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."
THE IMPORTANCE OF
STRESS MANAGMENT
What is stress? It is the nature of distress arising from psychological or physiological discomfort caused by either excessive stimulation or insufficient stimulation during interactions between an individual and their environment.
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Stress can have serious impacts on our physical and mental health. While temporary stress helps us adapt to change, chronic stress disrupts hormone balance, weakens immunity, and contributes to issues like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, digestive problems, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and even cancer. When the body remains in a prolonged state of stress, its recovery ability diminishes, making it more vulnerable to illness.
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In traditional medicine, stress is believed to disturb the flow of “Qi” (energy). Imbalances in Qi can lead to physical and mental symptoms. Specifically, a condition called “liver Qi stagnation” may block blood flow, weaken digestion, and reduce immunity. To address this, traditional therapies like acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion and herbal medicine aim to harmonize Qi and blood flow, restoring balance to the body and mind.
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Therefore, stress is not just a temporary reaction but can significantly impact long-term health, making regular and consistent management essential. To manage stress, practices such as regular exercise, meditation, and breathing techniques help balance the body and mind. Additionally, promoting circulation, boosting resilience, and addressing stress through traditional medicine treatments and wellness methods can aid in tackling its root causes. Through these approaches, we can enhance overall health and engage in preventive care for a healthier, balanced life.​​
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​*The Importance of Breathing [Link]
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UNDERSTANDING
HOLISTIC HEALTH
IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
The health of the body and the mind are deeply interconnected, and it is important to understand this by examining the fundamental concepts and principles of traditional medicine. In traditional medicine, the human body is viewed as consisting of three elements: Jing (精), Qi (氣), and Shen (神). 'Jing' refers to the body, and Shen refers to the mind (spirit); when Qi is added, it becomes a living being.
Qi is supplied through breathing, and if it does not flow smoothly, illness can arise. To be healthy fundamentally means, first, to breathe well, in other words, is there a good harmony between inhalation and exhalation? ; second, to properly eliminate what we eat; and third, to relax the mind as much as we tense it.
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In modern society, we live under stress and tension. In such circumstances, it is crucial to find balance through relaxation. Relaxation can be practiced through techniques such as meditation, prayer and breathing exercises (abdominal breathing, danjeon breathing), and it helps achieve harmony among the organs, allowing Qi and blood to flow freely, which is vital for maintaining health. The body communicates with us by signaling pain or fatigue, and traditional medicine interprets pain as a signal of blocked Qi and blood, making it important to listen to these signals.
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Traditional medicine emphasizes disease prevention and highlights the impact of mental factors on physical health. Emotional states significantly affect health, and a positive mental outlook contributes to immune system strength. As the saying goes, “Joy is better than good medicine, and sorrow harms the body,” our emotional state profoundly influences our health. Therefore, cultivating a positive mindset and engaging in mental relaxation practices are essential for maintaining health.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being. Similarly, traditional medicine describes health as a balance with the external environment, internal equilibrium, management of Jing and Qi, and the integrity of the mind. This concept of health seeks a state where body, mind, and spirit are harmonized. Consequently, continuous physical and mental training, along with maintaining spiritual peace, ultimately leads to a healthy life.
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Thus, from the perspective of traditional medicine, the health of the body and mind is closely connected, requiring ongoing management and training. The foundation for a healthy life lies in the harmony between these two aspects.
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PRINCIPLE OF
YANGSANG
IN TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
In traditional medicine, Yangsaeng (養生) refers to the principles of nurturing life and maintaining health, focusing on the balance of both body and mind to prevent disease and promote longevity. The ultimate goal of Yangsaeng is to align with the laws of nature and maintain overall well-being to prevent illness and extend life.
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PRINCIPLES OF YANGSAENG
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1. Maintaining Harmony and Balance:
Traditional medicine views the human body as closely connected to nature. The principles of yin-yang and the five elements emphasize the importance of maintaining balance within the body and mind. Disruption of this harmony can lead to illness, making it essential to sustain equilibrium.
2. Mental Cultivation:
Mental health is intertwined with physical health. Managing emotions, achieving mental peace, and stress management are key aspects of Yangsaeng. Excessive emotional fluctuations can deplete vital energy (qi) and lead to illness, so maintaining tranquility is crucial.
3. Dietary Health:
In traditional medicine, food is considered akin to medicine. Consuming a diet tailored to one’s constitution and the seasons provides necessary nutrients while supporting digestion. A balanced diet, avoiding overeating and food fads, is foundational for healthy living.
4. Regular Lifestyle:
Maintaining consistent sleep patterns and a regular daily routine is vital for Yangsaeng. Traditional medicine emphasizes the importance of rest and sleep for recovery and regeneration, helping to facilitate the circulation of qi and blood.
5. Appropriate Exercise:
Engaging in moderate, consistent physical activity is essential. Traditional exercises such as qigong and tai chi are recommended as they promote the circulation of qi and help maintain bodily balance. Such exercises enhance circulation and gently strengthen muscles and joints.
6. Breath Control:
Proper breathing techniques are crucial for health maintenance. Traditional medicine stresses the importance of deep, stable breathing to recover qi and stabilize the mind. Practices like qigong and meditation emphasize breath control as a means to achieve balance between body and mind.
7. Seasonal Living:
Traditional medicine acknowledges that the body’s condition changes with the seasons, making it important to adapt one’s lifestyle accordingly. Adjusting diet, exercise, and clothing to align with seasonal changes helps protect health and maintain well-being.
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Conclusion:
Yangsaeng represents a lifestyle approach in traditional medicine aimed at maintaining health for both body and mind. Through these practices, individuals can prevent disease and promote longevity. The core principle of Yangsaeng lies in achieving harmony and balance, allowing for the holistic management of physical and mental health.
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