Inhalation Therapy
Tibetan medicine is a system of diagnosis and therapy that originated in the Himalayan region of Asia thousands of years ago. Over the centuries, Tibetan medical theory has been influenced by Buddhist philosophy from other areas of Asia and Ayurvedic tradition from India. Since Tibet has been in exile, the only school of Tibetan medicine is now located in Dharamsala, northern India. It is here at the Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute, also known as Men-Tsee-Khang headquarters, that all practitioners of Tibetan medicine are now trained.
To become a practitioner of Tibetan medicine, the student must devote a minimum of seven years to the study of diagnostic techniques, herbal remedies and physical therapies as well as philosophy and poetry. The student of Tibetan medicine learns how to observe, feel and most importantly, to listen to the patient. Tibetan medicine takes a holistic approach, understanding that thought patterns and personal behaviors are as vital to diagnosing illness as observation of physical symptoms. The psychological and emotional well-being of the patient are considered carefully. Treatment often consists of recommending changes in diet and behavior, along with physical therapies and herbal cures.
One technique of physical therapy that is often indicated is breath control. Yoga breathing exercises, such as the Breath Of Fire, are often recommended to align spirit and mind, thus bringing the body back into harmony with one's self and the outer world. Ayurvedic Pranayama breathing techniques such as deep, slow, conscious breathing are usually taught first, then the patient is instructed in other techniques, such as Breath Of Fire, or Agni-Prasana. Posture and relaxation are important components of fire-breathing. Inhalation and exhalation are deliberate, rapid and unstrained. Tibetan inhalation therapy helps to reintegrate the mind, body and spirit, leading to increased health and vitality.
