Treating Stress with Chinese Medicine

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In the past, I’ve spoken about the amount of stress that people are dealing with at this time in our country. Bladder and Kidney Meridians which are associated with the emotion of fear are most active during the winter season.

Another emotion that is a component of stress is worry. Worry is associated with the Spleen and Stomach Meridians and these pathways are most active during late summer, but also at the ending weeks of each season. Many times worry precedes fear.

In Chinese Medicine, spleen energy is responsible for the transformation of the food we eat and transporting the nutrients to the rest of the body, but the spleen and stomach also digest information and stimulus.

All the information that enters the body from our sense organs is processed by the spleen and stomach meridians.

We live in an age where we are bombarded with information 24/7 and multitasking is a normal occurrence. Most people have deficient spleen energy.

Some symptoms of spleen imbalance include:

  • Digestive issues (IBS, acid reflux, pain, cravings, nausea, constipation, diarrhea….)
  • Fatigue and brain fog
  • Abdominal distention especially after eating.
  • Weakness and heaviness in the limbs, edema, and swelling.
  • Worry, overthinking, over mothering- or taking care of others at the expense of your own health.
  • Cravings for sweets, carbohydrates

Tips for Nurturing your spleen energy.

  • Do not work or watch anything stressful while eating.
  • Eat more cooked and warm food.
  • Avoid cold drinks.
  • Foods such as: spelt, oats, carrot, pumpkin, sweet rice, winter squash, yams, sweet potato, black beans, parsnip, turnip, molasses, anchovy, beef, mackerel, date, tuna, chicken, beef liver or kidney strengthen the spleen.
  • Create a pleasant atmosphere around eating. Enjoy meals with friends, enjoy a meal out in nature weather permitting.
  • Have your energy balanced by a licensed Bodywork Therapist or Acupuncturist.