Eastern medicine Vs. Western medicine
I have always had the idea of the body being a natural healer. Your body will heal itself providing the proper nutrients and holistic care methods it needs to return to a balanced state. This is basic eastern medicine theory. Traditional Chinese medicine or TCM favors a holistic approach and views the body as a whole. But which is better, Eastern medicine or Western medicine, is an important question.
What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient holistic healing system that has been practiced for over 2,000 years. TCM is based on the belief that health depends on the balance of two opposing forces:
Yin and yang: Complementary forces that must be in harmony
Qi: The vital life force that flows through the body along meridians
According to TCM, illness results from an imbalance or disruption in the flow of qi, which can be caused by factors like diet, lifestyle, environment, injuries, or emotions.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Vs Western Medicine
TCM approaches the root of the problem whereas Western medicine takes a more conventional approach and will find an immediate cure for the issue. I believe there is a need for both Eastern and Western medicine.
Western medicine can be effective for acute immediate emergencies. TCM will focus on the long term effect for ridding the body of disease and cleansing your body naturally which takes longer. Both can be useful depending on how one views and uses the treatment.
Key Practices for Traditional Chinese Medicine
There are many alternative methods to healing. TCM encompasses several therapeutic approaches:
Acupuncture: Insertion of thin needles at specific points along meridians to restore qi flow.
Herbal medicine: Use of complex herbal formulas tailored to individual patterns.
Moxibustion: Burning of herbs near the skin.
Cupping: Application of heated cups on the skin to create suction.
Tui na: Chinese therapeutic massage.
Dietary therapy: Nutritional recommendations.
Mind-body practices: Tai chi and qi gong for stress management and physical activity.
Acupuncture For Healing
As a massage therapist, trained in healing arts, one method that I prefer is acupuncture. Acupuncture is a form of TCM that has crossed over into Western medicine practices and is one of the most well-studied of all TCM alternative therapies. Acupuncture involves insertion of needles (very thin) to meridians throughout your body. Acupuncture is a way to unblock chi or energy and bring balance to your body. You can see more on acupuncture HERE. While not a replacement for conventional or allopathic treatments, it can be beneficial as a complementary therapy.
Essential Oils For Healing
Another alternative method of healing I truly enjoy and cannot be without are essential oils. Did you know that many of the pharmaceutical drugs on the market today are the synthetic version of different plants? Essential oils that come from plants are made up of the same compounds our bodies are made of which makes it easier for our bodies to process and respond to. Here are some comparisons of essential oils and over the counter drugs.
In TCM, essential oils are evaluated based on their energetic qualities and effects on qi (vital energy):
Oils are classified according to their thermal nature (warming, cooling, or neutral).
Their effects on specific meridians and organ systems are considered.
The oils' impact on balancing yin and yang is assessed.
For example, peppermint oil is considered cooling and can be used to clear heat, while ginger oil is warming and can tonify yang. TCM incorporates essential oils as part of a holistic treatment strategy:
Oils may be combined with other TCM modalities like acupuncture, herbs, and dietary therapy.
The goal is to support overall health and well-being, not just address specific symptoms.
Essential oils help enhance the therapeutic effects of TCM practices and provide a more comprehensive approach to healing that addresses physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of health.
Use Essential Oils During Your Massage
I often incorporate essential oils as part of my therapeutic massage practice. The next time you schedule your massage with me, we can discuss which essential oils can help assist in your healing journey.