I always feel compelled to write about our immune system this time of year. This year it is not only the seasonal flu that concerns us, but also the H1N1 virus. For more information on H1N1, visit the WHO website. I would like to address how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views our immune system in regards to Qi.
Qi, our vital energy moves throughout our body. If Qi is prosperous there is health, if it is weak there is disease. If it is balanced, there is well-being. There are different types of Qi; they vary in how the body uses them and how Qi deficiencies can cause imbalances.
A healthy immune system is to have strong Jing (essence) and Zheng (postnatal) Qi. We are born with a finite amount of Jing. A fast-paced lifestyle with little sleep depletes one’s Jing. This makes one tired and susceptible to Pathogenic invasion. Zheng Qi is replenished through the air and food. Air quality is important, as is the quality of the foods we ingest. The ability to fight off Pathogens is indicative of the strength of our Zheng Qi.
Wei Qi protects the body against Pathogens. It is our first line of defense. It circulates outside the channels within the skin and muscles. A person with a Wei Qi deficiency may experience frequent colds and/or infections.
Ying Qi nourishes the internal organs and the whole body. It is our second line of defense against Pathogens, as it lies deeper than Wei Qi. It flows within the blood vessels and channels of our body. Ying Qi is activated whenever a needle is inserted into an acupuncture point.
TCM and Acupuncture aid the body in strengthening the Qi and expelling the Pathogens. Suggestions to diet, supplements, herbs and lifestyle are given in each specific case.
If you have any questions regarding this article or how Acupuncture can help you strengthen your Qi. Please feel free to contact me.
