Did you know that the literal meaning of the word healing is “to make whole”? Healing might refer to your recovery after an illness or trauma to your body or mind. Traditional Chinese Medicine operates on the philosophy that our bodies have a natural ability to self-heal from the wounds we receive, both large and small.
For example, when we cut a finger, our skin repairs itself and generates new living tissue. When someone hurts us, we also ‘bleed’ but eventually move on, mend our ‘broken’ hearts, and gain some wisdom in the process.
The techniques of Traditional Chinese Medicine were developed on the principle that the most effective medicine encourages the body’s own healing powers. Using acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other techniques, Chinese Medicine triggers your innate healing response in addition to restoring balance, which allows both the body and mind to heal. Who doesn't need their balance restored these days?
When the body is out of balance it's in a state of dis-ease. That's when disease sets in and its critical to restore balance and trigger true healing.
When we talk about repair for our bodies, the liver is incredible! Its capacity for renewal is the greatest of all our organs. Legends of its regenerative abilities date back to stories about Prometheus in ancient Greek mythology. He angered Zeus and was bound to a rock. Every day, an eagle (Zeus) would fly down and eat his liver which would grow back so that the eagle could return the next day and do the same thing. Yes, this is a little bit gross, but I’m making a point! The factual part of the story is that, in many instances, even if over fifty percent of the liver is damaged, it can still regenerate itself completely. My point? Acupuncture and herbal treatments help your body do what it does best, heal itself.
If you’re recovering from an injury, illness, surgery, or emotional upheaval, allow your body to have the time and energy it needs to heal. Rest, good sleep, and limiting stress are crucial to a quicker recovery. Acupuncture and herbal prescriptions can help with all of these things and more.
When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Long-term exposure to these stress hormones can disrupt your body’s most essential functions. Many people feel rushed to return to their routine; getting back to the gym, working long hours, and taking care of family are all important. However, not giving your mind and body the time and self-care needed to heal will only slow you down.