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Tongue Diagnosis

The Tongue (Chinese Medicine): The tongue is a critical accessory organ of the human body. It helps with tasting, chewing, and swallowing food and drink. It is also an aid to speech. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the tongue reflects the health condition of the entire body. Examining the tongue is an essential component of Chinese medicine practice.

What is Tongue Diagnosis?

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, licensed practitioners often examine the tongue to confirm the diagnosis due to its many relationships and connections in the body, both to the meridians and the internal organs. For example, a pale tongue could be a sign of blood deficiency. No tongue coating or thick tongue coating are signs of digestive system issues.

What Can the Tongue Tell About the Body?

Chinese medicine focuses on the body of the tongue and the coating of the tongue. The body of the tongue speaks a lot to the flow of Qi (energy) in one’s body, as well as the quality of one’s blood. Typically, the coating of the tongue tells us the strength of the digestive system and pathogens affecting the body. By looking at both the tongue body and its coating, the practitioner can understand the patient’s current nutritional state and metabolic state.

Below is a Tongue Map, which indicates areas on the tongue in relation to internal organs. The tip of the tongue is the Heart and Lung. The center represents the Stomach and Spleen. The sides are the Liver and Gallbladder and the back represents the Kidney, Bladder, and Intestines.

The image below is how a normal tongue should look like, with a color of pale red and a thin white coating.

When a body has certain health issues, the tongue will look different. A deep crack down the middle of the tongue indicates a digestive issue. Whereas a swollen tongue with teeth marks on the edges is a sign of fatigue, poor appetite, shortness of breath, or worry. (see image below)

How is Tongue Diagnosis Performed?

The process of tongue diagnosis is relatively quick. All you need to do is to stick your tongue out for a few seconds. The practitioner will take a good look from the tip to the back and from top to underneath.

The first thing to be examined is the tongue’s overall color, whether it is red, pale, or purple. Next is its size. Is it small, thin, or swollen? The tongue’s coating thickness and color are also taken into consideration: If there is no coating, or if the layer of coating is thicker than usual. Is the coating’s color white, yellow, or black? What about its moisture? Is it dry or wet? Is there a presence of teeth marks, red bumps, purple patches and so on.

If you hold your tongue out for too long, the color of your tongue will change. Therefore, during your visit with the licensed practitioner, they will often ask you to close your mouth for a few seconds and bring your tongue out again for the most accurate diagnosis.

How Do Licensed Practitioners Learn About Tongue Diagnosis?

At the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine, students learn tongue diagnosis in Oriental Medicine Diagnosis I and II classes after learning Basic Theory of Oriental Medicine I and II. During the clinical internship, student interns will perform tongue diagnosis as an essential component of Chinese medicine diagnosis, which consists of observations, auscultation, olfaction, inquiring, and palpation including tongue and pulse. Based on the diagnosis, student interns will develop a treatment plan, which will be reviewed and approved by a licensed clinical supervisor. Student interns will then perform the approved treatment plan.

Are You Ready to Take a Look at Your Tongue?

Using the knowledge about the tongue diagnosis, you can monitor your own health by taking a look at your tongue regularly in the mirror and tracking health changes. If you notice a deep crack line, red tongue tip, or other abnormal signs compared to the normal tongue, you might want to consult a licensed practitioner for the most accurate diagnosis and advice.

References

Christina Kapothanasis, L. Ac., Dipl. O.M. Tongue Diagnosis – Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, February 3, 2014, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukSuIFY6E_s

Giovanni Maciocia, The Foundations of Chinese Medicine The Third Edition

About the Author

Tong Zhang

Tong started the Master of Science program in Acupuncture at VUIM in October 2017 while holding a full-time job in a financial service firm. In 2022, she earned a Master of Science in Acupuncture at VUIM. Tong enjoys nature and practices Tai Chi regularly.

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Benefits of Cupping

What is Cupping and How Does it Work?

Cupping is a medical modality used throughout many traditional cultures to help heal the body. It has been used holistically for many years to treat various conditions. It has also become popular over the last few years and its use has been adapted by Western healthcare professionals, specifically to treat musculoskeletal injuries (dubbed “myofascial decompression”). Cups can be made of plastic, silicone, glass, or other materials. Cupping utilizes suction which decompresses the soft tissues. Decompression creates more space between the skin and muscles, and in turn, relaxes muscles, increases blood circulation, promotes tissue repair, and can alleviate musculoskeletal pain. Cupping may be used instead of traditional massage because compression may irritate tissues that are already very tense. Specifically, if a muscle is compressing or pinching a nerve, further compression may lead to additional aggravation of the nerve and muscle tissues. Decompression then relieves pain while using an opposing technique while achieving similar results. One effect of cupping is that it can leave circular non-tender bruise-like marks on the body after treatment. It is these spots that promoted the notoriety of Cupping when it was used by the US Olympic Men’s Swimming Team during the 2016 Summer Olympics. These marks give insight into the amount of circulation or restrictions present in the treated tissues.

Who Can Safely Perform Cupping?

In short, licensed, and qualified professionals. Acupuncturists, Massage Therapists, and even Physical Therapists have all been known to perform cupping professionally. You may wonder, which professional is the best choice to perform cupping therapy? While any of these licensed professionals may be sufficient, Acupuncture and Chinese Medical Programs at Integrative Medical schools require teaching this technique as part of their accredited curriculums. Other professionals may take cupping courses as part of continuing education classes, but Acupuncture students must show competency in this modality to graduate and become licensed. For example, at the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine, students are required to spend at least 40 hours learning the theory behind specific Advanced Clinical Techniques such as cupping and moxibustion and practicing them in the student clinic. Students take written and practical exams and must demonstrate competency in these modalities before being allowed to perform these techniques on patients. This level of training allows practitioners to show they can safely and appropriately use this therapy for its original and intended purpose.

Myths about Cupping

Unfortunately, the internet is filled with individuals who utilize cupping to gain adoration due to its popularity on social media. Many of these individuals are not licensed professionals or trained in this modality. These videos often depict cupping in an extreme, performative fashion. It is important to understand that even though these individuals may mean no harm, by showcasing inappropriate techniques, they are inadvertently spreading misinformation about Chinese Medicine and Cupping Therapy. These videos and individuals do not represent the Acupuncture community or Healthcare Professionals.

Why should I go to a Licensed Professional or Student Clinician for Cupping Therapy?

When it comes to receiving treatment, the risks of trusting unlicensed, untrained individuals are numerous and range from poor outcomes to the practitioner potentially not having malpractice insurance and the patient having limited recourse from any negative side effects. This means that if something were to happen to you after treatment, you may absorb all the costs of your medical care. However, most Licensed Healthcare Professionals carry malpractice insurance. This insurance exists in case a medical emergency or complication occurs because of your medical treatment. This can protect you, them, and others under their supervision. It is extremely important to use a Licensed and trained professional when receiving cupping therapy. Untrained individuals may be unaware of which areas to avoid on the body or which procedures are inappropriate for those receiving treatment.

How does Cupping work with Acupuncture?

Cupping works in tandem with Acupuncture by promoting the flow of Qi and Blood throughout the body. This would assist in improving circulation and tissue repair in the affected areas. The treatment is focused on areas of deficiency that would benefit from this modality.

Who can receive Cupping?

Most anyone who is healthy enough to receive a massage usually can safely have a cupping treatment. It is important to consult with your practitioner and discuss any medical conditions you have, as cupping may not be appropriate for people with certain conditions. Usually, conditions such as cancer, acute infection, open wounds, and certain chronic illnesses, may require an alternative approach to this method. When seeking help from an Integrative Medical Practitioner, they will have other options to treat you if cupping is not aligned with the best practices for your health journey.

Where Can I Receive Cupping?

Licensed Acupuncturists or Chinese Medical Practitioners are trained to perform cupping. The Virginia University of Integrative Medicine’s Private and Student Clinic also provides this service. Students in the Clinic are supervised by Licensed Practitioners who will ultimately decide which treatment is best for the patient. If you are interested in utilizing your Health Insurance, our professional clinic works with the following Healthcare Insurers: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Aetna, but coverage is dependent upon your insurance plan.

Clinic Hours:

Monday – Friday: 9 AM to 6 PM

Saturday: 9 AM to 6 PM

Sunday: Closed

Location:

1980 Gallows Road, Vienna, VA 22182

Phone:

(703) 323-5691

Email:

[email protected]

Author

Angela Serabian

Angela Serabian is a Licensed Massage Therapist who has been in practice since 2017. She specializes in Medical and Injury Massage, Cupping Therapy, and IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization). She has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with 4 years of experience working in Non-Profit Mental Health organizations. She hopes to integrate Psychiatric, Orthopedic and Neurological therapies with Traditional Chinese Medicine.

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Acupuncture: Why I Study TCM

I have been interested in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for many years. I am amazed at the simplicity and beauty of the philosophy and theory of TCM that has been standing tall and firm for thousands of years. I am amazed that our ancestors came to know the invisible meridian system of the human body thousands of years ago while modern science and technology still cannot comprehend it.

I had numerous encounters with TCM that helped establish my great interest and faith in TCM with respect to both acupuncture and herbology:

When I was about 8 years old, I had an encounter with sumac trees in a mountain. My face became very itchy, red, and swollen. I suffered so much that I could not sleep at night. I tried antihistamine drugs to no avail. Luckily, a local TCM doctor told me that it can be healed by steaming using water boiled with the inner bark of Chinese Fir trees from the local mountains. My father immediately went to get some, and the itchiness and swelling started to fade with only one application!
When I was about 10 years old, I often had stomach aches. My mom took me to see an old TCM doctor who was politically persecuted near the end of the Cultural Revolution in China, but who was still allowed to see a limited number of patients in his labor camp. He felt my pulse and was able to give an accurate diagnosis. He also asked if I hurt myself in an accident about 6 months ago. I did have an accident where I fell from a bridge, but I had not told anyone about it. How did he know? After I took his herbal prescription, I rarely had stomach aches again.
One day back in Shanghai, I twisted my back when getting up from bed. My back froze up, and I could hardly move. My wife took me to the school’s clinic and I was treated with acupuncture on my back. I was able to immediately get up and walk even though there was still some pain left. The doctor then applied some herbal seeds on my ears, and my pain was completely gone the next day.

All of these encounters created a personal connection between me and TCM, but I was also intellectually interested in TCM’s philosophy and practice because of my past work experiences.

I previously worked for more than 20 years as an information technology (IT) architect. We often had to solve problems in complex systems that involved many independent elements. The approach we took was to create holistic models of the system and then create holistic solutions based on the models. I’ve found that TCM’s approach is conceptually somewhat similar to the IT architecture approach, and that further attracts me to study TCM.

Human beings are probably the most complex dynamic system. TCM has established a sound theoretical system that provides a holistic model of human beings and their relationship to the universe. This model is comprehensive yet straightforward enough to understand and has become part of the Chinese language and culture, so that each person can easily relate to it in their daily life. This model explains at an abstract level human physiology and pathology. A variety of treatment methods based on this model have been developed over the past thousands of years, and they can exist completely without modern technology and are very cost-effective.

The main stream biomedicine has achieved huge progress in its very short history, yet it comes with issues like formidable costs, strong side effects (especially unknown long-term side effects), drug/device dependency, environmental pollution, limited effectiveness for many diseases, and its tendency to treat symptoms rather than the root cause of illness. These problems are demonstrated well in the documentary movies, such as Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare. [1]

These shortcomings are inevitable due to biomedicine’s mechanical and analytical approach. Yes, we can now see a single cell, even a molecule. Yet it is very difficult to understand how they work together and why. It is like getting into a forest – you can clearly see a single tree, but you can’t see the whole forest. The deeper we go, the more we get lost.

An integration of biomedicine and TCM would enable us to see the whole forest and also be able to see the individual tree when needed. Although TCM has achieved international recognition and acceptance, the mainstream approach in the U.S. is to give priority to biomedicine and take TCM only as a supplemental alternative. I do hope that in the future these two systems will be used more equally and become integrated so that we can fully take advantage of both systems’ strengths. With this in mind, I want to systematically understand the philosophy and the theory of both TCM and biomedicine, as well as learn and develop my clinical skills, so that I can help people live a healthier life in the most cost-effective way.

References

The Escape Fire website: http://www.escapefiremovie.com/ – Watch the movie Escape Fire: The Fight To Rescue American Healthcare: https://tubitv.com/movies/300834/escape-fire-the-fight-to-rescue-american-healthcare

Author

Ningjiang Cheng

Ningjiang started transitioning from his successful IT career to his TCM study in 2018. He finished his Master of Science program in Acupuncture at VUIM in 2021, and he is finishing his Master of Science in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (MAcHM) while also preparing for his acupuncture board exam. He enjoys nature, likes gardening, and playing table tennis.

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Acupuncture and Diabetes

What is Diabetes and How Does it Affect the Body?

Diabetes is an endocrine disorder, which means it is caused by a hormonal imbalance, specifically the hormone Insulin. Insulin is an important aspect of metabolism and blood-sugar regulation. When Insulin is not regulated properly it can affect the body’s many systems in various ways. Typically, a patient will see an endocrinologist for this kind of disorder. Diabetes affects the entire body, creating systemic issues as the disease progresses. These may include but are not limited to, diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), retinopathy (damage to the retina), and nephropathy (deterioration of kidney function). Many different Healthcare practitioners may be needed to manage a patient’s growing needs. While an endocrinologist may be the Primary Healthcare Provider of a patient with Diabetes, a patient may also need to see a Dermatologist, Cardiologist, Ophthalmologist, Podiatrist, Dentist, or Dietitian to help manage systemic issues that arise if the disease progresses.[i] In addition to these Healthcare professionals, an Acupuncturist or Traditional Chinese Medical Practitioner can also help patients with Type 2 Diabetes with their Healthcare management.

How is Diabetes Typically Managed?

Recommendations for managing Type 2 Diabetes typically include reducing stress levels, alcohol intake, and tobacco use as well as increasing regular exercise and eating a balanced, lower sugar diet. And finally, the usage of medication.[ii] Common Diabetes medications such as Metformin work by reducing the size of fatty acids in the body, reducing inflammatory cells, increasing glucose regulating protein hormones which also break down fatty acids, and preserving the cells in the pancreas which create insulin.[iii] While these are effective mechanisms to help patients with this systemic disease, Diabetes medications come with side effects that can range from mild to severe, typically including gastrointestinal problems. These side effects can include stomach pain and discomfort, diarrhea, muscle pain, and cramping, decreased appetite, lower back or side pain, and fast or shallow breathing.[iv] There are several types of gastrointestinal complications that stem from Type 2 Diabetes without medication which include Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver disease, intestinal enteropathy (diarrhea, constipation), and gastroparesis (abnormal intestinal movement).[v] For this reason, a patient may want to avoid medications especially if they already suffer from gastrointestinal effects of Diabetes, to begin with.

Treatment vs. Cure

Treatment is an intervention that prevents the progression of an illness. A cure is an intervention that leads to the resolution of the disorder so that no further treatment is needed. Therefore, it is important to select the appropriate treatment to help patients who may never be able to cure their illness to manage how it affects their daily life. In the case of Type 1 Diabetes, it is incurable and requires lifelong treatment, in the case of Type 2 Diabetes, prevention and cure are possible, but treatment is used often.

Why Acupuncture as Opposed to or in Conjunction with Allopathic (Western) Methods?

Side effects of Acupuncture are typically minimal. Usually, the only side-effects a patient experiences may be soreness at an insertion site, achiness, or some minor bleeding. It is known to produce feelings of relaxation and wellness throughout the treatment.[vi] Acupuncture has also been found to reduce stress hormone levels and blood pressure.[vii] Stress has been known to increase blood sugar levels.[viii] Managing stress levels can contribute to positive outcomes in Diabetes management. Individuals with Diabetes are 2x as likely to suffer from high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to other diseases such as heart disease and stroke.[ix] Numerous studies have shown that Acupuncture is an effective treatment for high blood pressure.[x] Some obstacles with allopathic (or Western) treatment methods include patients reporting that Needle-sticking with a lancet can become a tiresome and painful process. Patients report that “anxiety,” “dislike,” “time pressures” and “forgetfulness” can all contribute to a lack of consistency with finger-pricking for blood-glucose testing.[xi] Acupuncture is a safe and often side-effect-free treatment for many ailments. Patients who are concerned about the side effects they may experience from taking medications can undergo an Acupuncture treatment and know that the risk of side effects with Acupuncture is minimal. Acupuncture can help to provide reduced Healthcare costs for the patient and their insurance companies, a feeling of wellness knowing that their Diabetes is managed, and options for having alternative treatment methods offered to manage what may be a lifelong illness. By helping to manage symptoms, the usage of Acupuncture for Type 2 Diabetes could reduce the amount of Insulin a patient would need to use. It could also affect other medications; they may require lower doses which could further reduce their risks for side effects. With blood glucose levels managed, they may need to administer Insulin through injection less frequently which would help make life more manageable.

How Effective is Acupuncture?

One Meta-analysis stated that “A large number of studies have shown that Acupuncture can significantly improve dyslipidemia (Imbalance of lipids) in diabetic patients and is no less effective than drug therapy.”[xii] ElectroAcupuncture has been found to help to reduce blood glucose levels and protect the shape of the cells which produce insulin.[xiii] Some studies show that Acupuncture can help with diabetic neuropathy.[xiv] There is some evidence to indicate that Acupuncture treatment can prevent the acquisition of Type 2 Diabetes.[xv] Current research also indicates that Acupuncture may help with weight loss, improve the management of blood glucose, protect pancreatic functions responsible for Insulin production, improve insulin resistance, and help with adjusting the balance of other hormones as well. Acupuncture has also been found to complement Diabetes treatment alongside Metformin by lowering blood glucose and increasing insulin sensitivity better than Metformin alone.[xvi]

In Conclusion

Acupuncture offers an accessible, practical method for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes. While researchers are still discovering how it works, current literature indicates that along with a healthy diet and exercise, Acupuncture could substantially increase the quality of life of patients who do live with Diabetes. Providing care that is practically side-effect free, while reducing the frequency of lancets sticks and medication side-effects, offers patients another treatment option for their Healthcare needs.

References

[i] https://www.webmd.com/Diabetes/guide/Diabetes-health-care-team

[ii] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/Diabetes/in-depth/Diabetes-management/art-20047963

[iii] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5256065/

[iv] https://www.drugs.com/sfx/metformin-side-effects.html

[v] https://www.aafp.org/afp/2008/0615/p1697.html

[vi] https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/Acupuncture/about/pac-20392763

[vii] https://www.healthline.com/health/Acupuncture-for-stress#benefits

[viii] https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-stress-cause-high-blood-sugar-5116560

[ix] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/Diabetes/Diabetes-and-high-blood-pressure

[x] https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/news/20010611/Acupuncture-can-lower-high-blood-pressure

[xi] https://www.bjd-abcd.com/index.php/bjd/article/view/16/45

[xii] https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/Fulltext/2021/05280/Acupuncture_for_type_2_Diabetes_mellitus_with.40.aspx

[xiii] https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2018/3128378/

[xiv] https://www.nccaom.org/wp-content/uploads/pdf/Acupuncture%20for%20Diabetes.pdf

[xv] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6283081/

[xvi] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319618

Author

Angela Serabian

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Yoga Therapy: How to Become a Yoga Therapist

What is Yoga Therapy?

Yoga is a mind and body practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. According to the International Association of Yoga Therapists, yoga therapy is the process of empowering individuals to progress toward improved health and well-being through the application of the teachings and practices of yoga.

What Does a Yoga Therapist Do?

At a glance, yoga therapists prescribe different poses, breathing techniques, and exercises to their clients to help them with their overall health and well-being. Let us take a deeper look into what it is and what a yoga therapist actually does.

Yoga therapists are skilled workers who can provide experiences and knowledge in a variety of environments. Whether live case studies or one on one training, yoga therapists seek out therapeutic movements combined with their knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics and incorporate them into yoga treating the mind, body, and spirit as a whole.

What Is the Difference Between a Yoga Therapist and a Yoga Teacher?

You may ask yourself, what is the difference between a Yoga Therapist and a Yoga Teacher? The difference is simple: a yoga teacher focuses on technique while a yoga therapist focuses less on teaching yoga and more on applying said techniques to help their clients relieve their painful symptoms.

The Benefits of Yoga Therapy

Yoga therapy exercise may seem parallel to physical therapy, rehabilitative therapy, or psychotherapy with prospective benefits that include a decline in stress, mental and emotional well-being, enriched diet, and efficient body system functions.

While promoting self-care and encouraging overall well-being, the practice of yoga therapy also aids in improving mental and physical disorders and illnesses. The benefits of yoga therapy are seen through breathing techniques, relaxation techniques, meditation, and certain postures along with other specific ways of regulating the nervous system.

In a qualitative study conducted in 2011, yoga therapy shows positive effects on stress and can effectively reduce anxiety, along with being able to improve physical and mental health, as well as mindfulness. Here are some examples of other conditions that yoga therapy can help with:

Mental Conditions

Stress
Depression and Anxiety
Eating Disorders
Post-Natal
Insomnia

Physical Conditions

Back Pain
Diabetes
High Blood Pressure
Obesity
Heart Disease
Arthritis
Osteoporosis
Musculoskeletal problems

Who Should Practice Yoga Therapy?

Yoga therapy is not solely for active, flexible, or physically strong people. In fact, it can be practiced and utilized by people of all ages, genders, physiques, and mobile capability.

Additionally, yoga therapy is not like your average yoga class. Typically, it is personalized precisely to the individual’s needs, providing a gentle way to work with the natural capacity of one’s body and mind. If you have a specific need that cannot be addressed in a general yoga session, you should consider signing up for yoga therapy.

Are You Thinking of Becoming a Yoga Therapist?

If you are thinking about turning your love for yoga into a career and wanting to become a yoga therapist, here are some tips:

1. On a Regular Basis, Practice Yoga

Ways to ensure that you’re engaging in regular yoga classes can be as easy as hopping on your computer a few times a week! Nowadays, yoga classes can be found easily through a quick search online. Yoga can now be taught both in person and online. There are also many online videos about yoga that you can look up and learn from.

2. Become a Certified Yoga Teacher

In order to become a yoga therapist, you need to first become a yoga teacher. Here are 4 steps that will summarize what you need to do in order to become a yoga teacher:

Learn Yoga! The most important thing is improving your skills in the field. Take as many yoga classes as possible and practice the basics of the exercise, as well as learning how to interact with other students in the class
Complete the training: You are required to complete at least 200 hours in training. This process can be done by earning a certification from the Yoga Alliance
Become Registered: It is important to become licensed and registered as a yoga teacher. Visit Yoga Alliance’s official website for the most updated information regarding the process
Become CPR certified: Another important thing that you should consider is becoming CPR certified. Most yoga teaching jobs at fitness and wellness centers require their employees to be CPR certified, and additionally, it’s a life saving certification that could benefit your clients if need be

3. Find the Right Yoga Therapy Program for You

The next step in your journey is finding an 800-hour yoga therapy program accredited by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) – an organization with high standards and nearly 30 years of experience supporting the field. Some yoga programs focus on psychology and spirituality, while others are based on a specific lineage. Therefore, it is important to conduct extensive research and find the right program for you, based on the expertise that you want to have in the field. Once you complete the program, you can apply to become a certified yoga therapist as an accredited program graduate.

4. Decide where you want to work

After becoming a yoga therapist, you can either work for an established company in settings such as public hospitals, private clinics, non-profits or even open your own business. The possibilities are endless.

Conclusion

In this day and age, there is a growing desire for safe and effective ways to improve health and wellness. With yoga therapy, the holistic mind-body practice easily becomes popular among the public as it has been around for thousands of years. Its positive benefits have been proven and it is currently being used all over the world by people of all walks of life. In the United States, yoga therapy and the demand for yoga therapists are at an all-time high, making it a promising field and a great profession to consider.

If you love yoga and are looking to make an impact by helping others, then yoga therapy and becoming a yoga therapist might be for you!

References

https://doi.org/10.4314/ijhss.v3i1.69502

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-yoga-teacher

https://www.sacredsourceyoga.com/physical-therapy/

https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/types/yoga-therapy

https://www.yogajournal.com/teach/so-you-want-to-be-a-yoga-therapist/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3193654/

YogaTherapy.Health.

https://yogatherapy.health/what-is-yoga-therapy/

Author

Sydney Morgan Holsipple

Sydney is currently a student in the Master of Acupuncture program at VUIM. Sydney is a Virginia native, who originally grew up in Virginia Beach and moved to the Northern region before starting her academic journey at VUIM. With her experience working as a pharmaceutical technician, Sydney always felt that there was a better way to help people, which led her to discover integrative medicine and its holistic approach to healing. Outside of her time at VUIM, Sydney loves being with her family and friends, enjoying outdoor activities, being close to nature, learning and practicing yoga, and reading her favorite books.

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Moxibustion in Acupuncture: History, Uses, Benefits, Cautions

Moxibustion is a part of integrative medicine and is often used in addition to acupuncture, cupping, Tai Chi, etc. It is a form of heat therapy that involves burning the dried plant moxa and leaving it either on or very near the skin surface. This helps promote the flow of Qi and dispel certain pathogens in the body.

What is Moxa?

Moxa is traditionally made from the dried leafy plant mugwort that usually has a pleasant aroma. It can be made into sticks of various sizes or mixed with other herbs to enhance the benefits. Sometimes, practitioners will choose to apply loose moxa with a burner as well.

Moxa has been used in traditional ancient Chinese medicine for thousands of years. While its benefits still require a lot more research, moxa has been shown to help fight serious diseases and maladies, from cancer to joint pain.

How is Moxibustion Applied?

Moxibustion can be applied either directly or indirectly.

In direct moxibustion, the moxa cone rests on the patient’s body at the treatment point. The practitioner lights the cone and lets it burn slowly until the skin begins to turn red. Once the patient starts feeling the heat, the practitioner will then remove it.

In the United States, most practitioners will choose the indirect way of applying moxibustion since it is typically safer. Instead of leaving the moxa cone on the skin, the practitioner will hold the burning moxa stick about an inch or two above the skin over specific areas, often but not always corresponding to certain acupuncture points. They will remove it once the patient’s skin becomes red and warm.

There are other methods of applying moxibustion indirectly, one of which is placing moxa on the acupuncture needle and leaving it to burn until it’s extinguished, letting the heat travel through the needle to the acupuncture point. Additionally, practitioners can also use an insulating layer of salt or garlic between the cone and the skin, or place a “moxa box” on the body, so the moxa does not touch the skin directly.

Why Use Moxibustion?

Moxibustion invigorates blood and promotes flow of Qi. It is often used for the flowing conditions:

Pain (shoulder pain, abdominal pain, knee pain, joint pain, etc,) due to accumulation of cold and dampness in the body that causes pain. Moxa heat can expel cold and dry dampness, which helps relieve pain.
Chronic diarrhea caused by deficiency. This is because moxa warms up the meridian and strengthens the digestive system, which helps improve diarrhea condition.
Organ prolapse (bladder, uterus, etc.) due to Qi deficiency since moxa promotes Qi and raises prolapsed organs.
Overall wellness in health. Moxa tonifies Yuan Qi (prenatal Qi) and strengthens the immune system, which reduces risk of illnesses and extends life.

Perhaps, the most well-known benefit of moxibustion is helping to turn breech presentation, which happens when a baby is positioned feet-first in the birth canal that makes the birthing process much more difficult. Moxibustion is an alternative way to help turn the baby into a normal head-down position by applying it indirectly at certain acupuncture points. For safety and effectiveness, this should only be done professionally by licensed practitioners and acupuncturists.

Something to keep mind, in a 2018 review of studies on moxibustion for breech presentation, the author noted that while there is some evidence indicating its effectiveness, the practice still lacks high-quality research in overall to make a definite conclusion.

How Does It Feel?

Many patients have reported feeling a sudden flooding of warmth that quickly radiates throughout the body, usually corresponding with the jing luo channel that is being treated, when moxibustion is applied. For most patients, that is a very relaxing feeling because it is promoting a strong flow of Qi around the body.

Can I Do It Myself?

Moxibustion is also a type of medical practice in traditional Chinese medicine, and like every other medical practice, it is best to seek out a highly-skilled licensed practitioner. Since it is often done alongside acupuncture, some licensed acupuncturists can also perform moxibustion if needed.

Learning Acupuncture and Moxibustion at VUIM

The practice of moxibustion is usually taught as part of a qualified acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine program. In the United States, a practitioner must be licensed in order to perform moxibustion.

If you’re interested in learning more about moxibustion, or acupuncture as a whole, the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM) provides professional training in Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine. The VUIM’s Acupuncture Clinic provides acupuncture treatments, including moxibustion, with the goal of promoting balance and health.

VUIM is Virginia’s first and only accredited institution that offers graduate degrees in Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine. Through the programs, you will have the chance to obtain hands-on working experience as a clinical intern, along with learning key business skills and professionalism that prepare you for a successful, rewarding, long-lasting career as a licensed acupuncturist.

Learn more about VUIM’s Acupuncture program requirements or apply to jumpstart your career as a licensed acupuncturist today!

About the Author

Tong Zhang

Tong started the Master of Science program in Acupuncture at VUIM in October 2017 while holding a full time job in a financial service firm. She completed all required courses and clinical internship work in Spring 2021, and is currently studying for the VUIM graduation exam and NCCAOM board exam. Tong enjoys nature and practices Tai Chi regularly.

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Oriental Medicine: History and Benefits

Oriental Medicine, also known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or Integrative Medicine, is an ancient medical system where the practitioner views a patient’s whole body in their entirety to gain a full scope of their health rather than focusing solely on their ailments.

Why Consider Oriental Medicine?

In oriental medicine, there is a vital force of life, called Qi, that surges through the body and flows along meridians, or channels. Qi keeps a person’s spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health in balance. When Qi becomes imbalanced, it will cause a disease or illness to the person. This imbalance is most commonly thought to be caused by an alteration in the opposite and complementary forces that make up the Qi. These are called Yin and Yang.

There are different treatment modalities in oriental medicine, such as:

Acupuncture
Herbal medicine
Moxibustion
Nutrition
Cupping
Breath and movement exercises (Tai Chi and Qi Gong)

All methods can be helpful, and it is best to obtain a recommendation from a licensed practitioner.

What Does Science Say About the Effectiveness of Oriental Medicine?

While oriental medicine has been around for thousands of years, there is, of course, still some skepticism in the biomedical field regarding its effectiveness. While many claim oriental medicine and acupuncture only create placebo effects, there is much evidence showing that the stimulation of Qi and blood is effective in promoting health benefits and other wellness.

Additionally, many peer-reviewed clinical studies available have found acupuncture to be effective for many ailments, such as chronic pain, insomnia, the common cold, and more. On top of that, most of the trials conducted with its efficacy against placebo effect and other doubts towards acupuncture end up with productive results.

Is Oriental Medicine Safe?

Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and moxibustion are all safe modalities of healthcare when applied by a competent and experienced practitioner. There are still cautions and contraindications within the TCM that are known to be avoided. For example, Clean Needle Technique (CNT) is required for all practicing acupuncturists and interns. Implementing CNT reduces the risk of the transmission of infectious diseases by maintaining standards of cleanliness and sterilization before and between each patient.

Don’t hesitate to ask about the certifications, training and experience of the oriental medicine practitioner that you are considering. Most states and the District of Columbia have laws regulating acupuncture practice, and most states require certification from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Other Precautions to Consider

Never try to self-practice oriental medicine or self-prescribe any herbal ingredients of TCM. Always consult with your health care provider and a licensed practitioner.
Tell all your health care providers about any oriental medicine approaches that you are using. It is best to disclose with your healthcare providers about what you do to manage your health so they can help ensure coordinated and safe care moving forward.

Virginia University of Integrative Medicine offers graduate programs with extensive training and in-depth knowledge in Oriental Medicine. Explore fulfilling and exciting career opportunities with the university’s Master of Science in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (MAcHM) today. Reach out to our Admissions Office at [email protected] or sign up to one of our upcoming Admissions Information Sessions to get started.

About the Author

Apollonia Morales

Apollonia Morales is an MAcHM student at VUIM focusing on both acupuncture and herbal remedies. She moved to Virginia from Southern California two years ago to attend VUIM. She received her Bachelors of Science in Integrative Health at Arizona State University and graduated summa cum laude.

References

Irnich, D., Behrens, N., Molzen, H., König, A., Gleditsch, J., Krauss, M., . . . Schöps, P. (2001). Randomised Trial Of Acupuncture Compared With Conventional Massage And “Sham” Laser Acupuncture For Treatment Of Chronic Neck Pain. BMJ: British Medical Journal, 322(7302), 1574-1577.

Zhang, M., Zhao, J., Li, X., Chen, X., Xie, J., Ming, L., & Gao, X. (2019). The effectiveness of acupuncture for insomnia. WK Medicine, 95(45). doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000017842

Cheng, Ying ; Gao, Bifeng ; Jin, Yuhao ; Xu, Na ; Guo, Taipin. United States: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, WK Health Medicine (Baltimore), 2018-03, Vol.97 (10), p.e0061-e0061

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Tai Chi: A Gentle Way to Improve Your Physical and Mental Health

Originating in ancient China as a martial art, Tai Chi is a noncompetitive, self-paced system of gentle physical exercise and stretching. Each posture flows into the next without pause, ensuring the body to be in constant motion. This mind-body practice is considered to be beneficial for both physical and mental health.

Are There Different Styles of Tai Chi?

Yes. There are many different styles and forms of Tai Chi, the major ones being Chen, Yang, Wu, and Sun. Although different in names, all styles share the same essential principles: integrating mind with body, controlling movements and breathing, generating internal energy and mindfulness, emphasizing on song (loosening 松) and jing (serenity 静).

There are variations within each style. Some styles may focus on health maintenance, long sequences of movements, while others involve shorter series, or emphasize more on breathing and meditation, or even place a heavier focus on the martial arts aspect of the practice. Before getting started, it is important to conduct research and find the right style for yourself. Overall, they are all effective in terms of health benefits.

What Are The Health Benefits?

When learned correctly and performed regularly, Tai Chi can create a positive impact on your health. The benefits may include:

Manage stress-related anxiety
Manage depression
Improve overall mood
Increase flexibility and agility
Improved muscle strength

Additionally, some evidence indicates that it may also help:

Improve quality of sleep
Strengthen immune system
Lower blood pressure
Ease joint pain

The overall health benefits of Tai Chi still require a lot more research.

How to Get Started?

Nowadays, there are many online videos about Tai Chi that you can easily look up and learn from. You can also find classes that teach Tai Chi available in many communities as the practice is becoming more and more popular.

A precaution to consider is that, even though the practice is relatively gentle, it is still possible to get injured if you don’t use the proper techniques. Therefore, it is recommended to seek out guidance from a qualified instructor in order to learn proper techniques and gain the full benefits, especially if you have injuries, chronic conditions, coordination problems or other issues.

Who Can Practice Tai Chi?

Tai Chi is a very gentle exercise that does not require a lot of strength and puts minimal stress on muscles and joints. It does not require any special equipment and can be practiced anywhere, including indoors and outdoors. Therefore, it is safe for people of all ages and fitness levels. This also makes the practice very popular among elderly people. While it is generally safe, women who are pregnant or people with joint problems, fractures, severe osteoporosis or a hernia, should consult their health care provider before trying.

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Acupuncture and How to Become an Acupuncturist

Acupuncture is a key component of integrative medicine. It is an ancient Chinese medical technique that involves the insertion of very thin needles through the skin at strategic points on the body. The practice helps stimulate the Central Nervous System and create vital energy flow (or Qi) that aids in relieving pain, managing stress, and improving one’s overall health.

Why Choose Acupuncture As Treatment?

Acupuncture is commonly used to relieve pain and discomfort associated with different diseases and conditions. Here is a brief list of some of the common ailments it can address:

Chemotherapy-induced pain and discomfort
Postoperative nausea and vomiting
Dental pain
Headaches and migraines
Low back pain
Neck pain
Osteoarthritis
Menstrual cramps
Respiratory disorders
Allergies
Stress and anxiety
Insomnia

What Does an Acupuncturist Do?

A licensed acupuncturist may practice in a variety of settings, from independent clinics to large medical centers. Patients typically see an acupuncturist for different health problems. For some patients, they may be seeking an alternative to Western medical practices, while others use acupuncture as a complement to their existing treatments.

An acupuncturist takes a holistic approach when examining and assessing the patient’s condition. They will look at the mind, body, and spirit (or Shen) to make diagnosis and recommend treatments. Typically, the acupuncturist will perform the insertion of one or more thin, sterile needles, at strategic points on the patient’s body to treat the issue. Depending on their practice, they might incorporate other treatments in integrative medicine, such as herbal medicine and moxibustion, to help achieve the desired outcome.

What are Some Requirements to Become a Licensed Acupuncturist?

The requirements to become an acupuncturist are different for each state. Depending on where you live and where you plan to practice, you will need either a certificate of having received formal training in the profession or a graduate degree in the field, or both. It is recommended to look up the requirements to become a licensed acupuncturist in your state, and also look at accredited colleges and universities in your state that offer the formal training to become one.

At the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM), students can choose to pursue either of the entry level degrees into the field, a Master of Science in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (MAcHM) or a Master of Science in Acupuncture. In Virginia, after graduating from an accredited program in the acupuncture field, students may begin pursuing licensure by taking the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) exams. The NCCAOM exam is a national exam, adopted by nearly every US state to validate the skill set and knowledge required for licensure. In most states, after graduating with an accredited degree and passing the NCCAOM exams, a graduate can start applying for licensure and begin practicing as a licensed acupuncturist.

Sample Program Learning Outcomes

In these Master’s programs, students will learn and defend an etiology of disease from an acupuncture perspective, utilize the knowledge to recommend disease prevention strategies, have the ability to formulate a logical treatment principle from an oriental medical diagnosis, and put it into action utilizing acupuncture modalities. On top of that, students will also have the opportunity to obtain work experience with the clinical internship provided at VUIM. Please visit the website for the complete list of objectives and outcomes.

Interested in starting your education at VUIM? Contact our Admissions Officer today at [email protected] to learn about the requirements and application process, or sign up to one of our upcoming Admissions Information Sessions webinar here.

About The Author:

Sydney Morgan Holsipple

Sydney Morgan Holsipple is currently a student in the Master of Acupuncture program at VUIM. Sydney is a Virginia native, who originally grew up in Virginia Beach and moved to the Northern region before starting her academic journey at VUIM. With her experience working as a pharmaceutical technician, Sydney always felt that there was a better way to help people, which led her to discover integrative medicine and its holistic approach to healing. Outside of her time at VUIM, Sydney loves being with her family and friends, enjoying outdoor activities, being close to nature, learning and practicing yoga, and reading her favorite books.

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How to Help New Patients Feel Comfortable During Acupuncture Treatment

As a second-year student at VUIM, I was working as a mid-level intern in the school clinic. One late afternoon, the front desk staff came into the intern room to find me and said, “Renée, we have a woman who thinks she has an appointment, but she isn’t on our calendar. Can you squeeze her into your day? She drove 45 minutes to come here.”

After receiving approval from my supervisor, I grabbed the chart and headed into the room. I was certain that a patient who had driven such a distance to receive acupuncture must be a fan of acupuncture!

After I greeted the patient and asked about her chief complaint, I quickly found out that the situation was different from what I expected. The patient had never received acupuncture. She had heard about acupuncture and its benefits, and a Google search led her to the student clinic at VUIM. She was dealing with a complex combination of chronic pain, high blood pressure, a difficult relationship situation, a challenging job, and doctors telling her she needed to do something to help herself become healthier.

As the intake continued, I observed that her legs would not stop bouncing out of nerves, she could not answer hard questions without laughing at the answers, and she needed to receive treatment while sitting in a chair instead of laying on a treatment table. This was a complex case. Before I stepped out to brief the supervisor, she asked, “Is this going to hurt?”

This is a question students are taught how to answer in the classroom, but it is not until we step into the clinic that we truly understand the power of our answer. I knew in this instance that only answering “Yes,” “No,” or “Sometimes,” would not be sufficient to build trust with the patient, and trust is critical for new patients to feel comfortable in acupuncture appointments.

Our training in school is heavily focused on the mechanics of acupuncture: where are the points, how do we safely reach the points while avoiding important body structures, what are the contraindications for acupuncture points, and how do we determine the best points to use for each individual patient. While all of this information is vital to the modality of acupuncture, we could not do our job without having the trust of the patient.

Instead of stepping out to grab my supervisor to review my treatment plan, I paused. I grabbed a package of needles and opened them. I showed her the thinness of the needles and how they bend while still being incredibly strong so that they do not break. I explained how the channels of the body all interconnect and the points along those channels have different functions. I guaranteed her that I would be letting her know everything I was going to do before I did it. I promised her that nothing would be done without her consent. I assured her that I could provide the whole treatment with her sitting in the chair. By giving time, compassion, and honesty, I gained her trust so that I could establish a long-term relationship with her.

We are taught in school that many acupuncture patients come to try acupuncture after visiting many other doctors who were not able to help them feel better. These patients are especially tired of the medical community. They are losing hope at feeling better, and they often carry many doubts about new treatments. The best way to help patients overcome their fears and doubts about acupuncture is to be honest, understanding, and compassionate. By remembering to focus on the Spirit, Mind, and Body, practitioners can earn patients’ trust. Here are a few areas to focus on:

Things to Keep in Mind to Help Patients Feel More Comfortable

Spirit Related

First and foremost, remember that the patient is the utmost authority about his or her body. When you ask questions, pay attention to the answers given by the patient. Your goal as a provider is to honor the intention of treatment that the patient has so that the patient’s spirit carries him/her through the difficulties of feeling poorly. When you are working with a patient, always avoid shaming, blaming, or demanding behaviors from patients. Instead, work on forming a partnership with the patient to encourage compliance. Feeling better and healing are sometimes hard work, so building up a patient’s spirit through empowerment and encouragement is extremely critical.

Mind Related

Narrate, Narrate, Narrate! As a provider you know what you are going to do and why, but the patient does not. Tell the patient what you are going to do and ask permission before you do it. A nervous patient’s mind can spin in anxiety while you are silently performing the treatment. However, if you narrate what you are going to do, and ask for permission, then the patient’s mind is more likely to stay at ease in the present moment with you.

Body Related

Remember to stay focused on the patient’s main complaint. If the main complaint for a patient is a sore back, then you need to show the patient that you are actively listening, addressing the issue, and treating it. Trust will only be acquired if you listen.

Additionally, it is helpful to check in with the patient regularly during treatment by asking questions such as “How are you feeling?”, “Is this painful?“, “How does this area feel now?” This encourages the patient to work with you during the treatment to gain trust.

As students, we spend countless hours reading, memorizing, and testing ourselves about the fundamentals of giving acupuncture treatments. We learn how to diagnose in the language of Traditional Chinese Medicine while also speaking the language of Western Medicine. We pride ourselves in seeing the whole body in a combination of Eastern and Western, yin and yang, and mind/body/spirit. In all of our hard work, it is very easy to forget that the reason we do all of this is to help the vulnerable person sitting in front of us.

The patient who sat in front of me feeling sick and scared trusted me more after I took the time to answer her question with honesty, patience, and compassion. She experienced the benefits of acupuncture and later became a regular patient, who eventually referred her friends and family to our school clinic.

About The Author

Renée Lee

Renée earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication at Texas A&M, a Masters of Arts in Communication from the University of Oklahoma, and a Masters of Science in Acupuncture from VUIM. Currently, she is working to complete her Professional Doctorate in Acupuncture, also at VUIM, while starting a new acupuncture and auricular medicine clinic in Reston. Personal and family health scares were what led Renée to the world of acupuncture. In her spare time to relax, she and her family are restoring a 2001 17ft Wide Body Burro Camper.

For more of her writing, please visit her website: www.feelingbettertogether.com

Academics

Admissions

Academics

Admissions

Tongue Diagnosis

About the Author

Benefits of Cupping

What is Cupping and How Does it Work?

Who Can Safely Perform Cupping?

Myths about Cupping

Why should I go to a Licensed Professional or Student Clinician for Cupping Therapy?

How does Cupping work with Acupuncture?

Who can receive Cupping?

Where Can I Receive Cupping?

Author

Acupuncture: Why I Study TCM

References

Author

Acupuncture and Diabetes

What is Diabetes and How Does it Affect the Body?

How is Diabetes Typically Managed?

Treatment vs. Cure

Why Acupuncture as Opposed to or in Conjunction with Allopathic (Western) Methods?

How Effective is Acupuncture?

In Conclusion

References

Author

Yoga Therapy: How to Become a Yoga Therapist

What is Yoga Therapy?

What Does a Yoga Therapist Do?

What Is the Difference Between a Yoga Therapist and a Yoga Teacher?

The Benefits of Yoga Therapy

Who Should Practice Yoga Therapy?

Are You Thinking of Becoming a Yoga Therapist?

1. On a Regular Basis, Practice Yoga

2. Become a Certified Yoga Teacher

3. Find the Right Yoga Therapy Program for You

4. Decide where you want to work

Conclusion

References

Author

Moxibustion in Acupuncture: History, Uses, Benefits, Cautions

What is Moxa?

How is Moxibustion Applied?

Why Use Moxibustion?

How Does It Feel?

Can I Do It Myself?

Learning Acupuncture and Moxibustion at VUIM

About the Author

Oriental Medicine: History and Benefits

Why Consider Oriental Medicine?

What Does Science Say About the Effectiveness of Oriental Medicine?

Is Oriental Medicine Safe?

Other Precautions to Consider

About the Author

References

Tai Chi: A Gentle Way to Improve Your Physical and Mental Health

Are There Different Styles of Tai Chi?

What Are The Health Benefits?

How to Get Started?

Who Can Practice Tai Chi?

Acupuncture and How to Become an Acupuncturist

Why Choose Acupuncture As Treatment?

What Does an Acupuncturist Do?

What are Some Requirements to Become a Licensed Acupuncturist?

Sample Program Learning Outcomes

About The Author:

How to Help New Patients Feel Comfortable During Acupuncture Treatment

Things to Keep in Mind to Help Patients Feel More Comfortable

About The Author