In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), healing is not merely about combating disease but about working with the body’s natural processes to restore balance. One of the fundamental principles guiding TCM treatment is "Following the Trend" (因势利导), a strategy that aligns with the natural development of events to steer them in a favorable direction, much like water naturally flowing downward.
TCM views disease as an ongoing battle between pathogenic factors (邪⽓) and the body's vital energy (正⽓). Effective treatment does not fight against this process but rather aids the body in overcoming illness by supporting its natural healing mechanisms.
Working with Natural Forces
The Ling Shu (灵枢), an ancient TCM text, states:
“When facing deep water, one need not forcefully remove it; simply channeling its course will cause it to dry up.”
Similarly, the Su Wen (素问) emphasizes different approaches depending on the disease location:
Diseases in the upper body → Use dispersing methods such as sweating and vomiting to guide the pathogen out.
Diseases in the lower body → Utilize purging and draining techniques to expel the disease downward.
Diseases affecting the skin → Induce sweating to release pathogens from the exterior.
By considering the disease location, the type of pathogenic factor, and the dynamic changes in yin-yang and qi-blood, TCM practitioners choose appropriate treatment methods that harmonize with the body's self-regulatory mechanisms.
Syndrome Differentiation
At the heart of "Following the Trend" is syndrome differentiation (辨证施治), analyzing the disease’s characteristics, the patient’s constitution, and the current state of balance within the body. This principle embodies the flexibility and personalization that define TCM treatment.
Ultimately, "Following the Trend" is not just a strategy in medicine but a philosophy that applies to life itself. By understanding and aligning with natural forces, we can achieve greater efficiency and harmony—both in healing and in navigating the ever-changing currents of life.