An Analysis of Acupuncture Timing in Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon
The concept of acupuncture timing originates from Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon,which emphasizes the holistic view of harmony between heaven and humanity.It suggests that acupuncture timing should be determined by observing Qi of heaven and earth and following the appropriate timing according to the natural order.This study summarizes the conceptual framework of acupuncture timing based on the rhythmic changes of day and night,lunar phases,and the four seasons.It explores the relationship between acupuncture timing and the circulation of Qi and blood in the meridians over time.Furthermore,it discusses the clinical implications of timing factors in acupuncture,including seasonal variations in acupuncture,the depth of needling,tonifying and reducing techniques,needling contraindications,and the evolution of the midday-midnight flow method.This enriches the conceptual understanding of timing in acupuncture as described in Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon and provides a theoretical basis for the clinical application of acupuncture.
Yellow Emperor's Inner CanonAcupuncture timingHarmony between heaven and humanityChronomedicineClinical application