Qi

Exploring the Parallelism Between Osteopathy and Chinese Medicine: The Rule of the Artery and Qi/Blood

Osteopathy and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may seem worlds apart in terms of cultural origin and theoretical frameworks, yet beneath the surface, they share fundamental principles that underscore their holistic approach to healing. One such principle is the concept of “the rule of the artery” in osteopathy, which bears striking resemblance to the notion of Qi (or “life force energy”) and Blood in Chinese medicine. Understanding Osteopathy’s Rule of the Artery Osteopathy, founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in the late 19th century, is a form of alternative medicine that emphasizes the interrelationship between the body’s structure and its function. At the heart of osteopathic philosophy lies the principle known as “the rule of the artery,” which asserts that proper blood flow is essential for optimal health and wellbeing. According to this principle, when blood circulation is obstructed or compromised, it can lead to various health problems and musculoskeletal imbalances. […]

How does acupuncture heal pain?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points. While the exact mechanisms are still being studied, there are several proposed theories on how acupuncture may help relieve pain: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Theory: According to TCM theory, acupuncture aims to balance the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), which is believed to be the vital energy that circulates throughout the body. Pain and illness are thought to arise from imbalances or blockages in the flow of Qi. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points, acupuncture is believed to stimulate and restore the proper flow of Qi, thereby alleviating pain. Endorphin Release: Acupuncture may stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving substances produced by the body. Endorphins can help reduce pain perception and promote a sense of well-being and relaxation. Neural Modulation: Acupuncture may […]

What is cupping therapy?

In Chinese medicine, cupping is a therapy that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. It is believed to help improve blood circulation, alleviate pain, and promote healing. The technique has been used for thousands of years and is still widely practiced today. Here’s how cupping works according to Chinese medicine: Creating suction: The cups used in cupping therapy are typically made of glass, bamboo, or plastic. They are heated with a flame or a pump is used to remove the air inside the cup, creating a partial vacuum. The cup is then quickly placed on the skin, and as the air inside the cup cools down, it creates suction, causing the skin to rise and redden. Promoting blood flow: The suction created by the cups helps to stimulate blood flow in the area. This is thought to remove stagnation and congestion in the body, improving the circulation […]

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture is an ancient healing technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body known as acupuncture points or acupoints. The therapeutic effects of acupuncture are based on several key principles: Balancing Qi (Chi): Central to TCM is the concept of “Qi” or “Chi,” which represents the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body along channels known as meridians. It is believed that illness and pain result from an imbalance or blockage of Qi. Acupuncture aims to restore the balance and free the flow of Qi along these meridians. Stimulating Acupuncture Points: Acupuncture points are located along the meridians and correspond to specific organs, functions, or conditions within the body. By inserting needles into these points, acupuncturists aim to stimulate or sedate the flow of Qi, depending on the individual’s condition. This stimulation is thought […]

Hijama and Chinese medicine bloodletting

Hijama and Chinese medicine bloodletting are two different practices with distinct origins, techniques, and theoretical foundations. Hijama (also known as wet cupping) is an ancient traditional practice primarily associated with Islamic medicine. It involves making small incisions on the skin and applying cups to create suction, which draws out a small amount of blood along with other bodily fluids. The underlying belief is that Hijama helps remove “harmful” substances from the body, balances the humors (body fluids), and promotes healing. Hijama is often performed on specific points on the body, such as over the acupuncture points or areas of pain or congestion. On the other hand, Chinese medicine bloodletting (Xuefeng or Xueyu in Chinese) is a technique used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. It involves puncturing the skin or superficial veins to release a small amount of blood. The aim of bloodletting in TCM is to […]

What is Acupotomy or Knife Needle?

  • Dao Acupotomy Knife Needle

Acupotomy, also known as “knife-needle” therapy or Knife needle / Dao needle / Dao needle therapy / 針刀 / 小針刀, is a technique used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves the use of a small needle-shaped knife to cut and release adhesions or scar tissue in the body. The technique is based on the theory that when tissue in the body becomes damaged or inflamed, it can create adhesions or scar tissue that can interfere with the flow of Qi and blood and cause pain and other health problems. During an acupotomy treatment, a thin, needle-shaped knife is inserted into the skin and used to make small incisions along the affected area. The knife is then used to gently scrape and release the adhesions or scar tissue, which can help to improve the flow of Qi and blood and reduce pain and inflammation. Acupotomy is often used to treat […]

What is Qi?

  • What is Qi

Qi (also spelled “Chi” and pronounced “chee”) is a central concept in traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts. It is a vital energy or life force, or potential force that is believed to flow throughout the body, connecting and animating all aspects of the human system. In traditional Chinese medicine, Qi is believed to circulate along pathways called meridians, which correspond to different organs and bodily functions. When Qi is flowing smoothly and in balance, the body is believed to be healthy and in a state of harmony. However, when Qi is blocked, deficient, or imbalanced, it can lead to physical or emotional symptoms and illness. Qi is also a key concept in martial arts, where it is seen as a source of power and focus. Practitioners of martial arts seek to cultivate and harness Qi through various techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, and physical movements. While the concept […]

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

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Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is based on the belief that the body is a complex system of interconnected parts that work together to maintain health and balance. This system includes the organs, meridians, Qi (pronounced “chee”), and other bodily functions. TCM practitioners believe that illness and disease are caused by imbalances or blockages in the flow of Qi. This can be due to a variety of factors, including stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, environmental factors, and emotional issues. To address these imbalances, TCM practitioners use a variety of techniques and therapies, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, massage, and mind-body practices such as tai chi and qi gong. Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of Qi and help restore balance. Herbal medicine uses natural substances such as roots, bark, and leaves to treat various conditions. Dietary therapy involves making changes […]

Fact or Fiction? The Great “Triple Burner” Debate!

  • Acupuncture needles, moxa sticks, TCM Traditional Chinese Medicine

Have you ever seen the show, “Fact or Fiction?” If not, it goes like this: each week, an unbelievable story is told and the viewers get to judge if they believe the story is fact or fiction.   In Chinese medicine, we have our very own “fact or fiction” debate. Except this debate is centuries-old and we still don’t have the answer.   This ongoing debate has stayed in the back of my mind for years.   Here’s what it’s all about: TCM practitioners have long questioned the existence of the organ, The Triple Burner. Unlike all of the other organs in the human body, it is the only one with no physical component.   It’s said to be the organ with a name but no form.   How could that be?   Well, the triple burner “holds the office of the sluices (water channel controlled by gates); it manifests […]