Traditional medicine for a weary mind & body-Part 2
- healingsoulacuherb
- Apr 2
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 7
In the previous part, we explored the connection between mind and body and the impact of the Seven Emotions, Now, let's dive into the healing methods offered by traditional medicine and examine the current state of your mind together.
HOW IS YOUR MIND?
Depression
I often feel deeply depressed, tend to be introverted, and experience a tightness in my chest.
Fear Startled
I am easily feels fear or gets startled.
Irritation Anger
When I am stressed, I feel heat rising or become easily excited.
Worry Anxiety
I have a lot of worries, and I am sensitive and anxious.
Frustration Hwa-Byung
I feel a tightness in my chest and struggle to relieve stress, often bottling it up inside.
Sensitive Tension
With a sensitive personality, I easily become tense and am sensitive to my external environment.
Depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and insomnia may be more prevalent among Christians or those who strive to live sincerely and truthfully in the world. They often exhibit heightened sensitivity to sin and hold lofty ideals. When they fall short of God’s standards, the dissonance between their aspirations and reality can become more pronounced, leading to these symptoms. For those who genuinely wish to care for their hearts, look after their bodies, and positively influence those around them, there is no shame or pride in managing their mental and physical health. Healing begins with humility, which involves recognizing one’s own vulnerabilities.
I must safeguard my heart. - "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the source of life." - If our hearts are in turmoil, even God’s words cannot take root within us. It is my responsibility, as the steward of my heart, to cultivate and maintain it as good soil. I cannot protect what I don't take care of-myself or my home.
Just as we visit the hospital when our bodies are unwell, receive injections, and obtain prescriptions, we should seek professional assistance when our hearts are in pain and our emotions are unstable. It is vital to evaluate our emotional state and receive treatment to regularly clear away the burdens of our emotions and rejuvenate our weary hearts. In a traditional medicine clinic, mental health treatment encompasses not only acupuncture, herbal medicine, moxibustion, and cupping but also reflects the therapist’s values. Thus, it is crucial to seek help from a trustworthy professional whose values resonate with your own.
MIND TREATMENT
Herbal Medicine
In traditional medicine, alongside acupuncture treatment, countless studies and developments have been made over the years regarding herbal ingredients that address mental health issues. Carefully selected herbal medicines, sourced from nature or cultivated, are used more effectively according to the individual symptoms of patients. Compared to Western medicine, herbal treatments may feel slower in terms of immediate effects. While the immediate response may be gradual, using herbal medicine tailored to the patient's symptoms and constitution can minimize side effects and help restore metabolic balance while providing psychological stability. Furthermore, herbal medicine can be prescribed according to the patient's constitution and other accompanying physical symptoms.
Among the herbal ingredients used for mental health treatment, many have calming effects on the sympathetic nervous system. These herbs can assist in stabilizing an overly hyperactive sympathetic nervous system. The herbs used for mental treatment are mostly mild in nature, enhancing the body's essential energy while calming the mind and nerves.
The herbal ingredients used at our Healing Soul Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic are all sourced from GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certified herbs recognized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, prioritizing non-addictive natural treatments.
The patient's emotional condition is assessed through a four-part inquiry- observation, questioning, listening, and palpation, mobilizing all senses to gather information about the patient's condition. Special techniques include pulse diagnosis, which involves placing fingers on the inner wrist to assess pulse quality and determine the balance of Qi, blood, and yin-yang, and tongue diagnosis, which evaluates the state of the internal organs based on the color, shape, and coating of the tongue.
Based on all diagnostic information, a basic protocol for herbal medicine is applied according to the state of the six emotions, with adjustments made to select the most suitable herbal formula for each patient.
Acupuncture
In cases where there is a feeling of chest tightness, acupuncture is commonly used to relieve blockages by stimulating specific acupuncture points. Acupuncture is the primary and essential treatment for symptoms related to chest discomfort and stagnation. The goal of acupuncture is to promote overall circulation throughout the chest, abdomen, head, hands, and feet.
Moxibustion
Applying moxibustion to the lower abdomen helps draw heat downward. To complement the two treatments, acupuncture is performed on the chest while moxibustion is applied to the abdomen, creating a balance where the chest feels relaxed and the abdomen is kept warm.
Cupping
For areas of the body where tension is present, cupping can help relieve blood stasis and promote emotional comfort by drawing out stagnant blood. In cases where tension has accumulated over time, it can lead to the formation of phlegm-like substances. Cupping is often used to release both phlegm and blood stasis.
Other Mind Treatment Methods
Additional methods for mental well-being include breathing, exercises, stretching, acupressure, dietary adjustments (eating cooling foods), drinking herbal teas, engaging in conversation, walking, writing, drawing, and hobbies. Meditation, prayer, and practicing gratitude are also beneficial practices.
A calm mind is the foundation of a healthy body. At Healing Soul Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic, we are committed to helping each patient restore balance to their mind and body, guiding them toward true peace and well-being. Even small steps can lead to transformative healing. Take the first step today to lighten your heart and reclaim your health.
*Missed the beginning? Check out Part 1 to explore how traditional medicine connects the mind and body. [Click here for Part 1]
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*If you want to restore balance to your mind and body, please reach out to us!
Healing Soul Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic
301-433-9150
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