The ancient Chinese proposed that every living thing is sustained by a balance of two opposing forces of energy, called Yin and Yang. Together, they make up the life essence, or Qi – a type of energy that flows through the body via invisible channels called meridians. Half of certain organs and meridians are governed by Yin and the other half by Yang. When Yin and Yang are out of balance in the body, this causes a blockage of Qi and a subsequent illness. Yin and Yang imbalances can be caused by stress, pollution, poor diet, emotional upsets, or infection. For diagnostic purposes, Yin and Yang are further subdivided into interior and exterior, hot and cold, deficiency and excess.
The five elements in Chinese herbal medicine
The TCM philosophy proposes that everything, including organs of the body – is composed of the five elements: fire, earth, metal, water, and wood. The herbs are similarly classified into the five tastes – sweet, salty, bitter, pungent, and sour – which correspond to the five elements. For example, since the skin is a metal element Yang organ, it would be treated with a pungent herb.
TCM treatment principles:
Prevent first before a disease is formed
Treat before a problem occurs
Prevent transmission after a problem is formed
Prevent recurrence after recovery
The Traditional Chinese Medicine approach
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is about bringing balance back to the body through a holistic approach. TCM provides acupuncture, Tuina, cupping, Guasha, herbal supplements, and lifestyle advice to help our clients achieve optimal overall health. The practitioner will work with the patient to determine the most appropriate techniques. A management plan will be discussed and agreed to with the patient. If you are uncomfortable with needles your practioner can discuss other therapeutic techniques.
ACC service: will only cover acupuncture and electrical acupuncture.
Non-ACC service: acupuncture, Tuina, Cupping, herbal supplements, and lifestyle advice