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Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a complete system of healthcare developed and refined over more than two thousand years. It rests on a coherent body of theory – yin and yang, the five elements, the vital substances and the organ and channel systems – and expresses that theory through acupuncture, herbal medicine, tuina, dietary therapy and exercise such as qigong and tai chi. Explore the core theories and related practices below.
☯Yin and YangThe complementary opposites whose dynamic balance underlies health, disease and the whole of Chinese medical theory.Explore →❖The Five ElementsWood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water – how the organs, emotions and nature generate and control one another.Explore →⚛The Vital SubstancesQi, Blood, Body Fluids, Essence (Jing) and Spirit (Shen) – the fundamental ingredients of life.Explore →☸The Zang-Fu OrgansThe yin (solid) and yang (hollow) organ systems and their physical, energetic and emotional roles.Explore →☉The Meridian SystemThe channels and collaterals through which qi and blood circulate to the whole body.Explore →⚲TCM DiagnosisThe four examinations – looking (incl. tongue), hearing/smelling, asking, and palpation (incl. pulse).Explore →✋Tuina MassageChinese therapeutic massage and bodywork, a hands-on branch of Chinese medicine.Explore →☀Chinese ExercisesQigong, tai chi and other exercises for cultivating qi, health and longevity.Explore →☳DaoismThe philosophical roots from which much of Chinese medicine and self-cultivation grew.Explore →