Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
I am interested in finding a qigong master in my area. I am also interested in learning Chinese medicine for personal and public practice. I have studied nutrition, some herbology, and massage techniques.
A: I am pleased to hear that you are interested in learning and practicing Chinese medicine. As a word of wisdom, be prepared because it is very hard work, but in the end, it is a rewarding profession and will transform your life in ways you may not even be able to imagine right now.
My suggestion is to look into the various organizations that list the schools where traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is being taught. Some resources that might be helpful are:
• Acupuncture Today: www.acupuncturetoday.com
• Acupuncture Schools in the US: www.acupuncture-schools.us
• National Organization for certification of Acupuncturists: www.nccaom.org
• Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine: www.ccaom.org
• American Association of Oriental Medicine: www.aaom.org
• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance: www.aomalliance.org
Most of the schools also offer qigong classes and certification programs. For further information about the various tai chi and qigong programs, you can also visit Chi Health Institute: www.chihealth.org.
