Over the last 100 years, Western medicine has transformed how we treat illnesses and perform surgeries. From minor conditions to major operations, modern techniques dominate our healthcare system. Many people, however, feel skeptical when they hear about traditional Indian or Chinese remedies, dismissing them as outdated or unscientific. But are these ancient healing practices truly irrelevant in today’s world? Or do they still offer valuable benefits that modern medicine sometimes overlooks? Let’s explore the answer.
Key Differences
The biggest difference between Eastern and Western medicine is how they view the connection between body and mind. In Eastern traditions, the two are inseparable—working together as one, fueled by the same energy. When the body struggles, the mind feels it too, and true healing only happens when both are treated together.
Western medicine, on the other hand, divides body and mind into separate parts. Poor digestion and depression, for example, are seen as unrelated conditions that different specialists must treat. But Eastern medicine recognizes them as two signs of the same imbalance—and focuses on addressing the root cause, not just the symptoms.
That’s why more people are turning back to Eastern practices. By restoring balance between body and mind, you don’t just manage illness—you unlock a healthier, more connected version of yourself.
Is The Mind Over The Body?
Western medicine focuses on treating the body but often overlooks energy fields and the body’s natural ability to heal itself. In this view, strength comes from the body alone, separate from the influence of the mind. Eastern medicine, however, takes a different approach. It emphasizes the “subtle body,” where the mind and energy flow directly enhance physical health. By shifting how we think about what’s possible, Eastern practices help the body and mind work together for deeper healing.
Take stress as an example. In Western medicine, stress is seen primarily as a psychological issue—something a therapist or psychologist should address, separate from the physical body. Eastern medicine, on the other hand, views stress as a force that affects both mind and body, with the potential to cause serious harm to internal organs if left unchecked. By treating stress as a whole-body condition, Eastern medicine aims to prevent long-term damage while restoring balance and resilience.
Should You Let It Be?
Just like the cultures they come from, Eastern and Western medicine hold very different views of the body and mind. In the West, the mind is reduced to the brain—an organ to be studied and treated as part of the body. In the East, the mind and body are seen as a unified, self-healing system. Treatments focus on restoring energy flow, clearing blockages, and bringing the whole person back into balance.
The truth is, neither approach holds all the answers. Western medicine excels at emergency care, surgeries, and acute conditions. Eastern medicine shines in prevention, stress relief, and treating the root causes of illness. By learning from each other, these two systems of healing can complement one another—helping us move closer to that golden middle ground where the body and mind receive the most complete care.
Instead of choosing one side, imagine the possibilities when you embrace the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts
Whatever the case may be, try to think of it this way — an illness or a condition can only be truly healed when you marry thoughts and habits. Health begins on a conscious level and is supported via your habits. Your body is a self-healing mechanism, but that does not mean you should blast it with toxins nor ignore what you feed it. Feed your body with good food, good thoughts, good emotions, and lots of love and watch it bloom.
Stay healthy and visit us at our Eden Prairie clinic to explore what Eastern Medicine can do for you.