In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), grief is closely associated with the lungs and the large intestine as the organs associated with the element of Metal. TCM views emotional well-being as interconnected with the health of specific organs and grief can affect and imbalance the Metal element.
Prolonged or intense grief can weaken the lung’s energy (Qi), leading to symptoms like breathlessness, chest tightness, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. This disruption in the flow of Qi throughout the body, can be attributed to low energy, frequent colds, and even skin problems, as the lungs within TCM govern the skin.
Grief can also affect the lungs paired organ within the Metal element, the large intestine. Unresolved grief can affect digestion, leading to bowel issues. The person may physically and emotionally be unable to “let go” of their grief.
Grief, especially when experienced as prolonged or intense emotional distress, triggers the body’s stress response, leading to an increase in cortisol production. Like other forms of stress, grief activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls the release of cortisol from the adrenal glands. Elevated cortisol levels are associated with fatigue, anxiety and insomnia.
When grief causes an imbalance within the body, acupuncture is used to help regulate the flow of Qi and help to restore homeostasis, promoting an emotional release and aid physical healing. It can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the mind and body, which in turn reduces stress and cortisol levels.
Sarah Webb is a Traditional Chinese Acupuncturist working in Beaconsfield, Marlow & Farnham Common. www.seedwellness.co.uk/sarahwebb
Tiff Kertesz is a Traditional Chinese Acupuncturist working in Henley, Thame & surrounding regions. www.seedwellness.co.uk/tiffkertesz
