More people today than ever before are searching for ways to improve health, boost energy, reduce stress and restore functionality. They also want to relieve pain, balance emotions and sharpen their mental focus. Due to the busyness of modern life, people are looking for simple ways that don’t take up a lot of time. You may consider Chinese healing techniques if you haven’t yet found the right thing for you.
Chinese healing exercises are a branch in Chinese medicine. They are almost never taught separately, but they’re used by many of the practices that you may be familiar with. Some of them are part of ancient Chinese medical practices such as tuina (a type of Chinese massage therapy) and acupressure. Some of these practices have ancient origins, including Chinese yoga and meditation. Others are based on spiritual or self-healing practices. These exercises are often taught alongside more complex and detailed practices such as taiji, qigong, and other advanced martial, medical, and spiritual practices. They can be used to help students prepare for more difficult disciplines or to make certain aspects of these practices easier. Some sources, such as medical qigong or paidagong (a tapping and patting method used to release qi blockages), are not well-known in the West.
If you have a taiji, qigong or similar practice, Chinese healing exercises will enhance the benefits. They will help you to open up areas of physical or energy restriction, improve your sensitivity to the qi sensations and increase your qi circulation.
Chinese healing exercises and their benefits
They improve openness and flexibility.
Flexibility and openness are different. By opening a joint, or by expanding the body cavity, we can increase internal space. Flexibility is more about making the muscles more flexible, limber and free to move. Stretching in a linear or rotational manner, or by combining the two methods can increase flexibility and openness. Chinese stretching exercises can have a strong influence on a specific acupuncture meridians or meridian (clear energy pathways that are associated with health functions) by promoting the flow of qi through them.
As a side effect, openness can be increased by passive joint mobilization and range-of-motion exercises. It can also increase through self-massage and acupressure techniques. These methods are all included in Chinese healing techniques.
They disperse stagnation of qi.
Qi stagnation can be caused by injury, illness or inactivity. It may also occur as a result of prolonged emotional states, unfriendly environments, poor diet, or pharmaceutical drugs. Qi stagnation can cause mild to moderate pain and reduce functionality. It may also be caused by some injuries, or if it persists for a long time.
Chinese healing exercises use acupressure, massage and direct pressure on stagnant areas to address qi. This pressure disperses and frees localized stagnation. Paidagong sends waves of qi along meridian paths or from the surface to the interior of the body, breaking up stagnation.
You will feel more energized if you have regained access to your healthy qi. This qi will then improve your overall health and functionality of your body.
They normalize the flow directionality of Qi.
Qi that flows in the opposite direction of its normal flow can cause health problems. A rebellious stomach Qi is an easy example to understand. Normal stomach qi is downward, allowing digested foods to be sent into the intestines. When stomach qi rebels, symptoms can range from mild hiccups or belching to severe nausea and vomit. In some of the gentlest qi-guiding exercises, a very light touch is used in conjunction with mental focus to direct the qi flow in a health-supporting direction. This example would be to quell rebellious qi.
They increase blood flow through the capillaries and major vessels, as well as the microcirculation in tiny capillaries. This nourishes all of your cells.
Some of the more vigorous exercises can function as conventional cardiovascular/aerobic exercises. Since ‘the Qi is commander of the Blood’ This is a well-known Chinese medicine precept. All the exercises described above that improve qi also increase blood flow. Blood is the carrier of oxygen, nutrients and qi throughout your body. It also removes toxic waste products from cellular metabolism and reduces inflammation, which is the root cause of most chronic diseases. Blood stasis can occur if qi flow has been impaired for a long time or due to trauma. Blood stasis can be very painful and set the stage for serious illnesses such as cancer. Blood flow is important to prevent many diseases. It nourishes body tissues and improves flexibility.
They calm the mind and create mental focus.
Simple meditation techniques that also use breathing and mindful awareness are the most obvious ways to promote calmness. When a person is pain-free, they are less distracted by the pain. They can also use more qi. It is believed in Chinese medicine that each organ has a specific emotional relationship. Upsetting emotions can arise when the organ is not in balance. When the organs are working properly, which they will be when supported by more freely flowing qi and a greater amount of blood, emotions will be balanced and harmonious.
Why include Chinese healing exercises in your daily life?
It’s easy to do.
These exercises are suitable for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. The exercises are all very gentle. Even the harder ones can be modified to make them easier. Even if you stick to a few simple exercises, they will have a significant impact on your health.
They are very quick.
You can perform healing exercises in just 1 to 2 minutes and still get all the benefits specified for each. These exercises are great for when you want something quick and easy.
They can be completely customized.
You do not have to adhere to a set routine. You can create a program tailored to you by selecting only the exercises which are relevant for your situation. You’ll feel more motivated to practice if you can see improvements in your performance almost instantly.
They’re convenient.
These exercises are perfect for breaks at work, school or home. They can help reduce stress, boost your energy or solve a problem. No special clothing is required, nor do you need to visit a yoga or gym studio.
They work!
The exercises developed over the course of thousands of years have proven to be effective. After so much development and research, only the most effective, practical and efficient exercises have survived and created this remarkable self-care system.
By Steven Cardoze, MSC, LAc
The post Tips for Living a Longer, Healthier Life first appeared on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do we mean by complementary medicine?
Complementary Medicine refers to any medical treatment that works in conjunction with mainstream medicine. This covers treatments such as acupuncture (aromatherapy), chiropractic care, homeopathy and hypnosis.
Complementary medicines are not used instead of conventional medicine but rather alongside it. They are sometimes called “alternative”, and “integrative”, as they combine Western science methods with other healing approaches.
What Is Alternative Medicine?
It is an approach to healing that focuses on prevention rather than cure. It encourages people be educated consumers, actively participating in their own health and well being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn’t use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
What is the difference in holistic and traditional medicine?
Traditional medicine only treats symptoms. Holistic medicine treats the entire person. Holistic medicine treats the whole person rather than just treating one aspect.
Traditional medicine treats only certain organs or systems (such the brain), while holistic medicine looks at all aspects of the body, from the inside out. It also considers how lifestyle choices can affect overall wellness.
Who uses alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is often used for many reasons.
- They would prefer to avoid any surgery or harmful drugs.
- They believe natural remedies work better.
- They prefer non-invasive therapies.
- They are looking to spend less.
- They feel safer using natural products.
- They desire greater control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They desire a better environment.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They desire greater control over their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their child to receive a better educational experience.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They want safe, effective drugs.
What are the five domains of integrative medical care?
The five domains that make up integrative medicine are mind-body (nutrition, social determinants), lifestyle, and prevention. These five areas cover all aspects of health care including spiritual, physical, and environmental well being.
Integrative medicine provides a comprehensive approach to the treatment of disease, health, and well-being. It can include conventional medical treatments, as well as complementary therapies, such as acupuncture or yoga, meditation, massage therapy and herbal medicine.
Which types of treatment should not be considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person as a healing approach, rather than just the symptoms. It promotes health and prevents disease.
Holistic medicine employs natural remedies like herbs, homeopathy, acupuncture, and surgery instead of using drugs and surgeries.
Holistic medicine refers to lifestyle changes like exercise, diet and meditation.
Holistic medicine is often called integrative medicine because it integrates all aspects of a patient’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention as well as early detection of diseases and encourages healthy lifestyles.
Holistic doctors believe there is no single cause of any condition. Instead, they look at the entire picture, including genetic factors, environmental influences, lifestyle choices, and personal habits.
Holistic practitioners emphasize the mind and emotions more than the body.
Holistic physicians collaborate closely with their patients in order to determine the best fit for each individual.
How safe is holistic medicine.
Holistic medicines can be safe as they don’t contain harmful drugs and are natural remedies that people have used for centuries.
Many illnesses have been treated with them, including arthritis, chronic pain and asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes (heart disease), obesity, depression anxiety, stress, insomnia, infertility, and sexual dysfunction.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy. It also includes chiropractic care. Herbal treatments. Massage therapy. Yoga. Meditation. Hypnosis. Nutrition. Counseling. Exercise. These therapies are holistic and treat the person as a whole, not the symptoms.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise and rise in complementary and alternative medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
nccih.nih.gov
liebertpub.com
doi.org
How To
How to make a career in Holistic Medicine
The field of holistic medicine is growing at an unprecedented rate. There are many paths you can take to this career. If you want to be a part of this profession, however, returning to school may be the best option.
Many schools offer programs in holistic medicine. One of these schools is the National College for Complementary Medicines, which offers both undergraduate degrees and postgraduate programs. They also have several programs designed specifically for medical professionals who wish to enter the field.
Many online universities also offer classes in holistic health. One such program is called the Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN). This institution provides students with various holistic health education tools and resources.
Another option is to go to a traditional four-year college. Many colleges offer holistic health courses. The University of California, for example, offers a Bachelor’s degree in holistic health sciences.
A nutrition course is recommended if you intend to pursue a career involving holistic medicine. NCCM recommends students take courses in nutrition before beginning any professional training. According to them, integrative medicine practitioners need to have a solid understanding of nutrition science.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person, not just symptoms. This requires more knowledge and skills than conventional medicine. Holistic medicine also requires understanding of how to evaluate different types and illnesses from a nutritional standpoint.
According to the NCCM, nutritionists often collaborate with doctors to offer dietary advice to patients. Some will even suggest supplements or diets based on the patient’s specific condition.
The fundamental principles of nutrition are essential for holistic practitioners. This includes understanding the nutritional content of foods. It can also include identifying nutritional deficiencies or other problems that might be causing them.
It is important to know that holistic practitioners may not be experts in nutrition. Some focus exclusively on herbal treatments, others only on acupuncture. Some people combine these two approaches into a single treatment.
However, most holistic practitioners recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains. They encourage eating plenty of seafood and fish. They advise avoiding processed food products and fast food restaurants. They encourage people to eat only organic produce as much as possible.
Holistic practitioners agree that a healthy diet can prevent illness. There are however some things they disagree on. For instance, they don’t believe that gluten causes celiac disease. They believe that the disorder is caused by a deficiency of nutrients.
However, they are all in agreement that allergic reactions can occur with certain foods. Anaphylaxis can also be caused by peanuts or shellfish. They also caution against excessive caffeine intake.
Many holistic practitioners are able to use herbs to treat many illnesses. They avoid the use of pharmaceutical drugs. This is because they feel that such substances only mask the problem instead of solving it. Therefore, natural remedies are preferred.
Holistic practitioners are not only able to offer alternative therapies but also employ many complementary methods. These include:
- Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves strategically placing needles in the skin. It’s believed that this stimulates the body’s healing mechanism.
- Herbal therapy – This is a form of acupuncture that holistic practitioners also use to treat different disorders. Ginseng, a popular herb for this purpose, is one of the most common.
- Homeopathy – A type of traditional Chinese medicine that is based upon the principle that similar cures work, homeopathy. Let’s say you experience the same symptoms as someone suffering from a specific illness. You should seek the same ingredients in the original remedy.
- Massage therapy – Many holistic practitioners offer massage to promote relaxation and stress reduction. They claim it improves blood circulation, increases energy levels, and relieves muscle tension.
It is important to find a practitioner who meets your needs when choosing one. If you want someone specializing in nutritional counseling, look for a practitioner with a degree in nutrition. The American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM) has a certification program that allows you to learn more about acupuncture.
Ask your doctor any questions you may have about holistic care. It is also a good idea to talk to your insurance company to find out which services are covered.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Caralin Walsh
Title: Tips for Living a Longer and Healthier Life
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/aging/tips-for-living-a-longer-and-healthier-life/
Published Date: Sun, 28 May 2023 20:00:55 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What do we mean by complementary medicine?
Complementary Medicine refers to any medical treatment that works in conjunction with mainstream medicine. This covers treatments such as acupuncture (aromatherapy), chiropractic care, homeopathy and hypnosis.
Complementary medicines are not used instead of conventional medicine but rather alongside it. They are sometimes called “alternative”, and “integrative”, as they combine Western science methods with other healing approaches.
What Is Alternative Medicine?
It is an approach to healing that focuses on prevention rather than cure. It encourages people be educated consumers, actively participating in their own health and well being.
Alternative medicine is any method of diagnosis and treatment that doesn’t use conventional (allopathic) medical methods.
What is the difference in holistic and traditional medicine?
Traditional medicine only treats symptoms. Holistic medicine treats the entire person. Holistic medicine treats the whole person rather than just treating one aspect.
Traditional medicine treats only certain organs or systems (such the brain), while holistic medicine looks at all aspects of the body, from the inside out. It also considers how lifestyle choices can affect overall wellness.
Who uses alternative medicine
Alternative medicine is often used for many reasons.
- They would prefer to avoid any surgery or harmful drugs.
- They believe natural remedies work better.
- They prefer non-invasive therapies.
- They are looking to spend less.
- They feel safer using natural products.
- They desire greater control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to take responsibility for their health.
- They desire a better environment.
- They desire less stress in the lives of others.
- They desire greater control over their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their child to receive a better educational experience.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They want safe, effective drugs.
What are the five domains of integrative medical care?
The five domains that make up integrative medicine are mind-body (nutrition, social determinants), lifestyle, and prevention. These five areas cover all aspects of health care including spiritual, physical, and environmental well being.
Integrative medicine provides a comprehensive approach to the treatment of disease, health, and well-being. It can include conventional medical treatments, as well as complementary therapies, such as acupuncture or yoga, meditation, massage therapy and herbal medicine.
Which types of treatment should not be considered holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine focuses on the whole person as a healing approach, rather than just the symptoms. It promotes health and prevents disease.
Holistic medicine employs natural remedies like herbs, homeopathy, acupuncture, and surgery instead of using drugs and surgeries.
Holistic medicine refers to lifestyle changes like exercise, diet and meditation.
Holistic medicine is often called integrative medicine because it integrates all aspects of a patient’s physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs into one comprehensive care plan.
Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention as well as early detection of diseases and encourages healthy lifestyles.
Holistic doctors believe there is no single cause of any condition. Instead, they look at the entire picture, including genetic factors, environmental influences, lifestyle choices, and personal habits.
Holistic practitioners emphasize the mind and emotions more than the body.
Holistic physicians collaborate closely with their patients in order to determine the best fit for each individual.
How safe is holistic medicine.
Holistic medicines can be safe as they don’t contain harmful drugs and are natural remedies that people have used for centuries.
Many illnesses have been treated with them, including arthritis, chronic pain and asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes (heart disease), obesity, depression anxiety, stress, insomnia, infertility, and sexual dysfunction.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various diseases and can also use holistic medicines. They include homeopathy. It also includes chiropractic care. Herbal treatments. Massage therapy. Yoga. Meditation. Hypnosis. Nutrition. Counseling. Exercise. These therapies are holistic and treat the person as a whole, not the symptoms.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- PubMed: The rise and rise in complementary and alternative medicine: A sociological perspective
- PubMed: Holistic Medicine – PubMed
nccih.nih.gov
liebertpub.com
doi.org
How To
How to make a career in Holistic Medicine
The field of holistic medicine is growing at an unprecedented rate. There are many paths you can take to this career. If you want to be a part of this profession, however, returning to school may be the best option.
Many schools offer programs in holistic medicine. One of these schools is the National College for Complementary Medicines, which offers both undergraduate degrees and postgraduate programs. They also have several programs designed specifically for medical professionals who wish to enter the field.
Many online universities also offer classes in holistic health. One such program is called the Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN). This institution provides students with various holistic health education tools and resources.
Another option is to go to a traditional four-year college. Many colleges offer holistic health courses. The University of California, for example, offers a Bachelor’s degree in holistic health sciences.
A nutrition course is recommended if you intend to pursue a career involving holistic medicine. NCCM recommends students take courses in nutrition before beginning any professional training. According to them, integrative medicine practitioners need to have a solid understanding of nutrition science.
Holistic medicine treats the whole person, not just symptoms. This requires more knowledge and skills than conventional medicine. Holistic medicine also requires understanding of how to evaluate different types and illnesses from a nutritional standpoint.
According to the NCCM, nutritionists often collaborate with doctors to offer dietary advice to patients. Some will even suggest supplements or diets based on the patient’s specific condition.
The fundamental principles of nutrition are essential for holistic practitioners. This includes understanding the nutritional content of foods. It can also include identifying nutritional deficiencies or other problems that might be causing them.
It is important to know that holistic practitioners may not be experts in nutrition. Some focus exclusively on herbal treatments, others only on acupuncture. Some people combine these two approaches into a single treatment.
However, most holistic practitioners recommend a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and grains. They encourage eating plenty of seafood and fish. They advise avoiding processed food products and fast food restaurants. They encourage people to eat only organic produce as much as possible.
Holistic practitioners agree that a healthy diet can prevent illness. There are however some things they disagree on. For instance, they don’t believe that gluten causes celiac disease. They believe that the disorder is caused by a deficiency of nutrients.
However, they are all in agreement that allergic reactions can occur with certain foods. Anaphylaxis can also be caused by peanuts or shellfish. They also caution against excessive caffeine intake.
Many holistic practitioners are able to use herbs to treat many illnesses. They avoid the use of pharmaceutical drugs. This is because they feel that such substances only mask the problem instead of solving it. Therefore, natural remedies are preferred.
Holistic practitioners are not only able to offer alternative therapies but also employ many complementary methods. These include:
- Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that involves strategically placing needles in the skin. It’s believed that this stimulates the body’s healing mechanism.
- Herbal therapy – This is a form of acupuncture that holistic practitioners also use to treat different disorders. Ginseng, a popular herb for this purpose, is one of the most common.
- Homeopathy – A type of traditional Chinese medicine that is based upon the principle that similar cures work, homeopathy. Let’s say you experience the same symptoms as someone suffering from a specific illness. You should seek the same ingredients in the original remedy.
- Massage therapy – Many holistic practitioners offer massage to promote relaxation and stress reduction. They claim it improves blood circulation, increases energy levels, and relieves muscle tension.
It is important to find a practitioner who meets your needs when choosing one. If you want someone specializing in nutritional counseling, look for a practitioner with a degree in nutrition. The American Association of Oriental Medicine (AAOM) has a certification program that allows you to learn more about acupuncture.
Ask your doctor any questions you may have about holistic care. It is also a good idea to talk to your insurance company to find out which services are covered.
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