What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a holistic system of medicine that developed several thousands of years ago. This system of medicine views a person as a energetic whole, containing spiritual, physical and mental aspects. It consists of acupuncture, moxibustion (a warming therapy done by burning dried leaves of mugworth ("ai ye") over acupuncture points), cupping, guasha (gentle scraping methods), Tuina (a form of Asian bodywork), nutrition, herbal therapy, and may include the use of minerals and magnets. Diagnostic methods such as asking questions, examining, and evaluating the tongue and pulse are used in order to identify patterns of disharmony. The goal is to reveal the root causes within the energetic system. Treatments are selected in varied combinations that are best for the patient in order to preserve health, prevent illness, and to promote balance and harmony within the body.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a process of inserting very tiny needles, about the diameter of a human hair, at specific points along the body. Insertion of the needles is done very gently and with utmost care. The purpose of Acupuncture is to regulate and maintain clear pathways for the free flow of vital life energy ("Qi") to circulate throughout the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, if the Qi is blocked and not flowing properly, illness and/or pain can result as the body's system becomes disrupted. Acupuncture works by promoting homeostasis within the body. As the body's vitality is restored, the body is encouraged to heal itself naturally.