An Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory

Traditional Chinese medicine (or TCM for short) principles date back thousands of years and are effective in various oriental healing practices like acupuncture and shiatsu as well as many integrated individual modalities. This article will introduce the basic principles of traditional Chinese medicine and how it can be useful to your healing.

TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) has been in use for literally thousands of years. It is a deep rooted medical practice that uses nature as it's model. It is one of the oldest healing modalities in use today. The five elements and the body as a whole play a vital role in traditional Chinese medicine practices. Such healing modalities include, acupuncture, acupressure, shiatsu, Chinese herbal therapy & Chinese psychology. All are based within the same healing tradition. It is vital that the practitioner have a good working and personal understanding of TCM as it is the basis of these practices.

TCM is based on 4 main theories of practice. Those being Yin and Yang theory, the meridians, the 5 element theory and most importantly the theory of Qi.

The following is a brief description of each theory as it applies to Chinese healing modalities.

Qi- Qi is what translates in the western world to "life force" or life energy. It is the energy that makes up everything. It is our bodies, minds, emotions as well as everything around us. Within the body Qi flows throw the 12 meridians of the body. Each meridian represents and affects it's organ system. This energy can manifest in emotional, physical and energetically. Within the Qi the practitioner can sense energetically if the energy is jitsu or kyo. Using the meridian, pressure points and other various methods the Chine medicine practitioner can bring the body back into balance. This balance is desired for optimal balance of Qi.

The 12 Meridians- There are 12 pathways called meridians in the body. These pathways are like channels that your Qi runs through. Any stagnation or concentration of Qi can leave the body out of balance. Both physically and physiologically. The 12 meridians of the body are; Liver, Spleen, Heart, Lung, Triple Burner, Stomach, Bladder, Large Intestine, Small Intestine, Skin, Gallbladder, Kidneys. Each meridian not only makes up it's own individual organ system but also rules certain emotions, physical ailments,etc. Along the meridians there are points called pressure points. These points are concentrations of QI (or energy) along the meridians. Each point also represents something specific along the meridian and can be used for various treatments and to disperse energy.

The Five Element Theory- The 5 element thoery is one that represents the whole of everything. From weather, to people to the organ systems. Each element represents not only a time of day, season or organ system but also on an energetic level a deep understanding of the laws of nature. Within each element (As with any system) there is an inert relationship called Mother and Child. This balance is the basis of everything in existence and represents the energy when it is out of balance. In order for each system to function correctly Mother and Child must be in continual harmony. The 5 elements of TCM are Wood, Metal, Fire, Earth & Water. TCM Is not an easy concept to grasp and takes years to fully understand and be able to implement in a healing modality.

Yin and Yang theory- Contrary to popular belief Yin and Yang do not represent light and dark or good and evil. Rather it represents a interconnectedness and interdependence. Without one the other would not exist. Yin is considered male and Yang female. They exist in harmony. This harmony is the basis of Yin and Yang theory. When this harmony is interrupted as in the human body it can interrupt ones flow of Qi resulting in illness, physical ailments, emotional issues and more.

Traditional Chinese medicine theory is a bit complex yet on it's own simple. With these 4 main theories or core ideals it makes up a wider medical system. One that has proven effective for thousands of years. It is now a science and it takes nature and let's that guide us. From the seasons, weather and the elements. Everything is interconnected and the effects of one don't happen with out anything else within the system feeling it.

For more information on traditional Chinese medicine there are many books available on the subject as a whole or each individual theory. You can also find a school or practitioner nearby if you are inclined to learn more.