Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) originated in ancient China and has developed over thousands of years of Chinese medical practice that includes herbal medicines and various body practices, such as Acupuncture, Electro Acupuncture, Acupressure, Tui Na, Moxibustion, Cupping, Gua Sha, and dietary therapy to treat or prevent health problems. TCM is widely used in Asia, and is becoming increasingly popular and recognized worldwide.
The fundamental belief in TCM is that there exists a harmony between two opposing yet complementary forces, called yin and yang, that supports health, and disease results from an imbalance between these forces.
Five elements—fire, earth, wood, metal, and water—symbolically represent all phenomena, including the stages of human life, and explain how the body functions in good health and changes during disease.
Qi, a vital energy that flows through the body, performs multiple functions in maintaining health. The balance and harmony between the energies of the five main internal organs, the Qi and the Blood, and the Yin and the Yang, are what Chinese Medicine strives to establish within the body.
Qi flows through specific pathways called meridians. Where meridian pathways flow, they bring life-giving Qi that provides nourishment to every cell, organ, gland, tissue, and muscle in the body.
When Qi becomes backed up in one part of the body, the flow becomes restricted in other parts. This blockage of the flow of Qi can be detrimental to a person’s health, cutting off vital nourishment to the body’s organs, and glands. Physical and emotional trauma, stress, lack of exercise, overexertion, seasonal changes, poor diet, accidents, and excessive activity are among the many things that can influence the quality, quantity, and balance of Qi.
Blockage of the flow of Qi can lead to various signs and symptoms. Once the imbalances of Qi are detected, an acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupoints along meridian pathways. This safe and painless insertion of the needles can unblock the obstruction and rebalance Qi in the body. Once this is done, Qi can freely circulate throughout the body. This can eliminate pain and restore balance and harmony, as well as the body’s ability to heal itself—ultimately leading to optimal health and well-being.
Acupuncture and other Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques are safe, effective, and drug-free therapies that can help address a wide variety of common ailments and problems.
Source: TCM Literature