The Future of Traditional Chinese
Medicine in the Western World
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Mind-Body Medicine
will play a major role in our future Health Care System. It is a cost-effective
holistic approach which avoids toxic and expensive drugs. The beauty of
the system is that it extends far beyond the acute disease and manages the
mind, body and spirit as a continuum, including the person's relationship
with their environment. Management can include acupuncture to balance energy
flow along meridians, herbs to balance the 5 elements, nutritional advice,
massage (Shiatsu) and exercises (such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi). The principles
of Chinese Medicine are based on the Chinese religious philosophy of Taoism
which views the Universe as pure potentiality with spiritual satisfaction
achieved by respecting balance (determined by the relative contribution
of Yin and Yang). You do not have to be a follower of Taoism to reap the
benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine, although many patients become
interested once they have experienced the benefits.
Maintenance of Health
Corporations will enroll their staff in Tradional
Chinese Medicine and Mind-Body Health Programs to maintain the physical,
mental and spiritual health of their employees, thereby avoiding costly
days off sick. Major benefits include increased immunity, thereby reducing
the risk of developing colds and influenza, and a reduction in work-related
injuries, stress and burn-out. Programs to quit smoking and control weight
have clear benefits.
Further Reading
Manifesto For a New Medicine: Your Guide to Healing
Partnerships and the Wise Use of Alternative Therapies. James S. Gordon
MD, 1996. Addison Wesley.ISBN 0-201-89828-4.