Ivory anatomical figure, Japan, 1800-1920
Click the thumbnails to enlarge
The anatomical figure shows the qi (chi) points on the body. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) qi is the energy or life force that flows through meridians, or channels, in the body. When qi becomes blocked, disease and illness follow. Acupuncture or massage are thought to unblock the meridians.
Object number:
A642981
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Glossary: anatomical figure
Highly detailed models of the full human figure for artists, teachers and medical practitioners.
Glossary: massage
The rubbing or kneading of parts of the body especially to aid circulation, relax the muscles, or provide sensual stimulation.
Glossary: acupuncture
A central therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where fine needles are inserted into the skin at specific points. These points are believed by to lie on channels, or meridians, of energy flow, or qi (chi).
Glossary: Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a medical tradition originating in China, but now used worldwide. Treatments include herbal medicine, massage and acupuncture, which are combined to create a therapy tailored to the patient.
Glossary: meridians
The main channels of energy flow (qi) in Chinese medicine. There are 12 meridians in total.