Behind the Bite explores real-life struggles and triumphs surrounding food, body, and weight. Host Cristina Castagnini, a psychologist and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, brings together personal experience and professional expertise to empower listeners on their path to healing.  This episode delves into how acupuncture can aid in mental health, trauma recovery, body image, and eating disorders. Dr. Kim Peirano shares insights on combining acupuncture with hypnotherapy for profound healing of both mind and body.

Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, CHT is an experienced and skilled Jungian based life coach and hypnotherapist specializing in chronic pain & illness, navigating major life changes, cult recovery and general support for personal and spiritual growth for high functioning individuals. She holds a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, is a National and California State Board Licensed Acupuncturist, Certified Jungian Life Coach, Certified Hypnotherapist and experienced meditation teacher. With over 15 years experience working with clients she holds a neutral but welcoming space to help guide her clients along their healing journey with support, compassion and the ability to gently move you out of your comfort zone to step forward in truly living your most vibrant life.      

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Introduction to Acupuncture
  • Brief history and origins in Chinese medicine
  • Common misconceptions and fears about acupuncture
  • Safety and effectiveness of acupuncture when performed by licensed professionals
How Acupuncture Works
  • Eastern perspective: Qi energy and meridians
  • Western perspective: Histamine response, blood flow increase, dopamine and serotonin modulation
  • Effects on brain waves and stress response
Acupuncture for Mental Health and Eating Disorders
  • Addressing physical symptoms of eating disorders
  • Helping with stress, anxiety, and trauma
  • Combining acupuncture with other treatments like therapy and dietitian support
Body Image and Weight Loss
  • Addressing the common misconception that acupuncture is for weight loss
  • Discussing the harmful effects of chronic dieting and restrictive eating plans
  • Promoting a Health at Every Size approach
Trauma Recovery and Acupuncture
  • Using the Five Spirits theory to understand and treat trauma
  • Somatic approach to healing trauma stored in the body
  • Combining acupuncture with hypnotherapy for deeper healing
Chinese Medicine Philosophy in Treatment
  • The Five Elements and Five Spirits theories
  • Using metaphors and acupuncture points to gain insight into personal issues
  •  Addressing shame, overthinking, and disconnection from the body
Dr. Peirano's Unique Approach
  • Combining acupuncture with coaching and hypnotherapy
  • Using metaphors and point names to provide insights during treatment
  • Emphasis on mind-body connection and holistic healing
Practical Aspects of Acupuncture Treatment
  • Duration and frequency of treatments
  • What to expect in a typical session
  • Insurance coverage and accessibility
Finding the Right Acupuncturist
  • Importance of practitioner-patient connection
  • Variations in acupuncture styles and specialties
  • Encouragement to try different practitioners if needed
Acupuncture's Place in Overall Health Care
  • As a complementary treatment to conventional medicine
  • Potential gateway to recognizing deeper health issues
  • Promoting overall well-being and self-awareness

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THE EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 00:56 Exploring Acupuncture as a Treatment Option
  • 01:48 Introducing Dr. Kim Peirano
  • 04:12 Dr. Kim's Journey into Acupuncture
  • 07:02 Understanding Acupuncture and Its Benefits
  • 09:24 Challenges and Acceptance of Acupuncture in Western Medicine
  • 15:15 Acupuncture Treatment Process and Expectations
  • 18:32 Scientific Explanations and Benefits of Acupuncture
  • 22:42 Debunking Acupuncture Myths
  • 23:53 Addressing Weight Loss and Health Misconceptions
  • 24:57 Understanding Eating Disorders and Symptoms
  • 28:02 The Role of Acupuncture in Mental Health
  • 29:45 Integrating Acupuncture with Other Treatments
  • 32:26 Exploring the Five Spirits in Chinese Medicine
  • 37:38 Practical Applications and Case Studies
  • 39:28 Finding the Right Practitioner
  • 41:57 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

QUOTES:

  • "Acupuncture helps you feel better. When you feel better, you can exercise more, right? You can make those lifestyle changes." - Dr. Kim Peirano
  • "That system of metaphor where we can start to make meaning out of things if we need to, because sometimes that can be really helpful for people where like we're dealing with this chronic issue or this chronic back pain. What is that teaching us or telling us, or how can we see it in a different way that we don't have to keep fighting it or pushing it away anymore?" - Dr. Kim Peirano
  • "If you're curious about trying acupuncture, go into it, just being curious. I love going into things like I'm a five year old kid, right? Where everything's a little bit new and exciting and maybe it's scary, but probably it's okay." - Dr. Kim Peirano

HOW TO CONNECT WITH KIM TO LEARN MORE:

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!

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Until next time, remember, we're here to break down barriers, challenge stigma, and support each other on the path to a better life.

Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales.

**Disclaimer:**

This podcast is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. It is given with the understanding that neither the host, the publisher, nor the guests are rendering legal, clinical, or other professional information. If you want or need a professional, you should find one to work with who can address your individual needs and situation.