Traditional Chinese Medicine Explained

The 5 pillars of TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM for short, is a therapy method that is thousands of years old and views the human being as a unity of body and mind. In this system, there is no separation between the body and mind; both aspects constantly influence each other. This holistic approach is reflected in the way TCM understands and treats health and illness.

Video: Traditional Chinese Medicine Explained

When we are physically unwell, we are often not emotionally balanced either. Conversely, emotional stress can also have a negative effect on our body, which can manifest itself in symptoms such as tiredness, exhaustion, back pain or neck tension. TCM understands these interactions and offers comprehensive therapeutic approaches to restore the balance between body and mind.

The treatment methods of TCM are diverse and include acupuncture, herbal therapy, Tuina massage, Qigong and nutritional advice. These methods are not only applied by the doctor, but also require the active participation of the patient. For example, patients are expected to perform certain exercises regularly at home or adjust their dietary habits to support the healing process.

The TCM system is based on the principle of personal responsibility. The doctor provides support, makes a clear diagnosis and develops a treatment plan, but the patient must also take action themselves. The "homework" can include, for example, special movement exercises, the use of acupressure techniques or the intake of herbal preparations. These tasks aim to keep the energy (Qi) in the body in balance and thus prolong the effect of the therapy.

The philosophy of TCM also emphasizes the prevention of disease. It is not only about treating diseases when they occur, but also about promoting a healthy lifestyle that prevents illness. This includes maintaining a harmonious balance between work and leisure, a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Overall, TCM provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and treating health problems, taking into account both the physical and psychological aspects of human well-being. Its principles and practices are deeply rooted in Chinese culture and are increasingly recognized and applied worldwide.

There are 5 basic pillars Or therapeutic methods on which TCM is based. These are:

the Acupuncture, i.e. therapy with needles.
herbal therapy, which is carried out with various natural Chinese herbs strives for a harmony between Yin and Yang and the 5 elements.
the massage or Acupressurewhich is activated by finger pressure on Acupuncture Points the life energy Qi to the Meridians brings back into flow.
The fourth pillar is the Qi Gong, a movement art that translates as, "working with the energy of life".
Last "but not least" the Nutrition, here in particular according to the principles of the 5 elements.

The five pillars complement each other perfectly and together form a harmonious and holistic system. When they are carefully coordinated, they open up the potential to make a significant contribution to people's health and quality of life. This synergetic combination allows the individual elements to develop their full effect, leading to a significant increase in well-being and holistic health promotion. This promotes not only physical, but also mental and spiritual balance, which is essential for a fulfilled and healthy life. Taken together, these five pillars enable a comprehensive view and treatment of the individual, with the well-being of the individual at the center.

All things have the feminine behind them and the masculine in front of them. When masculine and feminine unite, things come into harmony.

The 5 pillars of Traditional Chinese Medicine explained

The 5 pillars of TCM

Acupuncture

Our life energyQi flows in the body along meridians. If the flow in these meridians is disturbed, blockages occur and, as a result, diseases can arise. Acupuncture resolves such disturbances by inserting needles into acupuncture points, which cause the Qi to flow again.

How acupuncture works

Cup surrounded by several herbs from TCM

The 5 pillars of TCM

Herbal therapy

Plants and minerals form the basis of Chinese herbal therapy. This pillar is called the queen of TCM, because it has a very powerful effect on the body when used correctly. Nowadays there are modern ways to take the herbs, which are very easy to use in everyday life.

TCM herbs, and what you should know about them

The 5 pillars of TCM

Acupressure

Massage has been used in TCM for thousands of years as a natural form of treatment. In Tuina, the Chinese healing massage, blockages and hardenings are released by kneading, stroking, grasping and tapping. In acupressure, precisely defined acupressure points are worked on by means of pressure.

Acupressure: Application & Effect

Young man with long hair looks up right with relaxed look and closed eyes

The 5 pillars of TCM

Qi Gong

Body and breathing exercises are very common in the eastern culture. Qi Gong means "working with the energy of life". These are special physical exercises that, together with conscious breathing, vitalize the body as a whole by stimulating the Qi. These exercises are very easy to perform, regardless of age.

What is Qigong - simply explained

The 5 pillars of TCM

Nutrition

Nutrition according to the 5 elements, is a simple way to balance your energy 3 times a day. Let your food be your medicine is the guiding principle here. When the rest of the pillars are supported by a good diet, a person's recovery and healing is much easier. Food is one of the most important sources of energy for man.

Learn more now