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| "What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)" TCM is a system of healing which has been practised in China and other Eastern countries for thousands of years. Ancient philosophers and physicians studied nature divining how to interact with it to cultivate and guide Qi (or chi pronounced 'chee'), life's vital energy. The concept of Qi symbolizes life in all its forms: thoughts and emotions, tissue and blood, inner life and outer expression. Paul J Underwood BSc (Hons) TCM: Acu. MBAcC. Cert Tui Na. WTBA Instructor. pjunderwood@me.com 07540950391 |
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About...
Paul trained at the London School of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. His year was the first from the School to join the University of Westminster and become a three year degree course. Since qualifying he has also had intensive post grad. study at Chengu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China. The advantage of his education is that he is able to understand health and disease in both Western and Chinese theory. This enables him to recognise conditions where orthodox medicine would be needed and to advise people from an informed position.
Paul has practised Tai Chi and similar practicies for over 25 years, after being inspired during a shamanic retreat, eventually setting up as a professional teacher in 1994. He is a registered instructor for the World Tai Chi Boxing Association (WTBA). Private and group classes are held at the Coolhurst Studio.
Paul has strong interests in traditional Eastern Culture and recognises the benefits of integrating the philosophies of such paradigms in Western culture. Paul is a fully qualified practitioner of traditional Chinese acupuncture and remedial, tui na massage therapy.
Appointments for consultations and treatments are available from his clinic at the Coolhurst Studio & Clinic, home visits are available.
This site enables the reader to find out about the benefits of acupuncture, massage and tai chi. Additionally it aims to give a brief background of each discipline and basic information on:- the principles of TCM, physical therapy and Tai Chi, what they can treat, how they will affect you.
Treatments...
Acupuncture is a procedure by which imbalances causing illness, pain, diseases mental and physical can be prevented and treated. Through the insertion of fine needles into acupuncture points, the channels of energy are stimulated and the body's own healing response becomes active which helps restore its natural balance.
Electro Acupuncture and TENS Electro acupuncture is quite similar to traditional acupuncture in that the same points are stimulated during treatment. As with traditional acupuncture, needles are inserted on specific points along the body. The needles are then attached to a device that generates continuous electric pulses using small clips. These devices are used to adjust the frequency and intensity of the impulse being delivered, depending on the condition being treated.
Tuina is a massage therapy, which in the West is similar to physiotherapy, osteopathy, remedial massage and shiatsu. Using the same theory as acupuncture. It is usually performed through the patient's clothes using specialist rubbing, pressing and grasping techniques. Excellent for most muscular / skeletal injuries, general aches and pains and also used for cosmetic treatments. Particularly beneficial for those disliking needles and the inconvenience of undressing for oil massages.
Cupping is a therapy in which a vacuumed cup is attached to an affected area of the body surface and is mainly used to treat conditions such as low back and shoulder pain.
Moxibustion is a therapy closely associated with acupuncture. Moxibustion treats and prevents diseases by applying heat through the dried plant Artemisia Vulagaris "moxa," in the form of a cone or stick to acupuncture points.
Classes...Tuition is available through private lessons or attending group classes at the studio. Paul also teaches at colleges, health & fitness centres and for private corporate clients.
Group classes for all levels of experience are currently held at the studio every Saturday 11.30 - 13.00, price £10.00. The syllabus includes group form, individual tuition and partner work, e.g. pushing hands and San Sao.
A brief description of Qi Gong and Tai Chi is given below.
Qi Gong is an ancient refined form of Taoist yoga performed in standing and moving postures. Combining meditation and breathing techniques, it is an exercise system for moving Qi around the body to encourage mental and physical health working with the same energy and channels/meridians as used in acupuncture.
Taiji Tai Chi is an advanced exercise system taking Qi Gong further to fully explore the interchange of Yin and Yang energies throughout the body with emphasis on balance, focus and breathing techniques. Tai Chi is an excellent preventative therapy against illnesses of the mind, body and spirit. Most practitioners know to use Tai Chi as a form of a 'pension' for good health and mobility (particularly un-aided walking) for the rest of their lives. Not only does it improve physical structure, posture, circulation, and breathing, it can also improve cerebral functions, keeping the mind alert, as we get older. At an advanced level Tai Chi contains a formidable martial art for amongst each moving Qi Gong posture powerful fighting and self-defence techniques are incorperated.
Examples of training programs include: -
Foundation Tai Chi course
Comprehensive Tai Chi syllabus for health and self defence
Foundation self defense course
Posture maintenance and corrections
Co-ordination and balance
Healing physical tension and mental stress
Links...
World Taiji Boxing Association