The House of Emotion: the Heart

lluminating a Harmonious Heart in Traditional Chinese Medicine
By Dr. Jen Jorgensen, R.Ac, Dr.TCM
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Did you know that in Chinese medical philosophy, the Heart System has health significance that goes beyond its physical role? More commonly seen as the body’s core pulse of electrical energy, shaping the creation and circulation of blood, in Traditional Chinese Medicine the Heart is also revered as the seat of consciousness, or Shen—the keeper of memory and the house of emotion. In classical texts, it is metaphorically depicted as the “Emperor of the Palace” of our being, supported by eleven other organ systems, or “Governmental Officials,” that help maintain harmony within the Empire.         

 “Desiring to benefit your body’s overall condition
before imbalance arises is, in itself,
a reflection of good Shen and radiant health.” ~ Dr.Jen

While not always directly implicated in a given condition or set of symptoms, in the mind of an acupuncturist or a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Heart System is central to overall vitality: physically, mentally-emotionally, and spiritually. Good circulation, healthy hair, restful sleep, calm mind and a radiant complexion are all understood to arise from a Heart that is harmonious and nourished. It also plays a leading role in having a steady mind, clear speech, timely menstruation, and even regulated sweat. Because of this, whether symptoms involve thinning hair or heart palpitations, both Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine make for a good choice of treatment.

“What benefits the body will likewise soothe the mind, 
creating a positive health loop.” ~ Dr.Jen

Studies on the effects of Acupuncture have shown that a single treatment can elicit balance through the central nervous system. Acupuncture stimulates and regulates hormones, neurotransmitters and natural opioids produced in the brain (Li et al., 2021). It also decreases the inflammatory response that is a precursor to many vascular conditions. All of this translates to a modality that simultaneously reduces the effects of stress on mind and body. Whether treatment is a singular occurrence or regularly interwoven into a health plan, science supports that the calibrative effects of Acupuncture treat the whole person: root cause and symptom, as well as physical body and mind. 

“The Heart is revered as 
the seat of consciousness, or Shen" ~ Dr. Jen

From our personal experiences, we understand that what benefits the body will likewise soothe the mind, and vice versa, resulting in a positive health loop. When the mind is peaceful, it is more capable to respond to challenges creatively, curiously, and patiently, allowing for possibilities, solutions, strategies, and even increased willingness to reframe a difficult experience. When the body is easeful, we might welcome inspiration and feel supple for the challenges that appear.
If you have not recently indulged in the balancing experience that Acupuncture can offer, remember: desiring to benefit your body’s overall condition before imbalance arises is, in itself, a reflection of good Shen and radiant health. As the ancient philosophical I Ching or “Book of Changes” relays, the health of the village is determined by the health of its well (hexagram 48); maintain core vitality through caring and receiving care.
Reference:
Li, N., Guo, Y., Gong, Y., Jin, X., Wang, H., & Fan, Y. (2021). The anti-inflammatory actions and mechanisms of acupuncture from acupoint to target organs via neuro-immune regulation: A comprehensive review. Journal of Inflammation Research, 14, 7311–7332. https://doi.org/10.2147/JIR.S344345