Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is an ancient approach to health care. The three disciplines of traditional Chinese medicine have evolved over thousands of years and are considered to be safe for most who wish to try them. TCM traces its mixture of herbal medicine, acupuncture and massage therapy back to the origins of Taoism and Confucianism.
Health is Wholeness and Balance
In TCM, health is an inner resiliency that allows you to meet the demands of life. Being in a state of health helps you thrive in the face of environmental, physical, emotional and mental stress.
Qi (Also spelled Chi and pronounced chee)
Einstein showed us that everything is made of, and radiates energy. This subtle form of energy supports, shapes and enlivens our physical body and activates our lives. TCM practitioners call this energy Qi. Other cultures have named this energy calling it “prana,” “baraka,” “spirit,” “vital force,” and many more.
Qi is the vital energy in all living things, from the tallest tree to the smallest cell.
Our health is influenced by the quality, quantity and balance of our Qi.
Qi provides the power to accomplish everyday activities and is necessary for growth, movement, body temperature, protection against illness and overall regulation of our body.
When Qi is balanced and flowing freely, the body’s natural self-healing abilities are activated, enabling internal stability and harmony to occur. The body will flourish and true health and well being can be achieved.
Meridians
Meridians are like rivers inside the body. Wherever a river flows, it carries water that provides nourishment and sustenance for life on our planet. Similarly, meridians are the rivers where Qi flows inside us. Qi flows through meridians as in invisible current, energizing, nourishing and supporting every cell, tissue, muscle, organ and gland.
The stresses of daily life
Different stresses affect meridians and organ systems in different ways, disrupting or blocking Qi flow. A blockage in the meridians will restrict the supply of Qi required to nourish and support the cells, tissues, muscles, organs and glands. This blockage can manifest into various signs and symptoms.
Over time, the body as a whole becomes weakened, unbalanced, and its self-healing abilities are compromised. Eventually, it becomes susceptible to pain, disease, stress, anxiety and poor health.
The goal of Traditional Chinese Medicine is to improve the flow of Qi in the body providing relief from stress, improve overall immune health, balance the body, and provide healing.
When looking at TCM as an alternative treatment option, you might consider:
- Acupuncture
- Acupressure
- Chinese Herbal Medicine
- Qigong
- Tai Chi
