How did I come up with the idea of combining EMDR with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)? Well, for years I suffered from severe migraines that Western medicine had essentially given up on, and that could only be managed with strong painkillers. By chance, I found a TCM practitioner who lived on the same street. So why not give it a try? When the pain is bad enough, you’ll try almost anything. So, I began a six-month therapy with TCM. It consisted of a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and Qigong exercises. It would be a lie to say that there was a quick improvement, but over time, it got better and better until, after half a year of regular treatments, I was pain-free and remained so for over 10 years. After this success, I wanted to know for myself how it worked and began to immerse myself in the study of TCM for years, eventually completing training to become an acupuncturist.
So, what happened after 10 years? A setback threw me off course, and with it, my migraines returned with a vengeance. It’s well-known that stress can trigger migraines, and that’s likely what happened in my case. So, I started acupuncture again and decided to try therapy at the same time. It was a coincidence that I chose EMDR because I didn’t know much about it then. I quickly noticed that I recovered faster after demanding EMDR sessions and that the effects lasted longer if I had an acupuncture session or did Qigong afterward.
Since I was already studying psychology at the time, it was clear to me that I would specialize in EMDR, as this method produces quick and lasting results. So, both times, it was chance that led me to TCM and later to EMDR, but it’s no coincidence that I’ve been working with the combination of these two methods ever since. In practice, it has proven successful, as I see more sustainable and faster progress in clients who actively participate in the process between sessions, for example, with targeted breathing exercises, Qigong, or meditation.
The following article will delve into the ways in which TCM and EMDR intersect and complement each other.
EMDR: The Power of Bilateral Stimulation Through Eye Movements
EMDR is a psychotherapeutic method specifically designed to treat trauma. This method is based on the assumption that the brain stores unprocessed traumatic experiences and that negative emotions become fixed in the body. Through EMDR, these stored information and emotions can be reprocessed, reducing the associated emotional burden. With targeted eye movements, tapping, or bilateral audio stimulation, the processing of distressing memories is stimulated, leading to synchronization between the brain hemispheres and an internal reorganization of the traumatic experience. It is also believed to be related to REM sleep phases. It is known that the rapid eye movements during these phases facilitate the processing of daily experiences. In an EMDR session, a similar effect is triggered through bilateral stimulation.
The exact mechanism of action of this treatment method has not yet been fully researched, but it is believed that EMDR supports the brain’s natural healing processes. The effectiveness of EMDR has been scientifically proven.
TCM: Holistic Healing
Traditional Chinese Medicine views humans as a complex system in which body, mind, and spirit are inextricably linked. It is assumed that emotions are not only psychological states but also have physical effects. Unresolved emotions such as anger, sadness, fear, or joy can disrupt the energetic balance and significantly impact health. Blockages in the body can manifest in the organs and lead to physical symptoms. TCM associates specific organs with specific emotions. For example, the liver is associated with anger and frustration, the heart with joy and overexertion, the spleen with worry and rumination, the lungs with sadness and grief, and the kidneys with fear and anxiety.
The goal of TCM is to restore the energetic balance, which can be disrupted not only by external influences on the body but also by emotional trauma. Various methods are used for this, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, meditation, Qigong, and massage.
Through these various therapy methods, the free flow of life energy (Qi) is restored. TCM also aims to strengthen the functions of organs that are burdened by emotions. Additionally, TCM seeks to balance Yin and Yang, which can lead to emotional disturbances, and to restore equilibrium. Finally, TCM activates the body’s self-healing powers, allowing it to rebalance itself – an important aspect that also plays a role in EMDR. As we recall, bilateral stimulation activates the brain’s self-healing powers.”
Similarities Between EMDR and TCM
Holistic Approach: Both EMDR and TCM consider the human being as a whole, taking into account not only physical but also psychological and energetic aspects.
Focus on Resources: Both therapies aim to strengthen the individual’s resources and activate their self-healing powers.
Trauma Processing: Both EMDR and TCM offer effective methods for processing stored negative emotions in the body, thereby resolving trauma and its associated health consequences.
But enough theory, you probably want to know how this works in practice.
EMDR and TCM in Practice
Combining EMDR and TCM can be highly beneficial for many patients. The eye movements in EMDR can enhance the effects of acupuncture, targeted acupressure, and specific meditative breathing exercises, accelerating the processing of traumatic memories. At the same time, TCM can help alleviate physical symptoms often associated with trauma, such as pain, insomnia, or tension.
Possible Combinations:
EMDR and Acupuncture: Acupuncture can be used before or after an EMDR session to promote relaxation and support the processing of traumatic memories. Ear acupuncture, in particular, has proven effective for nervousness and anxiety disorders.
EMDR and Meditation: Targeted breathing exercises create a meditative state, calming the nervous system and facilitating internal processes. Combining this with bilateral tapping, bilateral tones, or eye movements accelerates processing and anchors a positive feeling in the body. Clients experience comprehensive relief from their symptoms and learn to improve their well-being independently.
EMDR and Massage: Classical Thai massage is one of the oldest and most comprehensive massage forms worldwide, based on the understanding of the human body as a complex energy system. It helps release physical tension, balance energy in the body, and provides a sense of security and closeness.
EMDR and Qigong: Qigong is a movement therapy that harmonizes body, mind, and spirit. EMDR and Qigong complement each other. Qigong can deepen processing and promote relaxation. Targeted exercises enhance the effects of bilateral stimulation.
Holistic healing: Through the combination of cognitive processing (EMDR) and physical exercise (Qigong), holistic healing is achieved.
Long-term stabilization: Qigong also helps stabilize the therapeutic gains achieved through EMDR and maintain them in the long term. Regular Qigong practice empowers individuals to take charge of their own well-being.
Conclusion
The combination of EMDR and TCM opens up new perspectives in trauma therapy. Both methods complement each other and can help individuals process their trauma more effectively in order to lead a more fulfilling life.
Of course, individual consultation and adaptation of therapy to the needs of each client are essential, as we are all unique.
Important Note: This article is for general information only and does not replace professional advice. Please consult me or any qualified therapist if you have any further questions or concerns or would like to book a personal counselling appointment.
