In July 2024, 4 of us from IMU’s Chinese Medicine (CM) programme (CM221 cohort) had the privilege of participating in the Shanghai Summer School programme organised by Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SHUTCM). The experience was nothing short of transformative, offering students deep insights into CM, broadening their cultural horizons and fostering new friendships across borders.
From the moment we arrived at SHUTCM, we were immersed in the expansive and beautifully designed campus that truly breathes the essence of CM. The programme was designed to offer a comprehensive overview of various aspects of CM, including theoretical knowledge about CM, Wu Qin Xi (Five Animals Exercises), acupuncture and Tui Na (Chinese therapeutic massage). SHUTCM provided not only theoretical lectures but also practical workshops to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of esteemed lecturers.
One of the most memorable aspects of the summer school was the opportunity to visit two prestigious hospitals in Shanghai. Located in the bustling heart of the city with stunning architectural designs that left us in awe, what truly amazed us was the level of care and integration of CM with modern medical practices.
The knowledge shared by the experienced CM practitioners was both insightful and inspiring, offering a fresh perspective on how CM could co-exist and complement modern medicine in a sophisticated and innovative healthcare setting.
Beyond the academic rigor, the summer school was also a rich cultural experience.
We participated in various activities such as wrapping dumplings, handmade mugwort massage tool (AiCaoChui) and incense bags, fan painting and visits to historical landmarks like the Nanjing Road, the Bund and Zhujiajiao.
Such an experience allowed us to better understand the Chinese cultural roots and appreciate the philosophy that underpins it.
Reflecting on our time in Shanghai, we realise that this experience was not just about academic learning, it was also about personal growth.
Navigating through a new city, interacting with people from different countries and cultures, and adapting to a different educational environment required us to step out of our comfort zones.
This journey has undoubtedly strengthened our resilience, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills. Attending the summer school has profoundly impacted our perspective on healthcare. We have gained a greater appreciation for the holistic approach that CM embodies, focusing on the balance of body, mind, and spirit. This experience has inspired us to think more broadly about integrative medicine and the potential benefits of combining Chinese and Western medical practices.
We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity provided by IMU and SHUTCM to explore the depths of CM and its cultural heritage.
As we return to our studies, we carry with us not just the knowledge we have gained, but also a deeper understanding of the importance of cultural competency and integrative healthcare in today’s globalised world.
We are excited to share what we have learned with our peers and incorporate these new insights into our future medical practice. Also, we are eager to see how the insights we gain will shape our future careers in Chinese Medicine.
Thank you to IMU and SHUTCM for this invaluable experience!
Written by Kwek Ze Wei, Choo Jiann Yuan, Sharon Chan Xin Jie, Syarifah Ainul Mardhiah Binti Syed Helmy
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