How to make a moxa cone (Step by step)

The making of tiny cones used in direct moxibustion is an art. There are many variables in play (there will be a future post dedicated to them) to get a good cone. Hideo Shinma sensei says that the secret of a good application of direct moxa is to make good cones and specifically to make a good base. From these words it is clear that the most important thing is the continued practice of making cones. It's simple! The following video is one of the most basic ways to make cones, although there are other ways to make them: with both hands and thumbs, making a moxa string with your hands or with wood pieces and after break the matrix in different cones, rolling perpendicular or rolling horizontally over the index finger, etc ... Depending on the style, the patient and the desired effect, we need different cones with different and specific characteristics. You can choose the system that is most comfortable to you and where you get more speed (there are japanese moxa schools where the condition to access to their courses is to get a speed of 200 cones in 10 minutes). Don't be afraid!! You can be sure that if you practice daily you can achieve a good level very quickly (the experts calculate three months). After practicing the way to do, you should practice size. After the size you can practice the speed. If you are a beginner, you don't be worried about size and speed. You only have to have on mind the quality. And remember: the secret is in the base.