Josh’s Acupuncture Blog

The blog posts are written to help you understand how acupuncture works, the philosophy or application of the incredible medicine, and how it can be helpful in a whole range of conditions. Use the filters below to help you find content quickly.

Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

The Art of Balance

In a world that constantly pulls us in different directions, balance is not about perfection but about learning to move with life’s natural rhythms. It’s found in the spaces between effort and ease, stillness and motion, holding on and letting go. Through acupuncture and mindful awareness, we can create moments of pause—opportunities to reconnect, realign, and cultivate balance from within.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Acupuncture and ADHD

Acupuncture can be effective in helping patients with ADHD manage their symptoms by targeting both the underlying causes and their individual experiences of the condition. Read this blog to learn more about how it can help.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Prevention Is Better Than Cure: A Reflection

A seemingly small accident—a dog bite—led me to a profound realisation about acupuncture’s core principle: prevention is better than cure. As I sat in A&E, surrounded by people with serious illnesses, I reflected on how early intervention could have changed their outcomes. In this blog, I explore a powerful quote from the Neijing Su Wen and how regular acupuncture sessions can help maintain health before issues escalate.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Wow - You are Amazing!

We rarely give ourselves credit for our achievements, rushing from one goal to the next without pausing to reflect. Whether it's a career milestone, a personal triumph like running a marathon, or persevering through challenges, the effort behind success deserves recognition. As I coached year 3 acupuncture students, I was reminded of the immense dedication it takes to pursue this path—and how little we acknowledge our own growth. So, here’s your reminder: take a moment today to appreciate how far you’ve come. You’re doing amazing things, and you deserve to celebrate them.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

The Importance of Identities

A casual cycle ride led to a deep conversation about identity—how we define ourselves and how others see us. We often overlook the many identities we hold, whether shaped by our careers, interests, or personal experiences. From the impact of chronic illness to the importance of having multiple identities for a fulfilling life, this blog explores how identity evolves and why it’s worth reflecting on. As we move past the summer solstice, take a moment to consider—who are you beyond the labels?

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

August's Point of the Month: Dazhong (大鐘) Kidney 4

This month’s featured acupuncture point is Dazhong (Kidney 4), a powerful point with a wide range of uses, from easing back pain and respiratory issues to supporting emotional well-being. As a Luo-connecting point, it helps balance energy flow, strengthen the body, and address fear-based emotions. With its deep connection to both the Kidney and Lung meridians, it plays a crucial role in grounding and overall health. Acupuncture offers incredible ways to restore balance—discover how this point can support both physical and emotional wellness.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Acupuncture for Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a common and often painful condition affecting millions worldwide, with symptoms like numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and loss of coordination. It can stem from various causes, including diabetes, injuries, infections, and toxins. While treatment depends on the underlying cause, options range from medication and physical therapy to lifestyle changes and alternative therapies like acupuncture. Although it may not always be curable, proper management can significantly improve quality of life. Learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for this complex condition.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

My Talk on Emotions

Acupuncture is more than just a treatment for pain—it's a holistic approach to health that deeply connects emotions and physical well-being. This ancient practice works by promoting the free flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body, addressing everything from chronic illness and fatigue to emotional imbalances like stress, fear, and sadness. By understanding how different emotions affect specific organs, acupuncture helps restore balance and overall health. Learn how this powerful therapy can support both your mind and body on the journey to wellness.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Seasonal Node: Frost’s Descent

The seasons are starting to change. There is more cold coming which is evidenced by seeing more frost in the morning. Read this blog to understand what this means and how we can tweak our lifestyles to maintain our health.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Elevator Pitch on How Acupuncture Works

Explaining how acupuncture works in just a few minutes can feel overwhelming, but a simple Chinese proverb beautifully captures its essence: “If there is free flow, there is no pain; if there is pain, there is lack of free flow.” In Chinese Medicine, health is about the smooth circulation of qi and blood—when blockages occur, pain and illness arise. Acupuncture helps restore this balance, supporting both prevention and healing in a natural, non-invasive way.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Seasonal Node: White Due

A short introduction into the new seasonal node called ‘White Due’. Read this to learn more about what’s going on around us, how this could affect us and some lifestyle advice that you could do to maintain your health.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Buddhism and Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture has many different pathways since it’s inception. There are many close relationships between Chinese Medicine, Tibetan Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, and many more. This blog post explores Acupuncture and Buddhism’s close relationship.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

De Qi and Acupuncture: What You Need to Know

De Qi is often translated as the “Arrival of Qi”. It’s the feeling that you might get when a needle is inserted or it could be something that the practitioner feels. I wrote my dissertation on this topic and it is thoroughly interesting. Read this blog post to learn more.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

A Short History of Acupuncture

Acupuncture has over 2,000 years of experience. This blog post explores its origins, history, and much more. Read the blog post to learn more.

Read More
Josh Barrow Josh Barrow

Why Study Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is such an amazing way to see health and to encourage people to live their best lives. It’s such an amazing thing to study which provides such deep insights into ourselves and humans generally. Read this blog post to learn more about some of the reasons why it might be worth studying acupuncture.

Read More