When the World Health Organisation (WHO) first began to endorse indigenous healing systems, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was on the top of the list. This is hardly surprising as its influence has spread further and wider than any other form of alternative therapy Many spa treatments around the world have their roots in the ancient Chinese healing traditions. While practices vary due to the availability of ingredients and the skills of individual therapists, the fundamental concepts are very much the same.
TCM embraces the classic Taoist belief of a holistic and preventive approach to health by focusing on diet, exercise, and spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Taoism is the fundamental healthcare philosophy that has been used by Chinese physicians, monks and meditators for more than 5,000 years, and with the present shift from Western thinking to a more integrative mind and body approach, it remains as relevant today as it was in classical China.
According to Taoism, the universe exists as a unified whole, comprising two opposing yet complementary forces known as yin and yang. It is the interplay between these forces that governs qi, the vital energy that flows along a network of channels or meridians to empower each and every organ in the body. Together with jing (essence) and shen (mind or spirit), they comprise the ‘Three Treasures’ that work in unison to maintain a person’s physical, spiritual and emotional health. The real beauty and benefit of TCM is that it treats the body as a whole, and aims to prevent illness by maintaining overall health and balance.
From massage therapy to acupuncture, moxibustion, herbal remedies and qigong, the practice of these ancient traditions continues to be encouraged, not only as healing procedures, but as an essential component to preserve vitality, longevity and good health.