In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is said that the energy (Qi) of five major organs form the five spirits and gives rise to the five emotions.
The spirit of the kidneys, the Zhi, rules the drive, ambition and the instinct of survival. The spirit of the lungs, or Po, rules physical strength, animalistic instincts. The spirit of the spleen, or yi, rules logic or reasoning power. The spirit of the liver, the Hun, rules the nervous system and gives rise to extrasensory perception. The spirit of the heart, the Shen, rules mental and creative functions.
When the Qi flows through the body, normally, it gives rise to balanced emotions and from there a healthy body is nurtured. Nurturing ones' spirit is then paramount to producing a healthy body. Producing a spiritual life is part of the triad of health - mind, body, spirit. How we produce that spirituality is up to each individual. Some may light a candle, while others may create ceremonies, and some go to a church or temple, while others prefer to be in nature. It is a balance when you have a modern lifestyle. That is why many are following traditional practices such as yoga and creating that balance between mind, body and spirit. Some are utilizing Reiki and combining it with other modalities to create a balance within the health triad.
Lighting that candle can soften sadness; going to yoga may quell anger. It is again that choice that we all have. In TCM, observation of a patient's spirit is important. Having spirit promotes a positive prognosis. When a patient's spirit is gone, the condition becomes grave.
When cultivating a spiritual practice start with simple actions so as not to overwhelm. This will create a better avenue for continued progression and ease of way. Always look at positive endeavours and accept that what you do, does alter subtle energy or Qi. This Qi can be your emotions -sadness, worry, fright, happiness and anger. Utilize traditional practices in a modern lifestyle whenever you can and/or the creative function of Shen to produce your spirituality.
Written by: Grant Wilson | Registered Acupuncturist and Clinical Herbal Therapist.
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