Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Terms

• Acupuncture

  A form of natural health care used to treat a wide range of conditions, with clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness—especially for pain relief. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it’s based on the understanding that the body has a vital life force called Qi (pronounced chee) that flows through energetic pathways called meridians. Stimulating acupuncture points help to smooth the flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, clearing stagnation and awakening the body’s natural ability to heal. It’s a practice of restoring balance, easing discomfort, and returning you to homeostasis.

• Acupressure

  Gentle yet firm pressure on key points along the body’s meridians to restore balance, relieve pain, and encourage natural healing.  

• Acupoint

  A specific point on a meridian where Qi can be accessed. These are the points that are needled, pressed, or stimulated.

• Cupping Therapy

  An ancient healing technique that uses suction from special cups to lift the skin and fascia, increasing circulation, relieving stagnation, and encouraging the free flow of Qi and blood. Often leaving signature circular marks, this therapy draws out tension, toxins, and trapped emotions, creating space for deep release and restoration.

• Dampness / Heat / Cold / Wind / Dryness

  Patterns used to describe imbalances in the body. For example, “Dampness” might show up as heaviness, fatigue, or phlegm.

• Meridians or Channels

  Invisible pathways through which Qi flows. There are 12 primary meridians, each connected to an organ and emotion.

• Moxa / Moxibustion

  A warming therapy that uses the heat from burning the Chinese Herb Ai Ye (Mugwort/Artemisia) to promote circulation, reduce pain, nourish the flow of qi, move stagnant qi, and dispel cold by warming and stimulating acupoints. Moxibustion (Moxa) is a universal technique that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over thousands of years. It has an even longer history than acupuncture.

• Qi (Chi)

  Life force energy that flows through the body’s meridians. When Qi is balanced, we feel well. When it’s blocked or deficient, we experience symptoms or dis-ease.

• Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis

  A diagnostic technique in Traditional Chinese Medicine used to assess internal patterns of imbalance. The tongue reflects the condition of internal organs, body fluids, and the depth of imbalance. The pulse, taken at three positions on each wrist, reveals the strength, flow, and quality of your Qi, blood, and organ function. Together, they provide a nuanced picture of your body’s internal state.

• Tuina

  A form of Chinese medical massage rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), used for thousands of years to restore balance in the body by stimulating the flow of Qi and blood through the meridians. As a certified medical massage therapist, I integrate Tuina techniques to address musculoskeletal issues, support internal organ health, and promote overall healing without the use of needles.

• Zang Fu Organs

  The energetic organ systems in Chinese medicine (e.g., Liver, Spleen, Heart) that reflect physical and emotional function, not just anatomy.