| Classical Chinese Medicine | ||||||||||||
| Classical Chinese Medicine is distinct in that it calls upon thousands of years of medical and philosophical teachings that form the basis for an entirely different perspective on the human body and health dynamics. Due to the emphasis on treating the body as a complete system, Chinese medicine has evolved seperately from the western medicine model with its emphasis on classifying disease instead of the patient's state of being. This perspective on the body is especially effective for preventative health care as well as quality of life issues. There are three pillars to Chinese medicine: (in order of importance), Qi gong, Chinese herbs, and Acupuncture. This medicine emphasizes the integral relationship of the human being with the heavens above and the earth below. Over two thousand years old, this model of medicine is utilized world wide and at present continues to astonish practitioners with its applications. The basic premise of Chinese medicine is that, Qi (or vital energy), exists in channels or meridians throughout the body. When the Qi does not flow smoothly within these channels we feel pain. This blockage may manifest as physical, mental, or emotional pain. Chinese medicine practitioners utilize Qi gong, Chinese herbs, and Acupuncture to free the obstructed pathways thereby relieving pain as well as disease. Through the practice of Qi gong, the patient is able to feel the ways in which their bodies have become physically stuck. By practicing this healing tradition, disease states are prevented and an awareness is developed that will assure a higher quality of living. Taking into account the vital relationship of the body, mind, and spirit as it is affected by its environment, the practitioner is able to formulate a combination of Chinese herbs that will specifically address the needs of the individual. Operating on the same Qi principle, the formula will remove the obstructed energy flow physically within the channels as well as energetically within the mind and spirit. Finally, the practice of Acupuncture uses tine threadlike needles in specific points on meridians to unblock energetic and physical stagnations or obstructions. It is similar to a light switch in the corner of the room that when turned on illuminates the entire room. Similarly, the energy that may be restricted can be moved using needles and techniques locally or from a distant location. The points are chosen based on the assessment of the practitioner. This assessment is made by feeling the pulse of the patient and by looking at the tongue. Through these ancient methods of observation a treatment plan is developed that may include any or all of the pillars of Chinese medicine. |
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| Qi Gong | ||||||||||||
| Chinese Herbs | ||||||||||||
| Acupuncture | ||||||||||||
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