Dermatology in Chinese Medicine

Skin disorders, in their many forms, are among the most common medical conditions, accounting for nearly 25% of all doctor visits. Despite the extensive research and resources dedicated to dermatology, many patients remain dissatisfied with conventional treatments and seek alternative solutions. After four decades of clinical practice, I am fully convinced that Chinese herbal medicine offers a powerful and lasting solution for many individuals suffering from common skin conditions. It has the potential to bring about remarkable and enduring improvements in persistent disorders such as acne, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis. However, due to a lack of specialized training and clinical experience, many practitioners of Chinese medicine struggle to achieve the best possible outcomes—results that are well within their reach. In this brief presentation, I will outline the fundamental principles of dermatology in Chinese medicine and explore its potential to transform the treatment of skin diseases.

From Conception to Birth

Acupuncture support during pregnancy and birth Many acupuncturists feel hesitant about needling patients during the gestational period. Classical Chinese medicine has given us instructions as how to follow and assist a normal pregnancy, as well as treatment protocols for pathologies that may arise during this time. This lecture covers the energetics involved in conception, the 10 lunar months of pregnancy, with life-style, dietary and acupuncture recommendations. Contents: - Do’s and don'ts during pregnancy. Acupuncture techniques and points to avoid - Understanding the energetics involved in pregnancy - Following a normal pregnancy month-to-month - The three most important stages - Preparation for birth - Assisting birth with acupuncture - Treatment of possible complications

The Five Spirits as a Manifestation of One Source - Shen based on the Source Texts of Classical Chinese Medicine

“Heaven manifests as 德 dé within me. Earth manifests as 氣 qì within me.” This quote comes from Chapter 8 of the Ling Shu, titled “Spirit as the Root” (本神 běn shén). 德 dé refers to an inner, innate virtue or power, while 氣 qì is the vital breath, the life force. This passage encapsulates the essence of life’s origin. Later in the text, the concepts of the Five Spirits—神 shén, 魄 pò, 魂 hún, 意 yì, and 志 zhì—are explained. We will examine the meaning of these Chinese characters and their manifestations in human life—how they influence emotions, physiology, and pathology. The second part of the lecture will focus on the practical application of this theory—how therapeutic flavors correspond with the frequency of the Five Phases (五行 wǔ xíng) and how this translates into herbs and herbal formulas that affect emotions. We will answer why each phase is associated with at least three flavors rather than just one. In doing so, we will reference passages from works such as the Ling Shu, Su Wen, Nan Jing, Shang Han Za Bing Lun, and Fu Xing Jue.

The 8 Extraordinary Vessels and psychological profiles

The 8 Extraordinary Vessels and Psychological profiles The Extraordinary Vessels carry out the unfolding of Jing (Essence) from the first moment of conception, and coordinate the various life stages and transformations according to the deposited "Ming" (Life Mandate). In this manner the Extraordinary Vessels play a crucial role in the psycho-spiritual evolution of the individual, as well as in their physical conditions. Content: 1. Role of the Extraordinary in the Physical, Emotional and Psycho-spiritual development of the individual. 2. Pathways, symptoms, psychological profiles and therapeutic strategies 3. The unfolding of Jing; the aging process 4. Clinical applications 5. Case studies

Face Reading, Trauma & Healing

Integrating Chinese Face Reading with Western Science in TCM to Transform Trauma. In our ongoing quest for health and well-being, Chinese Face Reading offers a fascinating perspective. This ancient pseudoscience reveals hidden insights about our personality, health, and even life path. Every face tells a unique life story. Chinese Face Reading involves observing and interpreting various facial features such as shape, colour, texture, and the position of elements like eyes, nose, mouth, and eyebrows. These features are seen as indicators of various aspects of a person's life, including health, emotional state, temperament, personality, talents, weaknesses, and life experiences. By linking the Five Elements to the unique features of our face, we can gain a deeper understanding of who we are and our state of health. Chinese Face Reading has been used since the inception of traditional Chinese medicine as a tool for accurate diagnosis. As a diagnostic instrument, Chinese Face Reading allows us to identify diseases and determine innate susceptibility to certain physical, emotional, and mental conditions. Moreover, a thorough analysis of our face can alert us to potential health problems before they fully manifest, allowing us to take preventive measures and proactively care for our well-being. However, face analysis goes beyond just physical health. It is also a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth. By understanding how our facial features reflect our psychological and emotional state, we can better understand ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma begins as early as utero, shaping our personality, decisions, and even our facial features. Trauma is not defined solely by the events themselves, but by their lasting impact on the nervous system and emotional regulation. In Chinese Face Reading, the face reflects the imprint of trauma, stored emotions, and coping mechanisms. Trauma alters our physiology, which becomes visible in facial structures, expression lines, and asymmetries. By integrating Western insights with TCM and Chinese Face Reading, we create a powerful diagnostic tool. Decoding trauma through the face gives us deeper diagnostic accuracy and opens pathways to true healing. This approach allows us not only to recognize trauma but also to process and transform it. This unique fusion opens new avenues to healing, transformation, and an authentic life.

Weiqi (Defensive Qi) and Wei-Qi (Levels): Integrating Shang Han Lun and Wen Bing

Abstract Wei Qi circulates outside the blood vessels, while Ying Qi flows within. Wei Qi serves as the body's first defense against external pathogens, akin to the immune system, and is closely related to the nervous system, regulating temperature, sweating, and circadian rhythms. Ying Qi, on the other hand, nourishes the body as blood and other Yin substances. Course Content Deep exploration of Wei Qi: insights from classical texts and meridian theory Herbal medicine treatments: Ma Huang Tang and its modifications Acupuncture and moxibustion strategies Wei Qi and modern immunity: applications for COVID-19 prevention and sequelae treatment Wei Qi and nervous system disorders: links to psychological diseases What Can You Learn from the Course? Understanding Wei Qi from both classical and modern perspectives Practical acupuncture and herbal medicine treatments for immune and nervous system disorders Insights into integrating Shang Han Lun and Wen Bing theories in clinical practice

Beyond the seven qing: the language of emotions in Classical Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) studied in universities today is a standardized approach that categorizes various emotional aspects into fixed classifications: the seven emotions (qī qíng七情), five propensities or dispositions（wǔ zhì 五志, and five souls or spirits (wǔ shén 五神). Each aspect is linked explicitly to the functional sphere of a single organ. In contrast, Classical Chinese Medicine (CCM), especially as described in the Internal Canon of the Yellow Emperor, provides a much more nuanced and less rigid perspective. It acknowledges both existential and unconscious factors, differentiates between various expressions of the same fundamental emotion—each with its unique impact on the body—and recognizes that a particular feeling can influence different organs. In this course, we will work to reclaim a clear understanding of classic terminology related to emotions. This will help us delve into the complexity of the human soul and better address the existential realities of those who seek our help.

The Three Treasures: An Explanation of the Interrelationship between Jing, Qi and Shen

The Three Treasures: An Explanation of the Interrelationship between Jing, Qi and Shen Jing 精, Qi 氣, and Shen 神 are fundamental concepts underlying the two most important philosophical foundations of Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM) — a holistic approach and the unity of body and mind. Each has its own unique qualities, yet they cannot be completely separated. To achieve and maintain health and longevity, it is crucial to protect and cultivate these Three Treasures as the source of life. The importance of Jing, Qi, and Shen cannot be overstated in prevention, diagnosis, management, and treatment of illnesses. A deeper understanding of these Three Treasures leads to further development of existing TEAM theories and deepens our understanding of human physiology and pathology. This presentation will first focus on the individual characteristics of Jing, Qi, and Shen, then examine their interrelationships, and finally explore how these connections may be used to cultivate health.

A Multi-Microsystems Approach to Pain and Pain Management

Microsystems are specialized acupuncture systems that focus on stimulating specific points in particular areas of the human body to prevent and treat diseases. Microsystems are easy to learn, cost-effective, safe, and practical. They have broad applications and are widely used in diagnosis, therapy, pain management, and preventive medicine. This presentation will be given from the perspective of Traditional East Asian Medicine and will explain how a multi-microsystem approach can expand treatment options, increase effectiveness, and provide a more personalized treatment plan for patients. It will then introduce several widely used microsystems and present safe and effective methods for applying them in pain management. The microsystems covered will include Hand Acupuncture, Ear Acupuncture, and Abdominal Acupuncture.

Blood and Breath: The Origins of Acupuncture

How did the Chinese come to know the pathways of the meridians, the locations, and functions of acupuncture points? Was Hippocrates of Kos an acupuncturist? When and how did the story of acupuncture truly begin? Should we consider ourselves unworthy heirs to the Taoist sages who treated disease simply by manipulating Qi? These are questions I often hear from my students — and ones I have asked myself countless times. In this plenary lecture, I will trace the early history of acupuncture, outlining its evolution from proto-anatomical observations and bloodletting practices to the sophisticated medical system described in the Nei Jing. Join me on a journey across centuries, toward a pivotal moment in Chinese history: the unification of the empire, which enabled an extraordinary encounter between the brutal pragmatism of military surgeons and the cosmological insights of early Taoist thinkers.

Acupuncture Treatment of menopause Haven, Earth perspective

Subtitle Heaven – Shen transformation, Earth- supporting Jing and extra meridians Menopause is a transformative time for a woman. This natural change can be supported in many ways. In Chinese medicine, it is primarily related to changes in Heaven (Shen) and Earth (Jing and Chong). From a Heavenly perspective, this change involves the relationship between the Shen and Jing, representing a deep transformation and inspiration. Pathologies at this level may manifest as anxiety, depression, frustration, and insomnia. Treatment focuses on transformation using Shen and Jing points. From an Earthly perspective, the changes in Jing and Chong can cause symptoms such as dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, and slowed metabolism. In cases of anti-estrogen treatments for hormone-positive cancers, additional symptoms like joint pain and more intense hot flashes may occur. Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture is highly effective for managing these symptoms. The lecture will discuss the evidence and the acupuncture points used. This lecture will emphasize the Heavenly and Earthly perspectives, offering a practical treatment strategy and point selection.

Workshop: Acupuncture Techniques - Adding effective tools to your Clinical Toolkit

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Treating Atopic Dermatitis in Infants

Atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema, has reached epidemic levels, affecting an estimated 30% of children. This represents a 2- to 3-fold increase over the past few decades. AD is often linked to other systemic conditions, including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies, making it a significant concern in paediatric care. With four decades of clinical experience managing this condition, I have found Chinese herbal medicine to be highly effective across all age groups. However, as with other conditions that affect infants - such as asthma and food allergies - the best long-term outcomes are achieved when treatment begins early. This aligns with the principle that early intervention in biological systems promotes greater stability and sustained improvement. In this talk, I will outline the fundamental principles of treating infants with atopic dermatitis and discuss the importance of timely, effective intervention.

The Five Spirits as a Manifestation of One Source - Shen based on the Source Texts of Classical Chinese Medicine

“Heaven manifests as 德 dé within me. Earth manifests as 氣 qì within me.” This quote comes from Chapter 8 of the Ling Shu, titled “Spirit as the Root” (本神 běn shén). 德 dé refers to an inner, innate virtue or power, while 氣 qì is the life-giving breath, the vital force. This passage encapsulates the essence of life’s origin. Later in this text, the concepts of the Five Spirits—神 shén, 魄 pò, 魂 hún, 意 yì, and 志 zhì—are explained. We will explore the etymology of these Chinese characters and how they manifest in human life—how they affect our emotions, physiology, and pathology. The second part of the lecture focuses on the practical application of this theory—how therapeutic flavors correspond to the frequency of the Five Phases (五行 wǔ xíng), and how this translates into herbs and herbal formulas that influence emotions. We will answer why each phase is associated with at least three flavors rather than just one. In doing so, we will reference passages from works such as the Ling Shu, Su Wen, Nan Jing, Shang Han Za Bing Lun, and Fu Xing Jue.