Does the language of Chinese Medicine leave you feeling lost in translation?
Learning about Chinese Medicine is learning a new language. This language has evolved over thousands of years, and at its root is a holistic and complex understanding of the human body and of nature and the relationship between the two.
‘Health’ is seen as a state of dynamic equilibrium between the body’s Vital Energy-Qi, Blood-Xue, Body Fluids (Jin-Ye), Yin and Yang, within the the 12 organ-meridian systems. Let’s have a look at some of this terminology:
Qi-Vital Energy - I see this as the potential of a system in the body to complete its role. Qi is in essence, a measure of functionality within the body. Qi Deficiency occurs when there is not enough Qi to perform an expected function leading to symptoms like tiredness, low appetite. Qi Stagnation occurs when the dynamic flow of the Qi is disrupted, leading to accumulation of Qi and symptoms like pain, bloating and emotional changes. There are many types of Qi in the body, with different roles. During an Acupuncture treatment, the Qi assessed and regulated via the Acu-points. There are in excess of 360 points on the body, each relating to one or more Meridian-Organ systems. Tapping into these points through needling or other techniques, aims to balance the Qi dynamic of the body, triggering the body’s natural healing mechanisms. .
Xue-Blood - is the blood that nourishes all the body’s tissues (via oxygen, nutrients, and hormones), and carries along with it the Qi. Blood quality and circulation is really important to the overall balance of the body. When the blood is deficient we may see symptoms like tiredness, poor sleep, dizziness, floaters in the eyes, low blood pressure, dry skin, and hair loss. When the blood is stagnant, we might see pain, and period issues.
Body Fluids (Jin-Ye) - moisten and lubricate the tissues of the body. They help to regulate body temperature. When the fluid metabolism is challenged, we might see symptoms like phlegm in the nose and lungs, digestive problems and fluid retention.
Yin and Yang are like 2 sides of a coin. One doesn’t exist without the other. Yin is the cool, moist and restful aspect. Yang is warm, drying and active aspect. Ideally, we aim to balance rest and activity, heat and dryness, warmth and cold to aid wellbeing. When the Yin is deficient, we see symptoms like thirst, night sweats, heat sensations, in addition to symptoms of dryness. When Yang is deficient, we see symptoms like no thirst, coldness and tiredness. Blood is Yin, Qi is Yang.
Your Chinese Medicine Pattern and treatment principles are dynamic, meaning that they often change in response to many things, like ongoing treatment, at different times of the year and at different times in the menstrual cycle.