Qi

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 […]