Shonishin Pediatric Acupuncture

Shonishin (Sho=little, Ni=children, Shin=needle) is a specialized form of treatment for infants and children that became renowned in the 1700s in the Osaka region of Japan. To this day, Japanese parents regularly bring children for shonishin treatment, and the shonishin approach is increasing in popularity around the world.

Children’s bio-energetic systems are not fully formed and, being at the most “yang” phase of their existence, their energy (Qi) moves extremely rapidly. Consequently, children’s systems can be easily over stimulated, and health problems can progress rapidly. 

Shonishin focuses on gentle, specialized, 95% Non-Inserted treatment techniques that children find comfortable and even pleasurable. Dramatic results can be obtained even with very light treatment. 

The ancient classics of China, such as the Ling Shu, describe nine types of needles, several of which were clearly never intended to pierce the skin. Three of these non-inserted needles —the Enshin, the Teishin, and the Zanshin — are considered basic to the practice of Shonishin pediatric acupuncture. Over the years, many additional tools and supplementary techniques have been designed specifically for pediatric therapy. Treatments are delivered in a warm and safe atmosphere and ‘little patients’ come to play and rest while getting healthier at the same time. 

Shonishin techniques involve rhythmic stroking, rubbing, tapping, and pressing the skin to give different kinds of gentle stimulation. These techniques regulate and fortify children’s vital energy, harmonize their emotional systems, and strengthen their constitution and immune system.