How to Visit a Chinese Medicine Spa

Traditional Chinese medicine has been around more than 2000 years. Rather than treating symptoms as the problem, Chinese medicine focuses on the body as a whole and groups the symptoms together to reveal the cause of the problem before starting treatment. When you visit a Chinese medicine spa, you receive individualized attention that could include herbal medicine, acupuncture, acupressure and various forms of massage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Check the qualifications of the Chinese medicine practitioner at the spa you'll be visiting. A licensed Chinese medicine doctor must complete an accredited masters program that includes several years of study and many hours of clinical experience, the length of which depends on the program completed.

2. Ask to see the practitioner's diploma showing successful completion of the acupuncture examination offered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. This is required for a graduate to include acupuncture in her Chinese medicine practice.

3. Understand the philosophy behind Chinese medicine is to study what causes health, not what creates illness. While there is emphasis on healing, the goal is to prevent a state of "dis-ease" and help maintain a state of balance within the body.

4. Inquire about the availability of other Chinese healing arts, including cupping therapy, Tai Chi and food therapy. The Chinese medicine spa may also offer meditation classes.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the website of the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM) for a list of accredited schools of Chinese medicine and their requirements for completion.
• If you're concerned about any chronic health condition, consult your regular physician before visiting a Chinese medicine practitioner.

Resources

• Search here for spas offering traditional Chinese medicine
• The Blue Bamboo is a modern Chinese medicine spa
• Get accreditation and other information from the ACAOM

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