TCM in Montpellier: Principles, Benefits and Practices

Posted on 9 August 2026
Category : Wellness Tips

Even today, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) remains relatively unfamiliar in the West and is sometimes subject to misconceptions. It may be perceived as an ancient practice, or even as something disconnected from modern needs.

Yet TCM is part of a comprehensive and coherent approach to maintaining vitality, with its own understanding of the human body, how it functions and how imbalances can arise. It has developed through the observation of nature and the experience accumulated by generations of practitioners and scholars.

In Montpellier, this approach can be explored through various hands-on practices, including Tuina massage, Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage, Chinese foot reflexology and cupping therapy.

Each of these techniques aims to support vitality, reconnect you with your body, and promote serenity and well-being in everyday life.

The Main Principles of TCM

TCM is based on several fundamental theories that help explain how the body functions, the relationships between its different functions, and the imbalances that may affect it.

Qi, Vital Energy

The Qi is a fundamental concept in TCM. It is considered the very principle of life and flows throughout the body.

According to this understanding, Qi is involved in all bodily functions: its movement, transformations and interactions are associated with physical and mental vitality.

Energetic balance largely depends on the harmonious flow of Qi. When this dynamic is disrupted, TCM seeks to understand the nature of the imbalance in order to adapt its approach.

Yin and Yang

A cornerstone of TCM, the Yin and Yang theory represents two opposite yet complementary polarities. They are not independent or fixed forces: they are constantly interacting with and transforming in relation to one another. Yin is associated with matter, rest, cold, and that which nourishes and provides structure. Yang, by contrast, is more closely associated with movement, warmth, activity, and transformation. This theory provides a framework for observing the relationships between the different manifestations of the body.

Meridians and Acupoints

According to TCM, the body is traversed by a network of energy channels known as meridians.

They facilitate the circulation of Qi and Blood and connect different parts of the body. The meridians therefore form a true energetic map, establishing correspondences between the surface and the deeper layers, as well as between different organs and regions of the body.

Acupuncture points, located along these meridians, are specific areas that can be stimulated through various TCM practices, including acupuncture, massage and moxibustion, to address certain imbalances and support overall balance.

The Five Phases Theory

The Five Phases Theory is another major foundation of TCM. It is based on five major dynamics: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. These are not simply material elements, but dynamic processes used to describe the transformations and relationships between different phenomena observed in the body and in nature.

Wood 木

Associated with spring, the Liver and the Gallbladder, Wood is linked to the emotion of anger. It represents a dynamic of growth, movement and expansion.

Fire火

Associated with summer, the Heart and the Small Intestine, Fire evokes warmth, activity and joy.

Earth 土

Associated with the Spleen and the Stomach, Earth is linked to transformation and digestion. It represents a dynamic of stability.

Metal 属

Associated with autumn, the Lungs and the Large Intestine, Metal evokes clarity, discipline and the ability to let go. Sadness is also associated with this phase.

Water 水

Corresponding to winter, the Kidneys and the Bladder, Water symbolizes depth, memory and wisdom. Fear is associated with this phase.

The Five Phases are in constant relationship with one another. They provide a framework for observing the interactions between the organs, emotions, seasons and different aspects of everyday life.

The Zang-Fu Theory: Organs and Viscera

The Zang-Fu Theory complements the Five Phases Theory. In TCM, organs are not considered solely from an anatomical perspective: they are also associated with energetic functions and emotional dimensions. The Liver is therefore associated with Wood, the Heart with Fire, the Spleen with Earth, the Lungs with Metal, and the Kidneys with Water. This understanding allows the body to be viewed as an interconnected whole, in which different functions communicate with and influence one another.

The Causes of Imbalances According to TCM

TCM also seeks to understand the factors that may disrupt the body’s balance through a holistic approach that takes into account the individual and their environment. Diet, lifestyle, emotions, external conditions and various factors specific to each individual are all taken into consideration. The purpose of an energetic assessment is to consider these elements together in order to better understand the person’s situation and guide the treatment.

How Does a TCM Energetic Assessment Work

Each session begins with a period of listening and a TCM energetic assessment, taking into account the person’s overall state, needs and expectations. The treatment is then adapted based on these elements to provide personalized care. A TCM energetic assessment is based on four examination methods (sì zhěn, 四诊):

Bringing together the findings from these four examinations allows the practitioner to develop a TCM energetic assessment and adapt the approach according to the needs identified.

Observation

Observation (wàng zhěn, 望诊) involves examining different parts of the body to gather information about how the body functions. The face and tongue are observed in particular, but other features may also be taken into account, such as the hands, nails, eyes, overall posture, as well as the appearance of the stool, urine and sputum.

Hearing and Smell

Hearing and Smell (wén zhěn, 闻诊) involve gathering information through the sounds and odors produced by the person: the tone of the voice, breathing, coughing, hiccups or belching, as well as certain body odors.

Palpation

Palpation (qiē zhěn, 切诊) involves using the hands or fingers to assess different parts of the body, including the arteries, meridians, abdomen, as well as certain muscular or skin areas. Pulse diagnosis (mài zhěn, 脉诊), particularly at the radial artery, plays a particularly important role in this stage.

Questioning

Questioning (wèn zhěn, 问诊) involves gathering information through specific questions about the person’s medical history, allergies, previous health conditions, the history and progression of symptoms, as well as the circumstances in which they improve or worsen.

The practitioner may also ask about sensations of heat and cold, sweating, pain, emotional state, sleep, appetite, digestion, urination and bowel movements.

TCM practices

TCM encompasses a variety of methods and practices, including Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, Chinese massage and Chinese dietary therapy.

In Montpellier, the hands-on approach offered focuses on Tuina massage, Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage and Chinese foot reflexology, with the option of incorporating Chinese cupping, moxibustion and Gua Sha as complementary techniques.

Chinese Massage

Chinese massage (àn mó tuī ná, 按摩推拿) is one of the major hands-on practices of TCM. It aims to restore, maintain or improve muscle and joint mobility, and can be used to relieve back and neck pain, lower back pain and sciatica. Beyond its action on physical tension, Chinese massage can also act on certain bodily functions: it may support digestive issues and menstrual pain, while also contributing more broadly to relaxation and serenity.

Tuina Massage

Tuina is an ancient massage technique performed fully clothed. It focuses on working along the meridians, acupuncture points and areas of tension. Depending on individual needs, Tuina can be used to:

Relieve tendon and muscle pain and tension
Support athletes before and after physical activity
Promote deep relaxation and a sense of calm
Support people experiencing sleep issues, digestive issues or headaches
Contribute more broadly to improving vitality

The techniques used, their intensity and the areas worked on are always adapted to the individual and their overall condition.

Chi Nei Tsang

Chi Nei Tsang is a deep abdominal massage rooted in certain traditions of TCM. The abdomen plays an important role in this approach to understanding a person’s overall balance. This practice focuses particularly on the abdominal area and internal organs. It may support people experiencing stress, mental overload, difficulty letting go or certain digestive issues.

Chi Nei Tsang is also associated with work on the emotional sphere: it helps release accumulated tension, ease certain emotional imbalances and promote a reconnection with oneself.

Chinese foot reflexology

Chinese foot reflexology is a hands-on practice that works on the feet according to the principles of TCM. It can be offered on its own or incorporated into a more comprehensive approach, as a complement to Tuina or Chi Nei Tsang.

It is particularly sought after for its benefits in promoting relaxation, nervous system relaxation, overall energetic balance and grounding, providing a lasting sense of calm and serenity.

Cupping therapy

Chinese cupping is a complementary technique that can be incorporated into different treatments. During a Tuina massage, it is generally used at the end of the session.

Unlike Tuina, which works through deep pressure and mobilization, cupping uses suction to draw the tissues outward. This action helps mobilize the fascia, release tissue adhesions and provide lasting relief from muscle tension.

Other TCM Practices

Chinese pharmacology

Chinese herbal medicine (zhōng yào, 中药) involves the use of medicinal substances, primarily of plant origin and, more rarely, mineral origin. Animal-derived substances are now very rarely used.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture (zhēn, 针) involves stimulating specific areas of the body using fine needles gently inserted into the skin, in order, among other things, to regulate certain bodily functions and restore harmony.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion (ài jiǔ, 艾灸) involves burning the leaves of a variety of mugwort, either at a distance from or directly on the skin, over specific areas of the body.

Chinese dietary therapy

Chinese dietary therapy (shí liáo, 食疗) is based on dietary principles rooted in TCM, taking into account the properties attributed to foods according to this approach.

Discover TCM in Montpellier

TCM offers a structured approach based on fundamental theories, an energetic assessment and various practices.

In Montpellier, hands-on treatments focus primarily on Tuina massage, Chi Nei Tsang and Chinese foot reflexology. Complementary techniques such as cupping may also be incorporated according to each person’s needs.

Certified TCM Practitioner in Montpellier

I continuously develop my skills through advanced training and the ongoing development of my practice. In 2025, I completed a clinical Tuina training program in China at Shuguang University Hospital. In 2026, I am continuing this journey through further training.

My personal journey, enriched by travel and the practice of disciplines such as Ayurveda, meditation, yoga, breathwork and tantra, also deepens my connection with others.

Convinced that self-awareness contributes to the quality of care, I strive to cultivate presence, attentive listening and integrity in my practice. Each session is therefore designed as a safe and non-judgmental space, where your experience is welcomed with care and where the body can express itself freely.

Massage studio in Montpellier and in-home sessions

I welcome you to my massage practice in Montpellier, near Bois de Montmaur, in a calm and peaceful setting conducive to relaxation.

I also offer home sessions in Montpellier and the surrounding towns: Le Crès, Montferrier-sur-Lez, Prades-le-Lez, Vendargues, Baillargues, Fabrègues, Cournonterral and Cournonsec.

Each session is tailored to your needs to provide personalized care in a comfortable and confidential setting.

Practice address

2146 route de Mende, 34090 Montpellier

(Tram line 5 – CNRS / Zoo de Lunaret stop – Bois de Montmaur parking)

Chinese massage does not constitute a medical diagnosis under any circumstances. It is not a substitute for physiotherapy or medical care provided by a general practitioner, specialist or any other qualified healthcare professional.

TCM is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the traditional medicine systems used in many healthcare systems around the world.

Book your session with a TCM practitioner