An Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient practice that brings the individual into a state of harmony. Traditional Chinese Medicine treats a variety of diseases. A skilled TCM practitioner will use the following modalities to bring their patient into balance:

1. Meditation – allows the individual to recognize imbalance and naturally correct it before it leads to disease. Modern research continues to support the use of meditation as therapy.
2. Exercise / Lifestyle – The healthy movement or Qi (or energy) and the use of this energy throughout our lives is an important consideration in TCM. A TCM practitioner will discuss the daily activities which best cultivate wellness for each unique individual.
3. Traditional Food Cures / Dietary Therapy – Food is medicine! Daily prescriptions of very specific foods are given to patients to achieve a therapeutic result. Often more general dietary guidelines are given to encourage balance.
4. Astrology/ Feng Shui – Timing & placement are important considerations in TCM! A TCM practitioner will encourage the patient to make certain changes to their living arrangement or work environment and will closely examine their daily rhythm. Timing is everything.
5. Herbal Medicine – has been effectively used for thousands of years. Modern research continues to support the use of traditional herbal formulas in the treatment of disease.
6. Acupuncture & Moxibustion – are the most famous modalities of Traditional Chinese Medicine! Acupuncture uses very fine needles and moxibustion uses heat to stimulate points located on meridians.
7. Massage/ Acupressure/ Cupping – are mechanical techniques that help bring the patient into a balanced state. Often these techniques are used with children or to enhance the effectiveness other modalities.
8. Modern & Complimentary Therapies – compliment any traditional treatment! The TCM practitioner will use a multitude of new therapies that support the Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis and treatment plan.

If you are interested in having a TCM appointment, please book with TCM practitioner Matthew Norick, by contacting us at 306-543-HEAL to set up an appointment.