Western Massachusetts Acupuncturist Provides Case Study Looking at Processing Fear

As an acupuncturist practicing in Amherst, MA, I try to post case studies as often as I can, written specifically so the layperson can get a grasp on how five element acupuncture can help. This post is one about stress about career and income affected my patient and how treatment helped her.

I had been working with my patient, a woman in her 40s, on a variety of issues. One thing of concern for her was her employment status as she was waiting for the next job to align for her.

Being a naturally optimistic person, she worked through the process of joblessness with ease for quite some time and continued to make progress toward finding the right fit. Then one day she came in with what we call a 2/3 block.

The meridians in Chinese Medicine all flow in a particular numerical order, so this block was between the small intestine and the bladder. The small intestine is responsible for sorting pure from impure, and the bladder can often represent our sense of ease and rest on a deep level.

I noted that her pulses were strongly stuck and this was preventing energy from flowing through the entire body with ease. To clear this block, I needled two points per side.

My patient instantly gasped and was brought to tears. In this moment she was able to realize the fear that she was working so hard at blocking, and how hard her body was struggling to sort out her next move. Bringing this truth to light gave her a breath of fresh air, and a clear chance to move forward making decisions from a more balanced and healthy frame of mind.

Blocks like this are not uncommon. Having one can feel very intense, and having them cleared can be life-changing. At times individuals will land back at the same block when they are out of balance, and again, having it cleared feels life-saving. I am sharing this case study with you as this is a very typical response to treatment for someone finding a block in their lives.

If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues and could use help, please contact Kristin to schedule a treatment! 413/588-4030.