The Power of Balance: How Traditional Chinese Medicine Connects Mind, Body, and Spirit

By Maria Chah, DOM, AP & Jennifer Troyan

Part 2 of 2

In last month’s article, we summarized that TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) practice is more than addressing physical elements but includes the environment, philosophy, and the spirituality of the mind and physical body. The wisdom of the body is recognized as a living energy and in this recognition, TCM practitioners are very involved in understanding the individual’s social life, their personal inside and their thoughts. In general, how one takes in the world.

Understanding the Holistic Approach of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), health care goes far beyond addressing physical symptoms-it’s a holistic approach that includes mental, emotional, and even spiritual aspects. TCM practitioners see the body as part of a larger system that includes a person’s environment, beliefs, and social relationships, all of which can influence physical and emotional health. A key principle of TCM is that our body’s energy, or “Qi,” connects mind and body, affecting not only our physical organs but also our mood, thoughts, and outlook on life.

The Role of Pulse Diagnosis in TCM

One of the main diagnostic tools in TCM is pulse diagnosis. Through feeling the pulse at specific points on the body, practitioners can assess the flow of energy in each of the five main organs: the heart, spleen, lungs, kidneys, and liver. This pulse diagnosis is more than simply counting heartbeats; it involves feeling for the quality of energy flowing through the body, often described as wave fluctuations. Today, advanced technology even allows for these wave fluctuations to be measured similarly to an EKG, offering insights into organ energy levels, imbalances, or areas that might need support.

Through pulse diagnosis, a practitioner can determine whether an organ has excess energy, lacks energy, or is generally in need of rebalancing. For example, if someone struggles with racing thoughts or can’t seem to relax, the pulse might reveal an excess of energy in a certain area that could be calmed. Or if someone experiences frequent anger or frustration, it could indicate imbalances in the liver’s energy, which may cause symptoms like bloating or swelling.

Understanding Organ Energy Imbalances and Symptoms

TCM connects each organ with specific emotional states and physical symptoms. For instance, the heart’s energy, known as the “Shen,” is closely tied to our mind, spirit, and emotional well-being. If this energy becomes unbalanced, it might affect how we feel about ourselves and how we handle love, acceptance, or aggression. An imbalance in the Shen energy could lead to issues with mood and emotional stability.

Similarly, the spleen and stomach are associated with the earth element and are thought to be affected by worry and overthinking. If someone is constantly worrying-about family, finances, or future uncertainties-this might weaken the spleen and stomach energy, leading to feelings of instability and restlessness. This imbalance can make a person feel less “grounded,” as if they are always anticipating potential problems.

Grief and loss are closely connected to the lungs, which are part of the metal element. For instance, if someone experiences a deep, unresolved grief or has a history of loss or trauma, they might develop respiratory issues like chronic cough or COPD. According to TCM, a person with lung imbalances may feel unable to “breathe in” life experiences fully, leading to physical or emotional symptoms that need healing.

Restoring Balance and Supporting Health in TCM

The goal of TCM is to bring these energies back into balance, allowing both mind and body to function harmoniously. By identifying which organ energies are out of balance, practitioners can use techniques like acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to support overall health. The idea is not only to treat symptoms but also to address the root causes of physical or emotional distress. Through these methods, TCM seeks to help people feel more complete, resilient, and connected to themselves and the world around them.

In summary, TCM provides a framework for understanding the interplay between the physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of health. Whether it’s through pulse diagnosis, understanding the five organ energies, or identifying emotional patterns, TCM offers a unique approach to healing that emphasizes the balance and harmony of the whole person.

Time to Embrace - A Practice to Try

As we head into Thanksgiving it is the perfect time to try a practice of being open, embrace and take in family. Maybe you can see them for their organ spirits.

How can we bring ourselves to see them where they are (versus where we are or looking through the lens of judgment)?

Meaning, sometimes family and holidays are hard. We practice taking a step back and look at the inner child within each of them. It may give you patience and understanding. Even if we don’t agree with them, can we look past that and into the core of each other and think of a good thing about that person? Even just one good thing. Everyone has good qualities. Set aside difference for one get together. You can try focusing on that. That alone can bring harmony. If you can soften and change the way you think, it will change the way others react.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Good health to you all!

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Information in this article and on this website is intended for informational or educational purposes only. This information does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have questions about a medical condition, always seek the advice of a doctor or other qualified health professional.

To learn more about our services, please contact our office at 561-249-0447 for a consultation on how to start your annual wellness optimization. During the consultation, we can provide guidance on the best treatment modalities to improve or enhance your state of wellness the TCM way.

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