By Chia Chia Cheng, L.Ac, MTOM, CFMP
One of the highlights of my summer was a visit from a lifelong mentor. This person taught me about living a joyful life and nurturing relationships to create a deeper meaning to everyday interactions.
This person is my (acupuncturist) uncle. He visited me last month. It was EPIC!!
Uncle Chen says his CA license number is #97. The state of California now boasts over 11,000 licensed acupuncturists. This gives you an idea of how early Uncle started practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Which was referred to as Oriental Medicine when he opened his clinic in 1972.
Uncle Chen is from another era. He still tells his patients to drink whole milk. “You need the fat.” He isn’t concerned about gluten causing inflammation. “Gluten free…what’s mean gluten free?”
My uncle reminded me of two important principles. The first is that, as practitioners, it is our responsibility to do what is right for the patient, not do what’s easy for ourselves. The second reminder is that most people’s conditions are due to an underlying cause. And in many cases it hasn’t become obvious to the patient.
He left me with this wisdom. To help people feel better, I must address their underlying health challenges, regardless of whether they ask me to do so.
Why? Because my experience has taught me to foresee what their underlying conditions may lead to at a later time. I cannot predict with certainty what will happen to them. But I can do a little extra to promote prevention and support their overall constitution.
My uncle left a most unusual gift for me at my cousin’s house. An entire suitcase filled with moxa!!
Moxa burned on the needle is a lost part of TCM. It takes longer to give a treatment with moxa than setting needles alone. Few acupuncturists use moxa for this reason.
Moxa warms, tonifies, heals, and reduces pain. Moxa is also very relaxing to the mind and body.
In times like these you could use some R & R as well as a boost to your immune system.
So when you come to my office, you’ll be greeted with the distinct herbal smell of moxa.
I hope to see you soon!
