Episode Summary
In this episode, Leigh Brandon sits down with Mario Mancini to explore the real science and clinical wisdom behind acupuncture. Far from being a last-resort therapy, Mario explains how acupuncture acts as a powerful “signal amplifier,” helping the body regulate, reset, and repair.

They break down how acupuncture influences the nervous system, immune function, endogenous pain-relief pathways, and meridian systems — as well as how lifestyle, digestion, inflammation, and stress can amplify chronic pain. You’ll also hear why breathwork and self-regulation practices enhance treatment results and why genuine connection is a core part of the healing process.

What We Cover in This Episode:
• How acupuncture optimises the body’s healing systems
• M1 → M2 macrophage switching and immune modulation
• Why acupuncture enhances other therapies
• How meridians relate to modern physiology
• The role of endogenous opioids in pain relief
• Using acupuncture post-surgery to improve tissue regeneration
• Why chronic pain often isn’t about the original injury
• How diet, digestion and stress amplify persistent pain
• How breathwork supports regulation and recovery
• The biopsychosocial model and whole-person healing

Connect with Mario Mancini

Website: https://manciniacupuncture.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manciniacupuncture
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centerforIntegrativecare/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@centerforintegrativecare

Connect with Leigh Brandon

Website: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/
Download Leigh’s Chronic Pain Breakthrough Blueprint: https://www.bodychek.co.uk/freepainguide/
Leigh’s courses:
StickAbility – https://stickabilitycourse.com/
Mastering Client Transformation (Professional Course) – https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/mastering-client-transformation/