What is Qi?

Qi, pronounced ‘chee’ is the underlying principle in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is the Chinese term for life energy or life spirit, a vital force that flows through all living things. It is the bio-electric energy that flows along channels in the body known as meridians. The meridian channel system connects all aspects of the body into one network of energetic communication.

How qi flows through the body

Qi flows through these channels like water flows through the landscape. In TCM the free and balanced flow of this energy is essential to good health.

The natural flow of this energy can be affected by a range of physical, mental and emotional factors. In TCM, if qi becomes blocked or restricted, imbalance and ill health can result. TCM therapies access qi through acupuncture points on the body. There are approximately 2,000 of these acupuncture points on the body which are connected through the meridian system.

Chinese medicine therapies that work with qi

Acupuncture, acupressure, cupping and moxibustion are some of the TCM therapies used to stimulate, manipulate and work with the flow of this energy. In Chinese medicine, clearing energy blockages is thought to support the body's own healing processes.

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What acupuncture has been studied for

The World Health Organisation (WHO) published a report listing symptoms, conditions and diseases for which acupuncture has been studied in controlled trials. These include lower back pain, sciatica, knee pain, acute and chronic gastritis, rheumatoid arthritis, headaches, stroke, allergic rhinitis and depression, among others.

Treating the root, not just the symptoms

By affecting the flow of energy in the body, TCM works on the root cause of a condition rather than simply treating the symptoms. This approach aims to give longer-lasting relief. TCM is a holistic, natural, drug-free approach to the health of the whole body.

You may also like our articles on understanding Qi, the health benefits of Chinese medicine and boosting your energy levels.

Care Cure are Traditional Chinese Medicine specialists, treating patients in Dublin since 2006. All our practitioners are Chinese nationals who have been trained in both western and Chinese medicine. If you are unsure whether TCM is right for you please avail of our free consultation and TCM diagnosis, which we offer in both our clinics in Dublin 4 and Dun Laoghaire.