Abstract

This fully illustrated guide to modern acupuncture technique explores the foundational skills of the craft from a primarily energetic perspective, showing how perfecting these skills can have a profound effect on the practice of Chinese Medicine. The goal is for the clinician to be able to fully grasp what they are doing on the channels and the tissues with each of the classic manipulation techniques in a way that has hitherto been unexplored in technique textbooks, which tend to focus on the simple mechanics of technique.

Organised around the structure of an actual patient encounter, the book begins with the basics of needle selection, moving through patient and practitioner position, to insertion, and then on to the various mechanical actions taken on an inserted needle, ending with the withdrawal of the needle. The skills discussed and described in this book can help expand any acupuncturist's practice through their application. Further advice and information is provided through supplementary online video demonstrations.

An extraordinary guide to acupuncture needle background, protocol and technique. Although primarily aimed at new students, experienced clinicians will surely benefit from his thorough scope and in-depth examination of the very fundamentals of the art of acupuncture. Phillip's book is bound to become a definitive text for acupuncture students in clinical training, and practitioners alike.
Jampa Mackenzie Stewart, L.Ac., MSOM, Dipl.Ac., Clinical Director, Valley Spirit Wellness Center, Professor Emeritus AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine
The Living Needle brings the techniques of acupuncture to life. As an effective educator and talented clinician, Justin Phillips provides the field of acupuncture with both a learning aid for the novice and a reference for the seasoned practitioner. It gets right to the point, artfully presenting the techniques that every acupuncturist needs in practice and reminding us that the needle is a living tool in the hands of an artist.
John S. Finnell, ND, MPH, LAc Director, Doctoral Program and Research at AOMA Graduate School of Integrative Medicine
Justin Phillips, LAc teaches needle technique and advanced needle technique at AOMA. He also runs a private acupuncture practice in Texas, USA.