Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): a centuries-old medical practice originating in ancient Chinese culture. Its basic concept is that a vital force of life, called Qi, surges through the body. Any imbalance to Qi can cause disease and illness. This imbalance is most commonly thought to be caused by an alteration in the opposite and complementary forces that make up the Qi, called Yin and Yang. TCM is rooted in the concept that humans are microcosms of the larger surrounding universe, and are interconnected with nature and subject to its forces. Balance between health and disease is a key concept. TCM treatment seeks to restore this balance through treatment specific to the individual and finding equilibrium between the internal body organs and the external elements of earth, fire, water, wood, and metal. Practice of TCM includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, moxibustion, electrical stimulation, food/diet therapy and lifestyle guidance.
Acupuncture: the insertion of thin, solid, sterile, stainless steel needles at specific points in the body in order to restore balance and order to the Qi throughout the body.
Balance: optimal health in TCM is achieved when Qi, Yin and Yang are in balance. The goal of TCM is to increase or decrease the various Qis in the body to balance yin and yang via acupuncture, herbs, diet therapy and lifestyle guidance.
Blood: considered in TCM as more than a red liquid substance in the body. Blood helps to transport Qi and therefore it is understood that it carries inherent energy.
Meridians: channels where Qi, blood and fluids move throughout the body. In good health, these all flow smoothly within the meridians. Like Qi, you cannot see the meridians.
Qi (pronounced chee): our life force or energy. Qi is an invisible force known only by its effects. It is the source of all movement in the body. It protects the body. Qi travels through the body via meridians, or channels.
Yang: our masculine, warming, rising, light energy and is the counterpart of Yin.
Yin: our feminine, cooling, introspective energy. It is the counterpart of Yang.