Traditional Chinese Medicine

An Ancient Science

Chinese medicine is rooted in an ancient system of thought developed over thousands of years.  Central features of Chinese philosophy include harmony with nature, balance of yin and yang, and relationship of the five elements.  The human body is seen as a miniature reflection of the cosmos; internal principles of balance and flow are equated to the forces which operate in the external world of nature.
The vital energy of mind, body and spirit flows through 12 main pathways or meridians, each of which is associated with an organ.  This vital energy is called qi (pronounced 'chee').  Mental or physical illness arises when any of these channels become blocked, or when the qi is deficient in any meridian.  It is necessary to restore the flow of qi in order to treat illness.  Proper supply and movement of blood, body fluids, yin and yang are also vital to overall health and balance.
The practitioner of Chinese medicine sees the body as a complex interaction of all its parts, directing attention to the complete physiological and psychological individual.  All relevant information is gathered and woven together into a "pattern of disharmony."  This diagnostic technique does not specify a singular disease entity but renders an almost poetic, yet workable description of a whole person.