In the quaint chamber of acupuncture and moxibustion, a rich aroma of mugwort fills the air. Chung Junoh gently and steadily holds a lit moxa stick close to the patient’s acupuncture points. As the moxa stick burns, a warm sensation gradually penetrates into the patient’s skin, like a warm current flowing through the body. It not only dispels the physical ailments, but also brings an ineffable sense of comfort and relaxation.

Chung Junoh from South Korea, is currently a PhD student major in Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina at Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. He was once a sports student. When in South Korea, he discovered through personal experience that traditional Chinese medicine therapies were extremely beneficial for the rehabilitation from sports injuries, sparking his deep interest in this field. “Traditional Chinese medicine therapies such as acupuncture and moxibustion, cupping, and orthopedic manipulation are very ‘nice’ to athletes, with remarkable effects in promoting blood circulation and releasing muscle tension,” Chung recalled.

Driven by his passion for traditional Chinese medicine, Chung Junoh came to Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2006 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and subsequently completed his master and doctoral studies. “Traditional Chinese medicine is profound and extensive, and I feel very lucky to come to Liaoning to study locally,” said Chung. “I believe that traditional Chinese medicine is a kind of knowledge that can truly benefit people. In order to excel in traditional Chinese medicine, I have been in Liaoning for 18 years, and Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Tuina is my second doctoral degree.”

When studying and living in Liaoning, Chung Junoh met a gentle and virtuous Liaoning girl. They were once neighbors and bonded over their shared love for traditional Chinese medicine. They often shared knowledge about health preservation with each other, and their love relationship gradually deepened in the process. In 2012, they tied the knot and chose to settle in Shenyang.

“My wife is a physical education teacher who often stands for long hours at work. There are also quite a few training courses, which can be physically exhausting for her. I often use moxibustion therapy to help her relieve fatigue and stress, and the faint aroma of mugwort always brings her calmness and relaxation,” said Chung Junoh. The warmth generated by burning mugwort directly applies to specific acupuncture points on the body to achieve therapeutic and health-preserving effects. “Without injections or medication, moxibustion can dredge meridians and harmonize energy and blood flow. Our entire family has benefited greatly from traditional Chinese medicine.”

“Now I am a father of two children. I usually use moxibustion to help them boost their immunity and prevent colds, so that they can have better physical and mental health.” Using moxibustion and other traditional Chinese medical therapies to nourish his family’s health is a way for Chung Junoh to express his care and love for them. “Living in Liaoning makes me very happy. My wife and my children are my strongest support. I will further my study in traditional Chinese medicine, and unveil its mysteries with an exploratory mindset. I also hope that, after completing my studies, I can use my knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine to bring health to more families,” said Chung Junoh.