ruby maalouf, nd
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM)
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Over 2,500 years old, this medical approach incorporates herbal medicines with various mind and body practices such as acupuncture & moxibustions, massage (Tui na), exercise (Qigong & Taichi) as well as dietary therapies.
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In TCM the body is a reflection of the surrounding universe in which two opposing forces (Yin and Yang) are constantly moving and changing while maintaining their oneness and mutually controlling each other. These two forces must be in balance and harmony for good health to be maintained. According the the theory of Yi-Yang, nature expresses itself in an endless cycle of polar opposites:
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The Yin: night, dark, moist, cold, calm, introvert and nurturing qualities
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The Yang: day, light, dry, warm, extrovert and active qualities
Based on these principals of Yin and Yang, the clinical manifestations of disease can be classified as follows:
Yin Disease Characteristics
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Cold, pale face
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Cold limbs and body
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Gradual onset, chronic condition
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Lingering disease
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Wants to curl up, be covered
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Needs to drink hot drinks
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Sleepiness, listlessness
Yang Disease Characteristics
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Heat, red face
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Hot limbs and body
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Rapid onset, acute disease
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Rapid evolution
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Wants to stretch out, be uncovered
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Needs to drink cold drinks
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Restlessness, insomnia
QI
According to TCM the body’s organs (Zang-fu) are connected through a network of channels: meridians and vessels, in which the Qi (the vital energy or life force) flows throught the body.
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There are 12 major meridians corresponding to the 12 organs and 8 extra meridians which interconnect with all the channels.
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The Qi circulates through all the meridians and their corresponding organs every 24 hrs and in this way it keeps the body healthy.
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According to TCM, a deficiency or stagnation of Qi is a cause for symptoms and illness.
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Acupressure & Acupuncture
Techniques through which points on the surface of the skin, which are directly associated with corresponding points along the meridians, are manipulated.
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The meridiens are in turn connected to bodily organs and functions. The stimulation of these points by way of needles, pressure or heat has been shown to effectively start the healing process of many health conditions.