Summary:
In this article you’ll learn about Traditional Tibetan Medicine, a medical system that is similar to Indian Ayurveda, which has long recognized that health conditions are the result of many factors found inside and outside the body.
Note: Although Tibetan Medicine contains terminology and concepts of Buddhism, it is important to acknowledge that it is not itself a Buddhist practice
Introduction
What is Traditional Tibetan Medicine (TTM)? Traditional Tibetan Medicine, also called Sowa Rigpa, is a medical system based on the interdependent relationship between human health and nature. Compared to Western Medicine, where we treat patients with a “band-aid” approach, Tibetan Medicine looks at a person as a whole. This ancient medical system pays attention to the interconnections that exist within us, between us and everything that surrounds us. It is based on the concept that nothing exists by itself, and everything exist interdependently; cause and effect. As such, through the practice of Sowa Rigpa we are guided to bring awareness to all events affecting our health.
A few things to know about TTM:
● In Tibetan Medicine health is understood as balance — A dynamic condition where there is a harmonious relationship of energy, physical body, and mind.
● Nyes Pa, the three elements or energies (Loong, Tripa, Beken) occur in every human body and form of the individual constitutional type.
● The balance between these three energies are influenced daily by lifestyle, nutrition, environment and the four seasons.
● The mind plays an important role in the Tibetan Medicine. Semde, the clear and natural mind, is necessary for a balanced health and well-being. A sense of relaxed mind, or serenity of mind, plays part in the dynamic balance between the three energies of Lung, Tripa, and Beken.
