Ethan Murchie, acupuncturist and practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), founded the Montreal Gongfu Research Center in 2004.
The centre offers a full range of TCM services: Tui Na (Chinese osteopathy), acupuncture, Chinese medicine (use of herbs), and therapeutic physical exercises based on the practice of Gongfu systems.
Why a "research centre?" "Studying Gongfu is a process of ongoing development," Ethan explains. "The teacher can teach movements, explain a philosophy, but it's a very personal practice, involving continuous learning. You have to constantly be looking to improve your practice," Ethan explains.
Has Ethan met with challenges in his practice? The Halifax native first apprenticed in Arizona with the teacher Vince Black. But before Ethan could operate his Montreal clinic, he had to learn French. Another major challenge has involved practicing and teaching a discipline based completely on a different cultural background.
