The first twelve weeks of pregnancy, often called “the settling of the fetal essence” in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), are a time of deep transformation. During this stage, experiences like nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, shifting emotions, and changes in appetite are not viewed as illnesses, but as normal signs that the body is adjusting as new life establishes itself. From a TCM perspective, the goal is to interpret these changes clearly and support the mother with gentle, appropriate care during a particularly sensitive window.

TCM explains early pregnancy through several natural physiological shifts. As the Chong and Ren channels strengthen to support reproduction, qi and blood are redirected to nourish the developing embryo. This internal prioritizing can temporarily leave the mother feeling depleted or “off balance,” especially in digestion, because the Stomach’s harmony may be disrupted. What appears as discomfort is often the visible surface of a profound internal reorganization required for fetal development.

In a world filled with quick fixes and constant health concerns, Dr. Tian shares a powerful reminder: true immunity starts from within. Instead of waiting for illness to strike, Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches us how to build strong, resilient Wei Qi — our body’s natural protective shield.

In her latest article, Dr. Tian breaks down Eight Golden Rules rooted in thousands of years of TCM wisdom. From nourishing the Spleen and Lungs with seasonal foods, to massaging key acupoints, protecting your Yang from the cold, supporting your emotional balance, and aligning with nature’s rhythms — each rule helps your body stay grounded, energized, and naturally defended.

In modern times, many couples hope to conceive naturally, yet few truly understand the importance of preparing their bodies beforehand. From the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, preconception care is like cultivating fertile soil—only when the body’s qi and blood are harmonized can new life take root and thrive.

Yin and Yang are the foundation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and represent the dynamic balance that governs all aspects of life, including health, energy, and emotional well-being. This ancient philosophy teaches that harmony between Yin and Yang is essential for maintaining optimal health. When imbalances occur, they can lead to fatigue, stress, digestive issues, and chronic illnesses.

Shuang Jiang Frost Descent: Harnessing the Power of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in Autumn

As the beauty of autumn unfolds with its golden hues and crisp air, the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) calendar points to a significant Solar Day, the "Shuang Jiang" or "Frost's Descent." It marks a period when the first frosts may appear, and nature's energy contracts in preparation for the winter ahead. Just as nature prepares, TCM suggests that the human body must also make adjustments to ensure balance and harmony.

Bladder Health in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient healing system that has been practiced for more than 3,000 years. Rooted in holistic principles, TCM views the body as an interconnected network of energy, or qi (pronounced "chee"), and emphasizes balance and harmony within the body and with the external environment. One of the key organs addressed in TCM is the bladder, which plays a central role in the body’s fluid balance and waste elimination.

Han Lu (Cold Dew) in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Deep Dive into the Large Intestine, Stomach, and Bladder

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the cycles of nature and the changing of seasons have long been acknowledged to influence the state of our health. One particular seasonal node, known as 'Han Lu' or Cold Dew, marks the transition from the milder temperatures of early autumn to the colder onset of late autumn. As the earth prepares for winter's embrace, the dews that form during night become colder. This article will delve into the significance of Han Lu and its implications for three pivotal organs in TCM: the large intestine, stomach, and bladder.