Traditional practices and maintenance of health

The philosophical systems of East Asia place great emphasis on health maintenance and general wellbeing over 'cure' of illness and disease. As a result aspects of TCM and other health practices, including the spiritual, are used for the maintenance of health and wellbeing.

Traditional practices

TCM dates back 5000 years and has philosophical foundations in Confucianism and Taoism. With Confucianism's emphasis on wholeness of body, the TCM methods of treating illness without mutilation were exalted as an ideal approach to medicine. TCM principles revolve around the Taoist ideology of harmony and the theory of yin and yang. Herbal medicine, the five elements, the use of meridians as well as an understanding of the pathogenic factors of the external environment all have roots in Taoism. It is thought that the earliest work to influence TCM is the central Taoist text, the I-Ching. The body of knowledge of TCM has grown over centuries and through many dynasties into a highly developed and sophisticated system, the principles of which are deeply embedded in health practice, even for the many who embrace Western medicine.

A reminder that whilst the medicine system is referred to as 'Chinese' Traditional Medicine, the system and principles are common throughout East Asia and some of Southeast Asia, and not exclusive to China or Chinese. There are many TCM practitioners practicing in countries outside these Asian countries.

TCM therapies include the use of prescribed herbal medicines, functional foods with medicinal herbs, acupuncture, acupressure, massage, moxibustion, cupping and bleeding. In addition some people consult spiritual healers, astrologers, priests or monks at a temple, engage in rituals or employ talismans as aids to maintaining and restoring health.

Some people follow daily routines and practices from TCM, Taoist and Folk Religion for this purpose. These might involve dietary preferences or requirements that suit constitutional type, exercise and movement therapies (e.g. Qi Gong, Tai Chi and various martial arts) and meditation as well as other practices to maintain or increase chi. Amulets may be worn or used in the home to protect against evil spirits and increase chi flow in the environment. Financial advisors, architects, town planners and other professionals may use Feng Shui principles to create environments that foster health. Changing routines with the seasons and to suit circumstances is encouraged, e.g. getting up early and going to bed late in spring, and getting up later and going to bed earlier in winter.