
ACUPUNCTURE & HERBAL CLINIC
HEALING SOUL
"Dear friend,
I pray that you may prosper in all things
and be in health, just as your soul prospers."

MEDITATION
The Korean word “명상” (Meditation) is composed of two Chinese characters:
• 명 (冥): means “dark” or “deep and tranquil state.”
• 상 (想): means “thought” or “the act of focusing the mind.”
So, “명상” (Meditation) refers to “focusing the mind in a deep and tranquil state.”
1. Meditation that Focuses on Inner Reflection and Self-Concentration
This form of meditation is primarily about deeply examining one’s inner world. It involves paying attention to one’s thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, almost as if you are looking into your mind like a mirror. Through this, you can understand yourself, calm your mind, and connect with your inner self.
• Examples of meditation techniques: Breath meditation, Mindfulness meditation
• Goal: Self-healing, self-reflection, and seeking inner peace
2. Meditation that Forgets the Self and Focuses on a Greater Being
This approach to meditation is about transcending the individual self and seeking unity with a larger existence, such as nature, the universe, or God. It aims to break free from the ego and connect with a greater force, trying to harmonize with divine or cosmic energy.
• Examples of meditation techniques: Mantra meditation, Transcendental meditation (connecting with the universe)
• Goal: Transcending the ego, harmonizing with a greater being, and connecting with the divine
The Complementary Relationship Between the Two Approaches
These two types of meditation are complementary. Through inner calm, you may understand and heal yourself, preparing to connect with something greater. Alternatively, by connecting with a greater existence, you may discover deep truths within yourself. In essence, meditation is a process of realizing that both “the self” and “the greater being” are connected.
Christian Perspective on Meditation
Christian meditation is not simply about focusing on oneself or transcending one’s being. Instead, it is about reflecting on God’s Word, seeking His will, and deepening our relationship with Him.
1. Meditating on God’s Word
The core of Christian meditation is to deeply reflect on Scripture. Psalm 1:2 says, “But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.” Here, “meditate” goes beyond just reading—it involves pondering the Word, applying it to life, and understanding God’s purpose.
2. God-Centered, Not Self-Centered
Unlike secular meditation, which often aims for self-transcendence or connection to the universe, Christian meditation focuses on God. It’s not about forgetting oneself but about entrusting oneself to God and walking with Him. It involves surrendering ourselves to Him and listening for His guidance.
3. Connection Between Prayer and Meditation
Christian meditation is closely linked to prayer. If prayer is a conversation with God where we express our hearts to Him, meditation is the quiet act of listening to His Word and understanding His will. Just as Elijah heard God’s voice in a “gentle whisper” (1 Kings 19:12), meditation allows us to quiet our hearts and listen attentively to God’s presence.
4. Pursuing Intimacy with God
Meditation enables us to grow closer to God. It’s not about emptying our minds but about filling our hearts with His truth and aligning our lives with His will. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Meditation is a time to still our restless hearts, acknowledge His sovereignty, and draw near to Him.
Practical Ways to Meditate:
1. Meditate on Scripture: Reflect on a verse by reading it repeatedly and engraving its meaning in your heart.
2. Open Your Heart to God: Quietly present your thoughts and emotions to God and wait for His voice.
3. Meditate in Nature: Observe creation and contemplate God’s power and providence.
4. Practice Gratitude: Reflect on the blessings in your life and thank God for His grace.
Christian meditation is not just a source of comfort; it is a transformative time to deepen our relationship with God and grow into the person He desires us to be.

HWABYUNG
(Anger Syndrome)
Hwabyung is a condition that occurs when stress leads to anger, which accumulates over time and eventually explodes. “Hwabyung” refers to the accumulation of anger, often caused by unresolved emotions. The symptoms typically involve a sensation of heat rising in the chest, while the lower abdomen may feel cold. Once heat rises, it continues to accumulate upwards, and the cold energy sinks down, causing the condition to become chronic.
*Ulhwa-byeong (Frustration-related Disease) refers to a condition caused by an inability to release feelings of frustration, leading to liver dysfunction. Symptoms include headaches, side pain, and chest tightness, resulting in insomnia.
When stressed or angry, the first thing to do is focus on breathing. Breathing in creates tension, while exhaling brings relaxation. Inhale gently, and then exhale slowly. When we get angry, tension peaks within the first 15 seconds. If this tension is not released within that time, it will persist, causing the sympathetic nervous system to become excited and prepare the body for a fight-or-flight response. To counteract this, exhale deeply. Inhale for a count of 1-2-3, pause for a moment (inhale hold), and then exhale for a count of 1-2-3-4-5. This simple exercise helps reduce tension significantly. When anger surges, it’s important to move past that moment quickly. Afterward, going for a 15-minute walk can help restore emotional balance.
Ideally, deep breathing with a rhythmic pattern is important, but in traditional Korean medicine, it’s beneficial to practice lower abdominal breathing (Dan-jeon breathing), which can also warm the lower abdomen and provide additional benefits such as improved digestion, deeper sleep, better circulation, and strengthened immunity.
*The Importance of Breathing[Link]
Traditional Korean Medicine’s Approach to Treating the Mind
Given the nature of Hwabyung, the first step in treatment is to “put out the fire.” Hwabyung is often classified under depression in Western medicine and psychiatry, which is why many patients are prescribed antidepressants. However, antidepressants may not be effective in treating the physical symptoms associated with Hwabyung, such as the rising heat. The body’s physical responses may not be addressed by antidepressants alone.
Herbal Treatment
In Korean medicine, herbal treatments are tailored to the patient’s symptoms, so cooling herbs such as Huang Lian (Coptis) or Chi Zhi (Gardenia) are commonly used to lower internal heat. When treating patients who display physical symptoms, such as heart palpitations or tightness in the chest, herbal remedies are prescribed to target those specific symptoms. For patients who experience depression along with clear physical symptoms of anger, Korean medicine can be highly effective.
Sometimes, the patient’s body type plays an important role in treatment. For example, individuals who have endured prolonged suppression of anger may be of the “Taeyumin” body type. They often experience heart palpitations, and treatments to alleviate this symptom would be prioritized. On the other hand, those who tend to be quick-tempered and irritable may have the “Soyangin” body type, requiring herbs that specifically address excessive anger. Some patients internalize their emotions, meticulously analyzing past events that led to their anger. In these cases, the “So-eumin” body type is often suspected, and calming remedies are necessary to ease their mind. Korean medicine is effective in treating the physical symptoms as well as the personality traits that contribute to the development of Hwabyung.
Acupuncture
For those experiencing tightness in the chest, acupuncture can be helpful in relieving blocked energy by targeting specific acupuncture points. Since Hwabyung often manifests as a sensation of blockage, acupuncture is an essential part of treatment. By improving circulation throughout the body—especially in the chest, abdomen, head, hands, and feet—acupuncture helps to release pent-up energy and promote a more balanced state.
Moxibustion
When the heat rises to the chest and face, moxibustion on the lower abdomen can help draw the heat downward. This combined treatment—acupuncture on the chest and moxibustion on the abdomen—provides a balanced approach to cooling the body and promoting relaxation.
Cupping Therapy
In cases where there is physical stagnation in certain areas, cupping therapy can help release this tension. If there is a significant buildup of heat, such as in patients with a Taeyumin body type, cupping can help release the “dampness” or “blood stasis” that accumulates in the body.
Other Mind-Treatment Methods
Along with breathing techniques, other treatments include stretching, acupressure, dietary adjustments (foods that reduce heat), drinking herbal teas, engaging in hobbies, walking, journaling, painting, and practicing mindfulness or prayer.
*Among these, consistent meditation or prayer can greatly help in treating Hwabyung. By reflecting on the forgiveness and love of God, one can learn to see anger from a place of compassion and forgiveness, allowing for emotional healing. Prayer allows us to bring our troubled emotions before God, recognizing our limitations and asking for divine support. Forgiveness, a central theme in both physical and spiritual health, can serve as a powerful tool for healing the mind, body, and spirit.
This aligns with a core principle in Korean mental therapy, known as “Bi-seung-no” (悲勝怒), which teaches that sorrow or compassionate feelings can be used to overcome anger.
Ultimately, through this process, Hwabyung patients can resolve their anger by embracing the ultimate goal of forgiveness.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32

DEPRESSION
The Difference Between Western and Oriental Medicine in Understanding Depression
Western Medicine’s View on Depression
In Western medicine, depression is viewed as a condition caused by damage to the brain (neuroanatomical damage), stress, trauma, or nutrient deficiencies, leading to a decrease in the activity of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain. Among these, serotonin is particularly important as it regulates mood, emotions, sleep, and impulse control, providing a sense of stability and happiness. When serotonin activity decreases, depression symptoms are believed to manifest.
Western Medicine’s Treatment of Depression
The primary goal of treatment in Western medicine is to restore the brain’s normal functioning by prescribing antidepressants, which help to regulate neurotransmitter activity. While non-pharmacological treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychotherapy are available, they are considered secondary treatment options and are not used in place of antidepressants.
Oriental Medicine’s View on Depression
In Oriental medicine, depression is seen as a result of various factors, one of which involves an imbalance in the body’s organs (liver, heart, spleen, lungs, and kidneys), known as the five internal organs (o-jang). For example, when the liver energy (Qi) stagnates or becomes congested, it can lead to frequent anger. When there is an imbalance in the heart’s Qi, individuals may become excessively cheerful or laugh often. A weakness in the spleen can cause excessive thinking, while an imbalance in the kidneys can lead to frequent feelings of fear. These emotions are believed to be governed by specific organs, and imbalances in these organs can cause mental disturbances. Conversely, negative emotions such as anger or excessive thinking can also damage the organs.
Oriental Medicine’s Treatment of Depression
In Oriental medicine, if the lung Qi is deficient or imbalanced, it can lead to feelings of worry or sadness. These emotions are considered to be governed by the lung system, and the treatment focuses on promoting the flow of energy within the body, restoring the balance between the organs, and alleviating depression. Treatments aim to restore balance through acupuncture, herbal medicine, meditation, and counseling to enhance emotional strength.
Conclusion
Western medicine sees depression as a “brain disease” caused by the decrease or imbalance of neurotransmitters, while Oriental medicine attributes the origins of depression to mental, emotional, and organ imbalances, particularly in the five internal organs.
Despite these differences, both systems ultimately focus on the same goal: improving the well-being and health of the patient. While the perspectives and treatment methods may differ, the underlying desire to alleviate suffering and improve quality of life is the same. The most effective treatment should be one that considers the patient’s unique needs, and it is crucial to carefully evaluate what approach would best support the patient’s recovery, whether through Western or Oriental treatments.