Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a wholistic medical system that seeks to heal the root causes of dysfunction or disease. It has been practiced for over 2000 years, making it one of the oldest and most widely used systems of medicine in the world. Recent advances in Western medicine are only now beginning to affirm the wisdom of this ancient healing system that integrates mind, body, nutrition, lifestyle and energy fields. Traditional Chinese Medicine has now spread across the world and is practiced in the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, Japan and more...

According to TCM, vital energy or Qi (chee) flows through meridians or channels in the body. These channels are connected to the internal organs (known as Zang Fu in Chinese), and are often compared to the medical concept of nervous and circulatory systems. Each Chinese Medicine organ has a function or role to play in maintaining a healthy life. Chinese Medicine organs are grouped by function rather than location as compared to Western Anatomy.

When a person's channels are smooth and unblocked, and internal organ conditions are optimal, there is balance and health. If Qi is blocked in the channels or organs, pain, dysfunction and disease can result.

To restore health a Doctor of Chinese Medicine diagnoses the pattern of the condition, and uses a combination of treatments like acupuncture, herbal formulas, nutritional therapy, exercise, meditation and chinese massage to release blocked energy and return the body to healthy balance.