I learned a new technique this week from a friend also in the OM
program. It is called navel cupping. She found this technique
online browsing YouTube. An acupuncturist in Australia, who
specializes in infertility, uses the technique in her clinic and
demonstrated how to do the technique. Women who are infertile often
have "cold in the uterus" and moxa is used to warm up the
uterus.
My friend often has an abdomen that is cold to the touch and
wanted to try this technique. Being a student in clinic is the best
chance to try different techniques whether it be needle technique,
new needle protocols or new modalities such as navel
cupping.
The Process
We began by collecting everything we needed and preparing it. We
needed a warm glass cup as well as warm salt. The navel cupping is
used to pull the cold out of the body. The thought is, why moxa and
add heat if the body hasn't rid itself of the cold? By removing the
cold, the yang qi may be able to flow and regulate the organs
again.
The whole process took two hours but in the end it worked. I
began by monitoring her abdomen temperature and other areas that
are typically cold on her. I also used tender acupuncture points as
a guide as well. I began by cupping the navel to pull out the cold.
I also took pictures of her tongue to document progress.
After about an hour, I pulled off the cup because her belly was
warm as were the other areas I was monitoring. I then used salt and
ginger as a medium to moxa her navel. This took many sticks but in
the end there was significant improvement. Improvements included a
less purple tongue, a warm belly and ankles, a serene mood, and
clearer sheen in the eyes. I am happy I was able to try and
experience this new way of cupping and hopefully use it on other
patients.
Graduation
Graduation is closer by the day. As I am preparing everything
for graduation I am also studying for my Herbal board and have yet
to write a valedictorian speech. This has got to be one of the most
stressful trimesters! My wonderful husband is supporting me and
helping me in any way he can.
Many may think as the program nears the end it may get easier,
but that is definitely not the case. It is bittersweet. I am joyous
to be finally entering the business world and sharing my knowledge
with my patients, but sad as I will miss my classmates and
professors. But it is just the beginning of a great career.