The commonality between Indigenous Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

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The commonality between Indigenous Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) By Lily Aniwaya,

Adolescent Psychology in Cultural Context, Youth Advocate.

Abstract

The modern man is the only species on Earth living in Disharmony with the very planet he lives on. There are many commonalities between Indigenous Medicine and TCM, surely because the root of both practices all comes from the understanding of the interconnectedness of man; element; and cosmic. And both turn to plant allies to treat, heal and rebalance the body and mind.

Introduction

‘The idea that all living things are related. The philosophical essence of this idea can be expressed in one word – respect; respect for the land, respect for the animals, respect for the plants, respect for other people, and finally, respect for the self.The notion of respect is that humankind is not separate from any other thing in the world but just another living breathing creature among many. The disease is caused when people are out of harmony with the land. Some important values and way of living that has some relationships with TCM are • Living life in balance and harmony(Yin‑Yang and Earth‑Sky) • Collectivist thinking and decision‑making (consensus) • Relationship between ancestors, cosmic forces, and the natural world • Interconnectedness of mind, body, spirit, and emotions’ [1] Ancient Chinese Medicine also roots in indigeneity, its traditions connected to the land and the sky are similar to the First Nations. The ways of the elements are the true teachers. Just like the tiger knows which tree branch has the properties to ward off mosquitoes, our paths are also guided by the elements and if we listen well we may hear the secrets of the plants. ‘Knowledge comes to a warrior,


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