In the 1980's, an American neuroscientist named Dr. Candace Pert, discovered that specific brain chemicals called neuropeptides, act as messengers between the mind and the immune system. Her findings revealed that thoughts and emotions directly impact the physical body and our health Dr. Pert named the neuropeptides “molecules of emotion". Whilst TICM always looks at a patient’s lifestyle and emotional health when diagnosing and treating physical issues. The link between emotions and physical health is a foundation of TICM dating back thousands of years.
Nei Jing, a classic text of TCM, written some 2,500 years ago states: “Overindulgence in the five emotions: happiness, anger, sadness, worry, and fear will create imbalances.” Each emotion correlates to a specific organ as previously discussed, derived from the Five Element Framework of TCM. These emotions can be viewed as internal pathogens that can create an imbalance to the direct organ system. Furthermore, these emotions create a cycle if not addressed. For example, the more you feel one specific emotion, the more you harm the connected organ. But, because the organ is weak, you will be more susceptible to feeling that emotion because the organ is imbalanced.
Anger, which also encompasses the emotions of stress, bitterness, frustration, and resentment, affects the functioning of the Liver system. Our Liver is the General commander of our body, responsible for managing the smooth flow of Blood, Qi (energy) and our emotions throughout our entire being. Constant stress, anger or any of the mentioned emotions weaken the Liver, and over time take their toll. Symptoms of a weakened Liver are being easily angered, agitated, and stressed, physical symptoms manifest as high blood pressure, migraines, insomnia, digestive disorders, weight gain, changes in vision and menstrual difficulties.
The cycle can begin and continue repeatedly. It is important to recognise what you are feeling and use tools to deal with overwhelming emotion.
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