Self-care practices are essential for the well-being of health care providers. Healers are tasked with maintaining balance within their own bodies as well as for their patients. As acupuncturists, our primary goal is to optimize qi flow during acupuncture treatments, creating harmony within the body, mind and spirit. This is not a new concept in traditional Chinese medicine.
"In the past, people practiced the Tao, the Way of Life. They understood the principle of balance as represented by the transformations of the energies of the universe. They formulated exercises to promote energy flow to harmonize themselves with the universe. They ate a balanced diet at regular times, arose and retired at regular hours, avoided overstressing their bodies and minds, and refrained from overindulgence of all kinds. They maintained well-being of body and mind; thus, it is not surprising that they lived over one hundred years."1
The above passage emphasizes the significance of self-care, accentuating the importance of proper nutrition, rest, exercise and overall stasis for optimal health. Nourishing and balancing the body are ancient concepts of self-care with contemporary applications.
Another passage states:
"Health and well-being can be achieved only by remaining centered in spirit, guarding against the squandering of energy, promoting the constant flow of qi and blood, maintaining harmonious balance of yin and yang, adapting to the changing seasonal and yearly macrocosmic influences, and nourishing one's self preventively. This is the way to a long and happy life."1
This passage introduces TCM concepts such as balancing yin and yang, strengthening wei qi and invigorating the spirit. When one is centered in spirit, universal energies synchronize with the body to promote harmony and healthy qi flow. When the wei qi is strong, evil qi becomes restricted.
Self-care is an immensely important practice for acupuncturists. When a practitioner regularly engages in self-care exercises, they become more balanced and grounded, enabling them to treat patients more effectively and efficiently.
References
- Ni M. The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine: A New Translation of the Neijing Suwen With Commentary. Shambala Publications, 1995. http://www.five-element.com/graphics/neijing.pdf
Meridith Smith received her Master of Acupuncture in 2013 from the New England School of Acupuncture, and her Doctor of Acupuncture and Integrative Health from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science University in 2019. She is the founder of Metrowest Family Acupuncture in Wayland, Mass., and adjunct faculty / clinical supervisor at MCPHS University.