2024年2月14日
Everything you need to know about the magical organ "Spleen" (Chinese/Western Medicine prespectives)
What is spleen in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Spleen is an organ in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that is in charge of the transformation and transportation functions within our body.
I other words, it breaks down the food that we eat on a daily basis through the digestive systems, then transports the nutrients and good fluids through out the body and feeds all the cells for energy!
It also transports all the yucky fluids or toxins through the lymphatic system towards our waste centres (bladder and large intestines) for secretion.
It is an amazing system that transforms food into energy and transports the good and bad throughout our body. Thus helping us with everyday functions, keeping the body running and healthy!
Each different organ within the TCM system, correlates to an emotion. The emotion that links to this organ is "over thinking". When the spleen is weak, you're more likely to over think or have lots of thoughts flowing through. Or vice versa if you have been constantly over thinking, over-time it will harm the spleen energy and organ. When the spleen is functioning well and balanced, you're able to be productive, remain focused, feel a sense of calm and grounded even in stressful situations.
What is Spleen in western medicine?
The spleen is part of the lymphatic system in western medicine, the major function of the spleen is to help with the detoxification of the body and maintains fluid balance. There are also a few other functions of the spleen includes; generating white blood cell, storing of extra blood, helping with the immune system response and filtering red blood cells (Watson, 2021). A research conducted from (Lau et al., 2016) concluded that the spleen also helped with healing and inflammation symptoms within the body.
What is the relationship between Spleen/Gut health and our Solar Plexus energy centre?
The region that correlates to the spleen/Gut health in our energy centres is known as the "Solar Plexus Centre". In the Chakra systems, the solar plexus centre is known for it's power in will and motivation. This is the body's innate power centre, it is the fire/sun wheel within our body. With it's power, we are able to feel powerful, confident and is able to transform all our negative emotions and energy into a uplifting and forward moving energy. These are also the principles of Alchemy. Do not doubt yourself, do not over think, simply accept the current situation, aware of the emotions and energy involved, then with the power of our solar plexus centre, we transform these energies and action into a solution. Wether it's regulating yourself within, from a regular practice such as yoga or qigong, or with enough courage, to face the outer situation and finding a resolution when possible.
Tips on regulating the spleen, gut health and solar plexus centre
Tips for Spleen Health (TCM Perspective)
Eat warm, cooked foods: The Spleen prefers warm and easily digestible foods.
Incorporate sweet flavors: Naturally sweet foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash nourish the Spleen.
Avoid cold and raw foods: These can tax the Spleen's digestive fire.
Practice good eating habits: Eat regularly and avoid overeating.
Stay hydrated: Drink warm water or herbal teas throughout the day.
Try Spleen-supporting herbs: Ginger, cinnamon, and licorice root can be beneficial.
Manage stress: Excessive worry can weaken the Spleen, so practice stress-reduction techniques.
Tips for Gut Health (Western Perspective)
Increase fiber intake: Consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Eat fermented foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi support beneficial gut bacteria.
Stay hydrated: Adequate water intake helps maintain the mucosal lining of the intestines.
Limit processed foods: These can negatively impact gut flora.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity promotes healthy digestion and bowel movements.
Manage stress: Chronic stress can disrupt gut health, so practice relaxation techniques.
Consider probiotics: Consult with a healthcare provider about probiotic supplements.
Chew food thoroughly: This aids digestion and nutrient absorption.
Tips for Balancing the Solar Plexus Chakra
Practice Solar Plexus meditation: Visualize a bright yellow light in your upper abdomen.
Use affirmations: Repeat phrases like "I am confident and powerful" or "I trust my decisions."
Engage in physical exercise: Activities that strengthen the core can help balance this chakra.
Practice yoga poses: Poses like Boat Pose, Warrior III, and Sun Salutations can stimulate the Solar Plexus.
Use aromatherapy: Essential oils like lemon, bergamot, and rosemary can be beneficial.
Wear yellow: The color yellow is associated with the Solar Plexus chakra.
Practice breathwork: Deep belly breathing can help activate and balance this energy center.
Spend time in the sun: Sunlight can help energize the Solar Plexus.
Integrated Practices for Overall Balance
Mindful eating: Pay attention to your food, eating slowly and with gratitude.
Qigong exercises: Practices like "Knocking on the Door of Life" can benefit both the physical and energetic aspects.
Abdominal massage: Gentle self-massage can stimulate digestion and energy flow.
Acupressure: Stimulate points like Stomach 36 (below the knee) or Conception Vessel 12 (on the abdomen).
Journal: Write about your goals, achievements, and things you're proud of to boost self-esteem.
Spend time in nature: This can ground you and help balance your overall energy.
Practice assertiveness: Learning to express your needs and boundaries can strengthen your personal power.
Remember, these systems are interconnected, so practices that benefit one area often have positive effects on the others. It's always best to consult with qualified practitioners (TCM doctors, nutritionists, energy healers) for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs and health conditions.
References
Watson, S. (2021, December 13). What does the spleen do. Retrieved February 15, 2024, from https://www.healthline.com/health/what-does-the-spleen-do
Lv, Y., Lau, W. Y., Li, Y., Deng, J., Han, X., Gong, X., Liu, N., & Wu, H. (2016). Hypersplenism: History and current status. Experimental and therapeutic medicine, 12(4), 2377–2382. https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2016.3683
Modern Guides to Ancient Wisdom: Chakras for Vitality, Herron Books, 2022