditions. This is often a stand-alone bodywork program that is offered at both acupuncture schools and advanced massage schools.
If you (or someone you know) are interested in learning more about TCM, let professional training within fast-growing industries like chiropractic, massage therapy, acupuncture, Oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore acupuncture schools near you.
Sources:HolisticJunction.com
Arthritis Foundation
13 Amazing Subjects You can Learn in Acupuncture Schools
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Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd - Former staff writer for HolisticJunction.com, Educational Resources for Healing Arts Schools, Natural Healing Schools, and other Alternative Medicine Schools.
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