What is Auricular Therapy?
Auricular therapy is a treatment that addresses various discomforts by stimulating the ear.
It is said that there are about 330 acupoints on the ear connected to the whole body, accounting for nearly half of the approximately 700 acupoints found throughout the body.
The advantages of stimulating ear acupoints are that it can be easily performed by oneself and, barring any pain, can be administered to people of all ages.
Effects Expected from Auricular Therapy
Auricular therapy is said to have the following effects:
Weight Loss
Constipation
Body Pain / Fatigue
Relaxation
Autonomic Nerves
The expected effects of stimulating ear acupoints for each are explained below.
Weight Loss
Stimulating ear acupoints is believed to be effective for weight loss. By stimulating acupoints that help regulate appetite, such as “Shen Men” located in the depression at the upper part of the ear and the “Hunger Point” on the protrusion in front of the ear hole, one can expect to prevent overeating and snacking. As this allows for portion control without stress, combining it with adjustments to lifestyle habits can likely lead to natural weight loss results.
Constipation
The “Large Intestine” point, located near the root of the ear in the depression of the central part, is said to relieve constipation through its intestinal regulating action, potentially addressing constipation issues. However, auricular therapy is ultimately just an auxiliary means for dealing with constipation; it’s also important to review nutritional balance while stimulating the ear points.
Body Pain / Fatigue
It is said that for shoulder stiffness and fatigue, stimulating the “Lung” point located on the rim of the ear hole is effective. For headaches, massaging the “Eye” point on the earlobe can be effective. Since many points on the ear are thought to address various pains like headaches and lower back pain, please stimulate the relevant points as needed.
Relaxation
Even just stimulating the ears can improve blood circulation and is said to have a relaxing effect. Massaging with a comfortable amount of pressure can aid relaxation and may lead to restful sleep.
Autonomic Nerves
It is said that the outer part of the ear relates to the “sympathetic nerve” responsible for activity or tension, while the inner part of the ear relates to the “parasympathetic nerve” that allows the body to rest and relax. Stimulating points like “Shen Men,” which is expected to stabilize the autonomic nerves essential for activity, is recommended.
You Can Perform Auricular Therapy Yourself。
Auricular therapy is simple to perform as it only involves stimulating the ears. The location of ear acupoints varies from person to person, so it is advisable to have a professional indicate the accurate positions. Even if you can’t set aside specific time for weight loss, you can stimulate the ear points whenever you think of it.
There are two main methods for auricular therapy: stimulating points with your own fingers and using specialized ear seeds. Finger stimulation suits those who don’t want to spend money and prefer an easy approach. Specialized ear seeds are recommended for those unsure of the point locations or who wish to apply continuous stimulation.
Some specialized ear seeds use materials like Swarovski crystals or glass beads, resembling earrings, and can be used as a fashion accessory. However, those with metal allergies or sensitive skin should be cautious about the metal pellets or the adhesive surface of the patches.
Try Skillfully Incorporating Auricular Therapy into Your Daily Life!
Auricular therapy is easy and simple, making it readily adaptable to daily life. Stimulating the numerous ear acupoints (said to be up to 350) might address certain bodily concerns. Please note, however, that stimulating ear points won’t solve all problems. Review your lifestyle habits and skillfully utilize auricular therapy as a supplementary aid.