What is classical Chinese medicine?
Classical Chinese medicine is symbol-based science with a methodology rooted in the Yi jing using a holistic analysis of the living body and whole person. Both the body and nature are in constant motion, reflecting the saying, “I am the universe, and the universe is within me.”
In Chinese medical thought, the body, mind, and spirit are interconnected, meaning that issues in one can affect the others. The body reacts to sensory stimuli and feels pain, but without the mind, it lacks memory and purpose. The spirit within connects us to a higher presence, giving life meaning and quality. Free will emerges where the mind meets the body, shaping our realities based on thoughts and focus. Qi, or vital energy, facilitates communication between the body and mind, while emotions—known as qing—are movements of qi. Blocked emotions disrupt qi flow, leading to potential illness. Each emotion, like anger or joy, affects qi differently and influences bodily functions connected to the five zang organs.
In Suwen 19, the Yellow Emperor talks about how qi generates a hundred diseases and how different emotional states affect qi differently; for example, anger rises the qi, joy relaxes the qi, sadness dissipates the qi, fear moves the qi down, cold congeals the qi, heat makes it flow, fright disorders the qi, exhaustion wastes the qi, and pensiveness lumps the qi together.91 Also, in Suwen 39, emotions directly impact the movement of qi. In Suwen chapter 5, emotions transform the qi of the five zang organs. These five zang organs produce qi and engender joy, anger, worry, sadness, and fear.
The Heart governs these organs and houses the shen, overseeing emotions and thoughts. When emotional imbalances occur, the Heart is often the first affected. For example, anger impacts the Liver through the Heart, while sadness harms the Lungs. The Heart connects emotions with consciousness, with the mind following its lead. Think of the human body like a symphony orchestra. Each organ represents a different instrument, and qi serves as the conductor, guiding the flow of music and ensuring harmony. Just as a conductor must manage the tempo and dynamics of each instrument to create a beautiful performance, the body’s balance of emotions and qi must be maintained for optimal health. When one instrument goes out of tune, it affects the entire performance—similarly, when emotions are blocked or qi is disrupted, it can lead to illness, like a symphony falling into disarray.
In Classical Chinese medicine, illness is perceived as the body being unable to adapt to challenges, which causes a disruption in overall equilibrium, allowing pathogens to take hold. Any challenge that the body cannot handle, such as emotional trauma, can lead to illness. Illness is considered an ongoing process of disharmonious patterns of relationships.
The concept of qi, or vital force, serves as a medium connecting all events, transcending time and space. Qi is not just a physical force, but a profound link that connects all aspects of our being. Emotions, or "qing," are viewed as movements of qi. Repressing emotions can disrupt emotional expression and lead to a vicious cycle. These disruptions in the flow of qi are considered the root cause of illness. Classical Chinese medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, spirit (Shen), and mind. Disturbances in the spirit (shen) can manifest as pathologies in the body and mind, highlighting the holistic approach to health.
In Classical Chinese medicine, illness is perceived as the body being unable to adapt to challenges, which causes a disruption in overall equilibrium, allowing pathogens to take hold. Any challenge that the body cannot handle, such as emotional trauma, can lead to illness. Illness is considered an ongoing process of disharmonious patterns of relationships.
The concept of qi, or vital force, serves as a medium connecting all events, transcending time and space. Qi is not just a physical force, but a profound link that connects all aspects of our being. Emotions, or "qing," are viewed as movements of qi. Repressing emotions can disrupt emotional expression and lead to a vicious cycle. These disruptions in the flow of qi are considered the root cause of illness. Classical Chinese medicine emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, spirit (Shen), and mind. Disturbances in the spirit (shen) can manifest as pathologies in the body and mind, highlighting the holistic approach to health.
Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM) is a comprehensive medical system that has been practiced for over two thousand years in China and around the world to treat various illnesses with various techniques been passed down through a lineage system (Mentor-mentee relationship)
CCM encompasses Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, and internal martial arts such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi. Treatments within CCM may also include Cupping, Moxibustion, Gua Sha, and Tuina
Acu-moxa therapy
Acupuncture and moxibustion are traditional healing practices that view the body as a mini-universe with interconnected pathways called channels.Acupuncture is a therapeutic practice that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles at specific points along energy channels in the body. This technique aims to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. In an acupuncture session, I select needles tailored to the individual's health needs. These fine needles are inserted into targeted acupuncture points on the body. Additionally, techniques such as heat application or electrical stimulation may be utilized to amplify the effects of treatment. The benefits of acupuncture are manifold. It is known to alleviate tension, numbness, dissociation, and pain, while also addressing trauma and helping to unblock stagnant qi (energy) in the body. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, this practice aids in aligning qi, rejuvenating energy levels, relieving discomfort, and restoring balance. This restored balance can lead to improved sleep, reduced anxiety and digestive issues, an uplifted mood, and an overall enhanced sense of well-being. MoxibustionMoxibustion is a complementary therapy often used alongside acupuncture, involving the application of heat from burning moxa, derived from mugwort.There are two main methods: 1. Direct Moxibustion: Small cones of moxa are placed directly on the skin at acupuncture points
. 2. Indirect Moxibustion: Moxa sticks are held close to the skin without touching it, allowing warmth to penetrate. This practice is believed to enhance circulation, strengthen the immune system, and eliminate cold or dampness from the body. It may help with pain management, digestive issues, menstrual cramps, and fatigue by stimulating acupuncture points and promoting the flow of Qi. While generally safe, moxibustion does produce smoke and a scent similar to marijuana. Practitioners might teach patients to use moxa independently, but caution is needed to avoid skin burns. Proper safety measures, like maintaining a safe distance and using protective barriers, are important.
Sound therapy Sound therapy is an ancient way to use sound frequencies to help the body feel balanced. In a typical session, called a sound bath, a person lies on a table, sometimes with a warm blanket. I play singing bowls using a wooden mallet. Striking or rubbing the bowls creates different sounds based on their size and design. I can play these instruments while staying still, walking around the room, or even placing a bowl on someone's body. The sounds create a special atmosphere that helps participants focus and let go of the outside world. Everyone is part of the experience; I help guide the session but do not control it. During the session, people relax to soothing sounds and vibrations, which help their brains and activate natural healing. Each singing bowl is unique and brings different harmonies that improve the experience. Sound healing naturally supports the healing of the body, mind, and spirit. I may also use gongs or tingsha cymbals to create calming sounds that gently fade away. This therapy can help with many different physical and mental conditions. Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy is an ancient healing technique used by some individuals to alleviate pain. Cups are placed on various parts of the body, including the back, stomach, arms, and legs. A vacuum or suction force created inside the cups pulls the skin upward.
Cupping utilizes suction to draw blood to or from specific areas of the body. People primarily use this method, Carpal tunnel syndrome,Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, Headaches and migraines, chronic health issues among many
In the case of wet cupping we may use a flammable substance such as paper, alcohol, or herbs inside the cup and briefly ignite it. As the flame extinguishes, the cup is placed upside down on your skin. The cooling cup creates a vacuum that pulls the skin and underlying tissue into the cup, causing the skin to redden as blood vessels expand in the case of wet cupping. Wet cupping involves puncturing the skin before placing the cup, allowing some blood to be drawn out during the suction process. Many times we use vacuum pumps instead of fire to achieve the same cupping effect especially for dry cupping. In a typical session, you may start with one cup, but treatments usually involve 3 or more cups for optimal results especially for dry cupping. Note: In both dry and wet cupping, you may notice round bruises on your skin afterward, which typically fade within about 10 days. To prevent infection, a soothing ointment might be applied, and you may require multiple treatments depending on the condition being addressed. Guasha
Gua sha is a healing method that relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and supports the immune system through a hands-on approach. The term “gua” means "to rub," while “sha” refers to blood congestion in surface tissue, often manifesting as small red dots called petechiae after treatment. These red dots typically fade to a blended reddish color within minutes and disappear in two to three days, providing insights into the patient's condition.
The benefits of Gua sha include reducing spasms and pain, promoting blood flow to muscles and organs, and increasing the production of heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1), which helps reduce inflammation in conditions like asthma and liver diseases.
Gua sha is commonly used for pain, upper respiratory, and digestive issues, often alongside acupuncture.
Note: Post-treatment, many experience immediate relief from stiffness, improved mobility, and even low level fever.Patients are advised to protect, protect the area from wind, cold, and sunlight, drink plenty of water, and rest if soreness or tenderness occurs please take an epsom salt bath and res
Chinese herbal medicine
Chinese herbal medicine is a holistic practice that uses natural substances from plants, minerals, or animals to improve health and restore the body's energy, called Qi. It aims to achieve balance and can be customized into multi-herb formulas to treat various conditions. These include mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, chronic illnesses, postpartum disorders, pain management, and overall well-being. Herbal formulas are meant to restore energy, support bodily functions, and nourish individuals. Most of these remedies come from plants, but some may include minerals or animal products. They can be found in different forms like powders, pastes, pills, or tablets, depending on the herbs used. It's essential to remember that Chinese herbal medicine can be very powerful, similar to prescription drugs, and should be used carefully. We do not recommend self-prescribing. If you're interested, we offer free herbal consultations to ensure safe and appropriate use of these remedies.
Qigong Tuina
Tuina is a traditional Chinese bodywork therapy over 2,000 years old, based on the flow of Qi (energy) through the body. It employs various massage and manipulation techniques to enhance Qi flow and facilitate natural healing. Techniques include hand movements for muscle and tendon massage, acupressure for Qi influence, and bone-setting for realigning joints. Herbal poultices and compresses can complement these treatments. Qigong Tuina merges energy work with Tuina massage, using kneading and pressing to address muscle issues and fatigue. It helps restore balance by clearing Qi blockages. Tuina is effective for muscle disorders and stress-related issues but isn’t ideal for those seeking a gentle massage. It should be avoided by people with fractures, infections, or open wounds. Blood letting
Bloodletting is a technique in Chinese Medicine that helps restore balance in the body by drawing small amounts of blood from specific areas. This ancient practice has been used for therapeutic purposes for a long time. For example, bloodletting at Jing points, which are located at the tips of fingers and toes, has been used to treat coma since ancient times. This therapy can help blood and energy (qi) flow smoothly and remove excess heat from the body.
Common uses of bloodletting include pricking the ear apex point to treat acute conjunctivitis and pricking the “shao shang” point to relieve a sore throat. Bloodletting is often done on general areas with visible blood vessels or channels, and occasionally on specific acupuncture points.
The most common area for bloodletting is the popliteal fossa (the back of the knee), followed by the lateral and medial malleoli (the sides of the ankle). Before starting bloodletting, I will assess if the patient is suitable for the treatment. I use different tools, such as a three-edge needle, a seven-star needle (cutaneous needle), a medical lancet, or a regular acupuncture needle, to draw a few drops of blood.
After pricking the skin, I use a sterile cotton ball to absorb the blood. Sometimes, I may use cupping to extract at least 5-10 mL of blood. Bloodletting can help improve blood circulation, relieve pain, and clear heat in the body. It can also address issues like open sores, chronic blood clots, and stagnant blood. In Chinese medicine, chronic illnesses can lead to blood stagnation, and bloodletting can help relieve this condition.
Good treatment for blood vessel diseases, problems from dietary issues, or inactivity-related stasis. These conditions can create repletion pathogens, which should be treated with bloodletting,In addition Bloodletting can be effective for various ailments, including severe pain, sore throats, and headaches.
The sensation from bloodletting feels like a mild prick, similar to a blood draw or vaccination.
We provide this treatment to children, and they usually feel little discomfort.
However, bloodletting should be done carefully for patients with slow wound healing, like those with diabetes or vein problems, as it can cause non-healing wounds. It is also not safe for patients with bleeding disorders or vascular tumors. Extra care is needed for patients who are very tired, have many scars, or are pregnant.
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