Its techniques have existed since the age of time and are known to optimize your mental well-being.
But what exactly is traditional Chinese medicine and should you practice it?
But there are other methods, from herbal medicine to acupuncture, that can treat anxiety and stress-related disorders.
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What Is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM uses a combination of methods to identify and treat deficiencies and imbalances in the body.
A persons TCM treatment is unique and customized to their needs.
She adds that TCM can treat mood issues, no matter how they came to be.
For example, say you’re experiencing moodiness from pre-menstrual syndrome or depression from the death of a friend.
TCM can treat these symptoms equally, despite their different causes.
Different patterns dictate which herbal medicine can improve their mental and emotional well-being.
For example, most liver and heart patterns are connected to one’s emotions.
These herbs help restore energy balance and help with opposing forces of energy.
Oravitz explains that acupuncture can support overall well-being through the release of stagnation.
Acupuncture can help regulate the nervous system by stimulating deep relaxation during treatments.
Acupressure
Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body.
These points correspond to the same meridians, the channels through which our Qi flows, used in acupuncture.
By stimulating these points, acupressure aims to promote balance and improve the flow of energy within the body.
During an acupressure session, pressure is typically applied using fingers, thumbs, palms, or specialized tools.
The pressure may be gentle or firm, depending on the individuals tolerance and the specific condition being treated.
It can help alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting relaxation and reducing tension.
Some practitioners perform moxibustion in the clinic, while others teach patients how to do it at home.
Regular practice of Qi Gong can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote emotional stability.
Practicing Tai Chi can help promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function.
Dietary Therapy
According to TCM principles,certain foods can have a significant impact on mental health.
Tuina massage can help release tension, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve insomnia and sleep quality.
Feng Shui
Feng Shuiis the practice of arranging your environment to promote harmony and balance.
Mindfulness and Meditation
TCM emphasizes the importance ofmindfulness and meditationpractices to create inner peace and mental clarity.
Engaging inmindfulness meditationregularly can help reduce stress, enhance self-awareness, and improve emotional resilience.
Either approach is fine.
If youre looking to explore TCM therapies, Dr. Fisher suggests finding a practitioner you connect with.
Practitioners have different ways of looking at health, philosophy, medicine, and the world.
Be sure to go with one that is professionally licensed and registered in the specific modality they are providing.
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