The Code of Nature in Chinese Medicine
I am honored to share my thoughts on Chinese medicine and life.
Here, I aim to share the subtleties of Chinese medicine as they are revealed in the classical texts—the Nanjing (Classic of Difficulties), Nei Jing Su Wen (Simple Questions), and Shang Han Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage). These Han dynasty writings form the foundation on which all Chinese medical thought rests. They are not just historical documents, but living texts that continue to inform the practice of medicine today.
Chinese medicine is a dynamic and evolving system, rooted in an understanding of the cycles of nature—solar, lunar, and seasonal. It is a medicine of time and space. Its power lies not in static diagnosis or fixed categories, but in its ability to move with the rhythm of life itself. The goal is not simply to treat symptoms, but to restore vitality—to support a strong, flexible state of internal balance, what we call a homeodynamic state.
This practice is about more than physiology. At its heart is an attunement to the world around us—the rise and fall of the sun and moon, the changing seasons, the tides of the ocean, the flowing of rivers and streams, the slow breath of glaciers. Chinese thinkers observed these patterns closely, and from them built the philosophical and practical framework that guides this medicine.
This is the code on which Chinese medicine is built. We experience it through resonance—ying 應—as well as through the principles of yin and yang, the five phases, the twelve primary channels of acupuncture and moxibustion, the five yin organs and six yang bowels, and countless other frameworks. But these are not simply things to memorize. They are alive. And to truly understand them, one must live with them.
It takes time. It takes observation. It takes patience. To embody this virtual world—the living architecture of Chinese medicine—requires more than study. It requires a willingness to align oneself with the rhythms of nature. To live by the code, not just understand it. Only then can the medicine reveal itself in its full depth and clarity.
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Bad Medicine podcast: Rethinking Medicine – What Doctors Can Learn from Acupuncture
In this powerful episode of Bad Medicine, we sit down with Z’ev Rosenberg- acupuncturist, teacher, and one of the first licensed practitioners of Chinese medicine in the United States - to uncover what our modern medical system has forgotten. Through illuminating stories of patient transformations - from resolving deep emotional traumas manifesting as physical pain, to facilitating childbirth through acupuncture - Z’ev demonstrates that true medicine involves engaging the body's innate healing potential. He emphasizes that treatment is not something done “to” patients, but rather a collaborative, empowering, and ecological process involving nutrition, lifestyle, and spiritual well-being. Whether you’re a healthcare provider seeking fresh insights, a patient looking to understand your own healing journey, or simply curious about how ancient wisdom fits into modern life - this conversation will deepen your understanding and appreciation of what it truly means to heal. Z’ev Rosenberg doesn't just critique the current medical system - he offers a vision of what healthcare could become: more humane, more holistic, and fundamentally healing.
Journey in the Art of Classical Chinese Medicine with Z’ev Rosenberg
Z'ev Rosenberg, LAc., talks to Sean Trace from the Yo San University 39 Gen Podcast about his background in Chinese Medicine and how he came to the field. He shares what brought him to the practice of Chinese Medicine and his love for the classics, including concepts of Ministerial Fire and traditional texts of Shang Han Lun, Wen Bing, and Nan Jing. He describes the content of his own books, including Returning to the Source: Han Dynasty Medical Classics in Modern Clinical Practice, Afterglow: Ministerial Fire and Chinese Ecological Medicine, and Ripples in the Flow: Reflections on Vessel Dynamics in the Nàn Jing, and his vision for Chinese Medicine education and training to return to source material. Most of all prepare to be inspired by his advice to future Acupuncturists as they pursue a career in fertility medicine. The 39Gen Podcast serves as a comprehensive introduction to TCM, courtesy of Yo San University. It welcomes both seasoned practitioners and those new to the field, offering a chance to explore the depths of acupuncture, herbal medicine, qi cultivation, and other therapeutic practices. Whether you're just starting to explore TCM or looking to deepen your knowledge, the podcast provides an accessible platform for learning and inspiration.
Articles
336 Rock & Roll, Synchronicity and the Yi Jing, a history conversation • Z’ev Rosenberg
Episode 336 • 26th December 2023 • Qiological Podcast • Michael Max https://player.captivate.fm/episode/dc500f3d-f898-4fa1-bf17-25c5520e5dba
Update on recent activities Fall 2023
Hello everyone,I am working on a new book and teaching project with my colleague Dr. Stephen Cowan, entitled “A Ring Without End” on channel theory and mapping the body/mind in Chinese medicine. We will be [...]
Congee in Chinese Medicine
Z'ev RosenbergNovember 22, 2023 粥 Zhou / Congee and Chinese MedicineA foundational principle of health… to nourish life and seek peace and joy is not a matter lying deeply buried or far away and therefore [...]
Uncoming seminar in Berkeley
Announcing Berkeley workshop in Nan Jing Vessel Diagnosis, based on my latest book, "Ripples in the Flow". CEU's pending, and it will be held in a beautiful yoga studio (location to be announced shortly). Sponsored [...]