Korean Hand Therapy, also known as Koryo Hand Therapy (KHT) or Korean Hand Acupuncture, is a holistic healing modality that originates from South Korea. It is based on the principles of traditional Korean medicine and acupuncture but focuses on diagnosing and treating various health issues through the stimulation of specific points on the hands. KHT is non-invasive and can be used as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with other forms of traditional medicine.
Here are some key aspects of Korean Hand Therapy:
- Hand Reflexology: Similar to reflexology, KHT operates on the premise that the hands contain a map of the entire body. Practitioners believe that by stimulating specific points on the hands, they can affect corresponding areas and organs in the body, promoting balance and healing.
- Micro-Meridians: KHT relies on the concept of micro-meridians, which are believed to run through the hands and connect to the body’s main meridian system. These micro-meridians are thought to carry energy or Qi, and stimulating them can help unblock energy flow and restore harmony.
- Stimulation Techniques: Various techniques can be used to stimulate the hand points, including finger pressure, small seeds or pellets placed on specific points, or even the use of small acupuncture needles. The choice of technique may depend on the practitioner’s training and the specific condition being treated.
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Practitioners of KHT often start by conducting a thorough assessment of the patient’s hand, looking for tender or sensitive points that may indicate underlying health issues. Based on this assessment, they create a personalized treatment plan.
- Conditions Treated: Korean Hand Therapy can be used to address a wide range of health conditions, including pain management (e.g., headaches, back pain), digestive problems, stress and anxiety, and various chronic illnesses. It is sometimes used as a complementary therapy for conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension.
- Non-Invasive and Safe: KHT is considered a safe and non-invasive therapy, making it suitable for individuals who may be uncomfortable with traditional acupuncture needles.
- Self-Help: Some proponents of KHT teach patients how to perform self-treatment by locating and stimulating specific hand points on their own, which can be useful for ongoing maintenance of health.
Nicole Noles Collins is a NCCAOM Board Certified Diplomate of Acupuncture and licensed to practice acupuncture in the state of Florida. She owns Vitalichi Acupuncture in Port Charlotte, Florida. Nicole has two bachelor of science degrees – Alternative Medicine (holistic) and Professional Health Sciences (western medicine concepts) – as well as a master’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine. She has a passion for writing and natural health. Please visit her website at http://www.vitalichi.com and like her Facebook page at Vitalichi Acupuncture. For more information, call 941-979-9793.
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