Acupuncture helps deepen the hypnotic trance allowing people to access deeper states within

Both acupuncture and hypnosis are effective in their own right for treating a variety of health conditions. However, each of these treatments is usually available in two different settings. Even if people are working with both modalities they would typically receive them at separate times. But, the two can augment each other and offer patients some profound benefits when performed together.

Since I am trained in both Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as clinical hypnosis, I am able to meld the two into one treatment session. I’ve found that Acupuncture helps to deepen the hypnotic trance allowing people to access deeper states within themselves to potentiate their healing. The combo can help everything from depression and anxiety to chronic pain conditions such as migraines.

The Building Blocks of Hypnopuncture

Acupuncture involves the insertion of ultrafine needles at specific points in the skin. Points are selected based on an ancient theory describing the flow of life force ‘qi’ through channels or meridians in the body. Research has shown that acupuncture can help alleviate pain and inflammation among many other conditions, possibly through the increased release endorphins, feel good neurotransmitters and certain hormones.

Hypnosis can also help alleviate mood and pain syndromes, through a different mechanism of action that is still being fleshed out. It is best described as a state of focused awareness and vivid imagination. In some ways it is similar to how you feel when you are ‘in the flow’ of doing something you love, when practicing meditation or deep prayer. It is a time when the mind is less distractible and people may experience deep insights and shifts in their health.

The two combined are very powerful. You can read about one experience here. Hypnopuncture | Psychology Today

The Hypnopuncture Process

During a visit, there is an initial assessment according to which acupoints are selected and needled. Patients usually lie with needles in place for 20–30 minutes. At this time, I stay in the room and help guide the person through a dream like imaginative hypnosis session. Often, I ask the patient to describe what’s coming up for them so that I can better tailor the experience. Most people find the treatments deeply relaxing, healing, insightful, and fun.

* This post was originally printed in the Village Medicine Seattle’s Wellness Quarterly Magazine, 2Q25 Edition. Read and download the full publication

About The Author

Dr. Kira Baum, ND, LAc, EAMP: Kira, a Naturopathic Physician specializing in Acupuncture & Hypnotherapy, believes in the inner wisdom of her patients, listening deeply, and serving as a guide and resource for healing..