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Oriental Medicine Consultations

Oriental medicine is a complete medical system that has been is use for thousands of years. It consists of methods to prevent as well as treat illness. The goal of Oriental medicine is to achieve an overall balance within the individual. Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital energy or life force that flows within a fixed network of twelve invisible pathways or meridians in the body, is the most important concept of Oriental medicine. Wellness is achieved when opposite and complementary forces, called yin (feminine – cool, moist, nutritive, quiet) and yang (masculine – warm, dry, energetic, active), are in balance and promote the unobstructed flow of qi. An imbalance of qi, yin and yang are believed to result in sickness.

All treatments aim to balance a person’s qi. Several methods are used to promote, maintain and restore qi, including herbal remedies for nourishment, acupuncture, moxibustion (heat therapy), diet, massage, meditation, and exercises such as qigong and tai chi.

Acupuncture helps to alleviate pain, nausea and vomiting. Qigong and tai chi can improve balance and prevent muscle wasting. Massage and meditation can reduce anxiety, increase feelings of relaxation and improve quality of life. Statistically significant outcomes in studies include enhanced immune response, reduction in side effects from chemotherapy and radiotherapy, improved recovery from surgery, alleviation of pain and improved quality of life.

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