TCM for menopausal symptoms: New book by Prof. Li Wu and Dr. Natalie Lauer presents holistic recommendations for self-treatment

Menopause is not an illness, but a phase in life that many women experience through transitional symptoms. Body, mind and soul need time to adapt to the new energetic states. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) helps to restore balance.

Embedded in the changing nature

Humans, like the cosmos, are constantly changing. Every day brings new experiences that train the mind and influence the soul. In addition, our bodies and our energies change as we get older.

The TCM doctor and author Li Wu, together with Dr. Natalie Lauer , expert in yoga, Qi Gong and meditation, has written a guidebook that deals with the menopause phase of life. During this time, many women suffer from symptoms such as hot flushes, weight gain, heart palpitations, depressive moods or sleep disorders. Unlike in Western medicine, however, these are not seen as solely the result of hormonal changes and treated accordingly. According to the Chinese view, it is more of an energetic imbalance that can only be understood holistically.

With the help of targeted measures to restore the harmony of Yin and Yang as well as the unhindered flow of the life energy Qi, a balanced diet in accordance with the five-element theory and a relaxed lifestyle, typical symptoms can be alleviated and imbalances balanced.

Holistic view of health and illness

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a holistic system that does not consider body, mind and soul separately. Both the microcosm of every living being and the universally existing macrocosm are subject to the interaction and constant change of Yin and Yang. The human body also follows the pattern of the two poles.

TCM considers internal and external factors to be the causes of illness. Internal factors include all facets of the emotional world, and external factors include all climatic aspects. Chronic and degenerative illnesses indicate an excess of Yin. Acute conditions, on the other hand, are an indication of excess Yang.

In the organism, Qi is the basic substance for all functional processes. The life energy reaches every cell of the body via the meridians, thus forming a connection between the body structures and their respective functions. Qi gives the body strength, protects it and is responsible for the body's defenses. It regulates growth and development, controls physical and mental activity. The life energy warms the body and is responsible for all physiological activities, blood circulation and the morphological order of the organs. An unhindered and harmoniously flowing Qi gives vitality, joy of life and ensures well-being and health. Qi disorders (blockages or deficiency), on the other hand, cause health problems and are often the trigger for physical or mental illnesses.

Gentle self-help for complaints

Existing energetic imbalances can intensify the symptoms associated with the energetic changes of menopause. Such patterns arise due to psychological, climatic and constitutional influences. Lifestyle also plays an important role. Not least because a healthy lifestyle promotes physical and mental well-being, regular exercise, a balanced diet, the correct use of one's own energy and the avoidance of negative stress should be observed.

The guide explains various complaints and methods for self-treatment that are associated with the menopause. The 7-day TCM treatment, for example, makes it easier to start a vital and symptom-free life in the spirit of the second spring. Every day includes beneficial treatments such as bathing cures, relaxing meditation and Qi Gong or Tai Ji Quan exercises as well as massages.

"All measures promote the energetic balance of body, mind and soul, and eating according to the five elements will also help you lose one or two annoying pounds," promise the authors. All of the treatments can generally be used as accompanying therapy without any problems. With the exception of acupuncture (including moxibustion) and cupping, the measures mentioned can be used at home without any problems. Nevertheless, it is of course advisable to inform the treating doctor about the respective measures in advance.

Book tip:
Prof. TCM (Univ. Yunnan) Li Wu and Dr. Natalie Lauer: With TCM, calmly through the menopause. Mankau Verlag 2018, paperback, 13.5 x 21.5 cm, 239 pp., ISBN 978-3-86374-465-6, 15.95 euros (D) / 16.40 euros (A).

Link recommendations:
More information about the book "With TCM calmly through the menopause"
To the reading sample in PDF format
More about the author Prof. TCM (Univ. Yunnan) Li Wu
More about the author Dr. Natalie Lauer
To the Internet forum with Prof. TCM (Univ. Yunnan) Li Wu