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Showing posts with the label holistic approach

Smoking Cessation with Traditional Chinese Medicine /TCM

  Smoking cessation is a significant milestone in improving overall health, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to support individuals who are trying to quit smoking. TCM not only addresses the physical aspects of addiction but also acknowledges the emotional, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the habit. By using acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and lifestyle modifications, TCM helps individuals manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and restore balance to the body. The Challenge of Smoking Cessation One of the biggest hurdles in quitting smoking is managing withdrawal symptoms. The first week after quitting is often the most difficult, with intense cravings and emotional symptoms. These can include: Physical symptoms : increased appetite, hunger, irritability, fatigue, and digestive issues (like constipation and mouth ulcers). Emotional symptoms : anxiety, depression, mood swings, restlessness, and a genera...

Cervical Dystonia and Traditional Chinese Medicine/TCM: A Holistic Approach to Treatment/Management

What is Cervical Dystonia? Cervical dystonia (CD), also known as spasmodic torticollis, is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary muscle contractions in the neck, leading to abnormal head postures and painful spasms. People with cervical dystonia often experience their head tilting to one side, twisting, or turning in unnatural directions, which can cause significant discomfort, limited neck mobility, and pain. The exact cause of cervical dystonia remains unclear, but it is believed to result from dysfunction in the brain’s motor control regions, particularly the basal ganglia. While Western medicine often focuses on symptom management through medication, botulinum toxin injections, and physical therapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach that seeks to restore balance to the body’s energy (Qi), alleviate symptoms, and improve overall health. Let’s   explore how TCM can help manage cervical dystonia through acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, he...

Anxiety and TMJ from the perspective of TCM/Traditional Chinese Medicine

  Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder is a condition that affects the jaw joint and muscles controlling jaw movement. It often manifests as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and a clicking or locking of the jaw. Anxiety is a significant factor that can exacerbate TMJ symptoms, and in many cases, anxiety itself can be a direct cause of TMJ. From the viewpoint of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the connection between anxiety and TMJ is profound, and understanding this link can be crucial for effective treatment. Anxiety and TMJ: The Connection Anxiety can significantly contribute to the development and worsening of TMJ. Chronic stress and anxiety often lead to muscle tension, particularly in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. This tension can result in habits such as teeth grinding and jaw clenching, both of which are major contributors to TMJ disorders. Additionally, anxiety can heighten the perception of pain, making TMJ symptoms more pronounced. TMJ as an Antidepressant Side Effec...

Building Healthy Weight - BMI/Body Mass Index

  In a realm where fleeting weight loss trends dominate, the enduring wisdom of Oriental medicine illuminates a holistic approach to cultivating well-being.  Rooted in ancient philosophies and practices, this perspective transcends the mere physicality of weight management, delving into the interconnected realms of body, mind, and spirit. As we learn anything there is to know about weight management, we go across the rich texture of TCM and other therapeutic systems as we discover on this adventure.  In the middle of these antiquated methods, we also recognize the value of modern measurements as a comprehensive route towards long-term health and vitality, connecting traditional knowledge with contemporary understanding.           What can be your ideal weight?   First, determine your overall health. Obesity/overweight can bring hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders and vice versa. Meanwhile, a growing number of women and...