This paper will detail my motivation for pursuing a career in acupuncture. It will explain why I feel so strongly about Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how this is linked to what I experienced as a medical trauma specialist in the Navy.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the polar opposite of the invasive field of medicine I used to practice. TCM adopts a non-invasive and holistic approach to healing, and it is this style of treatment that I have grown to prefer. This essay details how and why I have decided to pursue a career in TCM, as well as the reason behind why I feel so passionately about this decision.
I spent 14 years in the Navy where I practiced western medicine as a medical trauma specialist. I had extensive experience performing invasive medical procedures and also prescribed various drugs and medicines to my patients to aid their recovery. After many years of practice, however, I began thinking of alternative options for the surgeries I was performing. I began wondering whether such invasive procedures and so many prescription medications were necessary. I researched other options and discovered Traditional Chinese Medicine.
TCM is made up of medical practices that were developed in China over 2000 years ago. TCM includes acupuncture, specialized diets, massage, herbal medicine and exercise. (Eldridge, 2003.) TCM is rooted in the idea that the body must be in harmony with its internal processes and the external environment. TCM views disease as a disruption of this relationship. (Overington, 2009.)
TCM practitioners evaluate an ailment in terms of its cause, how it has developed and progressed, its location in the body and the nature of the illness. Also taken into consideration is how the body is reacting to the particular illness. TCM practitioners recognize that each person copes with various illnesses in different ways and, therefore, treatment is uniquely tailored for each patient. (Eldridge, 2003.)
During my time in the Navy, I saw many adverse reactions to the medications I was describing. I also came to realize that some of the operations I was performing were unnecessary as the ailments could either correct themselves or be prevented with the use of holistic medicine. I developed a passion for minimally invasive procedures and now believe it is the best approach to healing any illness. The extensive use of drugs that other doctors prescribe for their patients is needless and, sometimes, can be very damaging.
While there are many different practices that fall under the heading of TCM, I have chosen to specialize in acupuncture. Acupuncture is a form of treatment that involves inserting very thin needles at various points throughout the body. This idea is based on the belief that the functions of the body are controlled by an energy flow known as either chi or qi. The needles stimulate ‘acupuncture points’ that then rectify any imbalances in the flow of this energy. (Cook, 1999.)
Taking a step closer toward becoming one’s higher self feels serendipitous and cannot be entirely explained with words. The spiritual [and non-evasive] practice of Chinese medicine is in line with who I want to be, for this holistic approach to medicine is the same approach I apply to all other areas of my life. I believe I have found the path I am meant to be on and am not only motivated but excited to see what I will discover along the way.
References
Cook, A. (1999). Acupuncture: A – Z. Westport, CT: Greenwood.
Eldridge, L. (2003). Pressure Points. New York: New Age Press
Overington, M. (2009). Traditional Chinese Medicine: Through the Ages. Boston: McGraw-Hill.