Author: henry lee

Wisdom of the Huangdi Neijing: Timeless Health Tips for Modern Living

The Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), a foundational text of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) from over 2,000 years ago, offers profound guidance on living in harmony with nature to maintain health and prolong life. Its principles remain surprisingly relevant in today’s fast-paced, stressful world.

At its core, the Neijing teaches that human health is deeply connected to the rhythms of nature. Each season influences the body differently, and lifestyle habits should adapt accordingly. Good health comes from balance—between work and rest, activity and stillness, and the mind and body.

Key Principles:

  • Dietary Moderation:
    “Eat and drink in moderation” means avoiding excess and following nature’s cycles. In modern life, this could mean choosing fresh, seasonal produce, reducing processed foods, and practicing mindful eating instead of rushed or emotional eating.
  • Regular Lifestyle:
    “Keep a regular schedule” emphasizes consistent sleep and activity patterns. Sleeping at appropriate hours helps restore the body’s energy. For example, limiting late-night screen time can improve sleep quality.
  • Avoid Overexertion:
    “Do not engage in reckless labor” warns against both physical overwork and mental stress. Modern application includes balancing desk work with stretching breaks, managing workload, and maintaining healthy boundaries between work and personal life.
  • Mind–Body Unity:
    The text stresses “shape and spirit together” — caring for both physical health and emotional well-being. Meditation, hobbies, and supportive relationships can nourish the “spirit,” while regular exercise and balanced nutrition support the “shape.”

Seasonal Health Advice:

  • Spring: Rise early, move more, and embrace growth. Focus on light, fresh foods.
  • Summer: Avoid overheating, eat hydrating fruits, and keep emotions calm.
  • Autumn: Protect lung health, eat warm and moistening foods, and guard against dryness.
  • Winter: Rest more, store energy, and eat nourishing stews and root vegetables.

Emotional Balance:
The Neijing links emotions directly to organ health—anger harms the liver, fear affects the kidneys, and worry burdens the spleen. Practicing stress management, mindfulness, and emotional awareness can help prevent physical illness caused by long-term emotional strain.

Conclusion:
The Huangdi Neijing offers a holistic, preventive approach that modern science increasingly supports—healthy eating, adequate rest, moderate exercise, seasonal adaptation, and emotional regulation all contribute to longevity and quality of life. By integrating even a few of these ancient insights into daily routines, we can live healthier, more balanced lives, in step with nature’s rhythms.

The Relationship Between the Five Movements and Six Qi, Five Flavors, and Health Preservation in Traditional Chinese Medicine

1. Relationship Between the Five Movements and Six Qi and Health Preservation

The Five Movements (五運) — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water — and the Six Qi (六氣) — Wind, Cold, Summer-Heat, Dampness, Dryness, Fire — represent macrocosmic natural changes that influence the human body in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Application in Health Preservation:

  • Each year and season is dominated by specific climatic tendencies (e.g., excessive wind, heat, or dampness).
  • TCM uses this model to predict disease trends and guide preventive health practices.
  • For example, in a year with excess Fire movement, one may need to clear Heart fire and nourish Yin.

2. Five Flavors and Health Preservation

The Five Flavors — Sour, Bitter, Sweet, Pungent (Acrid), and Salty — each correspond to one of the Five Zang-organs and have distinct physiological actions.

FlavorOrganActionHealth Application
SourLiverAstringent, stabilizingSuitable for Liver imbalances; excess may lead to stagnation
BitterHeartClears heat, dries dampnessGood for Heart fire; excessive bitter can damage Yin
SweetSpleenTonifies, harmonizesStrengthens Spleen; too much causes dampness
PungentLungDisperses, moves QiHelps release exterior; excess can deplete Qi and Yin
SaltyKidneySoftens hardness, purgesWarms and supports Kidneys; excess harms blood and bones

3. Integrated Application: Matching the Season, Flavor, and Health Focus

SeasonDominant QiFlavorOrganHealth Focus
SpringWindSourLiverSoothe Liver, protect from wind
SummerHeatBitterHeartClear Heart fire, boost Qi
Late SummerDampnessSweetSpleenStrengthen Spleen, dry dampness
AutumnDrynessPungentLungMoisten Lung, nourish Yin
WinterColdSaltyKidneyWarm Kidneys, store essence

The TCM Connection: How the Body’s Orifices Relate to Organs and How to Use for Self-Diagnosing

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each organ is associated with specific orifices, reflecting the deep interconnection between the body’s internal systems and external openings. Here’s a breakdown of these relationships:

Zang (Yin) Organs and Their Corresponding Orifices:

  1. Liver (肝) – Eyes (目)
    • The Liver stores Blood and nourishes the eyes. Poor Liver function can lead to dry eyes, blurred vision, or floaters.
  2. Heart (心) – Tongue (舌)
    • The Heart governs Blood and houses the Shen (mind/spirit), which manifests in speech and tongue appearance. Issues like a pale tongue may indicate Heart Blood deficiency, while a red tongue with ulcers could point to Heart Fire.
  3. Spleen (脾) – Mouth and Lips (口, 唇)
    • The Spleen controls digestion and transformation of food. A weak Spleen may result in a poor appetite, swollen tongue, or pale lips.
  4. Lungs (肺) – Nose (鼻)
    • The Lungs control respiration and are connected to the nose. Conditions like nasal congestion, loss of smell, or a runny nose often relate to Lung imbalances.
  5. Kidneys (肾) – Ears (耳) and Urethra/Anus (二阴)
    • The Kidneys store Essence (Jing) and govern growth and aging, which influence hearing and ear health. Tinnitus or hearing loss can be a sign of Kidney deficiency.
    • The Kidneys also influence the lower orifices (urethra and anus), affecting urination and defecation.

Fu (Yang) Organs and Their Orifices:

  • While the Yang Fu organs (Gallbladder, Small Intestine, Stomach, Large Intestine, Bladder, San Jiao) do not directly control external orifices, they interact with the Zang organs to support their functions.

Below is a table for your reference

Each Zang (yin) organ is linked to a specific orifice and external sign:

Organ (Zang)Associated OrificeExternal ManifestationCommon Signs of Imbalance
Liver (肝)Eyes (目)NailsDry/red/itchy eyes, blurred vision, brittle nails, dizziness
Heart (心)Tongue (舌)Face & ComplexionStuttering, speech issues, palpitations, flushed or pale complexion
Spleen (脾)Mouth & Lips (口)MusclesPale or cracked lips, excessive saliva, muscle weakness
Lung (肺)Nose (鼻)Skin & Body HairNasal congestion, loss of smell, dry skin, excessive sweating
Kidney (肾)Ears (耳)Hair & BonesTinnitus, hearing loss, premature graying or hair loss, weak bones

How to Use for Self-Diagnosing

By observing changes in the orifices and external signs, you can get clues about underlying organ imbalances:

  • Dry, red, itchy eyes → Possible Liver disharmony (Liver Heat or Blood Deficiency).
  • Pale lips and weak muscles → Possible Spleen Qi Deficiency, affecting digestion.
  • Tinnitus and lower back pain → May indicate Kidney Deficiency (common in aging).
  • Red tip of tongue and speech issues → Possible Heart Fire affecting mental clarity and speech.
  • Nasal congestion and dry skin → May signal Lung Qi Deficiency or Lung Dryness.

This organ-orifice relationship is crucial in TCM diagnostics, as observing changes in the orifices (e.g., tongue coating, eye brightness, or nasal discharge) provides insights into your internal organ health.

The Three Treasures in TCM: Why Modern Life Depletes Them & How to Restore Vitality

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Three Treasures (San Bao, 三宝) are Jing (Essence), Qi (Vital Energy), and Shen (Spirit). They represent the foundation of health and vitality, yet modern lifestyles often deplete them.

1. Jing (Essence, 精)

What it is:

  • The fundamental energy stored in the kidneys, responsible for growth, reproduction, and overall vitality.
  • It is inherited (prenatal Jing) and acquired through food, herbs, and lifestyle (postnatal Jing).

Why it’s ignored/depleted today:

  • Chronic stress, overwork, lack of sleep
  • Excessive sexual activity
  • Poor diet and substance abuse

How to nourish it:

  • Rest and balance work-life stress
  • Eat Jing-nourishing foods like bone broth, walnuts, goji berries, and black sesame seeds
  • Practice Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and meditation

2. Qi (Vital Energy, 气)

What it is:

  • The life force that powers bodily functions, movement, and digestion
  • Comes from food, air, and inherited Jing

Why it’s ignored/depleted today:

  • Sedentary lifestyles, excessive screen time
  • Poor breathing habits (shallow breathing)
  • Eating processed, nutrient-deficient food

How to nourish it:

  • Engage in regular exercise (walking, yoga, Tai Chi)
  • Breathe deeply (abdominal breathing, breathwork)
  • Eat whole, nutrient-rich foods (leafy greens, legumes, grains)

3. Shen (Spirit, 神)

What it is:

  • The mind and consciousness, linked to heart health and emotional well-being
  • A calm, clear Shen leads to emotional stability and wisdom

Why it’s ignored/depleted today:

  • Digital distractions, overstimulation
  • Chronic stress, anxiety, and lack of spiritual connection
  • Lack of sleep and poor emotional regulation

How to nourish it:

  • Prioritize deep sleep and relaxation
  • Practice mindfulness, meditation, and spending time in nature
  • Consume Shen-calming foods like lotus seeds, chamomile, and reishi mushroom

In modern life, we tend to prioritize productivity over health, leading to an imbalance of these treasures. Replenishing them through mindful lifestyle choices helps restore vitality, longevity, and inner peace.

Inflammation – How TCM helps

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury, infection, or harmful stimuli. It is part of the immune system’s defense mechanism, helping to remove pathogens, damaged cells, and irritants while initiating the healing process. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it can contribute to various health issues.

Types of Inflammation

  1. Acute Inflammation
    • Short-term response to injury or infection (e.g., cuts, burns, infections).
    • Symptoms: Redness, swelling, heat, pain, and loss of function.
    • Example: A sprained ankle or a sore throat from a cold.
  2. Chronic Inflammation
    • Long-term, persistent inflammation that can lead to tissue damage.
    • Linked to conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.
    • Example: Rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
  3. Low-Grade Inflammation
    • Often asymptomatic but contributes to chronic diseases over time.
    • Caused by poor diet, stress, lack of exercise, or environmental toxins.
    • Example: Metabolic syndrome, obesity-related inflammation.

How Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Helps with Inflammation

TCM approaches inflammation holistically, addressing the root causes rather than just symptoms. It views inflammation as an imbalance in Qi (energy), Yin-Yang, or organ function.

TCM Treatments for Inflammation

  1. Acupuncture
    • Stimulates the body’s natural healing response.
    • Reduces pain and inflammation by modulating the immune system.
    • Common points used: LI4 (Hegu), ST36 (Zusanli), SP6 (Sanyinjiao).
  2. Herbal Medicine
    • Anti-inflammatory herbs balance internal disharmony.
    • Examples:
      • Huang Qin (Scutellaria baicalensis) – Clears heat and dampness.
      • Turmeric (Jiang Huang) – Moves blood and reduces inflammation.
      • Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) – Nourishes blood and reduces swelling.
  3. Cupping Therapy
    • Improves circulation, removes stagnation, and reduces muscle inflammation.
  4. Dietary Therapy
    • Avoid inflammatory foods (processed sugars, dairy, alcohol).
    • Include cooling and detoxifying foods like green tea, bitter greens, and omega-3-rich foods.
  5. Qi Gong & Tai Chi
    • Enhance circulation, reduce stress, and improve immune function.

Longevity Begins Before Illness: The Art of Preventive Care

Preventive care aligns closely with the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) concept of 治未病 (zhì wèi bìng), which translates to “treating before disease occurs” or “preventing illness before it happens”. This idea emphasizes proactive health management, aiming to maintain balance in the body and prevent diseases before they manifest.

What is 治未病 (zhì wèi bìng)?

The concept of 治未病 originates from ancient TCM texts like the《黃帝內經》(Huangdi Neijing, The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon). It highlights three key aspects:

  1. Preventing illness before it occurs – Maintaining health through diet, lifestyle, and emotional balance.
  2. Stopping disease progression – Detecting early signs of imbalance and correcting them before they turn into illness.
  3. Preventing relapse after recovery – Strengthening the body to avoid recurrence of illness.

How Does It Connect with Modern Preventive Care?

TCM 治未病Modern Preventive Care
調理脾胃 (digestive health)Balanced diet and nutrition
養生氣血 (nourishing energy and blood)Regular exercise and hydration
情志調養 (emotional balance)Stress management and mental health care
季節養生 (seasonal health practices)Vaccinations and weather-appropriate habits
針灸+艾灸 (acupuncture + moxibustion)Physical therapy and alternative therapies
藥膳調理 (herbal medicine + food therapy)Dietary supplements and vitamins

Preventive Methods in TCM

  1. Dietary Therapy (食療) – Eating according to body constitution and seasons
  2. Herbal Medicine (中藥調理) – Strengthening the body’s defense system
  3. Acupuncture & Moxibustion (針灸與灸法) – Stimulating meridians to improve immunity
  4. Qigong & Tai Chi (氣功與太極) – Balancing body and mind through movement
  5. Mental Health Care (情志養生) – Meditation and emotional regulation

Example: How to Practice 治未病 Daily

Health FocusTCM MethodModern Equivalent
Digestive HealthGinger tea, Moxibustion on ST36Probiotics, Fiber intake
Stress ReliefMeditation, QigongYoga, Mindfulness
Immunity BoostAstragalus soup (黃芪湯)Vitamin C, Vaccines
DetoxificationGreen bean soup (綠豆湯)Hydration, Detox diets

Why Is This Important Today?

In modern life, many chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and anxiety stem from lifestyle habits and emotional imbalance. The TCM concept of 治未病 encourages:

  • Regular self-care
  • Holistic balance of body and mind
  • Early detection of small discomforts before they worsen

Take away

治未病 goes beyond treating symptoms—it’s a philosophy of proactive self-care. Whether through acupuncture, herbal medicine, or lifestyle adjustments, its goal is to maintain long-term health rather than simply curing disease.

Touched from Within: The Subtle Ecstasy of De Qi

That special sensation you feel when needled by an acupuncturist is commonly referred to as “De Qi” (pronounced “duh chee”) in traditional Chinese medicine.

Here’s why it happens:

  1. Nerve Stimulation: The acupuncture needle can stimulate sensory nerves under your skin, triggering a response in your nervous system. This can cause tingling, warmth, heaviness, or a dull ache around the needle site.
  2. Energy Flow (Qi): According to traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture helps regulate the flow of Qi (energy) through your body’s meridians. The sensation is believed to be a sign that the Qi is being activated.
  3. Endorphin Release: The needles can prompt your body to release endorphins, which are natural painkillers. This can create a feeling of relaxation or even mild euphoria.
  4. Blood Circulation: Acupuncture improves blood flow to certain areas, which can cause sensations like warmth or pulsing.

Is the sensation painful?

It shouldn’t be sharp or unbearable. Most people describe it as a weird but pleasant feeling — like a deep pressure or warmth.

If the sensation is too painful, it’s important to let your acupuncturist know because the needle might be placed too deep or in the wrong spot.

Relieve Migraines Naturally with Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) can be beneficial for migraines by helping to release restrictions in the craniosacral system, improve cerebrospinal fluid flow, and reduce tension in the fascia, muscles, and connective tissues. Some key ways CST may help with migraines include:

  1. Reducing Cranial and Neck Tension – Gentle manipulations help relieve tightness in the head, neck, and shoulders, which can contribute to migraine onset.
  2. Improving Nervous System Regulation – CST promotes relaxation by shifting the body out of a heightened sympathetic (fight-or-flight) state into a more parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) mode, which can prevent or lessen migraine severity.
  3. Enhancing Circulation and Fluid Flow – By improving the movement of cerebrospinal fluid, CST may reduce pressure and congestion in the head, potentially preventing migraine triggers.
  4. Releasing Emotional and Physical Trauma – Some migraines may have underlying emotional or stress-related components, and CST can support a deeper release of tension stored in the body.

What to Expect

During a CST session, the practitioner uses light touch (often no more than 5 grams of pressure) on the skull, sacrum, and other key points along the spine to detect and release restrictions. Many patients report feeling deeply relaxed, with some experiencing immediate relief or gradual improvement over multiple sessions.

Wei Qi and Sleep: The Rhythm of Rest and Protection

What is Wei Qi? In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Wei Qi (卫气), or Defensive Qi, circulates throughout the body in a rhythmic cycle. According to classical texts, Wei Qi completes 50 cycles in a 24-hour period:

  • 25 cycles during the daytime (yang phase), flowing through the body’s yang layers and the exterior to protect against external pathogens.
  • 25 cycles during the nighttime (yin phase), moving inward to nourish and repair the organs.

Wei Qi follows the 12-hour day-night cycle and aligns with the organ clock, circulating approximately once every 28.8 minutes through the body’s meridian system. This rhythm is essential for immunity, vitality, and overall health.

Wei Qi’s circulation plays a crucial role in sleep quality and overall restorative processes. Here’s how it affects sleep in TCM:

Wei Qi and Sleep Regulation

  1. Daytime (Yang Phase: External Circulation)
    • Wei Qi circulates at the body’s surface, protecting against external pathogens and supporting physical activity.
    • This active, outward movement keeps the body alert and energized.
  2. Nighttime (Yin Phase: Internal Circulation)
    • As the body prepares for sleep, Wei Qi retreats inward to nourish the zang-fu organs and support deep, restorative rest.
    • If this transition is smooth, sleep is restful and rejuvenating.

Imbalances in Wei Qi Circulation and Sleep Disorders

  • Wei Qi Failing to Retreat Properly → Insomnia or Restlessness
    • If Wei Qi remains too active on the body’s surface (excess Yang), falling asleep can be difficult. This can result in difficulty calming the mind, vivid dreams, or waking frequently at night.
    • Often seen in conditions like Liver Yang Rising, Heart Fire, or Yin Deficiency with Empty Heat.
  • Weak Wei Qi → Light Sleep & Frequent Waking
    • When Wei Qi is weak or deficient, it may not anchor properly in the body’s interior at night, leading to light sleep, frequent waking, and lack of deep rest.
    • This is often related to Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency or Heart and Kidney Disharmony.
  • Disrupted Wei Qi Flow → Night Sweats & Restlessness
    • If Wei Qi circulation is erratic, it can cause night sweats (especially in Yin Deficiency), leading to nighttime overheating and restlessness.

Supporting Healthy Wei Qi Flow for Better Sleep

  • Regulate the Sleep-Wake Cycle: Follow natural light patterns to support Wei Qi’s smooth transition from external (day) to internal (night).
  • Acupuncture & Herbs:
    • Heart & Liver imbalance: HT-7 (Shenmen), LV-3 (Taichong) for calming the mind.
    • Yin Deficiency: KD-3 (Taixi), SP-6 (Sanyinjiao) to nourish Yin and anchor Qi.
    • Wei Qi Deficiency: ST-36 (Zusanli), LI-4 (Hegu) to strengthen protective Qi.
    • Herbs: Suan Zao Ren, Bai Zi Ren, Long Gu, Mu Li for sleep support.
  • Breathwork & Meditation: Practices like Qi Gong, Tai Chi, or meditation help regulate Wei Qi movement and calm the Shen (spirit).

Consult a licensed acupuncturist or herbalist to assess your constitution and recommend specific herbs, acupuncture, and dietary adjustments.

TCM Organs Overview

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the twelve zang-fu organs are divided into six zang (yin) organs and six fu (yang) organs. Each has its own function, relationships, and role in maintaining the body’s balance.

Zang (Yin) Organs – Storage and Regulation

  1. Heart (Xin, 心) – The Emperor
    • Governs Blood and vessels
    • Houses the Shen (Spirit/Mind)
    • Controls circulation and influences mental activity
  2. Liver (Gan, 肝) – The General/Strategist
    • Stores Blood and regulates its volume
    • Ensures the smooth flow of Qi
    • Controls emotions and planning
  3. Spleen (Pi, 脾) – The Granary Official
    • Governs Transformation & Transportation (digestion)
    • Controls Blood (keeps it within vessels)
    • Houses Yi (thought, intellect, memory)
  4. Lung (Fei, 肺) – The Prime Minister
    • Governs Qi and Respiration
    • Regulates Water metabolism
    • Controls Wei Qi (Defensive Qi) and pores
  5. Kidney (Shen, 肾) – The Minister of Power
    • Stores Essence (Jing) and governs birth, growth, reproduction
    • Produces Marrow, which nourishes the brain and bones
    • Houses Zhi (Willpower)
  6. Pericardium (Xin Bao, 心包) – The Protector of the Heart
    • Shields the Heart from external and emotional disturbances
    • Assists in blood circulation
    • Plays a role in emotional relationships

Fu (Yang) Organs – Transport and Transformation

  1. Small Intestine (Xiao Chang, 小肠) – The Separator of the Pure from the Impure
    • Receives food from the stomach and extracts nutrients
    • Separates pure from turbid, sending waste to the Large Intestine and Bladder
  2. Gallbladder (Dan, 胆) – The Decision Maker
    • Stores and excretes bile to aid digestion
    • Governs decision-making and courage
  3. Stomach (Wei, 胃) – The Official of Fermentation
    • Receives and decomposes food
    • Works with the Spleen to transform food into Qi and Blood
  4. Large Intestine (Da Chang, 大肠) – The Dreg Official
  • Governs the movement of waste and water absorption
  • Related to letting go physically and emotionally
  1. Bladder (Pang Guang, 膀胱) – The Water Reservoir
  • Stores and excretes urine – the transformation, evaporation, distribution, and excretion of body fluids.
  • Works with the Kidneys to regulate fluids
  1. Triple Burner (San Jiao, 三焦) – The Irrigation Official
  • Regulates water pathways and Qi movement
  • Divided into Upper, Middle, and Lower Jiao to coordinate bodily functions

Each organ not only has a physiological function but also a spiritual and emotional aspect in TCM. This holistic approach ties the physical, mental, and energetic aspects of health together.