Given that it shares the same root word as “alone,” it’s easy to assume loneliness is just the absence of contact with other people.As Cacioppo explains in his book (Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection by John T. Cacioppo and William Patrick). loneliness is not merely a lack of human contact, but rather a lack of meaningful connection with other humans. It isn’t about the quantity of relationships, but rather the quality. This is why it’s possible to feel lonely even when you’re in a romantic relationship or have a large group of acquaintances.

What Is Loneliness?

To start, when we talk about the “pain” of loneliness, that’s more than just a metaphor. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), scientists have observed that the experience of social rejection activates the same region of the brain that “registers emotional responses to physical pain” . Being socially isolated might not be as imminently dangerous as a cut or burn, but the consequences can be just as serious over the long term.

The Pain of Loneliness

1. Don’t Blame Your Social SkillsWhen you’re feeling lonely, it’s easy to blame it on your lack of social skills. In general, though, a lack of social skills isn’t the issue. Rather, it’s that “feeling lonely makes us less likely to employ the skills we have” . accordingly to the book, loneliness is something that can happen to any of us. It doesn’t mean there’s anything weird or disordered about you – it’s an experience common to all humans. What matters, rather, is how you respond to loneliness, whether or not you use it as a catalyst to improve the depth of your connection with others.

6 things to do to be less lonely

Simply telling people to “connect more with others” isn’t very helpful on its own. This is especially true because each person’s genes are different.Therefore, don’t assume that you need to be super outgoing and have lots of social interactions to feel socially satisfied. You might well thrive with a small group of close friends whom you see once a week. On the other hand, your genes might predispose you to need more frequent social connection, and that’s fine too.

2. Assess How Much Connection You Need

<ol><li>Intimate connectedness: This is connection “up close and personal,” typically with a significant other.</li><li>Relational connectedness : This is the broader (but still close) connection you have with friends and family.</li><li>Collective connectedness –This type of connection describes belonging to a club, professional organization, or even an entire nation.</li></ol>In general, we need a healthy mix of the above types. However, note that this isn’t universally true. What matters, again, is that the types and level of social connection you have match your genetic preferences.

3. Recognize the 3 Different Types of Social Connection

Once you’ve resolved to become more connected with others, Cacioppo recommends finding opportunities “to get small doses of the positive sensations that come from positive social interactions”.Each positive interaction you have gives you further evidence that you can connect with others. This can then help you develop the confidence you need for deeper, more vulnerable forms of connection later on.One of the lowest-risk ways to get started is through volunteering , positive social interactions that can boost your confidence.

4. Extend Yourself (Slowly and Carefully)

When you start reaching out to people not every interaction will be a success. maybe its a small talk Or the passerby you smile at on the street may stare at the ground and keep moving. Interactions that turn out this way don’t mean you’re a failure, or that no one wants to talk to you. As Cacioppo says, “A million and one factors that have absolutely nothing to do with you can influence people’s moods and reactions” .So don’t use a couple of bad reactions as evidence that you can’t connect with people. Just move on and keep trying.

5. Have No Expectations

Throughout Loneliness , Cacioppo stresses that loneliness is not a mental disorder . At the same time, however, chronic loneliness can put you at risk for depression , and social anxiety can make it harder to connect with people in the first place.Therefore, I encourage you to seek the services of a mental health professional if you’re struggling with loneliness.Remember that whatever you’re struggling with, loneliness or otherwise, you don’t have to do it alone.

6. Seek Professional Help

What causes loneliness, and what can we do about it? This article examines the underlying science to answer both of these questions.

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Personal Development

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Health

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Mental Health

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Communication

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Love & Relationships

How to Be Less Lonely: 6 Science-Backed Techniques to Try

Being in nature can improve your mood. Just take a walk, or go for a bike ride, lay on the beach or in the park and notice little details that nature has. The sound of a bird, the texture of a leaf, the freshness of the air - notice these things and be grateful for the experience.

Appreciating Nature

Notice emotions, thoughts, and other sensations (sounds, smells, temperature,... ) without judging them or pushing them away. Try to sense where and how you feel the emotions in your body.

Mindfulness

Breathing deeply in through the nose, into the belly and slowly out through the mouth is a very convenient and powerful tool for relaxing your mind and body. Doing this whenever I feel stressed really helps me.

Deep Belly Breathing

Take a look at the boundaries in your life. You don't always have to do things for other people. Prioritize your own health, time and needs. Saying 'no' is often the healthy response when you know that what is requested or expected of you would stress you out or drain your energy.

Establishing Boundaries

Be spontaneous and do things just for fun not because of what you gain by doing that or because something is the rational thing to do. Try to sense what you really feel like doing in that moment and just do it.

Be like a child 

A healthy body allows the mind to be healthy. Exercise, eat nutritous foods and get enough sleep.

Treat your body well

Trauma often seems as this extreme experience that only people have to deal with that went through horrible events. However, there are more and less severe traumatic experiences. While it can be hard to acknowledge your own trauma it can be really helpful to understand why you mind is the way it is. It is important not to judge and rather witness the emotions that come up.

Understand your own trauma

Fear is supposed to prevent you from getting hurt but sometimes fear is irrational and not helpful. When you understand what you are afraid of and why your are afraid of it the fear is not needed anymore. This gives your mind the opportunity to heal.

Understand your fears

This book helped me understand my own emotions and helped me improve my mental and physical wellbeing. Here are some of the ideas that I found particularly important.

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER · INSTANT INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER From Dr. Nicole LePera, creator of "the holistic psychologist"—the online phenomenon with more than two million Instagram followers—comes a revolutionary approach to healing that harnesses the power of the self to produce lasting change. As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Nicole LePera often found herself frustrated by the limitations of traditional psychotherapy. Wanting more for her patients—and for herself—she began a journey to develop a united philosophy of mental, physical and spiritual wellness that equips people with the interdisciplinary tools necessary to heal themselves. After experiencing the life-changing results herself, she began to share what she’d learned with others—and soon “The Holistic Psychologist” was born. Now, Dr. LePera is ready to share her much-requested protocol with the world. In How to Do the Work, she offers both a manifesto for SelfHealing as well as an essential guide to creating a more vibrant, authentic, and joyful life. Drawing on the latest research from a diversity of scientific fields and healing modalities, Dr. LePera helps us recognize how adverse experiences and trauma in childhood live with us, resulting in whole body dysfunction—activating harmful stress responses that keep us stuck engaging in patterns of codependency, emotional immaturity, and trauma bonds. Unless addressed, these self-sabotaging behaviors can quickly become cyclical, leaving people feeling unhappy, unfulfilled, and unwell. In How to Do the Work, Dr. LePera offers readers the support and tools that will allow them to break free from destructive behaviors to reclaim and recreate their lives. Nothing short of a paradigm shift, this is a celebration of empowerment that will forever change the way we approach mental wellness and self-care.

Understand yourself and those around you.

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Psychology

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Books

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER ·  INSTANT INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER From Dr. Nicole LePera, creator of "the holistic psychologist"—the online phenomenon with more than two million Instagram followers—comes a revolutionary approach to healing that harnesses the power of the self to produce lasting change. As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Nicole LePera often found herself frustrated by the limitations of traditional psychotherapy. Wanting more for her patients—and for herself—she began a journey to develop a united philosophy of mental, physical and spiritual wellness that equips people with the interdisciplinary tools necessary to heal themselves. After experiencing the life-changing results herself, she began to share what she’d learned with others—and soon “The Holistic Psychologist” was born.Now, Dr. LePera is ready to share her much-requested protocol with the world. In How to Do the Work, she offers both a manifesto for SelfHealing as well as an essential guide to creating a more vibrant, authentic, and joyful life. Drawing on the latest research from a diversity of scientific fields and healing modalities, Dr. LePera helps us recognize how adverse experiences and trauma in childhood live with us, resulting in whole body dysfunction—activating harmful stress responses that keep us stuck engaging in patterns of codependency, emotional immaturity, and trauma bonds. Unless addressed, these self-sabotaging behaviors can quickly become cyclical, leaving people feeling unhappy, unfulfilled, and unwell. In How to Do the Work, Dr. LePera offers readers the support and tools that will allow them to break free from destructive behaviors to reclaim and recreate their lives. Nothing short of a paradigm shift, this is a celebration of empowerment that will forever change the way we approach mental wellness and self-care.

Dr. Nicole LePera is an accomplished writer whose work has resonated with readers around the world. Dr. Nicole LePera has published several books that explore a range of topics, from fiction to nonfiction, and has received critical acclaim for the ability to weave compelling narratives. Dr. Nicole LePera's writing style is known for its depth and authenticity, and has earned quite a loyal following of readers.

Dr. Nicole LePera

How to Do the Work

Our brain is symmetrical, consisting of left and right hemispheres. However, these two parts have entirely different functions. Generally, in everyday life, we use the left hemisphere of the brain, not using the capabilities of the right. However, it turns out that we can achieve a lot when our brain works as a whole and both hemispheres are synchronized. We become more relaxed and creative, our intelligence increases, we absorb new information faster. You will learn how to get the brain hemispheres in sync from this article.

How do we bring the brain hemispheres into synchronization?

The left hemisphere enables us to think logically, solve mathematical problems, analyze issues rationally, and operate verbal structures. When working with the left hemisphere, we focus on details and encode information step by step. We are concrete and literal.

What can the left hemisphere do?

The right hemisphere enables us to use intuition, see the world holistically, and create syntheses. Thanks to the right hemisphere, we can operate with associations, symbols, and images. We are creative people with great imaginations.

What can the right hemisphere do?

If you use the logic of the left hemisphere and the imagination of the right, your abilities will increase significantly. Your memory and concentration will improve. You will learn and work better and solve problems more efficiently. You might start to be seen as brilliantly creative, who has great ideas, does not make mistakes, and successfully achieves goals. Your self-esteem will increase, your mood will improve, you will be more relaxed and calm. Thanks to the synchronization of hemispheres, you will also have a more significant impact on your life - become more energetic and productive.

What can a synchronized brain do?

Juggling is a straightforward, funny, and effective method leading to the synchronization of brain hemispheres. It develops concentration and eye-hand coordination - which activates many brain areas. Since the left and right hands perform different activities, we start both brain hemispheres working together.

Just juggle

A simple crayon and a piece of paper are enough to change the functioning of your brain. Draw with both hands; start with simple motifs: a Christmas tree, a house, a stitch, a spiral, hearts. It is essential that your mirror hand movements each other. For example, draw the left side of the tree with your left hand and the right side - with your right hand. Gradually, you can make more and more complicated drawings.

Draw

Listening to Baroque music can help you study and concentrate. Thanks to it, you can calm down. When we are in a state of relaxation, it is durable for both brain hemispheres to work together. Reach for composers such as Antonio Vivaldi, Johann Sebastian Bach, or Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The effects will surely amaze you.

Baroque music

American Monroe Institute developed the Hemi Sync technology. It is a method of synchronizing the brain hemispheres by emitting sounds of a specific frequency. Thanks to a computer program, it was possible to generate a wave of the so-called differential beats, which produces a sound with parameters corresponding to a person's brain waves immersed in deep relaxation or sleep. The recording is listened to through stereo headphones or speakers in such a way that the left ear receives sounds from the left speaker or headphones while the right ear receives sounds from the right speaker.

Hemi Sync Technology

The SITA method is a method of learning that uses the properties of the state of deep relaxation when the brain is in the alpha state by synchronizing the work of both cerebral hemispheres. It was developed at Bundeswehr University by Prof. Reiner Dietrich. A device working on the principle of biological feedback was used, consisting of, among others, special glasses and headphones.

SITA Method

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HemiSync – Binaural Beat Brainwave CDs – patented alternative therapies from Hemi-Sync – Monroe Products

But what does that mean?Basically, just like an owl has a much more clear sense of vision during the night, I have a much more clear sense of productivity during the night, or more specifically, after the sun sets.To some people, this might seem strange and even slightly concerning, but actually, it’s way more common than an average person might think.Studies show that almost 30 to 40 percentage of the population find themselves the most productive after 11pm (or 2300hrs.)

I Am A Nightowl 

Well, firstly it isn’t exactly a lifestyle choice one can develop in a week or two.According to some studies, our chronotype (which is largely influenced by genetics) determines what type of person – a nightowl or an early bird- one will be. People with night time chronotype (or wolf chronotype) show more of nightowl tendencies (or ‘nocturnal’ tendencies) So, it isn’t a choice for most people, sure, long exposure to this type of behavior and environment may change some people’s lifestyle. Or sometimes our chronotype might change as we grow older, but we can’t really change them ourselves.

How does a person become a nightowl?

For people who are genetically given these behaviours don’t really have a choice. They reach their maximum level of energy and productivity only after dark. They also find it difficult to focus and be active early in the morning. According to studies, night owls show the most energy and activity (which is controlled by the cerebum) 4-10 hours after they wake up.

• When you’re a nightowl and productive at night, you can actually get a lot of work done without even half of the distractions you might have during the day. (Nobody walking around you and disrupting your flow!) • According to studies by numerous institutions, nightowls have shown to score more on IQ tests compared to early risers. Which basically means we’re smarter! • People who are night owls tend to use lateral thinking more than early birds, to put it simply, we’re better at solving problems by using an indirect/creative approach and view such problems with a new light.

Pros to being a nightowl

• Studies from many universities showed that people with morning chronotype were more physically active than compared to those with night chronotype and suggests that people who do stay up late and wake up late should try to keep themselves physically active. • Even though night owls have an advantage when it comes to lateral thinking and intelligence, we’re also more likely to perform poorly in academics/work. This is because we have to function during our least functional hours i.e. typically an 8-4 or 9-5.

Cons to being a nightowl

• Since nightowls are more creative, active and approachable during the night, they’re less so during the day, which is when a major part of society and our communities are up and about. Trying to keep up with these people around us often leads to insufficient sleep, not to mention poor lifestyle habits and a general inability to adjust to ‘regular’ schedules. This can lead to a number of physical and mental health issues such as diabetes, obesity and even depression.

1) Accept yourself and set your routine such that it accomodates time for sleep. Atleast 5-6 hours. It might seem difficult, but with a little bit of planning you’ll be able to work all night and still get 7-8 hours of sleep. 2) Try to sneak in little naps between the day or even during your work sessions. Also, try to set a limit for yourself, tell yourself “I will not work past _” 3) While working at night , have a glass of water and some healthy snacks (like nuts and berries) next to you, it will stop you from eating junk and will kill the cravings.

Top tips for nightowls

4) Try to take atleast 5-10 minute breaks in between work to get up, stretch, fix your posture and just take a little walk around your walk area. 5) 20 minutes before your bed time/the time you set for yourself, stop all work. Read a relaxing book or listen to calming music, turn off all bright lights and all devices. Set the mood to calm yourself before going to sleep, that way you can ensure a peaceful few hours of sleep for yourself without waking up in the middle and having disturbed/rocky sleep.

6) If you generally have a 9-5 ‘routine’ and also work during the night, give yourself weekends or atleast one day of the week to get full rest and excercise. Also meet up with your friends and family to ensure your own physical and mental health. Even during the day/night when you’re working,make it a point to take care of your health – physical and mental.

Having read all of this, know that it doesn’t matter if you’re a nightowl or an early bird or even if you have no idea of your strong and weak timespans , all that matters is you fit your work into your work whenever you’re the most productive and the most motivated to make changes.

It Doesn't Matter... 

Being a nightowl is not something that is well understood by a lot of people. Come along and learn about being a nightowl, from a nightowl.

Being A Nightowl

Playing certain types of games can help you get better at concentrating. Try:<ul><li>sudoku</li><li>crossword puzzles</li><li>chess</li><li>jigsaw puzzles</li><li>word searches or scrambles</li><li> memory games </li></ul>Brain training games can also help you develop your working and short-term memory, as well as your processing and problem-solving skills.

1. Train your brain

Sleep deprivation can easily disrupt concentration, not to mention other cognitive functions, such as memory and attention.Occasional sleep deprivation may not cause too many problems for you. But regularly failing to get a good night’s sleep can affect your mood and performance at work.Many experts recommend adults aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night.

2. Improve sleep

Improving the sleep you do get can also have benefit. A few quick tips:<ul><li>Turn off the TV and put away screens an hour before bed.</li><li>Keep your room at a comfortable but cool temperature.</li><li>Wind down before bed with soft music, a warm bath, or a book.</li><li>Go to bed and get up around the same time each day, even on weekends.</li></ul>Exercise regularly, but try to avoid a heavy workout just before bed.

Increased concentration is among the many benefits of regular exercise. Exercise benefits everyone. A 2018 study looking at 116 fifth-graders found evidence to suggest daily physical activity could help improve both concentration and attention after just 4 weeks. Other researchTrusted Source looking at older adults suggests just a year of moderate aerobic physical activity can help stop or even reverse memory loss that occurs with brain atrophy related to age.

3. Make time for exercise

If you want to boost your concentration naturally, try to get outside every day, even for just 15 to 20 minutes. You might take a short walk through a park. Sitting in your garden or backyard can also help. Any natural environment has benefits.

4. Spend time in nature

Meditation and mindfulness practices can offer multiple benefits. Improved concentration is only one of these.Mindfulness training that emphasizes attention focus could help increase attention and focus. Mindfulness can also improve memory and other cognitive abilities.Meditation doesn’t just mean sitting silently with your eyes closed. Yoga, deep breathing, and many other activities can help you meditate.

5. Give meditation a try

when you first feel your concentration drop, take a short mental break. Refresh yourself with a cool drink or nutritious snack, take a quick walk, or go outside and get some sun.When you return to work, don’t be surprised if you feel more focused, motivated, or even creative. Breaks can help boost these functions and more.

6. Take a break

Turning on music while working or studying may help increase concentration.The type of music you listen to can make a difference. Experts generally agree classical music, particularly baroque classical music or nature sounds are good choices to help increase your focus.It’s also important to avoid choosing music you love or hate, since both types can end up distracting you.

7. Listen to music

The foods you eat can affect cognitive functions like concentration and memory. Avoiding processed foods, too much sugar, and very greasy or fatty foods. To boost concentration, try eating more of the following:<ul><li>fatty fish (think salmon and trout)</li><li>eggs (white and yolk both)</li><li>blueberries</li><li>spinach</li></ul>Staying hydrated can also have a positive impact on concentration. Even mild dehydration can make it harder to focus or remember information.

8. Vary your diet 

If you feel your concentration starting to drop, consider a cup of coffee or green tea. A serving of dark chocolate — 70 percent cacao or higher — can have similar benefits, if you don’t enjoy caffeinated beverages.A 2017 studyTrusted Source found evidence to suggest phytochemicals naturally found in matcha, a type of green tea, not only improve cognitive function but can help promote relaxation. So matcha may be a good option if coffee tends to make you feel jittery or on edge.

9. Drink caffeine

Some supplements may help promote better concentration and improved brain function.The following supplements may help promote increased concentration and overall brain health:<ul><li>folate</li><li>choline</li><li>vitamin K</li><li>flavonoids</li><li>omega-3 fatty acids</li><li>guarana seed extract</li></ul>

10. Try supplements

Concentration workouts often help children who have trouble focusing. This mental workout involves fully devoting attention to an activity for a set period of time.Try these activities:<ul><li>Draw or doodle for 15 minutes.</li><li>Spend a few minutes tossing a balloon or small ball with another person.</li><li>Set a timer for 3 to 5 minutes. Try to blink as little as possible.</li></ul>Talking about where they lost concentration and how they managed to refocus can help them develop these skills for use in daily tasks.

11. Do a concentration workout

You can try a number of ways to improve your concentration, including brain games, meditation, music, and more. If these don’t work for you, it’s a good idea to talk with a professional to rule out any conditions.

productivity

Productivity

education

Learning & Education

How to Improve Concentration: -Backed Tips, and More

Cold Yoga was emerged in India thousands of years ago. Thereafter it has become increasingly popular in Western culture. It has many health benefits such as muscle building to preventing health problems, improving focus and promoting the immune system.

What is Cold Yoga : Benefits

Cold Yoga was emerged in India thousands of years ago. Thereafter it has become increasingly popular in Western culture. It has many health benefits such

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Exercise & Fitness

<ul><li>Along with Qi (energy), Blood, and Essence (like genetics), our Spirit or Shen is considered a vital substance in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as it completes the fabric of our physiological makeup and human life.</li><li>Fundamentally, Spirit is the unique animation humans possess which allows a person to: express their authenticity, dedicate themselves to a hobby or vocation, feel connected to mundane everyday wonders, and to be the conscious co-creator of their destiny.</li><li>It is that intangible yet empirical inner spark that activates our imagination, ambition, intention, and awe.</li></ul>

What's in a Spirit? 

<ul><li>Together with our psyche and body, Spirit is what orients us within our reality and experience of the world around us. </li><li>Its health and vibrancy is essential for developing relationships as well as the virtues unique to the human condition (compassion, accountability, wisdom, morality, courage, etc.) </li><li>Put simply, Spirit determines how we show up in the world, connect with others, and navigate all the experiences that life has to offer.</li></ul>

Spirit is what orient us within our reality

<ul><li>A unique feature of Acupuncture and TCM is how discussions of health integrate how one’s physical, mental-emotional, and spiritual health mirror one another. </li><li>Just like how each of the body’s organ systems has its own Acupuncture meridian (the Lung channel, The Large Intestine channel, for example) there are associations between the organs and specific emotions, as well as the organs and the spirit. </li><li>These connections reveal how, in TCM, energy is considered on a spectrum from the material to the ethereal. </li></ul>

Connection between Organs and Specific Emotions

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">On the Material end you have the most tangible and visible of substances: the body, blood, fluids etc would land here. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Towards the middle of the spectrum is energy whose presence is apparent in how the body functions even if it cannot be measured or fully grasped, aka Qi. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">A person’s Qi can be sensed in their pulse or heartbeat and heard in the voice. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Can you think of a time that you walked into a room full of people and could tell whether the energy was tense or cheerful? That’s Qi - which also makes itself known through emotional states. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">On the far end of this spectrum, you get Spirit. </li></ul>

Material End, Middle Qi

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Spirit is the most ethereal expression of energy and an extension of an organ’s Qi-aspect. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">It can be seen in something as simple as whether someone’s eyes sparkle or light up when they talk to you about something they’re passionate about, versus if they have a dull gaze, and perhaps appear depressed.</li></ul>

The Spirit 

If you have thought of your spirit or soul as being stored in your heart, that’s actually not far off!In TCM, there are five types of “spirit-minds” that branch-off from someone’s central Spirit. Each is stored within one of the 5 Yin organs: <ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Heart beholds The Shen </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Lungs contain The Po</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Liver commands The Hun </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Spleen grounds The Yi</li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Kidneys are keepers of The Zhi</li></ul>

The 5 Facets

<ul><li>Each embodies your capacity to show up in the world as the best version of yourself. </li><li>You can think of them like five facets to your personality: they each have unique roles and characteristics that assert themselves when content or disturbed. </li><li>Assessing the state of one's Spirit is always included in our observation & diagnostic process since the spirit is vital to one’s overall well-being. </li></ul>

Five Facets To Your Personality

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Usually when we see spirit disharmonies they are paired with physical symptoms. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Sometimes they aren’t, but patients will share behaviors - deep seated emotions - and mental tendencies they know are holding them back from the things they want in life—or the way they want to feel. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">This is because when one spirit is affected it can impact the others, leading you to feel “off,” “stuck,” “lost,” or not yourself anymore. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Sometimes it can even feel as if you are not in your body. </li></ul>

Disharmony In Spirit Causes Disharmony In Physique

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Shen is the spirit of “The Mind” and represents our consciousness. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">It is the basis for our humanity and source from which all other spirits emerge from. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Shen is in charge of our identity and capacity for self-awareness, but also, how we view and interact with others: how we orient ourselves in the world around us. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Shen is essential for integrating our psychic and emotional life since it governs perception, insight, ideas, the ability to extend beyond the Self (form relationships), determine our values, morality, and wisdom.  </li></ul>

THE SHEN ~ THE MIND

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Mind is what bridges our intuition and inspiration: it allows one to recognize their truth and callings so they can show up in the world as their most authentic self. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">In the body, the Shen is ruled by the Heart which, in Chinese Medicine, is the “the origin of mental life,” and therefore the “monarch” of all other organs: the only one capable of recognizing, assessing, and truly feeling the spectrum of one’s emotional experiences.</li></ul>

The Shen Is ruled by the Heart 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Although different emotions (anger, joy, sadness, fear, guilt, etc) will affect the body’s organs in unique ways, those organs do not “feel” the emotion and, instead, reflect the impact of that emotion as perceived by the Heart in the form of physical symptoms. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">In that sense, the Shen is referred to as the Heart-Mind, giving the old adage the heart has a mind of its own, a ring of truth.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Given the Shen’s role in processing interactions with others & external stimuli, all senses (eyesight, hearing, smell, taste, touch) depend on it for meaning just like how the brain is, in Western Medicine.</li></ul>

The Shen is the Heart-Mind

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">For this reason, the Shen is said to be the “most visible” of all the spirits, evident in how one carries themselves both in public and in conversation: the sparkle (or dullness) in one’s eyes, the capacity to maintain eye contact, as well as the use of clear/logical speech (since the Heart is the root of the tongue in TCM). </li><li class="ql-align-justify">It is the Shen that calculates appropriate behavior in order to “click” with others and foster mutual understanding: a Heart (Shen) to Heart (Shen) .</li></ul>

The Shen Is The Most Visible In All Spirits

When the Shen is vibrant, there is:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">clear thinking & consciousness, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">sharp insight, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">good intellect,</li><li class="ql-align-justify">self-awareness, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">a strong sense-of self, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">sound sleep (since the Shen retreats back into the Heart to be housed at night), </li><li class="ql-align-justify">a balanced emotional reality, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">good judgement expressed through wise action, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">flowing ideas,</li><li class="ql-align-justify">inspiration, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">alertness in the eyes, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">eye contact during conversation, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">clear speech + confident self-expression, </li><li class="ql-align-justify">compassion, and </li><li class="ql-align-justify">empathy. </li></ul>

Vibrant Shen (Heart - Organ

When the Shen is disturbed and the Heart is affected, a person will have:<ul><li>cloudy consciousness, </li><li>poor insight, </li><li>inappropriate/erratic behavior or speech tendencies, </li><li>socially awkward interactions, </li><li>low self-esteem, </li><li>difficulty expressing one’s self, </li><li>hypervigilance and paranoia, </li><li>poor self-awareness, </li><li>a hard time relating to others (including little-to-no eye contact in conversation), </li><li>little capacity for compassion/empathy, </li><li>irrational thoughts and phobias, </li><li>an imbalanced emotional reality (fixated on one emotion), </li><li>panic, </li><li>disturbed sleep etc. </li></ul>

Disturbed Shen (Heart - Organ) 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Po is the spirit-mind stored by the Lungs. It integrates with us at our first breath, and disintegrates at the end of life when breathing ceases. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">When you think of the Po , consider your moment-to-moment experiences - your instincts, impulses, and knee-jerk reactions. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">When balanced, the Po supports our ability to stay connected to the present moment through our breath. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">When strong, it is associated with assertiveness and fairness.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">We would expect someone with a well balanced Po to speak with a clear strong voice, to breathe well, and to act with the virtue of justice. </li></ul>

THE PO ~ THE CORPOREAL OR ANIMAL SOUL

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">When the Po is supported and reintegrated with the present moment, we see the ability to process grief in a healthy way. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Impulsive reactivity is exchanged for responsiveness and trustworthy instincts. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">We see the shroud of sadness and heaviness lift, giving way to the ability to appreciate the beauty and fullness of the present moment, to experience awe and wonderment, and to grasp a flash of inspiration. </li></ul>

When The Po (Lung Is Supported 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">When there is weakness of the Po, we might see lingering or unresolved grief, lifeless voice, lethargy, depression, or constant feelings of loss or incompleteness.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">In this case, a person might be stuck in a moment that is far in the past, keeping them from being present or moving forward.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">We might also notice the presence of chronic respiratory issues like frequent colds, long standing cough, or asthma associated with this aura of sorrow.</li></ul>

When There Is Weaknesses Of The Po (Lung 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Yi is the spirit-mind stored by the Spleen. It has to do with thought, intellect, and comprehension, intention and creativity. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Spleen organ in TCM is a major organ of digestion, separating and transforming useful nutrients from waste products. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">On a physical level, a weak Spleen can result in poor digestion of food. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">On a spirit level, a weak Spleen, and a weak Yi as a result, can cause poor digestion of thoughts - there may be trouble effectively deliberating, and instead one may overthink or ruminate on worries, lack clear intention, feel “foggy brained,” or bored and unmotivated.</li></ul>

THE YI ~ THOUGHT

There is a saying, “the Yi guides the Li which guides the Qi” - meaning your intention guides the ritual which guides your energy. <ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Have you ever noticed the difference between having a vague desire to achieve a broad goal such as “get in shape one day” or “learn a new language” doesn’t tend to pan out unless you set up a structure (or ritual) for yourself?</li><li class="ql-align-justify">My mother gave me the sage advice that “a dream without tangible goals is just a wish.” </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Having a strong and clear intention (Yi) helps us to create smart, structured plans and goals, which takes our energy there (aka manifests that reality!).</li></ul>

The Yi (Spleen Guides The Li Which Guides The Qi

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">A strong Yi also promotes the virtues of faithfulness and loyalty. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">If the Yi is suffering, these virtues can become skewed to the point of “‘stifling’ loyalty, exaggerated sympathy, and even self-destructive generosity”. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Supporting the spleen and its spirit-mind the Yi, can help you to cultivate clear intention, insight, creativity, motivation, and appropriate faithfulness (to your goals and to other people). </li></ul>

Strong Yi (Spleen) Promotes Faithfulness & Loyalty

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Of all the spirits in Chinese Medicine, the Hun or Ethereal Soul broadly shares the most similarities with the Western concept of the soul: it is tethered at birth, has a will of its own, yet at death it survives the body, preserving its physical appearance to wander the earth, the spirit realm, or return to the source of all life. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">This wandering quality is essential to understanding the Hun’s purpose and nature.</li></ul>

THE HUN ~ THE ETHEREAL SOUL

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">To start, the Hun is its own level of consciousness whose vitality depends on its ability to connect and disengage with the Mind—to “come and go” as it pleases. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Whereas the Mind is more rational and in charge of processing / integrating information perceived from the external world, the Ethereal Soul is in charge of bringing one’s inner world and dreams into awareness and fruition. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">It alerts the Shen to our intuition, ideas, life goals, creativity, and artistic inspiration so they can be pursued rather than merely reflected on. </li></ul>

Hun's Vitality Depends On Its Ability 2 Connect & Disengage Min

Inherently Yang in nature, the Ethereal Soul provides the psyche with movement in several ways:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">out-of-body during sleep and dreaming</li><li class="ql-align-justify">beyond one’s everyday life/circumstances through the pursuit of life goals</li><li class="ql-align-justify">through the planning of projects and paths needed to accomplish them</li><li class="ql-align-justify">beyond the self towards others in fostering/maintaining relationships </li></ul>

Hun / Ethereal Soul Is Yang In Nature

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Knowing the Hun requires movement to engage and detach from the Mind, it is no coincidence that it resides in the Liver: the organ responsible for ensuring smooth circulation throughout the body. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Physically, the free flow of Liver Qi and Blood is the medium by which the Ethereal Soul “comes and goes.” </li><li class="ql-align-justify">In TCM, the Liver acts as the chief delegator to the monarch (The Heart). </li><li class="ql-align-justify">In that sense, the healthy personality of the Liver—and balanced animation of the Ethereal Soul—can be seen in those who excel at self-leadership, management, structure, and routine. </li></ul>

Hun Resides In The Liver

When the Liver is healthy, the Liver Blood is abundant, and circulation of Liver Qi is smooth, the Hun is content—it can come and go freely: there will be a healthy flow of ideas and creativity for the Mind to receive and integrate. A person will be connected to their intuition, able to envision a goal, and feel like they have a direction for their life. They can plan the steps necessary to actualize their dreams. In essence, a rooted Hun provides the courage to pursue one’s potential and regulate emotional ups/downs. With a balanced Hun, roadblocks can be faced with flexibility and frustrations met with resolve.

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">When the Liver is healthy, the Liver Blood is abundant, circulation of Liver Qi is smooth, the Hun is content : there will be a healthy flow of ideas and creativity for the Mind to receive and integrate. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">A person will be connected to their intuition, able to envision a goal, and feel like they have a direction for their life. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">They can plan the steps necessary to actualize their dreams. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">In essence, a rooted Hun provides the courage to pursue one’s potential and regulate emotional ups/downs.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">With a balanced Hun, roadblocks can be faced with flexibility and frustrations met with resolve.</li></ul>

Signs of a Healthy Liver

When the Hun’s movement becomes stifled due to a weakened Liver (such as Liver Qi stagnation or a Liver Blood/Yin deficiency) the Mind will lack stimulation, making a person apathetic and depressed. They will feel a lack of direction or purpose. They can lose touch with their emotions or internalize to the point of endlessly stewing causing resentment. Because of the Liver’s connection to the eyes and physic “sight,” there can be a lack of vision for life-dreams, dream-disturbed sleep, and a disconnection from one’s intuition. This can cause discouragement and a lack of desire to move beyond one’s “stuckness” and circumstances in life. If the Mind is overly-controlling or not receptive to the Ethereal Soul’s input/desires, they might be fully aware of what changes they need to make to pursue their potential, but unable to “get the ball rolling” in the direction they seek.  If the Liver is overburdened due to an excess pathogen (usually Liver-Heat Rising or Liver-Fire) the Hun will travel excessively and inundate the Mind. For example, someone can be full of ideas and inspiration, but because the Hun is so flighty, a person will not be able to bring them to fruition. With this kind of Hun-disturbance, there will be agitation, anger, rage, an inability to regulate one’s emotional overwhelm, and manic tendencies. Overall, a disembodied Hun is implicated in involuntary dissociation (such as in PTSD), conscious escapism (excessive daydreaming, procrastination, substance use, etc.) and nightmares.

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">When the Hun’s movement becomes stifled due to a weakened Liver (such as Liver Qi stagnation or a Liver Blood/Yin deficiency) the Mind will lack stimulation, making a person apathetic and depressed. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">They will feel a lack of direction or purpose. They can lose touch with their emotions or internalize to the point of endlessly stewing causing resentment. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Because of the Liver’s connection to the eyes and physic “sight,” there can be a lack of vision for life-dreams, dream-disturbed sleep, and a disconnection from one’s intuition. </li></ul>

Signs of a Weakened 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">This can cause discouragement and a lack of desire to move beyond one’s “stuckness” and circumstances in life. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">If the Mind is overly-controlling or not receptive to the Ethereal Soul’s input/desires, they might be fully aware of what changes they need to make to pursue their potential, but unable to “get the ball rolling” in the direction they seek. </li></ul>

Signs of a Weakened Liver Part 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">If the Liver is overburdened due to an excess pathogen (usually Liver-Heat Rising or Liver-Fire) the Hun will travel excessively and inundate the Mind.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">For example, someone can be full of ideas and inspiration, but because the Hun is so flighty, a person will not be able to bring them to fruition.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">With this kind of Hun-disturbance, there will be agitation, anger, rage, inability to regulate one’s emotional overwhelm, manic tendencies.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Overall, a disembodied Hun is implicated in involuntary dissociation (PTSD), conscious escapism (excessive daydreaming, substance use, etc.) and nightmares.</li></ul>

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The Zhi is our willpower. This spirit-mind is stored in the Kidneys, which, in TCM, are associated with our deepest “essence,” our inherited traits, our reproductive potential, and our deepest stores of energy. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Kidneys are said to house the “life gate fire” which is yang in nature, yet they are also associated with the water element which is yin. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">This duality is mirrored in how there is a yin and yang aspect to the Zhi. </li></ul>

THE ZHI ~ THE WILL

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">The emotion of the Kidneys is fear, while the virtue of their spirit-mind is wisdom. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">When you look back on your life - do you recall experiences where fear of the unknown transformed into experience-based wisdom? </li><li class="ql-align-justify">It’s something that develops over a lifetime. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Yin Will is related to our destiny or fate - our relationship with and journey into the unknown of the future - it involves trust and faith. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">The Yang Will is more immediate than that - it has to do with the conscious efforts and fundamental decisions that allow your will for certain desires and outcomes to come to fruition.</li></ul>

The Emotion and Virtues of the Kidney

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">An imbalance between the Zhi may look like restlessness, a desire to run away from your life, a vague or existential fear; patients might share a desire for things to be different than where they are regarding their life cycle, like a fear of aging, for example.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">When the Kidney Qi is weakened, there can be a lack of willpower and drive which is an important aspect of chronic depression. </li></ul>

Signs of a Weakened Kidn

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">On the other hand, the Zhi can also become destructive, resulting in recklessness and excessive risk-taking.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">These symptoms can coincide with premature aging (looking older than you are), low back/knee pain, bladder issues, burnout, chronic exhaustion, recurrent or lingering illness, ear ringing, thyroid imbalances, memory loss, edema.</li></ul>

Signs of a Weakened Kidney Part 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Have u ever wanted something, set out on the path to complete it, and after enough time, conviction in your ability to achieve it, and consistent effort, u have it?</li><li class="ql-align-justify">You can think of the Will like The Wizard of Oz, it works tirelessly behind the curtain—the scenes of your conscious awareness—until you reach your destination.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Once you arrive, it comes out to greet and congratulate you on the journey as if to say: “Well, look who it is...you did it! I knew you could make it here. Welcome to (your “dream” aka manifested reality), you are right on time." </li></ul>

Signs of a Strong Kidney 

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">In that sense, the Yang Will gives you the perseverance to set out on the journey whereas the Yin Zhi is that part of you that becomes apparent once the goal is reached. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">A healthy Zhi invites us to faithfully wade into the unknown, take the reins of destiny, and realize you’ve had the power to be the co-creator of your life all along. It’s like that saying, choose your hard. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Healing and embarking on the journey to change your life is hard. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Yet, staying in the same place and living with regret is hard too. The Zhi asks: What will it be…will you stay or will you go?</li></ul>

Signs of a Strong Kidney Part 2

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Oftentimes people think of seeking out Acupuncture for a physical ailment or, just as commonly, to support their mental health in cases of anxiety, depression, and trauma-recovery.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">However treating the spirit can be just as helpful to encourage someone’s healing.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">In many cases, it’s actually the key.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Cultivating clear and intact spirit-minds helps us to adopt and express the virtues of wisdom, justice, loyalty/faithfulness and human kindness.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">They allow us to have authority over our thoughts, actions, life path.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">They guide us to hone our individuality, foster connections that make life meaningful.</li></ul>

YOUR SPIRITS AWAIT…

Very interesting to understanding the connection of our internal organs (physical) with the spirit within us (energy). Wholesome and holistic overall look of our health. 

The Spirit in TCM is made up of five “spirit-minds” that are stored in each 
of the five Yin organs. You can think of them like facets to your 
personality: they each have unique roles and characteristics that assert 
themselves when content or afflicted. Discover how the Five Spirits 
influence your health and ability to pursue your potential.

The 5 Spirits: Supporting The Soul in Chinese Medicine | Empower Chiropractic & Acupuncture

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