It is often mentioned that one should maintain a cheerful disposition, be optimistic, and find joy; otherwise, prolonged feelings of sorrow and sensitivity can lead to health issues. Poor emotional health, particularly when liver qi (liver energy) is stagnant, can adversely affect physical health, which is quite understandable. Conversely, physical discomfort and various ailments can also impact a person’s emotional state. Many people say that when they feel physically well, they do not have irrational thoughts or anxiety, which is indeed true. Many patients experience various lingering symptoms after illness, leading to insomnia and anxiety, which is a typical case of physical symptoms causing emotional stagnation. Often, this is due to exterior conditions affecting the internal balance, resulting in a lack of smooth qi (energy) flow.
Common clinical conditions that arise from physical discomfort leading to emotional issues include sleep disorders, recurrent urticaria (hives), atopic dermatitis, dizziness, chronic pharyngitis with nighttime cough, stubborn constipation, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Recently, a type of illness has been observed where patients are easily irritable, often feeling qi deficiency and fatigue, lacking motivation to speak or move, yet they become easily angered and impatient. These patients often present with a deep and thin pulse. At this time, it is essential to rest well, and Li Dongyuan’s Qing Shu Yi Qi Decoction (Clear Summer Heat and Benefit Qi Decoction) is very effective.
Now, I will discuss two recent cases I encountered.
One case involved a young man with hidden pain in the chest area who had resigned from his job to focus on this issue for several months. He had consulted many practitioners and previously sought online consultations with little success, leading to some anxiety. I took the time to explain why this was happening, which was a typical case of mixed deficiency and excess. By diagnosing qi and yin deficiency, and phlegm-heat obstructing the middle and upper jiao (regions), I prescribed Shen Mai Wen Dan Tang (Shen Mai Warm Gallbladder Decoction) combined with Shang Jiao Xuan Bi Tang (Upper Jiao Expel Obstruction Decoction). The follow-up showed good results, and the patient was happy, as was I, hoping to help him return to work.
Another case that brought me joy involved a young child with otitis media and fluid accumulation, leading to decreased hearing. Western medicine suggested surgical treatment, and the parents were initially planning to go to Shanghai for surgery but were reluctant and decided to try traditional Chinese medicine instead. I felt a lot of pressure, fearing I might delay the condition due to my own lack of confidence. I diagnosed it as Shaoyang and Yangming damp-heat obstructing the orifices and prescribed Xiao Chai Hu Tang (Minor Bupleurum Decoction) combined with Gan Lu Xiao Du Dan (Sweet Dew Detoxifying Pill) to clear and promote lung qi. I also advised dietary restrictions and other precautions. After two follow-ups with Western medicine, all indicators improved, hearing levels significantly increased, and the fluid accumulation was less noticeable, leading to the conclusion that surgery was unnecessary. I felt relieved.
Many friends have told me that they have gained a lot from the articles I have written, which makes me happy to help some friends and inspire them. I share these insights and observations from my clinical practice and life experiences, though I consider myself an average practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine, driven by passion. Below, I share a passage for mutual encouragement: do not take yourself too seriously.
Do not view yourself as too important; do your best without the burden of thoughts. Many diseases are not easy to treat, but the human body has a strong self-healing ability. Always maintain a humble heart and continue learning.
Do not take yourself too seriously; this is a quality that requires cultivation and experience, a journey of the heart. Do not force things; let them happen naturally. Peace of mind is the most beautiful state of being alive. This is what is meant by being at peace with oneself.