💖The Heart of the Matter: Chinese Medicine and the Fire Within💖

In Chinese Medicine, summer belongs to the Heart—and not just because it’s the season of sunshine, laughter, and warm evenings. The Heart is considered the "Emperor" of the organ systems, ruling over our body with both wisdom and presence. It’s not only the physical pump we know from Western medicine, but the home of our Shen (spirit), the spark of consciousness that makes us us.

So what makes the Heart so special, and how can we support it in our everyday lives? Let’s dive in, channel our inner fire, and explore how to nourish our Heart—body, mind, and soul.

🔥 The Heart in Chinese Medicine: More Than a Pump

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Heart:

• Governs the Blood: It ensures blood flows smoothly and nourishes the body.

• Houses the Shen (Spirit): This includes consciousness, sleep, memory, and emotions.

• Manifests in the Face: A radiant complexion? That’s healthy Heart energy at work.

• Opens to the Tongue: Ever stumble on your words when you're stressed? That’s Heart energy being disrupted.

• Relates to Joy: The emotion of the Heart is joy—but too much or too little can throw us off balance.

When our Heart energy is in harmony, we feel present, calm, and connected. When it’s out of whack, we might experience insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, palpitations, or difficulty focusing.

🌿 Supporting Your Heart Naturally

Here are a few playful and practical ways to keep your Heart—and your Shen—happy:

1. Embrace Joy (but gently) - Joy nourishes the Heart, but overstimulation can lead to burnout. Say yes to what lights you up, but also protect your peace. Balance parties and productivity with naps and nature.

2. Sleep Like Royalty - The Heart stores the Shen at night. If you're tossing and turning, it may be a sign your Heart energy needs support. Acupuncture and calming herbs (like Suan Zao Ren Tang or Bai Zi Ren) can help bring restful sleep back.

3. Sip Something Red - Red is the color of the Heart and the Fire element. Think hibiscus tea, cherries, beets, or goji berries. These nourish blood and gently support the Heart.

4. Laugh! - Laughter literally moves the Heart Qi. Ever had a deep laugh and felt lighter afterward? That’s your Shen doing a happy dance.

5. Try Heart-Centric Acupressure - Massage or press Heart 7 (Shenmen)—located on the inner wrist crease, just under the pinky finger tendon. It’s one of the best points for calming the mind and grounding the spirit.

💡 Listen to Your Heart (Literally and Energetically)

Your body gives you signals when your Heart needs attention. If you’re feeling scattered, emotionally fragile, or mentally overworked, it may be time to return to the heart of things—literally.

In clinic, I love supporting Heart energy when patients are feeling anxious, not sleeping well, or struggling to connect with themselves or others. Whether through acupuncture, herbal formulas, or simple lifestyle shifts, Chinese Medicine reminds us that health isn’t just about the physical—it’s about how we feel in our hearts.

So this summer, live a little more from your Heart. Feel the sun on your skin. Laugh with people you love. Pause long enough to notice what makes your spirit feel safe, supported, and alive. Your Heart will thank you for it.