Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM )
From the introduction mentioned on the previous page, we can easily see that the Yin Yang principles, the Five Elements Theory form the fundamental basis of TCM. And Qi is a form of the Yin and Yang. It is a symbolical of the entirety, the unity and a condition of the continuous changing of the Yin and Yang. It circulates in our body together with our blood and nutrients via the channels, i.e. the meridians. It keeps us healthy and alive. As long as the Yin Yang in our body is balanced, the Qi can flow smoothly and hence a relative equilibrium is maintained and our health is guaranteed. Otherwise we may become depressed, unhappy and or experience the physically pain.
There are in total twelve regular JingMai ( meridians) which are named respectively by the name of their related viscera or bowels. Thus each JingMai is connected with an interne organ. Furthermore there are eight QiJingBaMai and lots of small branches, "QiJing" means "strange route" and "BaMai" eight routes, i.e. Eight Extra Meridians, which don't have the direct connection with the internal organs. Yet, they take a great importance to the aspect of governing, concepting, perceiving, conceiving, supporting, strengthening and regulating the human body as an organic whole.
The diagnosis of TCM is based on an overall analysis of symptoms and signs, and an integral approaching of the unity and entirety of the human body and soul. In most cases, a treatment principle is made by this as a rule.
There are four diagnostic methods which have ever been summarized as four words in TCM study books in China as Wang Wen Wen Qie, also as Inspection, Listening and smelling, Interrogation and Palpation. Besides, the tongue and pulse diagnose also play important roles. Because they connect directly or indirectly with the meridian and internal organs. In other words the conditions of the essence of the organs can be manifested in the tongue and pulse. That is to say the energy level in an organs and the "organic whole" can be observed through them.
And yet, nowadays a TCM therapist gains more profit from combining the information from the Western Medicine world, to make a more clear understanding about an imbalance in the body.
