The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Health

Throughout your fitness career, you’ll learn about many complementary therapies that will add another dimension to your personal training services.  So - is your Qi in balance today?  Qi is the term used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to describe the vital life energy that flows through the body. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM) has been around for over 2000 years and is part of an extensive system of medicine that includes massage, herbs, diet and exercise therapy.  The philosophy underpinning TCM is that two polar opposing forces called yin and yang move around the human body to establish balance.  If these two energies are not in balance, often disease will result. 

TCM has a complex set of principles and beliefs which guide the practitioner to choose the correct treatment for their client.  Westerners have been drawn to this mode of healing because of its holistic mind, body, spirit approach to wellness. 

TCM uses dietary advice and a form of exercise called ‘Qi Gong’ to optimise the flow of ‘Qi’ in the body.  Internal Qi-Gong uses a series of movements and breathing to circulate positive Qi in the body.  External Qi is the practise of transferring the practitioner’s Qi to the client in order to facilitate the healing process.   

Acupuncture is another modality used to manipulate and encourage the healthy flow of Qi through the body by the use of fine needles inserted into the body at different meridian points.  Some people report a reduction in emotional issues such as anxiety or sadness, and have better sleep after energy blockages have been cleared.  

TCM utilises Herbal Therapy which involves the use of various herbs that contain specific medicinal and healing properties given to the client relevant to their prognosis. These may be administered in the form of a powder, tea or pill supplement.  They are very effective in helping a client to resolve a health problem, achieve balance and promote overall wellness. 

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