THE DALAI LAMA
MESSAGE
Tibet developed a unique and highly skilled medical tradition which was practiced successfully for more than a thousand years, and which for centuries was sought after by many of its neighboring countries in Asia and Central Asia. It has proven effective in so many areas that this is one aspect of Tibetan culture which even the Chinese have actively preserved and promoted.
I believe that the Tibetan medical system can contribute substantially to maintaining a healthy mind and a healthy body. Like the traditional Chinese and Indian systems, Tibetan medicine views health as a question of balance. A variety of circumstances such as diet, lifestyle, seasonal and mental conditions can disturb this natural balance, which gives rise to different kinds of disorders. A Tibetan physician employs his own senses to examine the individual's general balance of health as a whole. Treatment involves dietary and behavioural advice and medication. Medicines, which have few side-effects, are obtained from natural sources such as herbs, minerals and organic products and prepared under controlled conditions.
As an integrated system of health care, Tibetan medicine can offer allopathic medicine a different perspective on health. However, like other scientific systems, it must be understood in its own terms, as well as in the context of objective investigation. In practice it can also offer Western people another approach to achieving happiness through health and balance.
"The Buddha's Art of Healing" project, with its exhibition, catalogue and conferences will certainly create a greater awareness of our medical tradition. In particular, it gives me pleasure that the Western public will be able to see the unique set of medical paintings which were taken from Tibet to Buryatia for the purpose of training doctors in the Tibetan tradition. The project will also make clear the importance of preserving and studying this unique and ancient medical tradition, not just for the sake of the Tibetan people, but for all humanity.
| May 16, 1997 | |