I’ve always been fascinated by how Chinese Medicine (CM) views mental health; not as an isolated “mind problem,” but as part of a much bigger picture. In CM, body, mind and emotions are inseparable and constantly influencing one another.
At the heart of this view is the concept of the Shen (神), often translated as “Spirit” or “Mind”. In simple terms, our Shen reflects our ability to think clearly, feel fully and simply be ourselves.
What is the Shen?
Imagine the Shen as the light inside a lantern. When the lantern’s glass is clear and the flame burns steadily, the light shines bright and unwavering. In CM, the Shen resides in the Heart. When the Heart is strong and well-nourished, our Shen is calm, clear and vibrant.
When the Heart is “disturbed”, whether by stress, poor sleep, illness, dietary or lifestyle factors, the Shen can become unsettled. We might experience symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, emotional flatness, or mental fog. Like a flickering flame, an unsettled Shen struggles to shine steadily.
How Physical, Mental and Emotional Health Interconnect
In modern thinking, we often separate physical, mental and emotional health into different boxes. CM, however, sees them as interconnected pillars of a person’s overall wellbeing:
- Physical health: What we eat, how we move and how we sleep.
- Mental health: Our mental clarity and focus.
- Emotional health: How we process feelings like joy, worry, anger or sadness.
If one pillar falters, the others feel the ripple effect.
For example, chronic pain (physical) can lead to irritability (emotional), which then disrupts sleep and dulls the mind (mental). Likewise, obsessive overthinking (mental) can knot up the stomach or shoulders (physical).
Simple Ways to Support the Shen
- Nourish the Body
- Eat warm, cooked meals that are gentle on digestion. Think soups, stews and congee.
- Incorporate gentle movements like Tai Chi, yoga or a relaxed walk to encourage energy and blood flow.
- Calm the Mind
- Spend five minutes throughout the day on deep, slow breathing.
- Take short pauses to reflect on your thoughts and how you’re feeling.
- Embrace Emotional Flow
- Express your feelings through talking, journaling or creative outlets.
- Make time for meaningful activities or connection with friends, family or your community; it nourishes the Heart and uplifts the Shen.
How Chinese Medicine Can Help
When a person’s wellbeing is out of balance and the Shen becomes unsettled, Chinese Medicine offers support through a range of therapies, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping, gua sha, and lifestyle guidance.
Acupuncture treatments are thoughtfully crafted to calm the nervous system and ease physical tension – facilitating a deeper sense of grounding and emotional stability. It’s not uncommon for people to leave a session feeling lighter, clearer or more centred.
Herbal formulas are also tailored to the individual’s needs, helping to nourish the Heart, calm the Shen, and support restful sleep. Over time, this may strengthen resilience from the inside out, making it easier to navigate daily stresses and emotional ups and downs.
Together, acupuncture and herbs work alongside dietary and lifestyle changes to gently restore balance and help resettle the Shen again.
A Holistic Approach
One of the things I love most about Chinese Medicine is how it treats you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms.
When the connection between body, mind and emotions is respected and supported, small shifts – like eating well, taking mindful breaths, or connecting with your support network – can create profound changes in how you feel day to day. It’s about helping your inner light – your Shen – to shine as steadily and brightly as it’s meant to.
If you’d like to explore how Chinese Medicine can support your mental health and emotional wellbeing, I’d love to work with you.
Click here to book an appointment (select Gabriel Beh under Welcome Promotions).
Or if you’re curious and have a few questions, I’m here to help you find the right treatment plan that’s tailored to your needs.
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Written by Gabriel Beh
A qualified Acupuncturist and doctor of Chinese Medicine, Gabriel left a decade-long career as a chartered accountant to follow his passion for natural health and holistic wellness. Having experienced the stresses of corporate life firsthand, he brings a compassionate and personalised approach to healthcare, helping patients manage pain, improve sleep, support digestive health, and more. Trained in advanced acupuncture techniques like Master Tung and Dr Tan’s Balance Method, his treatments are focused on restoring balance and supporting overall well-being.
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