Eastern Wisdom Health Basics

Overview

Of all the ancient Eastern medical systems, traditional Chinese medicine is the most recognized in the Western world. TCM is widely acclaimed as an extremely effective modality.

Ancient

Traditional Chinese medicine is based on the ancient philosophy of Taoism and dates more than 5,000 years. It has written documentation dating to 200 B.C.; the Chinese materia medica (collection of herbs and treatments) is still used.

Methods

Practitioners use herbs, massage, meditation and diet management as techniques of treatment. Specified foods and herbs are often prescribed to cure ailments combined with the physical application of acupuncture (application of needles) or moxibustion (stimulating the blood flow with bamboo or glass cups). The diagnostic methods are very holistic in nature; the provider takes into consideration all the aspects of a person's life to help create a balance.

Yin and Yang

The basic principles of TCM stems from balancing Yin and Yang--two opposing and complementary forces. Yin encompasses cold, solemn, passive qualities, while Yang represents the more hot, assertive and excitable properties of a patient's personality or ailment.

Qi

Disease is considered to be a blockage of qi (vital life force) and blood throughout the body. The pathways of the blood are called meridians; they are full of pressure points. It is these points where acupuncture needles are applied to release any blockages, and balance Yin/Yang.

Balance

Meditation is readily taught as a means of finding and maintaining a mental balance. To uphold the physical manifestation of your health, the mind must be ordered and at peace.