VITALISM early and later heaven is the central axis along which the theme of each human life unfolds ( 1 , p . 5 ).
This description continues to provide an opportunity to understand the idea of the ‘ fundamental substances ’, which is often thrown into the collective term Qi . As you ’ ll read , each aspect can have its own time in the spotlight , which they thoroughly deserve .
… heaven , earth , Qi comprise the fundamental unity of the primordial Dao . These three , remaining in a state of undivided totality , constitute “ early heaven ” or reality before the evolution of material substance . 1 , p . 9
The descriptions go on to talk about the ‘ thread of the Dao ’ while acknowledging that it is also truly unknowable - ” the essential nature of life remains chaotic and unknowable ” which is precisely why I ’ ve always enjoyed the study of TCM . From the outset , in translated texts from early third and fourth centuries , the writers of the time acknowledged the vastness of all they described and discussed .
A western practitioner can spend a lifetime embodying the teachings and value of the ancient wisdom , bringing intuitive connection and understanding to both the theory and practice of TCM . From a western science approach this intangible basis and belief is the very issue which divides the ancient practices from the modern . That said , it is looking as though even the most sciencedriven of modern medical realms are discovering what the ancients have long known and taught : for example , the emergence of powerful technologies and new branches of science like psychoneuroimmunology and the great work of chemistry , biochemistry , cellular and molecular biologists “ to help see the ways in which the nervous system and the immune systems work and communicate ” 2 , p . 12
As the science ( or proof ) catches up with ancient wisdom , it will be interesting to consider the two opposing views of vitalism and mechanistic explanations of life . Perhaps that is precisely the great mystery of being human - infinite lifetimes of pondering and exploring , with pieces of the puzzle passed on and along by each generation , through consistent looking and asking questions . Personally , it will never cease to intrigue and inspire me to keep reading information from both sides and keep my eyes open … and the Qi flowing .
It is interesting to note that , like other ancient medical models , modern medicine too had its roots in vitalism . It appears to be like a game of Chinese whispers ( pun intended ) – vitalism was once part of mainstream medicine but it fell away . Yet vitalism remains in the language of modern medicine today . And dare I say , subconsciously , in the diagnostic arsenal of all health practitioners - traditional , modern and everything in between . Think about it - when someone is in great health we refer to them as vibrant . Who hasn ’ t heard a doctor say directly to them or about someone that they lacked vitality ? Or what about emergency medical care and first aid training ? We check for vital signs . With that said , let us take a quick look at the thread of vitality that has been the underpinning of TCM .
From the ancients : GuanZi , 4th Century BCE : 3 , p . 63
The complete mind cannot stay hidden in the body . Rather , it takes shape and appears on the outside . It can be known from the complexion of the face .
As with the development of molecular science , quantum physics and the emerging acknowledgement of vibrational frequencies , conversations are beginning about potential connections with traditional knowledge . It is my view that eventually the divide will merge and the similarities between traditional and modern medicine will be recognised . I live in hope .
I ’ ll finish this piece with an eloquent description of vitalism , otherwise referred to as “ The Tao ” from the teachings of Mantuk Chia , a Thai born Chinese practitioner , creator of the Universal Tao Centre and Universal Tao System still based in northern Thailand .
Each frequency or vibrational density is associated by the Taoists with specific kinds of subtle energy : the earth ’ s water and plant energy emits a blue-green colour … and Universal energy is violet as it is stepped down from the polestar … Black is the colour of the unborn Tao , the absolute void of the WuChi from
4 , preface xix which all spirit emanates .
Along with this from the first page of Mantuk ’ s book “ Awaken Healing Light of the Tao ” 5 The ineffable is described beautifully :
The Tao is both philosophy and a technology for seeking and finding the truths of the universe , nature and humanity . Its focus goes beyond one single path or viewpoint . The Tao is not a religion , as it requires no initiations or ceremonies , but it is the outcome of all religious beliefs , just like the clothing of past seasons . The Tao is also the goal of science , but it leaves behind all scientific theories as partial and temporal descriptions of the integral truth . Taoism includes all matters of religion and science , yet its breadth goes far beyond the limits of devotion or intellect .
REFERENCES
1 . Jarrett L . Nourishing Destiny . The Inner Tradition of Chinese Medicine . Spirit Path Press : USA ; 2004 .
2 . Sternberg ., E ( 2001 ). The Balance Within : The Science Connecting Health and Emotions . W . H . Freeman and Company : NY ; 2001 . 3 . Deadman P . Live Long Live Well . Teachings from the Chinese Nourishment of Life Tradition . C & C Offset Printing Co . Ltd : China ; 2016 .
4 . Winn M . Preface . In Chia M . Awakening Healing Light of the Tao . Universal Tao Publications ; Thailand ; 1993 .
5 . Chia M . Awaken Healing Light of the Tao . Universal Tao Publications : Thailand ; 1993 .
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