The Seven Emotions in Chinese Medicine: How our Emotions Affect Our Body
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the mind and body are deeply interconnected. Emotions are considered an essential aspect of overall health, and the way we experience and express them can have a significant impact on our health and well-being. TCM recognizes seven primary emotions, each associated with specific organ systems and energies within the body.
The Seven Emotions and Their Corresponding Organ Systems and Element
According to TCM, the seven primary emotions are joy, anger, worry, grief, fear, pensiveness, and fright. Each emotion is associated with a particular organ system and its corresponding energy (Qi) flow within the body.
Joy (Happiness)
Joy is associated with the heart and is considered the most positive emotion in TCM. When experienced in moderation, joy helps nourish the heart and harmonize the mind. However, excessive or overexcited joy can disrupt the flow of Qi and lead to restlessness and insomnia.
Anger (Irritability)
Anger is linked to the liver. When expressed appropriately, anger can help resolve conflicts and promote positive change. However, chronic or uncontrolled anger can cause the Qi to stagnate, leading to symptoms like headaches, high blood pressure, dizzinesss, anxiety, and digestive issues. particularly constipation.
Worry (Overthinking)
Worry and overthinking are associated with the spleen and stomach. While some level of concern is natural, excessive worry can weaken the digestive system and disrupt the Qi flow, leading to fatigue, brainfog and poor memory, feeling of heaviness or sluggishness, poor appetite, and digestive problems. Many students are often faced with the TCM diagnosis of spleen Qi deficiency.
Grief (Sadness)
Grief affects the lungs, and prolonged sadness can weaken their Qi. People experiencing deep grief may exhibit symptoms like shallow breathing, fatigue, and vulnerability to respiratory infections.
Fear (Anxiety)
Fear is associated with the kidneys. In TCM, fear is believed to deplete the Qi of the kidneys and weaken the body's ability to cope with stress. Chronic anxiety can manifest as urinary issues, lower back pain, and a weakened immune system.
Pensiveness (Overthinking)
Pensiveness, akin to worry, relates to the spleen and digestive system. Overthinking and excessive contemplation can lead to Qi stagnation and weaken the digestive functions, resulting in symptoms such as poor appetite and fatigue.
Fright (Shock)
Fright is associated with the heart and kidneys. An acute shock or intense fear can disrupt the Qi flow, affecting both the heart and the kidneys. Chronic or severe fright may lead to heart palpitations, panic attacks, and kidney imbalances.
Emotional Balance and Health
In TCM, emotional balance is considered crucial for overall health and well-being. When emotions are expressed and experienced in a healthy manner, they flow harmoniously, supporting the body's vital functions. However, prolonged or excessive emotions can disrupt the flow of Qi, leading to imbalances and potential health issues.
Practicing emotional self-awareness and cultivating a positive outlook can help maintain emotional balance. Mind-body practices like meditation, tai chi, and acupuncture can also be beneficial in regulating emotions and supporting the flow of Qi throughout the body.
Acupuncture and Emotions
Acupuncture, a key component of TCM, can play a significant role in balancing emotions and supporting mental well-being. Acupuncture treatments can help regulate the flow of Qi, promoting emotional harmony and addressing imbalances that may arise from excessive or unbalanced emotions.
During acupuncture sessions, specific points on the body are targeted to influence the flow of Qi associated with particular emotions and their corresponding organ systems. By stimulating these points, acupuncturists aim to restore balance, alleviate emotional distress, and promote overall health and vitality.
Staying Balanced and Healthy
The concept of the seven emotions in Chinese medicine highlights the intricate connection between our emotional and physical health. By understanding the impact of emotions on organ systems and Qi flow, we can take proactive steps to cultivate emotional balance and support our overall well-being. Embracing mind-body practices, including acupuncture, can play a vital role in promoting emotional harmony and enhancing our capacity to lead a balanced and fulfilling life.