An Intro to life in China

Well, we've finished our first month of hospital internship and lectures here in China. It has been amazing...from the fact that we are living in Chengdu, to witnessing and participating in the treatment of patients (sometimes up to 50 in a morning!) at one of the most renowned hospitals in China, to learning about techniques and therapies that we've never even heard of in Canada. We are definitely going to return home as more confidant, knowledgeable and experienced practitioners of TCM. All of that, alongside the surprises and challenges that come with integrating into a different culture, language and cuisine. There has been a lot of laughter and questioning looks over the past 2 months. Take a look at some of the photos and videos below.... I'll leave more story telling to the others.

Man Zou,
Lesley



Ling Zhi (Reishi Mushroom), Wu Shao She (black striped snake), and Dong Chong Xia Cao (Cordyceps - $30,000 a kilo!) at one of the largest herbal markets in China.



New Year's Day at the Wen Shu Temple in Chengdu, and our vegetarian feast afterward!


more market herbs and our friendly neighborhood grill...pick whatever you want and it's grilled in minutes (make sure to include 'bu wei jing' (no msg) and 'yi dian la jiao' (just a little hot pepper) for a buck or two.





Temple on Qingcheng Shan (Taoist Mountain); typical signage found at tourist locations; giant Buddha near Le Shan


Facial paralysis patients receiving treatment....it makes up approximately 90% of what is treated in the acupuncture department!


Baby Tuina! This peaceful little one is the exception to the rule of very very unhappy babies being massaged.