Using Traditional Chinese Medicine in My Practice

How TCM Can Support the Whole Body

Traditional Chinese Medicine is the ancient practice of utilizing ancient Chinese medicine, acupuncture, herbs, and other modalities to support the energetic body. One of the greatest aspects of TCM is that it honors all aspects of health - mind, body and spirit.

This connection is used to support the energetic body, bringing what is known as “Chi” into balance. Although my nutrition practice focuses on bringing women’s hormones and gut into balance, the energetic body is a huge component.

Here are the aspect of TCM that I incorporate with my clients (to support their energetic body):

Adaptogens/herbs: Adaptogens are herbs/mushrooms that support the body with adapting to stress, whether physical, emotional or mental. Adaptogens contain power properties that have been shown to support the immune system, sleep, mental clarity, hormonal balance, fatigue, energy, anxiety, and so much more.

My favorite adaptogens:

Reishi: An adaptogen known for supporting the immune system and has been shown to support hormonal balance, sleep and mood. My favorite way to get Reishi, in King Coffee.

Ashwagandha: This adaptogen contains immunomodulating effects (supporting the immune system) that has been shown to relieve mental, emotional and physical stress (this has great research on supporting anxiety).

Cordyceps: An adaptogen known for supporting natural energy, and a great pick-me-up in the afternoon.

Lion’s Mane: A widely known adaptogen used for mental health, Lion’s Mane has been shown to be effective in supporting the brain and mental clarity. It has been shown to enhance concentration and balance your mood.

Utilization of Acupuncture/energy healing: Acupuncture has benefits in supporting:
- stress ⁣
- fatigue ⁣
- sleep issues ⁣
- fertility ⁣
⁣I encourage clients to go to acupuncture, if it resonates with them. It’s a beautiful practice of balancing areas that need support.

Energy healing: Not traditionally a part of TCM, energy healing is another modality that can be used to support the energetic body. This can be a way to balance your chakras and support your phyisical/emotional wellbeing.

Eating real, whole food: Whole food is the foundation of Nutritional Therapy, and at the core of TCM as well. Whole food nurtures your soul. I encourage clients to shift to a whole food way of eating, to support their mind, body and spirit. More on Nutritional Therapy here.

Honoring emotions + holding space: The work I do with clients can be hard, and tough emotions likely surface. As a client of mine, emotions are always honored and providing comfort or giving pace when needed is what I always try to do.

References:

REFERENCE: PITCHFORD, PAUL. HEALING WITH WHOLE FOODS: ASIAN TRADITIONS AND MODERN NUTRITION. NORTH ATLANTIC BOOKS, 2009.

Singh, N., Bhalla, M., de Jager, P., & Gilca, M. (2011). An overview on ashwagandha: a Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM, 8(5 Suppl), 208–213. doi:10.4314/ajtcam.v8i5S.9