Bridging cultures through healing: Expats explore TCM in Shanghai

Established in 1960, Longhua Hospital is a leading institution in TCM, renowned for its expertise in acupuncture, tuina therapy, pain management, and the integration of Chinese and Western medicine.

There, the two visitors delved into the philosophy of yin and yang, experienced acupuncture and tuina firsthand, and gained a deeper understanding of how TCM works alongside modern medicine.

Butler spoke positively of TCM, noting its effectiveness in relieving muscular pain based on his own experience.

"Hospitals like Longhua combine Chinese medicine and Western medicine to create a more effective approach that can deal with a variety of (disease-causing) factors that might be ignored," he said.

The impact of TCM, however, extends far beyond the realm of healthcare, representing a cornerstone of traditional Chinese culture. Wang, drawing from his extensive experience practicing abroad, is confident in TCM's potential for global reach.

"Human beings share a common goal: to be healthier and live better lives," he said, "On this basis, we can take the initiative to speak in a way and language that foreign patients can understand. When presented effectively, many are happy to embrace TCM."