Shen Men is a unique piercing that has gained popularity in recent years. This piercing is located on the upper cartilage of the ear, specifically in the spot where the helix and anti-helix meet.
If you’re considering a Shen Men piercing, it’s important to understand what it is and what to expect. This piercing has a long history in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and promote overall wellness.
But Shen Men piercing is not just about its potential health benefits. It’s also a stylish and fashionable accessory that can add some edge to your look.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the world of Shen Men piercing. We’ll explore its history, benefits, and potential risks. Plus, we’ll give you tips on how to care for your new piercing, so you can enjoy it for years to come. So, whether you’re a piercing enthusiast or simply curious, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Shen Men piercing.
What is a shen men piercing?
Shen men piercing is a type of ear acupuncture point located at the apex of the triangular fossa of the ear. It is believed to have a wide range of health benefits, particularly in reducing stress, anxiety, and pain. Shen men piercing is often used as a complementary therapy alongside traditional medical treatments for various conditions.
| Piercing Name | Placement | Pricing | Pain Level | Healing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shen Men Piercing | In the nook of the cartilage of the anti-helix, close to the upper ear rim | $40-$70 | 5/10 | 3-6 months |
Placement is crucial for the shen men piercing. Although some individuals place it in various locations and still refer to it as the Shen Men, the ideal spot is right in the crevice of the cartilage of the anti-helix. This piercing requires sufficient space for swelling, so it’s recommended to downsize once the swelling subsides. Sleeping on it might be difficult, but it’s essential to avoid irritating the piercing. Once healed, using a shorter bar will make sleeping more comfortable.
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History of Shen Men Piercing
The practice of Shen Men piercing originates from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has been used for thousands of years. In TCM, the ear is viewed as a microsystem of the entire body, with various acupuncture points corresponding to different organs and systems. Shen Men, which translates to “Heaven’s Gate,” is considered one of the most powerful points in this system.
Shen men piercing benefits
The Shen Men piercing is said to have several medical benefits, including reducing migraines and anxiety. While acupuncture has proven medical benefits, piercing is not the same. Piercing goes all the way through, while acupuncture stimulates the area briefly. Once healed, a tube of scar tissue will prevent the pressure from happening.
However, it’s essential to consider the positive experiences reported by many individuals who have undergone Shen Men piercing, keeping in mind that there is not enough research to support these claims.
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Anxiety and Stress Relief
Shen Men piercing has gained popularity for its potential to alleviate anxiety. By targeting the Shen Men point, an acupuncture point located in the ear, the piercing is thought to activate the body’s natural relaxation response. This, in turn, can help reduce anxiety levels and promote a more peaceful state of mind.
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Pain Relief
Shen Men piercing has also been found to be effective in providing pain relief for various conditions, such as headaches, migraines, and even chronic pain. This is due to its ability to release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Many individuals suffering from migraines have reported significant relief after getting a Shen Men piercing. This relief is believed to be a result of the piercing’s ability to stimulate the Shen Men point, which helps regulate blood flow and reduce inflammation, both of which can contribute to migraine symptoms.
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Sleep Improvement
Many individuals who have undergone Shen Men piercing report improvements in their sleep quality. By reducing stress and anxiety, this piercing can promote better sleep and help combat insomnia.
Shen Men Piercing Procedure
The Shen Men piercing procedure is a unique and specialized process that requires the skills of an experienced professional piercer. It targets the Shen Men point, an acupuncture point in the ear, and is believed to offer potential health benefits. To help you understand what to expect when getting a Shen Men piercing, here’s a step-by-step guide of the procedure:
- Consultation: Discuss expectations, concerns, and suitability of your ear anatomy for the piercing with the piercer.
- Cleaning: The piercer sanitizes the area to minimize infection risk.
- Marking: The piercer marks the spot for the piercing and confirms the placement with you.
- Clamping: A sterilized clamp or forceps is used to hold the ear area in place for precise placement.
- Piercing: The piercer uses a sterilized, hollow needle to create a hole in the cartilage.
- Inserting jewelry: The chosen jewelry, usually a small hoop or curved barbell, is inserted into the hole.
- Aftercare instructions: The piercer explains aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.
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Shen men piercing pain
The pain level of a Shen Men piercing can vary depending on individual pain tolerance, but it is generally considered to be moderate, with a pain level of around 5/10. Cartilage piercings, such as the Shen Men, are known to be more painful than piercings that go through soft tissue. However, the pain is typically brief and manageable, lasting only a few seconds during the actual piercing process. Some discomfort and soreness may persist for a few hours or days after the procedure, but this is normal and should subside over time.
Shen men piercing cost
The cost of a Shen Men piercing can range from $40 to $70, excluding the cost of jewelry. The price may vary depending on factors such as the piercer’s experience, the location of the piercing studio, and the type of jewelry you choose. It is essential to prioritize the piercer’s expertise and hygiene practices over the cost, as a well-done piercing by a professional can help minimize complications and ensure a better healing process.
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Shen men piercing healing time
Healing time for cartilage piercings can vary depending on individual factors, such as personal healing abilities and how well the piercing is cared for during the healing process.
On average, the healing time for a Shen Men piercing is typically between 3 to 6 months. However, it may take longer if the individual experiences a more challenging healing process or encounters complications like infections or irritation.
Shen men piercing aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial for the successful healing of your Shen Men piercing. Following these guidelines will help minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth healing process:
- Clean the piercing: Rinse the piercing with a sterile saline solution a couple of times a day. Choose a solution that contains only water and sodium chloride, without any additives like tea tree oil or lavender, as these may cause a reaction.
- Don’t pick at crusties: Crusties forming around the piercing are a normal part of the healing process. Avoid picking at them, as this can lead to infections or delayed healing.
- Prevent cross-contamination: Always wash your hands before touching the piercing, and avoid oral contact or exchanging bodily fluids around the piercing until it has fully healed. Maintain a clean environment to minimize the risk of infection.
- Avoid pressure on the piercing: Keep tight-fitting clothes, helmets, and anything else that puts pressure on the area or bends your ear away from the piercing until it is fully healed.
- Sleep with care: Avoid sleeping on the piercing side. Instead, sleep on your other side or back. To elevate the piercing off the bed, you can use a clean tube sock on a U-shaped travel pillow.
- Don’t play with the jewelry: Refrain from spinning or playing with the jewelry, and keep other people’s fingers away from the piercing.
- Downsize the jewelry: Within four to six weeks, consider downsizing the jewelry to prevent additional trauma and migration.
Shen men piercing jewelry
When it comes to Shen Men piercing jewelry, the most commonly used types are small curved barbells or hoops. The jewelry should be made of high-quality, hypoallergenic materials like titanium, niobium, or surgical steel to minimize the risk of allergic reactions or infections. It’s crucial to choose the appropriate jewelry size, as this will help ensure proper healing and avoid unnecessary pressure on the piercing site.
Shen Men Piercing vs. Rook Piercing
Shen Men and Rook piercings are both cartilage piercings located in the upper ear area. While they may appear similar, they target different parts of the ear and have distinct characteristics. Here is a comparison chart highlighting their differences:
| Aspect | Shen Men Piercing | Rook Piercing |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Anti-helix, near the Shen Men point | Anti-helix, ridge above the daith |
| Pain Level | Moderate | Moderate to high |
| Healing Time | 4 to 6 months | 6 to 9 months |
| Jewelry | Small curved barbells or hoops | Curved barbells or circular barbells |
| Benefits | Reported relief from anxiety, migraines, and improved sleep | Primarily aesthetic; may offer relaxation and stress relief for some individuals |
Overall, there is nothing dangerous about this piercing. It’s another cool ear piercing that can still be decorated in various fun ways, even if the medical benefits are not proven. If you decide to get the Shen Men piercing, placement is crucial, and proper aftercare is essential to ensure a successful healing process.
FAQ
Is shen men and flat piercing the same?
Does shen men piercing really help with anxiety?
here is anecdotal evidence suggesting that the Shen Men piercing may help with anxiety by stimulating the Shen Men point, an acupuncture point located in the ear. However, it’s important to note that scientific research on the effectiveness of Shen Men piercing for anxiety relief is limited, and the results may vary from person to person. While some individuals report positive outcomes, others may not experience the same benefits.
Can everyone get a shen men piercing?
Shen Men piercing is suitable for most people, as long as there is enough space for the jewelry to fit in the back of the ear. Placement is crucial, particularly if you have a folded ear where it folds downward, as the piercing may not sit correctly otherwise. It’s essential to consult with a professional piercer to assess whether your ear anatomy is suitable for a Shen Men piercing and ensure proper placement.
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