Root Cause Resolution
When delving into the realm of Chinese and Functional Medical treatment, it is crucial that you understand the theories behind healing in this paradigm.
Chinese Medicine is a complete medical system, which looks at the body’s imbalances in terms of the “root” and “branch”. The “root” is the deep cause of disharmony that, when discovered and harmonized, leads to lasting transformation, and a body that is functioning at its highest potential. The “branch” is a symptom, or many symptoms, that occur as the body sends messages to us that it needs attention and healing.
To give an example, take a patient who is suffering from low energy, insomnia, anxiety, depression, forgetfulness, and weight gain. A conventional MD will look at each symptom separately, and prescribe pharmaceutical medications to alleviate symptoms. This is a “reductionist” approach- looking at each symptom or illness as a separate item to be combatted.
A practitioner of Chinese Medicine, or Functional Medicine, will seek to discover the deeper, underlying pattern of disharmony that leads to this array of symptoms. Each of the above symptoms could be the result of a congested liver, adrenal fatigue, thyroid imbalance, or sugar handling issues.
Once the root cause, and underlying pattern of disharmony is uncovered, your practitioner will seek to resolve that “root” issue. Generally, there is one symptom that will present first, as the body gives a message that something isn’t functioning at its highest potential. Over time, if the pattern continues, other symptoms will arise, or the initial symptom may become more severe or more frequent. Many of our patients suffer from numerous symptoms, which paint a vivid picture of the root cause of imbalance.
As we begin to heal the root cause of illness, we find that symptoms will improve naturally. In addition, we improve energy and immunity, thus increasing the person’s resilience and radiance. As we unwind the pattern that is causing suffering, the person’s system goes back to a pre-symptom state, and this leads to permanent healing, as well as the prevention of future illness or injury.
Chinese medicine requires commitment and self-discovery on the part of the patient, as you begin to understand what types of food, daily habits, and mental states support optimal health, and which serve as obstacles in reaching your highest potential.
The benefits of this type of healing strategy are numerous- you will experience healing on all levels of your being- physical, emotional, and energetic. You will become a more self-sufficient being, recognizing your body’s capacity to heal, and freeing yourself from dependence on substances or medical treatments which may have lasting side-effects and be very time-consuming and costly.
Healing with Chinese and Functional medicines, through education, manual therapies, nutritional support and herbs, is safe and profound. And, it is a life-long practice. Chinese medicine doesn’t offer a silver bullet chemical to grant immediate relief. It offers a journey toward optimal aging- living 100 years with a body that is healthy and vibrant.
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