Beginners Should Start with Moxa Stick Moxibustion

To maximize the therapeutic effects of moxibustion, the method of application is crucial.

For beginners, it is recommended to start with moxa stick moxibustion, as it is simple to perform, has gentle heat, and is very suitable for those new to the practice.

Moxa stick moxibustion, also known as suspended moxibustion, involves holding a lit moxa stick at a certain distance from the skin, typically 3–5 centimeters, allowing the recipient to feel a comfortable warmth. There are three main techniques: rotating moxibustion, pecking moxibustion, and gentle moxibustion.

The Three-Step Process: Stimulating, Activating, and Fixing Points

1. Stimulating the Acupoint: Use rotating moxibustion to evenly distribute the moxa heat over the acupoint, gently “awakening” it.
2. Activating the Acupoint: Apply pecking moxibustion by moving the stick up and down, as if “knocking on the door” of the acupoint. This method creates alternating cool and warm sensations, drawing out the cold and opening the pathway for the heat to penetrate deeply.
3. Fixing the Heat: Use gentle moxibustion to focus heat steadily on the acupoint, allowing the warmth to deeply permeate and promote the circulation of blood and qi.

Following these three steps for each acupoint can help the moxibustion effects reach deeper levels and ensure lasting therapeutic results.

Techniques Explained

Rotating Moxibustion

Light the moxa stick and hold it 3–5 centimeters above the skin. Rotate the stick in a clockwise direction around the center of the acupoint. The speed of rotation should match your breathing: one full circle per inhale and exhale. Each rotation should be smooth and powerful, applying force for half the circle and easing off for the other half. Each session typically lasts 5–10 minutes.

• Tips for Holding the Moxa Stick:
  • Horizontal Grip: The stick is parallel to the skin, delivering mild heat like the morning sun.
  • Vertical Grip: The stick is perpendicular to the skin, providing intense heat like the midday sun.
  • Diagonal Grip: The stick is held at a 35°–45° angle, offering moderate heat like the setting sun.

Pecking Moxibustion

Light the moxa stick and bring it close to the acupoint. Once warmth is felt, lift it slightly and repeat the movement in a pecking motion, like a bird pecking at food. The downward motion should feel like a fiery burst, while the upward motion should create a sensation of drawing out cold. Sessions generally last 5–10 minutes.

Gentle Moxibustion

Light the moxa stick and hold it with your thumb, index, and middle fingers. Position it 3–4 centimeters above the skin. Start closer to the skin, adjusting the distance as needed if the recipient feels too much heat. The stick should remain steady and not move. During the session, the recipient should feel a warm, soothing sensation that penetrates deeply into the tissue. Each session lasts 5–10 minutes.

By following these methods, moxibustion can offer effective, sustained therapeutic benefits.