What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

What are the fundamental principles of TCM?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the fundamental understanding that each individual has vital life force energy, known as qi, flowing through their body in distinct pathways called meridians. Hundreds of acupoints are located along the meridian pathways. Practitioners believe that when the flow of energy through the meridians is disrupted by injury, illness, lifestyle factors, or emotional stress, a person may start to experience unpleasant symptoms. Stimulating the acupoints promotes a balanced, smooth flow of qi to restore function, reduce symptoms, and improve overall health and wellbeing.

Role of acupoints

Each acupoint has a specific function, based on its relationship to the meridian and organ system, the local anatomical region, and other aspects of TCM theory. Because the body is connected by virtue of the meridians, stimulating an acupoint on one part of the body is believed to create a modulating, healing impact on other body regions.