Discovering Traditional Chinese Medicine

I’ve always been curious about ancient methods of medicine and healing. Chinese medicine, also known as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a comprehensive medical system that has been practised for thousands of years in China and other parts of East Asia. It is based on a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, aiming to restore balance and harmony within the body. As a qualified yoga teacher and massage therapist, I find learning about the body, mind and soul addictive so, in a rare moment of pause in my life, I decided to undertake an online course with Endeavour Short Courses, titled Introduction to Chinese Medicine: ancient holistic healing. With up to 30 CPE/CPD points earned, the course is academically rigorous and very well rounded. It is designed and supported by leading experts in the field and academics who understand the needs
of busy professionals.

Although I’m only halfway through the course, I’ve already implemented some of the teachings in my own life. I’m also gaining the confidence to explore the philosophies and learnings with my massage clients and yoga students, which adds an extra dimension to my sessions.

Easy online learning

Within Endeavour’s easy online learning platform, I’ve discovered the many ways in which Chinese medicine considers the body, mind and spirit as interconnected. The fundamental concept that underlies this interconnectedness is the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”). Qi can be understood as the vital energy or life force that flows throughout the body. It is believed to animate all living beings and is responsible for maintaining health and vitality. Qi flows through energy pathways in the body known as meridians or channels. The balance and free flow of Qi are essential for optimal physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

I’ve learnt that Chinese medicine addresses health issues by looking at the whole person rather than just focusing on specific symptoms. Throughout each module of this course, I can see the strong emphasis on the importance of maintaining balance and harmony within the body to achieve optimal health.

The course also takes an in-depth look at Chinese medicine anatomy and physiology, an area I am deeply passionate about. In The Body and Qi module,
I discovered the core principles of anatomy in Chinese medicine: Yin, Yang and the Five Elements theory, internal organ theory and channel theory. I’ve learnt about the pathogens and the seven emotions.

I am also enjoying the Herbal Medicine and Chinese Dietetics module, which has inspired me to seek out a qualified Chinese medicine practitioner. Through this in-depth module, I’ve learnt about Chinese herbs and their ability to tonify, harmonise and cleanse the body. These places great emphasis on the role of nutrition in maintaining health. Dietetics involves using specific foods and culinary techniques to address imbalances and support the body’s healing process. Foods are classified based on their energetic properties and their effects on the body. Dietary recommendations are personalised to suit the individual’s constitution and health condition.

With questions, project work, comprehensive assessments and an interactive Learning Journal to track my progress, the Introduction to Chinese Medicine: ancient holistic healing course is thorough, fascinating and very user-friendly. It really does set you up for a successful learning environment. I’m looking forward
to exploring the following course objectives:

Course objectives

• Identify and discuss the components of Chinese medicine as a whole medical system
• Understand foundational concepts such as Qi, Blood, Yin/Yang and Five Elements and their relationship to Chinese medicine, diagnosis and treatment.
• Apply basic principles to understanding individuals and their strengths and disharmonies from a Chinese medicine point of view.
• Describe the application of the range of Chinese medicine therapeutic methods and their uses.
• Develop awareness of the considerations facing Chinese medicine in the Australian and international contexts regarding regulation and as a traditional medicine that has been exported to other cultures.

Endeavour Short Courses have really thought of everything when it comes to successfully delivering this online course. Their intuitive, industry-leading learning platform gives me the flexibility to study entirely online, in my own time and at my own pace. As a busy working mum, studying online suits my lifestyle very well … that little pause I thought I had was quickly absorbed by deadlines, toddler sickness and visitors. Thankfully, I have the tools and techniques of Traditional Chinese Medicine to keep me feeling grounded, balanced and at ease.

For more information visit endeavourshortcourses.edu.au