The Mind Body Connection
It's easy to overlook the profound connection between our emotional and physical health. The medical world and prescription drugs mask the body's symptoms or the disease itself, they do not treat the root cause. Which is why it either never goes away, or keeps coming back. Most of us have not been brought up to honour our emotions, we just tuck them away and try and forget. We do this continuously, and then our body starts to react. It gives us little warnings, which we either ignore or mask with medications, while all the while the underlying problem, still exists, and our body will continue to react until it is appropriately dealt with. Which is essentially why, I believe my Cancer came back. I'm lucky I was given yet another chance, one I didn't realize in 2014, to right my emotional blockages and heal my body and soul. Which is Exactly what I intend to do.
Our emotions significantly influence our physical well-being. When we experience stress, anxiety, or unresolved emotional issues, it will manifest in our bodies in various ways, from fatigue to chronic pain, to sore backs, to torn achilles, to autoimmune disorders, and yes, Cancer. For example, when a person gets lung cancer, but has never smoked a day in their life and is the epitome of physical health (on the outside) people wonder how could they ever get cancer? This would explain why.
Understanding this connection is really and truly the first step towards achieving ultimate health.
Many of us carry emotional blocks that can hinder our physical health. These blocks may stem from past experiences, traumas, or even daily stressors that we haven’t fully processed. When we ignore these emotional aspects, we may find ourselves feeling stuck or unwell. However, by acknowledging and addressing these emotional blocks, we can pave the way for a healthier body, mind and soul.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a holistic approach to health that emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit. One of the fascinating aspects of TCM is its perspective on how our emotions can significantly impact our physical health, particularly the health of our organs. By understanding this relationship, we can take proactive steps to enhance our well-being.
Each organ in TCM is associated with specific emotions, and imbalances can lead to both emotional and physical ailments. For instance, the liver is linked to anger and frustration. When these emotions are not processed healthily, they can lead to liver stagnation, resulting in symptoms such as irritability, digestive issues, and even headaches. It is essential to cultivate emotional resilience to support liver health.
The heart, often considered the emperor of the organs, is associated with joy and happiness. An excess of joy or an inability to experience joy can disrupt the heart's function. This can manifest as anxiety, insomnia, or palpitations. Practices that promote emotional well-being, such as mindfulness and gratitude, can enhance heart health.
The spleen/stomach/pancreas are connected to worry and overthinking. Excessive worry can weaken the spleen, leading to digestive problems and fatigue. To support spleen health, it is beneficial to engage in activities that reduce stress and promote relaxation, such as gentle exercise and spending time in nature.
The lungs are tied to grief and sadness. Unresolved grief can lead to respiratory issues and a weakened immune system. Engaging in breathwork, meditation, and expressing emotions can help release grief and strengthen lung function.
The kidneys are associated with fear and insecurity. Chronic fear can deplete kidney energy, resulting in fatigue, lower back pain, and reproductive issues. Building confidence and addressing fears through supportive relationships and self-care practices can bolster kidney health.
In TCM, maintaining emotional balance is essential for overall health. Practices such as Tai chi, Qigong, yoga, meditation, journaling, acupuncture, acupressure, reflexology, herbal medicine, and mindfulness can help address emotional imbalances and support organ health. By recognizing the emotional roots of physical symptoms, individuals can take proactive steps toward holistic wellness.
Ultimately, our bodies are a reflection of our emotional states. By nurturing both our emotional and physical health, we can achieve a greater sense of well-being and harmony within ourselves.