What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?

Meridians: The Pathways of Qi

Qi flows through a network of channels called meridians, which connect different parts of the body like a roadmap. Each meridian is linked to specific organs and functions. When Qi moves smoothly through the meridians the body stays healthy. If it’s blocked or weakened, symptoms and disease can develop. Acupuncture, herbs, and other TCM therapies aim to restore this flow.

The Balance of Yin and Yang

A core principle of TCM is the relationship between yin and yang, opposite yet complementary forces that must remail in harmony. Yin represents qualities such as rest and coolness, while yan represents activity and warmth. Too much or too little of either can create imbalance in the body, for example signs of “excess heat” may include inflammation and irritability, while “too much cold” may include chills, fatigue, or poor circulation.

How we diagnose

Unlike western medicine, which focuses on lab tests and imaging, TCM diagnosis looks at the whole person. Practitioners consider your symptoms, medical history, tongue appearance, pulse quality, and overall constitution to understand the root cause of imbalance. From this we can create a personalized treatment plan, one that focuses on what you and your body needs.