Alternative Healing Today » Chinese Medicine

Studying the Internal Stars: The Use of Energy in Your Body

Mendoza — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:49:10 +0000

If you have ever heard of ideas from physical fitness or Yoga, then you are familiar with the idea of using the energy in your body properly. In Chinese Medicine, the energy that you have is something that is much deeper than a physical fitness. The idea if Qi (Chee), is an energy force that is often referred to in order to stay healthy.

The idea of Qi begins with elements that are in the use universe that make up energy. This same Qi that is in the universe is, by Chinese medicine philosophy, also in ever living being. The Qi that is being referred to is something that Chinese philosophy considers to be in every part of every thing. It can't be destroyed, only changed.

One way to explain the way that Qi functions in Chinese philosophy is through the element of water. Under certain conditions, water will change into ice or evaporate. Even though it is changing form or place, it still functions as the same type of energy in the other form.

Through the idea of energy being in everyone's being, and changing as the person needs, is the relation to how this can be used for medicine. All of the Qi that is moving through the body has currents that the energy flows through, much like the circulation system. The Chinese medicine system states that there are fourteen major points where the Qi flows through a person. All of these points will have Yin and Yang access to them and are used in practices such as acupuncture.

As the system of Qi flows through someone, it also functions within the body to specific things. When all of your Qi is flowing properly then you are considered healthy. Not only does your Qi track your energy, it also makes sure that the different systems that are functioning transform the different parts of the body so they are balanced. For example, some types of Qi will take nutrients to the muscles. It is also known to keep parts of the body protected from the wrong types of food, while other areas of the body contain the elements that are needed.

The idea of Qi is to keep the energy of the body functioning in the proper way. When one is in complete health, they are known to have reached Upright Qi. By keeping everything flowing in the right manner, and paying attention to how the body is changing, there will be the ability to continue to hold the energy of the universe in one's body.

Towards a Well-Rounded Lifestyle: Defining Chinese Medicine

Mendoza — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 18:18:27 +0000

If you were ever asked about what Chinese medicine was, you could think of a variety of definitions, ideas and concepts that are used in the practice. Chinese medicine is not limited to a specific set of rules or processes that are used in healing and helping one with their ailments. However, there are specific concepts that are used with the practice of Chinese medicine that can be applied in any area.

Since the beginning of Chinese medicine, there has been an expansion into a variety of methods and ideologies that help to enhance one's well being. Overall, Chinese medicine is an approach to a holistic lifestyle. This means that with the practice of Chinese medicine is also the unification of the physical with the mental and spiritual. When one has unified all three of these aspects, they are healthy.

Not only does Chinese medicine approach health through holistic methods, it also uses ideas of natural law in order to enhance the experience of this type of medicine. All of the laws that are in the universe are inversely related to one's body. In this practice, they are considered to be a reflection of each other. Whether you are looking into acupuncture or Qigong as a practice, you can expect that natural laws will be at the basis of understanding how your body works.

After there is an understanding of natural laws as well as the holistic lifestyle, Chinese medicine will move into approaches towards energy. This is one of the major universal laws that are applied at all levels of Chinese medicine. Through any practice of Chinese medicine, it is also said that there are specific energies that are linked. The idea behind Chinese medicine is to find a way to unite the energies and to keep them flowing in a way that is complete and natural.

The idea of Chinese medicine is to create a lifestyle that is balanced and flows with the proper type of energy. No matter what area or aspect of Chinese medicine you are looking into, you can expect to see the practice with these foundational ideals. The goal of this is to allow one to move into a lifestyle that enhances all areas of living.

Developing a Connection: Mind, Spirit and Body and Chinese Medicine

Mendoza — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 10:40:17 +0000

The idea of connectedness between the universe and the system of a human is at the basis of philosophies for Chinese medicine. If you have ever heard of the basics for any type of Oriental practice, you are also familiar with the idea of the connection between the physical, mental and spiritual ideas. If you want to learn how these can work together holistically and for your health, you don't have to look any further than Chinese medicine.

The idea of connecting all of the elements in your body for optimum health is known as Shen. This comes from the idea that all of the elements in the universe are interconnected and related to one's body. When taking the ideas of the elements of the universe and incorporating them into how a human is interconnected.

The first point of focus in order to connect Shen is the one that is related to waking consciousness. According to the Shen philosophy, this consciousness is in the heart. Everything that is related to heart health, under this method, is also linked with the consciousness needing to wake up.

The next part of Shen is the spirit. According to this science, the spirit is located in the liver. In Chinese, this is referred to as the Ethereal Spirit. The next Shen is the soul of the body, also known as the corporeal soul. This resides in the lungs of one's body. Intellect, or Yi is in the spleen and Will, meaning the urge to do something is in the Kidney.

The idea of this particular system is to combine the elements of the physical with the elements of the mind and the spirit. By doing this, one is able to find the physical elements and work on two approaches to healing a person through physical and spiritual at the same time.

Combining the mind, spirit and body together is the basis of all Chinese medicine and philosophy. By learning to combine these, one is able to find the best approaches to healing a person in a holistic method. Using Shen, the concept of elements of the universe, and seeing how they relate as a system to the body, allows one to find a way to become unified within themselves.

Getting the Body Back to Work: Tuina and Chinese Medicine

Mendoza — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 15:49:07 +0000

If your body is out of sync with what it is supposed to be doing, it can cause endless amounts of problems. You may feel tired all of the time, or restless. For no apparent reason, you may get headaches or feel nauseous during the day. Beyond this, you can catch the viruses and colds going around all of the time.

According to Chinese medicine, this simply means that your flow of energy is off. If this is the case, and you want to find an alternative method to getting back in touch with what your body needs, you don't have to look any further than Chinese medicine. One of the methods that can be used for Chinese medicine is Tuina, also known as Oriental bodywork therapy.

Tuina originated in 1700 BC in order to help with children's diseases that were directly related to the muscles and skeletal system of children. The concept of Tuina was also developed for help with digestion for adults. After the year 600, the concept of Tuina was considered to be an art, and was banished by the government. It wasn't until the beginning of the Communist regime in the 1960s that it became popular again as a method for medical arts.

Tuina is like a combination of acupuncture and a massage. A practitioner will work on changing the flow of your energy in your body by using various hand techniques. The hand techniques will first be used in order to massage the tissues and muscles of your body. Afterward, specific points, also used for acupuncture will be focused on. This added pressure is known to change the flow of Qi. After this, the practitioner will focus on realignment of the bones, skeletal structure and ligaments in order to realign them.

Beyond these basic techniques, practitioners may also choose to combine herbs, salves and ointments to enhance the Tuina. This will help to completely shift all levels of the energy systems that are in your body, allowing you to become more generated, balanced and healthy.

If you are looking for an alternative method to get to the depths of your health, Tuina is the method you will want to look into. This particular method is known to heal those that use it on all levels, with a combination of Chinese medicine techniques that are popular. By doing this, there is the ability for those using it to change their energy flow into better health.

The Importance of the Beat: Checking Your Pulse for a Diagnosis

Mendoza — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 12:33:42 +0000

Chinese medicine will always use natural observations in order to determine which parts of the body may be off in their energy. By observing the external functions of the body, they can make assessments on how this affects the internal structure. From here, they will be able to decide on how to change the energy flow.

One of the most important areas of observation for Chinese medicine diagnosis is the pulse. The different pulses of the body are so important to Chinese medicine, that they are considered an art by learning how to use them appropriately. Usually, only the most trained practitioners can find how to use the pulse properly.

The reason why the pulse is important to the observations is because Chinese medicine has found connections between the pulse and every area of the body. In Western medicine, there is an understanding that the pulse of the heart is located in the wrist and also the neck. In Chinese medicine, there are also pulses for the kidney, liver, and other body areas.

Not only do all of the internal organs have specific pulses in different areas of the body, but these also have different depths. This means that a reading of a pulse can be heard in 'layers' in each position. Typically, each pulse will have three different depths that can be observed. These can be found in nine different areas when the diagnosis is being made from pulse.

If a practitioner is looking for a diagnosis for a pulse, they will look for several attributes. If you are in Chinese medicine, you will most likely know about twenty-eight different characteristics to look for. These may be related to how the pulse sounds, the rate it is beating at, and other factors such as this. The characteristics that are determined will also help to draw conclusions about which areas of the body are off of their regular energy flow.

If you are moving into Chinese medicine, expect your pulses to be checked. This is one of the main considerations in Chinese medicine, and is never over looked in the diagnosis. The art of checking the pulse in Chinese medicine is one of the main foundations for understanding how the internal Qi of someone is functioning.

Is Acupuncture For You?

Mendoza — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 17:16:56 +0000

Understanding the Benefits and the Risks

Usually, science driven societies are optimistic about the ideas linked to acupuncture and their effectiveness. Even though this ancient practice has become more known in the past ten years, it is still a procedure that is not completely understood. By understanding how the process is done, the possible side effects and the outcome, you can determine if this ancient Chinese medicine practice is right for you.

The experience of getting acupuncture done, despite what many think, is not as painful as it looks. Acupuncture is generally painless when you are going through the process. Usually, the effects will be no more noticeable than a mosquito bite, but this is even considered rare. Most likely, going through the process of acupuncture will either give you more energy or cause you to relax into a state of meditation.

During the procedure, you can expect the acupuncturist to be prepared with several practical things. The needles that are used will generally be of an inch to several inches long. The needles are made out of sterilized silver, stainless steel or copper and are considered safe by the same standards used in any hospital.

In order to ensure that the needles are safe, there are several places that will regulate what is being used. The National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine has a specific department that ensures that all needles that are used are sterile and safe. If you want to be certain, you can make sure that the acupuncturist you go to have a CNT, also known as a Clean Needle Technique Certification. This will ensure that there are no problems with the procedure in terms of other health issues.

Of course, there are still other risks that may occur. By standards of other procedures, acupuncture is not as risky. The most serious problem may be a punctured organ. However, these are uncommon with most practices. This is the only major problem that one may run into. Beyond this, the only possibilities for problems may be things such as dizziness, nausea or bruising.

If you are considering acupuncture as an option for any possible reason, you will also want to make sure you know exactly what you are getting into. Overall, acupuncture is considered to be a safe process, as well as helpful in relieving any kind of imbalance or misguided energy. Before walking into this ancient Chinese medicine practice, you will want to make sure that you know the procedure and the possible outcomes.

The Art of Needles: Acupuncture in Chinese Medicine

Mendoza — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 03:45:40 +0000

If you are like most, you may not see the pleasure in being treated with needles poking into your skin. However, to those in Chinese medicine, and to several who have discovered alternatives with holistic healing, this is the perfect remedy. The idea of acupuncture in Chinese medicine is important to help with healing the energy flow in someone.

Acupuncture is based off of the idea that there are certain points in the body that can help one to heal. When these points in the body receive extra pressure through a device, they will be able to assist with the healing. In the practice of Acupuncture, needles will be used as the major transports to reconnect the energy flow in the body.

The use of acupuncture begins by studying the various areas that the flows of energy are. These are known as meridians or channels in the body. The body has twelve major channels where energy will flow and cycle. The places where these channels connect are usually where energy can become blocked off. By using acupuncture, the connecting areas for the channels are examined and unblocked by pressuring the specific points.

Once one has found the connections for the acupuncture, then it is important to find the effects that all of these connections have. Each different point will have elements that are linked directly to what the body needs in order to stay balanced. These are specifically linked to the five elements that are considered to be the basis for the laws of the universe.

By finding the various channels and connections in the body, acupuncture specialists are able to find which areas of Qi are not flowing properly. This allows them to effect the way that the body flows in order to help restore and revitalize the energy levels in the body. By getting one into a better flow of their energy, they can achieve complete health.

Finding the Right Method for Healing: Chinese Medicine Hierarchy of Medicine

Mendoza — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:37:19 +0000

Chinese medicine is not based on the typical ideas and facts that you would see in every day doctor's offices. The science of Chinese medicine is based on philosophies of the spiritual being in tune to the mental and physical bodies. When all three of these are aligned, it allows for Qi, or energy, to move through your body without having any trouble. If you are looking for your own method to using Chinese medicine, there are several approaches you can take.

There are typically eight different methods of Chinese medicine that are used for healing. Each of these methods can be used simultaneously with others, depending on a person's Qi and what they need. Unlike Western medicine, none of these methods are invasive and have very low side effects. This means that you can try a variety of them on your own and find ones that work best for you.

The first types of category of methods that are used in Chinese medicine are self-administered methods. These are done by someone researching what they need and finding the necessary solutions. Meditation is a common method that can be used by anyone in order to facilitate healing. Practicing exercises with Qigong, an ancient form to move energy is also common. Exercise and changing your diet to balance out nutrition in a different form is also used as a self-administered method.

If you still are having trouble healing, you can use the second category of methods in order to get the proper alignment. These are the types of healing that are administered by a practitioner who has studied Chinese Medicine. Acupuncture is the most common type of healing that is done with the help of someone who is trained in the healing methods. There are also herbal medicine remedies that are used along with moxibustion. Moxibustion is the burning of herbs, instead of using them as a remedy, and is often associated with aromatherapy. Cupping, which is close to the practice of acupuncture or massage is also a common method that is done in order to get your Qi moving in the right direction again.

No matter what type of healing remedy you feel that you need, Chinese medicine can find an alternative and holistic approach to helping. If you are working towards better energy levels, feel ill or are looking for a new method to going to the doctor, than finding the right type of Chinese medicine as a method is an easy place to start without the side effects.

Connecting To Your Breath: Chinese Medicine as Meditation

Mendoza — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 04:20:29 +0000

The holistic approach to medicine doesn't just include sticking needles in your system or taking an extra set of herbs every day. It also consists of finding an approach to your life that will lead to a well rounded well being. If you are working towards healing, gaining energy or just feeling better about your every day life, than approaching Chinese medication is a great way to begin approaching your life differently.

Along with the diagnosis and assessments of your physical body, is the connection to the mind and spirit within Chinese medicine. Because this is an important concept in Chinese medication, meditation will often be used as a basis for many of the practices. This is especially seen in practices such as Qigong and Yoga, where meditation combines with physical movement in order to open the energy centers of the body.

If you are working towards achieving balance in your physical life, then you will want to begin by opening the body centers through meditation. Even though this is often considered a mental and spiritual practice, it will also affect you physically. The idea of breath in any Chinese medicine is important, as it clears several of your centers. This is one of the elements that are never ignored in Chinese medicine.

Not only will your breath begin to clear your body centers, but it is also proven that the meditation methods will help to improve other areas of your body. Scientific research has begun to study meditation and how its applications can directly affect your well being. When you breathe deeply, the extra oxygen will cleanse your system and will also move into areas of your body that need the extra oxygen. It will also begin to affect your nervous system by stimulating chemicals in your body. Over time, the meditation practices can detoxify your entire system, helping you to be more energized in your daily life.

If you are looking into the practices of Chinese medicine, you will also want to consider meditation. This practice can't be separated from Chinese medicine or holistic health. By approaching the mental and spiritual aspects of the medicine, as well as the physical, you will be able to enjoy a well-rounded approach towards the ancient medical practice.

The Beginnings of Traditional Chinese Medicine: Mixing Together Natural Remedies

Mendoza — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:48:27 +0000

Alternative medicine and holistic healing are based off of concepts and philosophies of an ancient science. At the root of many holistic practices are the philosophies and ideals that come from Chinese medicine. From the beginnings of this practice has been a growth in natural methods to help promote healing and balance.

The beginnings of Chinese medicine as a practice come from the year 800 BC. Even though this practice began before this, it was only recorded beginning in this year through a book known as the "Huang Di Nei Jeng" or "The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine." The methods that were used in this book were based around the herbal remedies that were most significant in helping with holistic healing.

The idea of this particular book was based off of the Yellow Emperor, one of the greatest rulers in Chinese history. He is thought to have lived in 4700 BC, and is often attributed as a mythical character with a status of royalty that provided inspiration to those living in the orient. It is through this mythical character that this book of medicine is still portrayed under, with the attribution to the Yellow Emperor's knowledge that was passed down holistically.

The beginning of this book included 12 prescriptions through herbs that were used with a combination of twenty-eight different ingredients. By the year 220 BC, the book had become so popular that medical services were established based around the remedies from the Yellow Emperor. The adjustments that were made from this book included detailed classifications of the herbs, how they worked, their strength and what their properties were for healing different ailments.

Overtime, new publications and philosophies were added onto this book in order to provide practitioners with new methods and substances to the basis of the Yellow Emperor's remedy book. These additions provided new insights and books, all the way into the 1700s with the contribution of the Theory of Herbal Medicine.

The ancient practices of Chinese medicine through herbal remedies are a true philosophy that shows how time withstands the ideas of holistic treatments. Through the growth of herbal practices, several in the East have found ways to provide insight and balances between different herbs for better practices to gain energy and balance in one's life.