Acupuncture is a technique that involves inserting needles, while energy medicine emphasizes the principles behind healing. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) developed acupuncture through centuries of practical experience, whereas energy medicine aims to integrate both Eastern and Western medical perspectives, shaping a more future-oriented approach. Many Western doctors often wonder why a condition does not improve, while Eastern practitioners are more likely to ask why a treatment works. The intersection of these two questions is where the future of medicine may lie, and it’s highly likely that energy medicine will play a key role in this integration.

Energy Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) both aim to balance the body's energy but differ in their methods. TCM is rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy and uses techniques like acupuncture, herbal medicine, and the Five Elements Theory to align bodily functions with natural elements for holistic health​. Energy Medicine, by contrast, integrates Eastern practices with modern science, techniques that stimulate specific energy points on the body to restore balance at a cellular level​. TCM offers a structured, traditional approach, while Energy Medicine is an evolving, interdisciplinary field.

One of the biggest considerations when opening the clinic was its name. Dr. Choi has studied integrative medicine, blending Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with Western Medicine. Typically, clinics in this field are named something like "Acupuncture Clinic" or "Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic." However, Dr. Choi felt that terms like "Acupuncture" or "TCM" didn't fully capture the direction and scope of her approach. In the broader vision, "Energy Medicine" more accurately represents Dr. Choi’s mission and direction, leading her to choose the name "VIVE Energy Medicine."

The points used in energy medicine and TCM differ, but energy medicine principles help Dr. Choi understand why TCM points are effective. This scientific clarity in energy medicine attracted Dr. Choi, as it provides a structured explanation behind the success of TCM points, bridging ancient practices with modern understanding.

Energy Medicine and Energy Healing both aim to balance the body’s energy, but they differ in techniques. Energy Medicine uses structured methods like point stimulation techniques, directly targeting specific points on the body to enhance energy flow and integrate with complementary medical practices. Energy Healing, on the other hand, generally involves spiritual or intuitive practices, such as Reiki, focusing on channeling energy without the need for direct physical manipulation of energy points.

Energy Medicine, Reiki, and Chakra Healing are distinct practices in the realm of energy work. Energy Medicine uses structured techniques, like point stimulation, to target specific areas of the body’s energy systems, often integrating both Eastern and Western principles to complement traditional healthcare. Reiki, a Japanese practice, focuses on channeling universal energy into the client without direct manipulation, promoting relaxation and healing on a spiritual level. Chakra Healing, meanwhile, centers on balancing the body’s seven chakras through meditation or visualization to realign energy centers rather than through physical methods.