Qi deficiency and Qi stagnation may sound contradictory. Qi deficiency refers to insufficient Qi, while Qi stagnation indicates an excess of Qi, which are exactly opposite; how can they occur simultaneously?It is not difficult to understand. The most fundamental function of Qi is to promote movement. In addition to pushing tangible substances such as blood, fluids, and food, Qi itself also needs to be propelled by Qi. When Qi is insufficient, the ability to promote is weakened, leading to the possibility of Qi accumulating in a certain area, thus forming Qi stagnation.Within the human body, the organs directly related to the movement of Qi are primarily two: the liver and the lungs. The lungs are constantly connected to the outside world, making Qi stagnation less likely to occur. The liver governs the circulation and movement of Qi within the body, which is relatively closed, thus presenting more opportunities for Qi stagnation. At the same time, the function of promoting the smooth flow of Qi itselfis responsible for alleviating Qi stagnation within the body.Therefore, when liver Qi is weak, it is understandable that Qi stagnation may concentrate around the liver. In other words, the areas prone to Qi deficiency and Qi stagnation are primarily the liver. From the pulse perspective, this is reflected in the left guan (left wrist position).Other areas are not exempt from Qi deficiency and Qi stagnation. For example, in the spleen and stomach, when Qi deficiency leads to weak propulsion, Qi stagnation may also occur. However, because the spleen and stomachare responsible for the transportation of food and fluids, Qi stagnation often accompanies the accumulation of food and fluids. The phlegm-dampness resulting from fluid accumulation and the phlegm-heat resulting from food accumulation do not primarily present as a string-like pulse. Therefore, the weak string pulse caused by Qi deficiency and Qi stagnation is mainly observed at the left guan.Additionally, the liver, which uses Yang to support Yin, and governs the function of promoting smooth flow, is based on the storage of blood. When the function of promoting smooth flow is abnormal, the function of blood storage is often already deficient. From the pulse perspective, this is reflected in the presence of a weak string pulse along with a fine pulse.This article is selected from the “Growth Community for TCM Enthusiasts” organized by Wujixue Society. Long press to recognize the QR code below for more details. Wujixue Society, 2022 Learning Theme: Advanced Acupuncture.
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