Gain strength during the Year of the Dragon with Traditional Chinese Medicine
As Australians celebrate Lunar New Year from Saturday, 10 February, an expert at Western Sydney University says they can welcome the Year of the Dragon by embarking on a journey towards a stronger and healthier body and mind with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
As one of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac, each representing a distinct year in the twelve-year cycle, the dragon stands out for its symbolism of power, strength, and fortune.
With the festival traditionally marking the transition from winter to spring in Asian countries in the Northern Hemisphere, a critical period in agricultural societies, it embodies themes of rebirth, hope for prosperity, and aspirations for good health in the coming year.
Professor Xiaoshu Zhu Associate Dean (International) and Director of Academic Program (Traditional Chinese Medicine), from the School of Health Sciences, said that TCM has been offering a holistic approach to health and wellness for thousands of years, with its origins dating back at least 2,000 years, and some aspects possibly as far back as 5,000 years.
“TCM encompasses practices like herbal medicine, acupuncture, Tuina Massage, exercises such as Baduanjin and Tai Chi, and dietary therapy, all aimed at treating illnesses, maintaining wellbeing, and preventing disease” said Professor Zhu.
“It operates on the principle that overall wellness depends on the balance and harmony of the body's interconnected systems.
“Recognised globally for its holistic approach to health, TCM continues to play a significant role in healthcare, adapting to modern medical needs and insights.”
Professor Zhu recommends exploring acupressure techniques on specific points of the body to promote an improved sense of wellbeing in the new year.
“Consulting a good acupuncturist can assist with stress reduction, emotional regulation and even enhanced cognitive function. The UniClinic at Western’s Campbelltown campus offers acupuncture to the public at reduced rates which is provided by students under the supervision of qualified clinicians,” she said.
“It can also improve sleep quality and TCM emphasises the importance of adequate sleep for maintaining balance in the body as it helps with both physical and mental strength.”
Embracing healthier eating habits with a balanced diet can also have positive benefits for many people.
“It is recommended to avoid consuming processed foods and instead eat whole grains, a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts, meat and fish,” she said.
“Herbal teas such as chrysanthemum tea and ginger tea are good, as well as preparing nourishing soups with ingredients like Chinese yam, goji berries and lotus seeds.”
According to Professor Zhu, the eight gentle yet effective movements that synchronise physical motions with focused concentration similar to Thai Chi, known as Baduanjin offer a holistic approach to health.
“Regular engagement in the mind-body exercise of Baduanjin enhances muscular strength and flexibility and boosts cardiovascular endurance,” she said.
“The meditative nature of these movements, combined with mindful breathing, promotes mental clarity and relaxation. Its slow, deliberate motions are particularly beneficial for older adults, improving balance and coordination and aiding in fall prevention.
“Recent studies suggest that Baduanjin may help in managing and preventing conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and chronic lower back pain.”
Western Sydney University is the only comprehensive public university in Australia offering a full set of degree programs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, producing qualified and registered practitioners who can work autonomously in health systems.
To learn more about research into the health benefits of mind-body exercise, visit the Chinese Medicine Centre webpage.
ENDS
9 February 2024
Photo Credit: Sally Tsoutas
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