One of the methods of Oriental Medicine practiced in our clinic is called Sa Sang Medicine.
Sa Sang means ¡°Four Constitution¡±. This medicine is based on one¡¯s innate strengths and weaknesses.
Each of us is born with stronger and weaker organs. Our bodily energy flows from our stronger organs to
our weaker one¡¯s. The difference in our constitution depends on which organs are the stronger and which
are the weaker. Organs in Oriental Medicine don¡¯t just have a physical function. Organs represent
the strengths and weaknesses of our personality as well. In other words, we are born with certain positive
aspects as well as negative personality aspects. Some of us may have a tendency to be more violent
while others may have a tendency to be introverted and keep to themselves.
There are four major body types (Taiyin, Shaoyin, Taiyang, Shaoyang).
This doesn¡¯t mean that there are only four types of people! Each type has
an endless amount of variation. Knowing which body type we are helps us
understand further our own tendencies as well as that of others around us.
Health is based on strengthening our positive aspects, not just changing our
constitution. Actually, we cannot change our constitution. But we can still be
healthy and happy.
In the clinic, as we get to know our patients better, we can also come to
the conclusion of which body type they are. This is not an easy task
however. It takes a lot of studying and patience. We are constantly
challenged with what we think we may know too. There are several methods
used to find out one¡¯s constitutional type. First, we use the body shape. Each constitution has a slightly different bodily structure.
Secondly, we ask questions about our client¡¯s personality. Thirdly, we ask questions about bodily
functions. Fourthly, we take the pulses and look at the tongue color, texture and shape. All of these clues
help us come to a conclusion.
Once we know which body type our client is, we can then find out which herbs or acupuncture points to
use. Depending of the doctor, these methods vary greatly. Each formula is unique and different according
to the individual. Even the foods we eat are different according to the constitution. Suggestions are
sometimes made about ways to improve relationships, spiritual disharmony, etc.
Treatment is not solely based on constitution however. Each individual has their own health concerns.
Treating according to one¡¯s constitution helps us avoid treating just the symptoms. Treatment is focused on
the source of the issue. Therefore, treatment is both