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Philosophy of Chinese Medicine
Oriental
medicine focuses on nourishing a functional and well-designed system. Here in the west, we are much more familiar with chasing the symptoms that are the result of a failure of the system. To work in the Chinese way requires an understanding of “qi.” This is an elusive term that is impossible to translate and difficult to define. Whether it can be pinned down or not, the presence or absence of qi is easily identified.
Without strong, freely-flowing qi you are left vulnerable, weak, and unable to cope with the multitude of invasions virtually lurking everywhere. Recirculated air, unfamiliar foods, traumatic injuries, anything that challenges our health is called “vicious qi.” If the invading force is strong and the qi is weak, the Chinese say that an “unwanted guest” may enter the house. Why is it that the unwanted guest constantly disrupts the lives of some and goes unnoticed by others? Building righteous qi prevents the unwanted guest from draining energy and causing chaos in the body, mind, or spirit.
Chinese medical philosophy is highly tuned to seasonal shifts and it would benefit us to pay attention and anticipate their effect. During the fall, we begin to move indoors and here we encounter another demand on our systems. We are literally stepping into an incubation chamber. It can be found in classrooms and shopping malls anywhere people gather. Using heaters and fireplaces to stay warm causes alternate cold and dry heat that results in dehydration – another invasion.
Experience the distinction between chasing symptoms and strengthening righteous qi. While battling symptoms, an inordinate amount of energy is spent attacking the invasive factors that are seen as the cause of the illness.The resultant symptoms are branches of the disease and only they are addressed while the root is ignored. We are offered antihistamines to open nasal passages, suppressants to quiet a cough, pain relievers to handle body aches. Side effects are often part of the process like feeling buzzed, drained, or dried up.
Building righteous qi supports the idea that you can be in charge of your life and not live in a prison of expectations and stress. Obligations give way to creativity and then become endeavors that are more fulfilling. With health and strong qi there is movement and the unwanted guest cannot penetrate. When strengthening the system, you do not stimulate, stifle, or eliminate, but rather bring about balance at the deepest levels.
The body is a good design. When functioning at its optimum level the unwanted guest has no chance to move in and invade. With righteous qi the symptoms are taken care of by the appropriate system be it digestive, immunological, or simply raw constitutional strength.
Now is a good time to take advantage of the fabulous benefits of the Chinese system of herbology. It’s the way to learn about yourself and what influences your well-being. Think back to that group of people you were studying. Can you pick out who will be sick tomorrow? You will certainly be able to identify those who won’t be by assessing who has strong qi.
Chinese traditional music |
