Char Marie, L.Ac.
Licensed Acupuncturist and Qigong Therapist
A welcoming message...
I am glad you found your way here, and hope that you find answers and useful information in these pages. The site will be continually growing, so please check back often, for changes and additions.
Chinese medicine is a very ancient art, dating back at least 5,000 years ago to its roots in China, and Chinese shamanism even further back. Qigong made its first appearance around 5,000 years ago, and acupuncture, perhaps 2400 years or so ago. Herbal medicine is also nearly 3,000 years old. Around the world, Chinese medicine is known for being natural, free of side effects, and most of all, effective in maintaining wellness, and treating imbalances when they do occur.
When I began my studies in Chinese medicine, it was through the direct experience of learning qigong with a master and a grandmaster of qi healing. In my own body, first, I learned about the legacy of energy, and the power of the mind and heart together, as well as sensing energy along paths (meridians) and points. I had practiced qigong for almost six years before I began to formally study acupuncture, and deepen my academic studies of Chinese medicine.
I have great respect for the art of qi healing, and the practice of qigong, having learned these arts experientially, and also for the academic (scientific) aspects of Chinese medicine, on the University level. It is true, that Chinese medicine is both "art and science." I am grateful to the teachings of my Grandmaster, Master TK Shih, and to Donald Londorf, MD, L.Ac., (master of the Chinese Healing Arts Center, Rochester, NY) for their kindness, wisdom and knowledge. I am also grateful to those who came before, for hundreds and even thousands of years, who passed on these arts of healing, most of the time verbally, and many times without words, (on the level of the heart and mind), to their students, so that one day we all can now share in these healing arts.
In my clinic, I hope to bring the experience of both the very old and also the new - as qi healing and acupuncture and are really both art and science, together. As modern medicine shows more and more, the positive effects of acupuncture, qigong practice and healing and Chinese herbal medicine in the clinical setting, it is definitely a very wonderful thing, however, what is maybe more wonderful even still, is that these arts of healing are so deeply personal and empowering to the individual. It is my hope to share these gifts in the clinic, in ways that are meaningful, personal and useful for your health and happiness.
I hope you enjoy the website, and look forward to sharing the gifts of the Chinese healing arts with you!
Licensed Acupuncturist, and QiGong Therapist