Traditional Chinese Medicine Concepts Explained by Isaac Gutman, L.Ac. copyright 2022
What is Qi (pronounced Chi)
Perhaps the greatest conceptual difference between the Chinese medical model and the Western medical model is the existence of “Qi”. Qi is the vital life energy which animates plants and animals and gives them life. Qi is a form of nutrition in the body. Qi is embodied in various types, qualities, and quantities within the human body. Qi partners with blood and moves through meridians/channels in the body. The concept of Qi doesn’t exist in conventional or Western Medicine.
What are Meridians/Channels?
Our blood flows through arteries and veins, our Qi flows through meridians and channels. These are specific anatomical conduits for the Qi to flow which extend all throughout the body. Although not the same, there is generally thought to be some overlap between the Western anatomical model of arteries, veins and fascial planes, and the Chinese anatomical model of meridians and channels.
What is Yin & Yang?
Yin & Yang is a philosophical concept explaining the innate interconnected balancing of energies and matter in the Universe. Yin is the feminine manifestation. Yang is the masculine manifestation. Some commonly paired examples of Yin & Yang are:
· Darkness/Light
· Heavy/Light
· North/South
· Descending/Ascending
· Material/Ethereal
· Earth/Heaven
The blended qualities of Yin and Yang are found in all things, all people. Yin/Yang is considered the natural way or the balanced unfolding of life in the Universe. The harmonization of Yin & Yang within a person promotes good health and a better quality of life.
What are the Five Elements? What is Five Element Theory? What is their purpose?
Five Element Theory is a concept which explains the energetic workings and relationships of nature. As the famous Acupuncturist J.R. Worsley said, “The five elements, Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water are not just the foundation of this wonderful system of medicine: they are the foundation and spirit of all of Nature around us.” Humans are part of nature and within each of us is an energetic interplay of the five elements. “Every living thing and every person on the planet is a unique embodiment and combination of the five elements.”
Each element generates the other in eternal, fluid cycles expressed and analogous to the timely, seasonal continuance of nature. The human connection to this balanced, natural way of being promotes good health and wellness. Pathology exists where there is interruption in the natural cycle and relationships of the “Five Elements”. This illustrated in nature as well as people.
What is Acupuncture?
A precise system of medicine which balances the body’s energy and improves circulation by puncturing the skin at specific anatomical locations called “points”. Acupuncture points have specific functions and are effectively used in combinations depending on the diagnostic nature of the patient’s pathology. One time (single) use stainless steel needles which vary in length and gauge are inserted into the skin by the acupuncturist for effect. The acupuncturist assists people to improve their symptoms and bring their elemental energies into balance thus promoting health and wellbeing.
