Brief history and description: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is the traditional diagnostic and treatment methods of China that have been developed over the milllenia and it's written history, which is approximately 2300 years old. There are 100 TCM classical works of literature that have been preserved over the centuries and these are the basis of the discipline. Over the years, much has been added to this base of knowledge, but the foundations of the system remain consistant and in tact. This discipline utilizes many curative techniques, primarily acupuncture and herbology, though TCM also includes Tui Na (massage), Qi Gong, food cures, cupping, moxabustion and many other methods passed down through the ages. These diagnostic and treatment techniques are based on a long history of clinical observation and trials and the success rates are astonishing. These successes are especially of interest when TCM is combined with Western medicine. In China, these two systems of health care are completely integrated and the general public, when going into a hospital, has the option of choosing Western Medicine, traditional Chinese medicine or a combination of both. While Western medicine tends to look at the human body from a microscopic viewpoint, TCM compliments this with a macroscopic viewpoint, seeing the person as an organic whole. Each organ of the body is taken into account during the diagnostic procedure and treatment is based on what aspect of the body needs it most. The ancient Chinese doctors said that the best doctors were ones who treated the disease before it ever struck. In other words, the focus of TCM is preventing disease, by promoting health. Traditional Chinese medicine is working it's way into the Western world and when it's curative effects are integrated more fully with a Western approach to healthcare, we will all benefit from it. I am currently studying TCM at what many consider the top TCM school in North America, The International College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Vancouver. My courses are comprehensive and I am learning all the traditional techniques, manipulations and formulas. This is a five year program and I am currently in my third year. Because, I am not yet a Doctor of TCM, I don't have the authority to treat or answer all your possible questions, however, I would like to use this website as a forum to discuss TCM and answer as many questions as I can. If any question is beyond my scope of understanding, I would be happy to refer the question to one of my teachers, who are all highly qualified and able. My hope is that this website will further people's understanding of this healthcare system which I have come to highly respect and admire.	Name URL or Email Messages(smilies)	History and explanation: Reiki (pronounced rey-key) is a style of hands-on healing developed by Dr. Mikao Usui in the beginning of the twentieth century. It's true origins lie much further back in Tibetan, Buddhist and Christian history, but he is the founder of what we currently know as Reiki. A Reiki practitioner must complete training and receive an "attunement" by a Reiki master in order to practice it and there are several levels of Reiki before achieving the master level. Explaining the process of Reiki is very difficult. It involves focused attention and intention, where the practitioner sends spiritually guided universal energy into the person receiving the Reiki. This is not a religion and has no religious affiliation, however, it is spiritual in nature in that it tries to unite us with our true selves or what I consider our spirits. People are able to heal themselves and what Reiki tries to do is empower that ability in people. It is a non-invasive and gentle method of treatment, however it's effects can go to very deep levels. The energy has a tendency to go where it's needed most, so blockages are unblocked, deficiencies are tonified and uneven energy becomes balanced. It works very well as a complimentary therapy with others, or alone. Distance Reiki: One very unique aspect to Reiki is that it can be transmitted from a distance. Because we are working with universal energy, there is no restriction of time or space. Reiki can be sent anywhere in the world and can be guided to you whenever or wherever you may need it most. For instance, if you have a test, important meeting, doctor's appointment, or just relaxing at home, Reiki can be sent to you or someone you love. I charge $10 for a 15 minute session or $20 for 30 minutes and that can be accepted through paypal of this site. Email me for more information.