036: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Healing: Acupuncture, Cupping & the Future of Medicine with Dr. Tom Ingegno

Episode Summary:
In this enriching episode of Real Food Mental Health, Cody Cox sits down with Dr. Tom Ingegno, a seasoned acupuncturist and integrative medicine expert with over 23 years of clinical experience. Together, they explore the expansive world of East Asian medicine, the philosophy behind acupuncture and cupping, and how these ancient modalities are supported by modern science to support both mental and physical health. Dr. Tom breaks down complex ideas—like meridians, energy (Qi), and the endocannabinoid system—with clarity and humor. They also discuss EFT, meditation, and the role of ancestral health wisdom in today’s fast-paced, disconnected world.

🧠 Topics Covered:

• What East Asian medicine encompasses beyond acupuncture

• The origins and evolution of acupuncture, meridians, and Qi

• How acupuncture impacts the nervous system, circulation, digestion, hormones, and mental health

• The science and cultural history of cupping therapy

• Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) as modern acupressure

• How traditional medicine blends with integrative health models

• Common reasons acupuncture “doesn’t work” for some people

• Creating personalized treatments based on emotional patterns and symptom presentation

• Why meditation is the #1 practice for improving health and awareness

• Reconnecting with our humanity in a high-tech world

🧰 Resources & Mentions:

• Charm City Integrative Health – Dr. Tom’s clinic in Baltimore, MD

• The Cupping Book by Dr. Tom Ingegno

• Altered Traits by Daniel Goleman & Richard Davidson – a science-based look at the effects of meditation

🌿 Quotes to Remember:

“Acupuncture is an expression of humanity.” – Dr. Tom Ingegno
“We’re not trying to go backward, but we’re trying to reconnect with what it means to be human.” – Cody Cox
“The goal isn’t always to remove the problem immediately—it’s to teach the body where health is and how to return to it.”

🙋‍♀️ Who Should Listen:
This episode is perfect for anyone curious about acupuncture, East Asian medicine, or natural ways to manage stress, anxiety, pain, and inflammation. It’s especially insightful for holistic practitioners, wellness seekers, and skeptics who want to understand the science behind ancient practices.

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