Ep. 19: The Microcosm Reflects the Macrocosm: Chinese Medicine as a Holistic Model for Disease and Health, with Jeffrey Schifanelli

Ep. 19: The Microcosm Reflects the Macrocosm: Chinese Medicine as a Holistic Model for Disease and Health, with Jeffrey Schifanelli

Author: Alexa Bradley Hulsey, Licensed Acupuncturist July 26, 2023 Duration: 49:53

Chinese Medicine history, philosophy, and practical advice…all in one episode!

What happens when you blend ancient wisdom with modern understanding? Jeffrey Schiffinelli, licensed acupuncturist and practitioner of Chinese medicine, provides an enlightening exploration into holistic disease models, the power of adaptogenic medicine, and the beauty of this ancient practice that views the body as a whole functioning organism, reflecting the natural cycles and biological systems that exist on our planet.

In this episode, Jeffrey and I journey through some of the classic texts of Chinese medicine, a few scholarly theoretical concepts (which we try our best to break down into plan English), and a host of philosophical detours!

You’ll learn about:

1. The foundational concept of the microcosm and macrocosm, how our bodies reflect the natural cycles of the world around us, and the inherent blueprint for health that exists within each of us

2. The inclusive, circular nature of Chinese Medicine wisdom, and how it informs patterns of disease progression, differential diagnosis, and a treatment that is always individually crafted to meet each patient’s unique needs

3. How acupuncture and Chinese Medicine function an adaptogenic medicine, shoring up the body so it can handle the stresses of life

4. The concept of the immune system in Chinese Medicine, and how our Zheng qi or “upright qi” repairs and strengthens the body from within

5. How Chinese Medicine continues to evolve and address new and emerging diseases, by encouraging us to live in harmony with nature and trust our instincts

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about the unique, circular approach of Chinese medicine, this is the episode for you! Jeffrey shares profound insights into trusting ourselves, aligning with nature, and the resonance of our bodies with the world around us.

Jeffrey Schifanelli is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese Medicine practitioner in Savannah, GA, and has been practicing since 2011. His clinic, Savannah Community Acupuncture, is a 501c3 nonprofit clinic that makes Chinese Medicine more accessible.

Learn more about Chinese Medicine at Jeffrey’s blog

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Thanks to AudioCoffee for the music in this episode, and endless love and gratitude to my paid subscribers for contributing to the sustainability of my work!



This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notesfromyouracupuncturist.substack.com

Ever find yourself wondering what's really happening when those fine needles go in, or how concepts from ancient medicine fit into a modern life? Notes from Your Acupuncturist: Conversations on Acupuncture, Alternative Medicine and Holistic Health is a space for those kinds of questions. Hosted by licensed acupuncturist Alexa Bradley Hulsey, this podcast moves beyond simple explanations to explore the nuanced connections between body, mind, and the environment that form the foundation of holistic health. You'll hear discussions that demystify how acupuncture and Traditional East Asian Medicine approach common ailments, not as isolated symptoms but as part of a larger pattern. The conversations also extend into complementary therapies and thoughtful self-care practices, offering a broader view of what it means to cultivate genuine wellness. It’s for anyone who’s curious, skeptical, or already passionate about alternative paths to well-being and wants to deepen their understanding. Each episode feels like a detailed, personal note from a knowledgeable guide, aiming to provide practical insights and perspective you can use in your own journey. Tune in for a grounded, accessible take on integrating these timeless principles into contemporary living.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 29

Notes from Your Acupuncturist: Conversations on Acupuncture, Alternative Medicine and Holistic Health
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