Podcast #5 - The SOUL according to Chinese Wisdom
The interplay of the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a fundamental concept that describes the dynamic relationships and interactions among these elements within the body and the natural world. Here's a brief description of their interplay:
1. **Generating Cycle**:
- In the generating cycle, each element nourishes and promotes the next element in a continuous flow:
- **Wood Generates Fire**: Wood feeds the Fire element, just as trees and plants provide fuel for flames.
- **Fire Generates Earth**: Fire leaves behind ashes, enriching the Earth element with nutrients.
- **Earth Generates Metal**: Earth contains minerals and ores, from which Metal is extracted.
- **Metal Generates Water**: Metal can condense moisture, forming dew and droplets.
- **Water Generates Wood**: Water nourishes plants, promoting the growth of Wood.
2. **Controlling Cycle**:
- In the controlling cycle, each element exerts control or regulation over another element:
- **Wood Controls Earth**: Tree roots help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
- **Earth Controls Water**: Earth can dam or redirect the flow of water.
- **Water Controls Fire**: Water extinguishes or controls flames.
- **Fire Controls Metal**: Intense heat can melt and reshape metal.
- **Metal Controls Wood**: Metal tools can cut down and control the growth of trees.
3. **Imbalance and Harmony**:
- TCM practitioners use the concept of the Five Elements to assess the balance and harmony within the body and its organs. When the elements are in balance, health and well-being are maintained. Imbalances can lead to various health issues.
1. **Hun (魂) - The Ethereal Soul**: Hún
The term "ethereal" is used to describe something that is extremely delicate, refined, or otherworldly in nature
- **Organ Association**: Liver
**Wood (木)**: Representing growth, creativity, and expansion, the Wood element is associated with the liver and is often linked to qualities of assertiveness and planning.
- **Function**: Hun is often associated with the liver in TCM. It represents the ethereal or spiritual aspect of the soul. The Hun is responsible for our dreams, plans, and visions. It is considered the part of us that continues to exist after death.
1. **Book Name**: "Huangdi Neijing" (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon)
- **Chapter**: Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot)
- English: "The Liver stores the Ethereal Soul (Hun). When the Ethereal Soul is housed, one's vision is clear, and one can make plans."
- Chinese: "肝藏魂，魂藏则见明，见明则谋。" - 《黄帝内经·灵枢》第6章
2. **Book Name**: "Huangdi Neijing" (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon)
- **Chapter**: Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot)
- English: "The Liver is the residence of the Ethereal Soul. When the Ethereal Soul is harmonious, one's eyes are clear, and one can distinguish colors."
- Chinese: "肝者主魂，魂和则目清而辨色。" - 《黄帝内经·灵枢》第12章
3. **Book Name**: "Huangdi Neijing" (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon)
- **Chapter**: Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot)
- English: "The Liver's function is to maintain the Ethereal Soul. When the Ethereal Soul is at peace, one can dream peacefully and plan accordingly."
- Chinese: "肝者主魂之梦也。魂和者，梦寐以醒，知来处而应先后。" - 《黄帝内经·灵枢》第31章
These quotes are from the "Huangdi Neijing," specifically from the "Ling Shu" (Spiritual Pivot) chapter, and they illustrate the role of the Liver in storing and maintaining the Ethereal Soul (Hun) as described in the ancient text.
1. **三魂 (Sān Hún) - The Three Hun**:
- The Sān Hún represent the three aspects or levels of the ethereal soul, which are associated with different stages of life and transformation.
- **Upper Hun (Shàng Hún)**: This is the highest level of the ethereal soul, associated with the head region. It is related to one's destiny and life purpose.
- **Middle Hun (Zhōng Hún)**: The middle level of the ethereal soul is associated with the chest area and is linked to the emotions and consciousness.
- **Lower Hun (Xià Hún)**: The lower level of the ethereal soul is associated with the abdomen and is connected to instincts, desires, and basic survival.
- The concept of Sān Hún is often mentioned in Chinese medical and philosophical texts, such as the "Huangdi Neijing" (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon), to explain the different aspects of the soul's journey.
**Regarding Sān Hún (三魂) - The Three Hun**:
1. "Upper Hun (Shàng Hún) resides in the eyes. When it is harmonious, one can see clearly and distinguish colors. Middle Hun (Zhōng Hún) resides in the chest, and it commands the emotions. Lower Hun (Xià Hún) resides in the abdomen, and it governs the various desires." - Huangdi Neijing Suwen (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon, Plain Questions) Chapter 8.
- **Actions**:
- **Liver Support**: Consume foods and herbs that support liver health, such as leafy greens, beets, and milk thistle.
- **Emotional Balance**: Practice emotional regulation to keep the Liver energy flowing smoothly. Engage in activities like meditation and yoga to manage stress and promote clear thinking.
- **Creative Expression**: Explore creative hobbies like painting, writing, or music to nurture your ethereal aspect and inspire visionary thinking.
2. **Po (魄) - The Corporeal Soul**: Pò
The term "corporeal" is an adjective used to describe something that is related to the physical body or the material world, as opposed to the spiritual or abstract.
- **Organ Association**: Lungs
**Metal (金)**: Symbolizing solidity, structure, and boundaries, the Metal element is connected to the lungs and represents qualities of precision, organization, and discernment.
- **Function**: Po is associated with the lungs and represents the corporeal or physical aspect of the soul. It governs bodily sensations, instincts, and the connection between the individual and the physical world. Po is considered to perish with the body.
- **References**: Po is discussed in texts like the "Zhuangzi" and "Huainanzi," which are philosophical classics that explore the nature of the self and existence.
Here are multiple quotes from the "Zhuangzi" (庄子) and the "Huainanzi" (淮南子) related to the concept of "Po (魄) - The Corporeal Soul," along with their English translations and the original Chinese text:
**From the "Zhuangzi" (庄子)**:
1. **English**: "When alive, the body is supple and responsive. When dead, it becomes hard and unyielding. Thus, the living and the dead are equally real; they simply change forms."
**From the "Huainanzi" (淮南子)**:
2. **English**: "The Corporeal Soul (Po) resides in the flesh and bones. When a person is alive, it controls bodily sensations and actions. When a person dies, it returns to the earth, and there is no more consciousness."
3. **English**: "The Corporeal Soul (Po) is the root of bodily desires. It enjoys taste, sound, and colors, but it is confined to the realm of the physical body."
These quotes from the "Zhuangzi" and "Huainanzi" provide insights into the concept of Po, emphasizing its connection to the physical body, its role in bodily sensations, and its fate upon death. The philosophical discussions in these texts delve into the nature of the self and existence, exploring the transition between life and death.
**From the "Huangdi Neijing" (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon)**:
- **Chapter**: Suwen (Plain Questions)
- **English**: "The Corporeal Soul (Po) is associated with the physical form, and it is in charge of the body's movements and actions."
- **Chinese**: "魄者主形，主身之舍也。" - 《黄帝内经·素问》
While this quote acknowledges the role of Po in relation to the physical form and actions of the body, the "Huangdi Neijing" primarily focuses on principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including the balance of Qi, Yin and Yang, and organ systems, rather than delving deeply into the philosophical aspects of the soul.
**七魄 (Qī Pò) - The Seven Po**:
- The Qī Pò represent the seven corporeal souls or aspects of the soul, each associated with a specific emotional and mental function.
- **Joy (Xǐ)**: Associated with the heart, it relates to happiness, love, and emotional fulfillment.
- **Anger (Nù)**: Associated with the liver, it represents the emotion of anger or frustration.
- **Anxiety (Yōu)**: Linked to the spleen, it relates to worry and overthinking.
- **Pensiveness (Sī)**: Associated with the lungs, it relates to deep thought and contemplation.
- **Sadness (Bēi)**: Connected to the kidneys, it represents feelings of grief and loss.
- **Fear (Kǒng)**: Linked to the bladder, it relates to the emotion of fear or apprehension.
- **Shock (Chī)**: Associated with the gallbladder, it represents the sudden emotional shock or trauma.
- The concept of Qī Pò is discussed in various ancient Chinese texts, including traditional medical texts like the "Huangdi Neijing" and philosophical works like the "Zhuangzi."
"The Seven Po represent seven kinds of emotions. If these emotions are excessive, they harm the heart, disturb the spirit (Shen), and lead to illness." - Huangdi Neijing Suwen (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon, Plain Questions) Chapter 39.
"Joy is related to the heart; anger is related to the liver; anxiety is related to the spleen; pensiveness is related to the lungs; sadness is related to the kidneys; fear is related to the bladder; and shock is related to the gallbladder." - Huangdi Neijing Lingshu (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon, Spiritual Pivot) Chapter 14.
- **Actions**:
- **Healthy Breathing**: Practice deep and mindful breathing exercises to support lung health and maintain a strong connection to the physical body.
- **Grounding Activities**: Spend time in nature, engage in gardening, or practice earthing (walking barefoot on natural surfaces) to strengthen your connection to the physical world.
- **Physical Exercise**: Regular physical activity, such as yoga or tai chi, can help you maintain a healthy relationship with your body.
3. **Yi (意) - The Intellect**: Yì
- **Organ Association**: Spleen
**Earth (土)**: Representing stability, nourishment, and balance, the Earth element is associated with the spleen and is linked to qualities of grounding, stability, and digestion.
- **Function**: Yi is linked to the spleen and is associated with thought processes, intentions, and intellectual abilities. It relates to the cognitive aspects of the mind, including memory, focus, and analytical thinking.
**Reference from the "Huangdi Neijing"**:
- **Chapter**: Suwen (Plain Questions)
- **English**: "The Spleen is the residence of thought (Yi). When the Spleen is healthy, one can think clearly and make sound decisions."
- **Chinese**: "脾者，主思虑之宅也，思虑旺則思，思旺則虑。" - 《黄帝内经·素问》
This quote from the "Huangdi Neijing" emphasizes the role of the Spleen in housing Yi and its importance in clear thinking and decision-making. It underscores the connection between the spleen's health and cognitive processes in TCM theory.
- **Actions**:
- **Balanced Diet**: Consume a balanced diet that includes whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to support digestive health, which is closely tied to cognitive function.
- **Mental Stimulation**: Engage in activities that stimulate the mind, such as puzzles, crossword puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill.
- **Mindfulness and Meditation**: Practice mindfulness and meditation to enhance focus, clarity, and cognitive function.
4. **Zhi (志) - The Willpower**: Zhì
- **Organ Association**: Kidneys
**Water (水)**: Representing adaptability, willpower, and the depths of the unknown, the Water element is associated with the kidneys and is often linked to qualities of determination and resilience.
- **Function**: Zhi is connected to the kidneys and represents willpower, determination, and the capacity to set and achieve goals. It embodies a person's drive, ambition, and the ability to overcome obstacles.
"Nan Jing" (Classic of Difficulties) related to the concept of **Zhi (志) - The Willpower**, along with their English translations and the original Chinese text:
1. **English**: "Kidneys are the residence of willpower (Zhi). Willpower allows one to be firm and resolute in one's decisions. When the Kidneys are strong, one can overcome any obstacles."
- **Chinese**: "腎者主志。志者意也。意者，固也。志者固持正切。固持正切者，氣立而行之矣。氣立而行之者，不可動搖。無所不勝也。" - 《難經·六經大論篇》
2. **English**: "When willpower is strong, one's spirit is determined, and one can achieve great things."
- **Chinese**: "志者，氣也。氣者，神也。氣和則神存，神存則志彊，志彊則欲不可奪，欲不可奪者，所以為之而不居也。" - 《難經·六經大論篇》
3. **English**: "The Kidneys govern willpower, which is the root of life. When willpower is strong, the body is full of vitality."
- **Chinese**: "腎主志，志者命之本也。志強則氣盛，氣盛則身壯。" - 《難經·六經大論篇》
These quotes from the "Nan Jing" (Classic of Difficulties) highlight the significance of Kidneys in governing willpower (Zhi) and its role in determination, vitality, and the ability to overcome challenges. It emphasizes the close connection between the Kidneys and one's capacity to set and achieve goals.
- **Actions**:
- **Hydration**: Ensure you stay adequately hydrated to support kidney function and maintain mental and physical vitality.
- **Goal Setting**: Set clear, achievable goals and stay determined to reach them. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps.
- **Rest and Recovery**: Prioritize rest and quality sleep to replenish your willpower reserves and maintain mental resilience.
5. **Shen (神) - The Heart-Mind**: Shén
- **Organ Association**: Heart
**Fire (火)**: Symbolizing warmth, transformation, and illumination, the Fire element is connected to the heart and is associated with emotions, consciousness, and joy.
- **Function**: Shen is considered the most important Spirit in TCM. It encompasses consciousness, emotions, and overall mental well-being. Shen governs a person's moral compass, joy, and connection to the divine.
"Huangdi Neijing" (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon) related to the concept of **Shen (神) - The Heart-Mind**, along with their English translations and the original Chinese text:
1. **English**: "The Heart is the residence of Shen. When Shen is peaceful, one's spirit is calm, and one can think clearly."
- **Chinese**: "心者，神之舍也。神和則意舒，意舒則知，知識則神安。" - 《黄帝内经·素问》
2. **English**: "Shen encompasses emotions, joy, and moral judgment. When Shen is harmonious, one experiences happiness and inner peace."
- **Chinese**: "神者，欲也，志也，意也。欲舒則喜悅，志舒則安寧。" - 《黄帝内经·素问》
3. **English**: "A person's Shen is closely connected to their moral conduct. A calm and virtuous Shen leads to longevity and health."
- **Chinese**: "人之精神者，德之載也。精神旺則身壽。" - 《黄帝内经·素问》
4. **English**: "Emotions have a significant impact on Shen. Excessive anger damages Shen, while joy nurtures Shen."
- **Chinese**: "情者傷神，恐者損神，喜者養神。" - 《黄帝内经·素问》
5. **English**: "Shen is closely connected to the spiritual realm. A tranquil heart-mind enables one to connect with the divine."
- **Chinese**: "心静者神清，神清則志誠。志誠則神悅，神悅則神與天通。" - 《黄帝内经·素问》
These quotes from the "Huangdi Neijing" emphasize the role of Shen in governing consciousness, emotions, moral judgment, and the connection to the divine. They highlight the significance of maintaining a harmonious and virtuous Shen for overall well-being and health in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
- **Actions**:
- **Emotional Balance**: Cultivate emotional balance through practices like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness to promote a calm and peaceful heart-mind.
- **Joyful Activities**: Engage in activities that bring you joy, happiness, and fulfillment. These activities nourish the heart-mind.
- **Social Connections**: Foster healthy relationships and social connections, as they play a crucial role in emotional well-being and supporting a harmonious Shen.
6. **Balancing Practices for All Spirits**:
- **Acupuncture and TCM**: Consider seeking guidance from a TCM practitioner for personalized treatment plans to balance your spirits.
- **Meditation and Mindfulness**: Regular meditation or mindfulness practices can help balance and harmonize all the spirits.
- **Holistic Approaches**: Explore holistic practices like Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and herbal remedies that promote overall well-being.