Greetings to everyone.

I am Ravi Bharathi Balavinayagam from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. I am a final-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chinese Medicine at IMU University.

Many people may wonder why I chose to study Chinese Medicine and pursue it as my career. To understand this, it is essential to delve into some history, particularly about Bodhidharma. He was a legendary Buddhist monk and South Indian prince who originated from Tamil Nadu. Bodhidharma is credited with introducing Zen Buddhism to China.

In ancient times, it is believed that Bodhidharma carried with him knowledge of Ayurveda, one of India’s ancient medical systems.

This knowledge included herbal remedies, dietary practices, and holistic healing techniques, which significantly influenced Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The exchange of knowledge between India and China occurred through the Silk Road during Bodhidharma’s era.

Certain treatment methods in Chinese medicine, such as acupuncture, herbal remedies and diagnostic techniques like pulse reading, originated in India approximately 5,000 years ago. There are numerous similarities between Traditional Indian Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine in terms of diagnostic methods, practices like yoga and Qigong, the concepts of five elements and meridians, and the use of herbs.

Additionally, I have personally experienced and observed the benefits of acupuncture treatment over the past ten years. This inspired me to pursue Chinese Medicine as my field of study and career path. My primary motivation to study Chinese Medicine is twofold: first, to bring these treatment methods back to my country and serve my people, and second, to provide treatments with minimal or no side effects as much as possible.

I have always aspired to lead a unique life that is also meaningful and beneficial to those around me. In India, while Ayurveda and Siddha are widely known, Chinese medicine remains relatively unfamiliar. However, the practice of acupuncture is rapidly developing in India and has been recognised as an independent therapeutic system within the country’s healthcare framework. This development further validates my decision to pursue Chinese Medicine.

I completed my schooling in India and discovered IMU University’s Chinese Medicine programme, which is taught in English, through online search. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, I applied for the programme, received admission, and travelled to Malaysia to turn my 10 years of dreams into reality.

I faced numerous difficulties, including travel-related challenges during the pandemic, managing life independently at the age of 17, and adapting to a new academic system. The transition from school to university, coupled with the differences in education systems between countries, required time and effort to adjust.

Academically, the challenges were significant. Although the course is delivered in English, I needed to study basic Chinese to memorise and recall the names of herbs, acupuncture points, and classical literature. However, with the support of my lecturers and friends, I managed to overcome these obstacles each semester.

Today, I am in my final semester, doing my clinical internship. One of the most valuable aspects of my education is that, in addition to studying Chinese Medicine, I have also gained knowledge of Western medicine.

This dual knowledge is crucial for integrating both medicinal systems to provide effective diagnosis and treatments to patients.

Beyond academics, one of the most impactful aspects of my university life has been my role as Vice President for the School of Alternative and  Complementary Medicine and Pre-University in the Student Representative Council (SRC) during the 2022/2023 term. This experience allowed me to develop invaluable skills, such as leadership, decision-making, communication, and problem-solving, etc. During my tenure, I implemented several academic improvements and established the Chiropractic Club, leaving a lasting impact on student engagement.

In conclusion, my journey into the field of Chinese Medicine at IMU has been shaped by a profound connection to the historical ties between India and China, my personal experiences with acupuncture, and my aspiration to provide holistic and effective healthcare solutions to my community. Despite the challenges of adapting to a new education system and culture during a global pandemic, I have grown both academically and personally.

As I approach the completion of my clinical internship and my final semester, I am deeply grateful for the support I have received from my lecturers and peers. Moreover, I am very grateful and thankful to my beloved parents. It’s not possible without them, without their efforts and sacrifices.

My goal is to integrate Chinese medicine with modern approaches to bring meaningful healthcare solutions to India, bridging traditional wisdom with contemporary practice. This journey has not only defined my career path but also shaped me into a resilient and globally minded individual ready to make a difference.

“What you want may not happen,

           But what you need will definitely happen”

Written by Ravi Bharathi Balavinayagam