中医常识

Tuina (Tui Na, 推拿) uses the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory of the flow of Qi through the meridians as its basic therapeutic orientation. The name Tuina comes from “Tui” meaning “push” and “Na” meaning “Grasp”. Tuina works on the same basic theory as other TCM techniques : “Injury or disease causes blockages in the channels of the body. Blockages cause pain.” Through the application of a series of pressing, tapping, and kneading with palms, fingertips, knuckles, Tuina seeks to establish a more harmonious flow of Qi through the system of channels and collaterals, so that the body will heal itself naturally.

Gua Sha(刮痧) is a healing technique used in Asia by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM), in both the clinical setting and in homes. It is also one of the treatment techniques used in Asia TCM clinic in Singapore.

In this technique, a medium is placed on the skin, such as massage oil, which has a lubricating and protective function. The Gua Sha tool which has a smooth surface is held in the physician’s hand and, using moderate force, the physician will rub the tool on the patient’s skin in long smooth strokes. This technique will create redness to the area called 'sha', that will fade in 2 to 3 days.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Cupping (拔罐) is a method of applying acupressure by creating a vacuum on the patient's skin to dispel stagnation—stagnant blood and lymph, thereby improving Qi flow to release adhesions and help remove toxins from the body. Cupping is a simple yet powerful form of alternative healing.

Looking at nutrition from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective offers new insights into our health concerns.

When we talk about the Spleen (脾) in TCM we use the capital ‘S’ to signify that we are not talking about the anatomical organ as in Western medicine. The Spleen is a functional system that includes both physical as well as emotional and mental processes. The Spleen changes energy or Qi from the food into energy needed by the body. Spleen Qi Deficiency means that the life force of the Spleen is low, and it won’t be able to perform its functions properly.

If you feel tired and drained, you are not alone. "Lack of energy" is very popular nowaday.

From TCM point of view, sleeping recharges the body, and is important in maintaining a balance of yin and yang within it. If you sleep too little, the Yin energy will decline beyond the normal range. When Yin energy becomes inadequate, the Yang will predominate. Sleep early and exercise regularly will enhance Qi and blood circulation.

Chinese medicine practitioners divide the day into yin times (11 a.m. to 11 p.m.) and yang times (11 p.m. to 11 a.m.). Each contains six two-hour periods, each one best for certain activities.

Acupuncture has many positive benefits. It is among the oldest healing practices in the world and has been practiced in China and other Asian countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia for years.

As part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture aims to restore and maintain health through the stimulation of specific points on the body. It is effective for a wide variety of health problems, and it is virtually free of side effects.