ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Traditional Korean medicine

Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) is a way of understanding and taking care of our bodies that has been used in Korea for thousands of years. It is similar to other types of traditional medicine, like Chinese Medicine or Ayurvedic Medicine.

TKM is all about balancing your body's energy, or Qi (pronounced "chee"). This energy flows through your body along channels called meridians. When your Qi is balanced, you feel healthy and strong. But when it is out of balance, you can get sick or feel run down.

One way TKM helps balance Qi is through acupuncture. This is where a trained practitioner will insert very thin needles into specific points on your body. This can help to release blocked or stagnant Qi, and encourage it to flow smoothly again.

Another way TKM can balance your Qi is through herbal medicine. Practitioners of TKM use a wide range of natural substances, like roots, leaves, and flowers, to create healing remedies. These remedies work by restoring balance to your body's energy.

A third important component of TKM is physical therapies, like massage or stretching. These therapies help to improve circulation, release tensions, and improve the flow of Qi.

TKM also places a lot of emphasis on living a healthy lifestyle. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly are all considered important parts of staying healthy and balancing your Qi.

In summary, Traditional Korean Medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that uses techniques like acupuncture, herbal remedies, and physical therapies to help balance your body's energy and promote overall health and wellbeing.