tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7620549524350176512024-02-08T06:00:39.616+00:005 Element Acupuncture DublinReflections and Information about Five Element Acupuncture from 5 Element Acupuncture Dublin Acupuncturist Seán O'Neill.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-32598683818567073642019-12-07T00:10:00.000+00:002019-12-07T00:10:03.890+00:00How often you need acupuncture treatment<br />
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Let’s start by saying that this will depend on you and your current situation. Your needs and how you present is unique – but there are some general scenarios that will typically apply.</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Starting Out</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Acupuncture works as a series of treatments. You can never have acupuncture treatments too often – but you can certainly have them too far apart. Acupuncture works cumulatively and your practitioner will want to continue building on any initial and ongoing success. Let’s imagine you have your first treatment and you see an improvement. Hurrah! But before your second scheduled appointment your symptoms start to creep back in and that initial feeling of well-being starts to fade.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">This is an indication that the spacing between the first and subsequent appointments is too much. This can result in a see-saw pattern of your symptoms improving, getting worse, improving and getting worse again. We don’t want this. We want your symptoms to improve. In order to accomplish this you may need to be seen twice a week for the first 1-2 weeks and if after that your symptoms are reducing and the pattern of health is holding, then appointments can be set to once per week. For some people – with just one treatment and they are flying and quite quickly move on to bi-weekly treatment straight away. As long as your symptoms continue to remain stable between appointments then your practitioner will treat you based on your response.</span></div>
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In most cases there is some improvement after 2-3 treatments with a significant change after 5-6 treatments. More challenging or chronic cases where patients have had a condition troubling them for many years, might require 10 or more treatments.</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-style: inherit; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Preventative Health (‘Tuning Mode’)</span></div>
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After treatment has established a stable feeling of wellness through the reduction of symptoms and a greater sense of ease and vitality, it is a good idea to support and maintain this wellness by having treatment once a month. Some patients do well coming in for a tuning treatment 6-8 weeks apart. You and your practitioner will find out what spacing for tuning treatments work best for you and your personal situation. At the very minimum it is typically a good idea to have a treatment as each season changes.</div>
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5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-78690746071313434682019-10-29T16:33:00.000+00:002019-10-29T16:33:20.520+00:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CeI9p9880ib6wjIePwnG0enQmkulYs4sOrw_mZJ-g57RDPyX4FfeAaDLcR33vXf3jb_wgo8kb456v8h4-X_9NO4lFajSB-WbNtOHtljQZ1v7r5GkLPO9kE1wC8kX_kmPAns0qCyKxgQB/s1600/Remembering+the+dead+%257E+Oct+2019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4CeI9p9880ib6wjIePwnG0enQmkulYs4sOrw_mZJ-g57RDPyX4FfeAaDLcR33vXf3jb_wgo8kb456v8h4-X_9NO4lFajSB-WbNtOHtljQZ1v7r5GkLPO9kE1wC8kX_kmPAns0qCyKxgQB/s400/Remembering+the+dead+%257E+Oct+2019.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Halloween is a celebration observed in several countries on
31 October, the eve of the Western Christian feast of All Hallows' Day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It begins the three-day observance of
Allhallowtide, the time in the liturgical year dedicated to remembering the
dead, including saints (hallows), martyrs, and all the faithful departed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p>It is widely believed that many Halloween traditions
originated from ancient Celtic harvest festivals, particularly the Gaelic
festival Samhain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Samhain is a Gaelic
festival marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter or
the "darker half" of the year. Traditionally, it is celebrated from
31 October to 1 November, as the Celtic day began and ended at sunset. This is
about halfway between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Samhain was seen as a liminal time, when the
boundary between this world and the Otherworld could more easily be crossed.
This meant the Aos Sí, the 'spirits' or 'fairies', could more easily come into
our world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The tradition of dressing up
is believed to have been a way of imitating, and disguising oneself from, the
Aos Sí who some believed could take you back with them to their world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they saw you looking like a spirit or
deceased being they would ignore you as a potential candidate for bring back
with them.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Our links to our departed family and relatives have a place
in the 5 Element Acupuncture tradition.
There are acupuncture points which allow us to draw upon the wisdom and
support of deceased ancestors. Some of
the names of these points provide a direct clue as to one of the potential gifts
or strengths of the point which can be drawn upon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Below is a list of some the acupuncture points which can be
used in this context.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p>“<i>Assembly of Ancestors</i>” – a point on the Triple Heater
channel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">“<i>Heavenly Ancestor</i>” ~ a point on the Small Intestine channel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">“<i>Prince’s Grandson</i>” ~ a point on the Spleen channel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">“<i>One Hundred Meetings</i>” ~ a point on the Governor Vessel
channel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">October 31<sup>st</sup> is in the Autumn season which is associated
the Metal Element in 5 Element Acupuncture tradition. The Metal Element helps us to be ‘inspired’ and
to ‘let go’. It governs the functioning
of our Lungs and Colon/Bowels. November
is a season where we remember the dead and there is a certain poignancy to this
experience. In the <b>Nei Jing</b> one
of the key ancient acupuncture texts it says that the season of Autumn “<i>…give
to the human voice the ability to weep and to wail.</i>” It is not unusual for someone going through a
period of grief to experience bowel problems and / or breathing difficulties
for a while. If these persist beyond a
reasonable time, it can indicate that the person is “stuck” in the grief and
may need assistance completing the grieving process and moving on. 5 Element Acupuncture has the tools to help
this to happen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For a Free 20-minute informal consultation or to book an appointment
telephone me at <b>086 087 2098</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-26849595447545969832019-10-23T11:43:00.000+01:002019-10-23T11:44:47.283+01:00Is your timing off?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Is your timing off?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We’ve probably all experienced moments in our life when our
timing has felt off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This experience may
have been in a social situation or perhaps a professional situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever the situation it has probably taught
us through experience that timing is important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Great comedians know when to deliver punch lines for maximum laughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Polished orators know when to pause when
making speeches to connect with their audience and clearly deliver their
message.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Great athletes know how
important timing is whether it be the speed of a golf swing or when to make a
break away from the field.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Humans have recognised the importance of timing in relation
to being in harmony with nature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is
most obvious in our relationship with the seasons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is obvious to us that the best time to
plant seeds for growth in the earth is spring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We use the maximum light and heat of the sun in summer to allow seeds to
grow and mature.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We harvest our crops
after they have matured in late summer but before autumn when they will turn to
seed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We store the harvest during autumn
and use winter a s a time for us to and the soil to rest to begin a new cycle
the following spring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, each season in
turn offers a maximum phase of energy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Throughout the 24 hours of a day there is a flow and ebb of
energy in our bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During each day nature
endows each of our internal organs/functions with a 2-hour window during which
there is a maximum energy available to that organ/function (see diagram below).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is often referred to as the ‘Chinese
clock.’</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikncFTXn1QA005qZPbc-ZfNOO5QNte71_2riiKa-v5uldgMea6WnFN4DYuixCxt3jbrPDmp4RHQsBXxf_5GYsW8TSlcCAb0ofLuTq9oiqXhaxb00FJpepQWYFrgO37QvW-Q_p8sBWzp3t2/s1600/The-Chinese-Clock+-+%2528AFEA+Sep+2019%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikncFTXn1QA005qZPbc-ZfNOO5QNte71_2riiKa-v5uldgMea6WnFN4DYuixCxt3jbrPDmp4RHQsBXxf_5GYsW8TSlcCAb0ofLuTq9oiqXhaxb00FJpepQWYFrgO37QvW-Q_p8sBWzp3t2/s640/The-Chinese-Clock+-+%2528AFEA+Sep+2019%2529.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Just as there is a 2-hour window of maximum energy there is
also 12 hours later a corresponding ‘dip’ in the energy available. For example, the time of most vitality for
our heart is 11am to 1pm. Twelve hours
later, from 11pm to 1am is when there is a dip in the energy available to the
heart. What is interesting to note is
that this is the time of day a lot of people have been known to have heart
attacks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We can support our health in a natural way by taking
advantage of these ebbs and flows of our natural energy throughout the
day. Let’s look at a few examples.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You will notice that the peak energy time for our large
intestine is 5am – 7am. For people who
have sluggish bowels or constipation you can help your bowels naturally reset
by taking time to sit on the toilet between 5am and 7am. Don’t rush the process, give it some time
each day for a few weeks and let nature do its thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Your stomach’s best energy time is 7am to 9am. Isn’t it interesting that during breakfast
time that the stomach is most ready to digest? It’s no coincidence that we have the
expression, ‘Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and supper like a
pauper.’ A lot of people eat their
biggest meal, typically dinner, between 7pm and 9pm when the stomach can still
function and digest, but you are doing so when your stomach’s energy is at its
lowest. If you have problems with
digestion, consider how changing some eating habits using the ‘Chinese clock’
might help you. Our body naturally needs
fuel to keep us going throughout the day, so it makes sense that we need to put
that fuel in at the start of the day rather than the end of the day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In Five Element Acupuncture another name used for the
pericardium is ‘Circulation-Sex/Heart Protector’. This function supports sexual
secretions. You’ll notice from the
Chinese clock that the pinnacle energy for this function is 7pm – 9p</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">m. This is the best time of day for having fun
between the sheets (or wherever you like to have this type of fun!). For couples having problems conceiving
consider spending this time making love and help nature to takes its course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The last example we’ll look at is the Gallbladder. What you may not know is that the Chinese
realised that this organ relates to our ability to make decisions. Our bodies need to make thousands of
decisions each day. Consider for a
moment all the decisions required in the simple action of getting out of bed
each morning. All the body parts,
muscles, tendons, nerves etc. involved.
Its no small wonder that this organ is busy 24 hours a day. Its time of best productivity you’ll notice
is 11am to 1pm. Most of us are familiar
with hearing people advise that to come up with a solution to a problem the
best thing to do is to ‘sleep on it.’.
Being asleep by 11pm is a great time to support our innate ability to
solve a problem and wake up the next morning with the solution naturally coming
to mind!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">One small detail to be aware of is that the clock is based
on sun time. So, during summertime when
the clocks are set an hour ahead, we need to subtract that one hour. For example, the peak time for the stomach
during summertime in the UK/Ireland would be 6am to 8am. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-75406075950968539682015-02-05T18:32:00.000+00:002015-02-05T18:32:25.968+00:00Your health is more than your symptom(s)Everything that is impacting on us physically is going to also have an emotional impact. When a patient comes in to see me and they have for example neck pain and they have had this neck pain for maybe over a year or more and their doctor has told them, 'Well I think you might also be depressed.’ Am I surprised they are feeling depressed? Pain doesn't exist in isolation and will create other issues for the patient!<br />
<br />
The holistic viewpoint of a patient is why I allow up to 2 hours for your initial consultation at my practice (<a href="http://www.5elementacupuncturedublin.ie/">www.5elementacupuncturedublin.ie</a>) because as part of this process will include a long list of questions — some of which seemingly having nothing to do with your ,main complaint.<br />
<br />
By getting a full picture of your health requires more information than a list of your symptoms. How would you think that I could help you to to heal — whether it’s a pain disorder or any kind of disorder — if you don’t know who you are?<br />
<br />
This is how many family doctors practised in the past. The doctor knew the family. He knew the children, the parents, the grandparents.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-4612852556028933302011-12-15T15:50:00.000+00:002011-12-15T15:50:05.954+00:00Living in harmony with Winter - Tips<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Below are some suggestions for living in harmony with the Winter season:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Give yourself more rest. Allow you body, mind and spirit to repair and recuperate to be ready for the season of Spring.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Put aside more time for your inner life. Take time to reflect and nurture your spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">As the weather cools support, your body’s need for warmth by inclusion of appropriate cooked foods, such as whole grains, potatoes, carrots and garlic in your diet.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Use the time to rekindle and deepen relationships with your nearest and dearest round a nice warm fire.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-14291885750325544392011-12-15T15:47:00.000+00:002011-12-15T15:47:18.221+00:00Winter Season and the Water Element<h2><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Introduction</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></h2><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The season associated with the element Water is Winter. It is the time of maximum Yin. The essence of life is emphasised as the external display of life is absent and life is laid bare. For example skeletons of trees are clearly visible, stripped to the bone. In Neolithic times living inside the earth was common practice in Winter and something of this remains today.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>One goes to bed early; one gets up late</i></span></div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Sun Wen 2</span></span></h4><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Winter is a time for looking inwards and storing of energy. It is a time to be less active. We gather strength for the year ahead. Having abundant reserves within give us courage and strength of will. Su wen chapter 2 says that in Winter heaven and earth are like strangers, Yin and Yang have nothing more to do with each other. According to the Book of Rites it is the period of the mysterious gathering of water inside the earth ready to receive the impulse of heaven, the Yang inside.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>Contrary to what one does in summer, when the qi likes to escape outside and can do so safely, in winter it is contained under the skin, allowing it to be as concentrated as possible. Once spring returns, the qi that is kept tightly within the body will be able to surge out strongly again.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994), p118</span></span></h4><h4><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p> </o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Winter is a season of “rest”. We need to preserve our energy and draw upon our reserves to survive the lean months of Winter. Though less obvious in the developed and richer countries such as we live in where supplies are generally available all year round in super markets, this absence of bounty is reflected in nature where for example animals hibernate and on the surface there is no sign of activity. We as humans also need to follow a similar pattern of resting to remain healthy and in balance. This is explored further later in this paper in relation to the Kidneys which facilitates our storing not only on a physical but also on a mind and spirit level.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>Every living thing has a potential to grow and multiply. What carries each through the dark age of winter is the ambition and drive to see its dark and impenetrable surface is a vast and unyielding force which powers the flow of season into season.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p12</span><o:p></o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">During Winter life seems to have stopped. Life is however present but hidden underground. This reflects the elusive nature of the Water Element which is associated with the season Winter.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>Water is the alpha and the omega of all the elements, their beginning and their end. It brings the cycle of the elements full circle.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Franglen, Nora (2001), p110</span><o:p></o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The human body is composed of more than 75% water. We are in many ways like a large skin covered water repository. Water has a function in our bodies right down to the cell level. Our blood system is primarily water. Water supports our life in transporting nutrients, oxygen and hormones. It also carries away waste products, and through the work of it’s two Officials, the Bladder and the Kidney, filters out and removes impurities for us. It is the basis of the secretions and fluids that allow us to move our joints. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>When the Element is out of balance, therefore, it affects every single cell in the body.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p59</span><o:p></o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Indeed ageing is partly a drying up process a sign that the Water Element is weakening and that we are losing our water reserves. The ageing process, it’s manifestations and seven year cycles for females and eight year cycles for males is to be found in Su Wen 1.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Water has many manifestations in nature which reflects something of it’s elusive nature. It is the most Yin of all the Elements. It is everywhere, but has no shape, taking only the form given by containers. It is the only element, which can take on different states: liquid, solid and gas. It knows where it wants to go and behaves in a determined manner to get there.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The primary correspondences for Water are listed in Table 1.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center"> <table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Season<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Water<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Colour<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Blue/Black<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Groaning<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Odour<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Putrid<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Emotion<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Fear<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Yin Official / Zang Organ<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Kidney<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Yang Official / Fu Organ<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Bladder<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Yin</span></st1:placename><span lang="EN-IE"> <st1:placename w:st="on">Official</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Peak</st1:placetype></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE"> Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">5pm – 7pm<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Yang</span></st1:placename><span lang="EN-IE"> <st1:placename w:st="on">Official</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Peak</st1:placetype></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE"> Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">3pm – 5pm<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Climate<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Cold<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Sense Organ/Orifice<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Ears<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Tissue/Body Part<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Bones<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Residue<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Teeth<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Taste<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Salty<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Direction <o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">North<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Fluid Secretion<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Saliva/Spittle<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Power<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"> <div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Emphasis/Storage<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div class="MsoCaption" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Table 1 – Water’s primary correspondences</b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Water Element within us provides us with the gifts and capacities to support our body, mind and spirit to survive the Winter and from year to year. There will also be challenges to face. Some of these gifts, capacities and challenges are discussed in the next sections of this paper. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Gifts & Capacities</span></span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Water Element provides us with reserves, flow, and cleansing power. </span>The reserves provide us with the strength to survive through each year and from year to year. The significant volume of water in our bodies was discussed in the introduction to this paper. The flow is important for the removal of impurities from the body, not only on a physical level but also at the mind level when we can clean out and dispose of old ideas and dreams and at the spirit level to maintain a purity of spirit.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">To exist through the cold, dark months on the reserves gathered in the autumn takes will and determination, a powerful resolve to carry on through hardship. The essence of Water is embodied in this indomitable strength.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p61,62</span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Water Element within us gives us the capacity to assess risks e.g. the security of our homes. The normal process we go through is that we perceive a threat. This is usually accompanied by a feeling of fear. We assess the risk level and then finally we take action to ensure our safety. We can carry out this process when our Water Element is in balance.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Another gift or capacity of the Water Element is the ability to protect ourselves. Our fear alerts us to danger. We feel a threat and to survive we respond appropriately. This is our <i>zhi</i> (spirit of our Kidneys), in function. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">The five will-powers, <b>wu zhi</b>, are the special natural living tensions which arise from each of the five <b>zang</b>. For the kidneys it is fear , <b>kong</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (2001), p85</span></b><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">At the most fundamental level the <i>zhi</i> gives us the drive to survive.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE">When we move through life, enacting our destiny through the support of balanced Kidney Qi we accumulate the virtue of wisdom. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Challenges</span></span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">One of the key challenges that Water presents to us is to be aware of not overtaxing our reserves. To be aware of the literal truth of the idea of ‘living fast and dying young’.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>Like every other blessing which we are given we have to use the power of will and endurance to its appropriate extent, and will pay the penalty if we do not allow ourselves an inner winter to rest and to re-build our reserves.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p63</span><o:p></o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">We will deplete the Kidney Offical naturally from cradle to grave. Therefore we need to be aware of and avoid overtaxing our reserves for example by ‘burning the candle at both ends’ or through overuse of drugs. The role of the Kidney Official on our “reserves” is discussed in more detail in the Kidney section of this paper.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">When the Water Element is out of balance any aspect of fluidity within our body, mind and spirit may be affected, brittleness of joints, dryness and thirst, frequency or infrequency of urination, excess or deficiency of perspiration, the lack of flow of thought processes and emotions, feelings and fears of inundation, being overwhelmed by things. People can experience the mind going blank, their mouth drying up or simply being paralysed by fear.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In our day-to-day parlance we can find references to imbalances of the Water Element within us. Those who are fearless we describe as having a strong ‘backbone’ and those who are fearful as ‘spineless’. This links into one of the functions of the Kidney to produce marrow, which is discussed in the Kidney section of this paper.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Associated with the Water Element we have the Kidneys (Shen) and Bladder (Pang Guang) Officials. The Kidneys plays an important role in storing Qi and <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">the Bladder in providing a reservoir for our body, mind and spirit. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Kidney (Shen) Official</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p> T</o:p></span>he Kidney Official is the Official <i>who Controls the Waterways</i>. It is the Yin/Zang organ of the Water Element. The Kidneys are the only Zang organ which are double, all the others are single. The Kidneys are located low down in the body, which reflects their relationship to Yin, which reigns in winter.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Kidneys are the foundation for all the Yin and Yang energies of the body.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Kidney-Yin also called ‘Primary Yin’ is the foundation for all of the Yin energies of the body, in particular that of the Liver, Heart and Lungs. Kidney-Yang also called ‘Primary Yang’ is the foundation of all the Yang energies of the body, in particular that of the Spleen, Lungs and Heart. Kidney-Yin is the fundamental substance for birth, growth and reproduction whereas Kidney-Yang is the motive force of all physiological processes. Kidney-Yin is the material foundation for Kidney-Yang, and Kidney-Yang represents the physiological activity that transforms Kidney-Yin.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The functions of the Kidneys are listed in Table 2.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center"> <table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 248.4pt;" valign="top" width="331"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They store Essence and govern birth,<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> growth, reproduction and development<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">2 </span></b><span lang="EN-IE">They produce Marrow, fill up the brain<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> and control bones<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">3</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They govern water<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">4</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They control the reception of Qi<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">5</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They open into the ears<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">6</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They manifest in the hair<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">7</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They control spittle<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">8</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They control the two lower orifices<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">9</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They house the Will-power (Zhi)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">10 </span></b><span lang="EN-IE">They control the Gate of Life (Minister<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> Fire)<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Table 2 – The Functions of the Kidneys - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 155<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE">Some of these functions are discussed in below.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE">1 </span></u></b><u><span lang="EN-IE">They store Essence and govern birth, growth, reproduction and development<o:p></o:p></span></u></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE">The Essence (<i>Jing</i>) of the Kidneys is a precious substance that is inherited from the parents but also partly replenished by the Qi extracted from food (<i>Gu Qi</i>). It derives from both the Pre-Heaven and Post-Heaven Essence. It determines a person’s constitution. It circulates all over the body, particularly in the Eight Extraordinary Vessels.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE">2 </span></u></b><u><span lang="EN-IE">They produce Marrow, fill up the brain and control bones<o:p></o:p></span></u></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The ‘Marrow’ (<i>sui</i>) does not correspond to the bone marrow of Western medicine but in Chinese medicine it is a substance that is the common matrix of bones, bone marrow, brain and spinal cord. The ‘Spiritual Axis’ in chapter 33 says: ‘<i>The Brain is the Sea of Marrow</i>’. Kidney-Essence when strong will nourish the brain and memory, concentration and thinking. This reflects the thinking of Chinese Medicine that the Kidneys are the origin of skill and intelligence.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">The kidneys are double: they are not both kidneys. The on one the left is the kidney; the one on the right is <b>ming men</b>, the door of individual destiny. <b>Ming men</b> is the residence of <b>shenjing</b>, spirits/essences; it is where the original <b>qi</b>, <b>yuan qi</b> is attached. There man stores the essences (sperm, <b>jing</b>) and woman attaches the reproductive organs (uterus, <b>bao</b>). Thus the kidneys are unique.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-GB"> </span><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (2001), p9</span></b><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The <i>Ming Men</i> also referred to as ‘Minister Fire’, ‘Gate of Life/Vitality’. The <i>Ming Men</i> is an essential aspect of Kidney function. It is an important link between Fire and Water in the body. It warms the <i>Jing</i> and facilitates the conjoining of Kidney-Yin and Kidney-Yang to form Kidney Qi.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The main functions of the <i>Ming Men</i> are listed in Table 3.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center"> <table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 294.55pt;" valign="top" width="393"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> The root of Yuan (“Source” or “Original”) Qi<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">2 </span></b><span lang="EN-IE">A source of Fire for the Internal Organs<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">3</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> Warms the Lower <i>Jiao</i> and Bladder <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">4</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> Warms Stomach and Spleen and aids digestion<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">5</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> Harmonises sexual function, warms <i>Jing</i> and<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> Uterus<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">6</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> Assists the Kidneys in the reception of Qi<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><b><span lang="EN-IE">7</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> Assists the Heart function of housing the <i>Shen</i><o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Table 3 – The Main Functions of the Ming Men<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In Ling shu 47 the Triple Heater is connected with the Ming Men. The Triple Heater can be considered like a messenger or servant of Ming Men for the distribution of Yuan Qi through the body.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Kidney meridian which, describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Water Element are listed in Table 4 below:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Example point application<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">KI 1</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Bubbling Spring<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When patient lacks strength and stamina they need to take action.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">KI 3<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Greater Mountain Stream<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To bring strength and certainty to one who is too scared to begin anything.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">KI 5<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Water Spring<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Give patient a fresh perspective.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">KI 6<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Illuminated Sea<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Bring ability to look at things more clearly.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">KI 7<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Returning Current<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Strengthen <i>zhi</i> and support patient in overcoming fear and obstacles in their path.</span><o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Table 4 – Example of points and their application on Kidney meridian<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">It is also worth noting that Kidney chest points (KI 22 – KI 27) are useful for treatment of patients of any Causative Factor particularly in supporting Essence and Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The other half of the Water Element Officials team is the Bladder Official. Whilst the Kidneys are more concerned with the quality of the fluids the Bladder is concerned with the fluid distribution. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Bladder (Pang Guang ) Official</span></span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoHeader" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Bladder Official is the Official responsible for <i>Storage of Water</i>. It is the Yang/Fu organ of the Water Element. The Bladder is responsible for keeping dry areas separate from wet areas.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The functions of the Bladder are listed below in Table 5.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center"> <table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 248.4pt;" valign="top" width="331"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It removes water by Qi transformation<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Table 5 – The Functions of the Bladder - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 205<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">This function uses the energy of the Yang aspect of the Kidney which provides Qi and heat. The Bladder is also assisted in its function of fluid transformation by the Lower Heater function of the Triple Heater.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">This Official is charged with disposing of the urine, which contains a large number of waste products, which have been filtered by the Kidney. There is an active process of choice and decision with regard to setting aside the impurities for discharge and retaining water that is needed to maintain the reservoir of excess water, which the Bladder holds. On a physical level if failure happens then water may be poured away too quickly and dehydration takes place, e.g. dry skin and dry hair. If on the other hand not enough water is passed away then the reservoir overflows into the surrounding lands and a feeling of bloatedness occurs from being waterlogged.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">On the mind level if properly irrigated then one can let ideas and thoughts flow. On a spiritual level if there is a reserve we can feel safe and secure and have the fuel in place for the growth of spring and protection from the heat of the summer.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p> </o:p></span> </div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Many of the words we associate with the Water Element, such as endurance, ambition and determination, are founded on the ability to have and to maintain an inner reservoir upon which everything else we do depends. By providing this on all levels the Bladder is the source of our deepest reserves and strength. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p168</span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Bladder Officials important function of storing water for the whole body is reflected by it’s having sixty seven points on it’s meridian, the largest number on any meridian on the body. This is also reflected in the extent of the meridians superficial pathway which begins at the medial canthus of the eye, passing over the skull, down the neck and back, continuing down the posterior aspect of the leg ending on the lateral nail point of the little toe. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Bladder meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Water Element are listed in Table 6.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Example point application<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">BL 1<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Eyes Bright<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To help patient have an uncontaminated higher vision and clear sighted mental level.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">BL 10<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Heavenly Pillar<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When the patient is frightened of their future, provides strength to endure.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">BL 52<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Ambition Room<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: windowtext; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To re-awaken the urge to continue and and see through the authentic destiny of their life.</span><o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><b style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Table 6 – Example of points and their application on Bladder meridian</span></b><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="MsoHeader"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In conclusion in this paper we have looked at the importance of the energetic of the Water Element which provides us with the reserves to survive Winter and from year to year. We need to be mindful of not over taxing these reserves by for example “burning the candle at both ends”. When in balance it also provides us with the ability to assess risks and protect ourselves. Out of balance we become overwhelmed by excessive fear or are unable to appreciate real danger. These abilities we examined are provided by the two related Water Officials of Kidneys (<i>Shen</i>) and Bladder (<i>Pang Guang)</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Franglen, Nora (2001) <i>Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture.</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:country-region w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Kent</span></st1:country-region><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">England</st1:place></st1:country-region>: Global Books Ltd.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994) <i>TheWay of Heaven</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Monkey Press<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (2001) <i>Chinese Medicine from The Classics -</i> <i>The Kidneys</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Monkey Press<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) <i>The Foundations of Chinese Medicine</i>, 2<sup>nd</sup> Ed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Churchill Livingstone<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998) <i>Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">J.R. & J.B. Worsley<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Five Notes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) <i>Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements. </i>2<sup>nd</sup> Edition.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:state w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Maryland</span></st1:state><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">U.S.A.</st1:place></st1:country-region>: Tai Sophia Institute<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela & Hicks, John (1999) <i>Healing your Emotions</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">London</span></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on">England</st1:country-region></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE">: Thorsons<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004) <i>Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Churchill Livingstone<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-51399996082199076732011-10-21T10:58:00.000+01:002011-10-21T10:58:39.340+01:00Metal Element and Autumn<h2><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></h2><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The season associated with Metal Is Autumn. The overflowing effects of Summer are realised and it’s time for harvesting. The harvesting must not only be of the food stuffs which are put in storehouses but also of Spirits and Breaths in our own storehouses. We need to protect our own vitality to survive the Winter. Our breaths are taken in by the Lung which receives the pure heavenly Qi. Located between Summer and Winter the energetic tendency towards of Autumn is Yin ascending. It’s a season of balancing. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>In the Book of Rites, another of the Five Classics, it says that Autumn puts everything back in the balancing scales.</i></span></div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><br />
</div></div><h4><span lang="EN-IE"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1992), p6</span></span></h4><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Autumn is also a season of “letting go”. We need to clear out the old to make room for the new. This is reflected in nature where for example the trees let go of their leaves and seeds. The leaves serve to compost the earth to support the germination of the seeds when Spring arrives. We as humans also need to follow a similar pattern of letting go to remain healthy and in balance. This is explored further later in this paper in relation to the Large Intestine which facilitates our letting go not only on a physical but also on a mind and spirit level.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Metal’s manifestation in nature is probably one of the more difficult to notice. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Indeed this is reflected in the ideogram for Metal (<i>Jin</i>), (see illustration 1), which includes the character for Earth. Whilst the Earth ideogram only has two horizontal lines the Metal ideogram includes a third line indicating that Metal is deep within the earth. The two shorter lines at the bottom represent<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">nuggets of gold which can be likened to unseen growth.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRyUj34LIp72QpNACB4Hd8BDOjtRlT1hPzjMXuRyD73LTTvhPBgdT7OB2d2RhMQ2QZ5BMVw1Xi8gz3hmkKmO2OFQhJKuWRaAxlHYgXIoOQEy-PGLuluTI9xkGsvUXP1-nbWoVmMto9_Sj/s1600/Acupuncture-Dublin-Metal-Element.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRyUj34LIp72QpNACB4Hd8BDOjtRlT1hPzjMXuRyD73LTTvhPBgdT7OB2d2RhMQ2QZ5BMVw1Xi8gz3hmkKmO2OFQhJKuWRaAxlHYgXIoOQEy-PGLuluTI9xkGsvUXP1-nbWoVmMto9_Sj/s1600/Acupuncture-Dublin-Metal-Element.jpg" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Illustration 1 – Jin, Ideogram for Metal<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;"></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
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</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The primary correspondences for Metal are listed in Table 1.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="font-weight: bold;"><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Season<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Autumn<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Colour<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">White<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Weeping<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Odour<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Rotten<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Emotion<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Grief/Sadness<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Yin Official / Zang Organ<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Lung<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Yang Official / Fu Organ<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Large Intestine<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Yin</span></st1:placename><span lang="EN-IE"> <st1:placename w:st="on">Official</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Peak</st1:placetype></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE"> Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">3am – 5am<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Yang</span></st1:placename><span lang="EN-IE"> <st1:placename w:st="on">Official</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Peak</st1:placetype></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE"> Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">5am – 7am<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Climate<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Dryness<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Sense Organ/Orifice<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Nose<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Tissue/Body Part<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Skin<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Residue<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Body Hair<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Taste<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Pungent/Spicy<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Direction <o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">West<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 149.4pt;" valign="top" width="199"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Fluid Secretion<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 99.0pt;" valign="top" width="132"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Mucus<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div class="MsoCaption" style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Table 1 – Metal’s primary correspondences</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Autumn is the time of year when less is required. One becomes a sage and reflects inwardly. The Metal Element within us provides us with the gifts and capacities to support our body, mind and spirit in preparation for Winter. There will also be challenges to face. Some of these gifts, capacities and challenges are discussed in the next sections of this paper. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
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</div><h1 style="font-weight: bold;"><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Gifts & Capacities</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In our environment minerals provide nutrients to the earth from which food is grown. Ores provide fuel for heat, others material for structural strength, others gems for beauty. Metal is a key component in most systems of communication. Metal conducts electricity. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In the human body the Metal Element provides us with the capacity to receive pure Qi from the heavens via the Lung and also to eliminate toxins and waste substances via the Large Intestine. Receipt of pure Qi from the heavens is linked to our ability to be inspired. The Chinese saw the Earth Element as the Mother, both for us and within us, and the saw the role of the Metal Element as a natural association with the Father from the heavens above. This reminds us of our connection between heaven and earth. Many forms of meditation use the principles of breathing exercises to enhance the mind and spirit directly<b>.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>Of all the Officials the Lung is perhaps the most vital in establishing and sustaining the spirit. By taking in the pure Qi energy from the heavens it brings the guidance and authority which our lives need.</i><b style="font-style: italic;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="font-weight: bold; text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p162</span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Expanding on the connection to the Heavens is the notion of respect which is attached to the idea of the father in almost every culture. When Metal is balanced within us when can also be aware of self respect which provides us with a sense of self-esteem. This in turn gives our lives a sense of quality.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">This in turn supports our ability to make judgements and decisions.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; padding-bottom: 1pt; padding-left: 4pt; padding-right: 4pt; padding-top: 1pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Every Element is qualitatively enriched in it’s own Nature by the Metal Element.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="font-weight: bold; text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p48</span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Just as the Lung receives the Large Intestines eliminates all the waste and rubbish within us. This is not just our physical body waste but also our mental and spiritual waste. The importance of “letting go” is discussed in the next section of this paper.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p><br />
</o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><h1 style="font-weight: bold;"><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Challenges</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">One of the key challenges that Metal presents to us is to be aware of the importance of letting go.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: solid; border-top-width: 1pt; padding-bottom: 1pt; padding-left: 4pt; padding-right: 4pt; padding-top: 1pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Our ideas, our emotions, our food, even the stages in the growth of our spirit, all have their hour and then have no more to offer. Once they are finished we have to be able to let go and move on.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 0cm; padding-left: 0cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p50</span></span></h4><div style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-IE"></span><br />
<div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">Without clarity provided by ‘letting go’ our judgement can be impaired and we can fail to recognise the quality of our decisions. Our self-esteem can suffer and we can forget to nourish our bodies properly. We could potentially swing towards the side of excessive sex, drugs and rock n’ roll.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">Patients with a Metal (Causative Factor) CF may portray an external stillness about them. An outward sense of everything being in it’s proper place. A shiny exterior which often belies the tumultuous interior. This reflects the other direction in which Metal can take us where we present a peacock style appearance to the world. This can include being festooned with “shiny” jewellery. They may look for respect.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal">Associated with the Metal Element we have the Lung (Fei) and Large Intestine (Da Shang) Officials. The Lung plays an important role in receiving Qi and the Large Intestine in “letting go” for our body, mind and spirit. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>The Lung (Fei) Official</u></span></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The Lung Official is the Official <i>who receives the pure qi energy from the heavens</i>. It is the Yin/Zang organ of the Metal Element.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><i><span lang="EN-IE">In ancient texts, the Chinese, probably because the writers were more function oriented, usually spoke of the Lung as a single organ. From the Nei Jing onwards, however, they often say that the Lung is divided into two parts.<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004), p138</span></span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The Lungs are considered to be ‘tender’, ‘delicate’ or ‘fragile’ organ. This is because, of all the internal organs, it is the first one to be attacked by external pathogenic factors. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The functions of the Lungs are listed in Table 2.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div align="center"><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 248.4pt;" valign="top" width="331"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They govern Qi and respiration<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">2 </span></b><span lang="EN-IE">They control channels and blood vessels<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">3</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They control diffusing and descending of<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> Qi and Body Fluids<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">4</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They regulate all physiological activities<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">5</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They regulate Water passages<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">6</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They control the skin and the space<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> between skin and muscles<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">7</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They manifest in the body hair<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">8</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They open into the nose<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">9</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They control nasal mucus<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">10 </span></b><span lang="EN-IE">They house the Corporeal Soul<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">11</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> They are affected by worry, grief and<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> sadness<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 2 – The Functions of the Lungs - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 139<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">Some of these functions are discussed in below.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></u></b><u><span lang="EN-IE"> They govern Qi and respiration<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">In terms of governing Qi and respiration this refers to the inhalation of ‘pure Qi’ (air) and exhalation of ‘dirty Qi’. The Lungs also govern Qi by the process of forming Qi. Food-Qi (<i>Gu Qi</i>) extracted by the spleen is directed to the lungs where it combines with the inhaled air to form what is referred to as Gathering Qi (<i>Zong Qi</i>).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE">6</span></u></b><u><span lang="EN-IE"> They control the skin and the space between skin and muscles<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The space between the skin and muscles is called the “<i>Cou Li</i>” space. This is the space where Defensive Qi (<i>Wei Qi</i>) flows. Strong Lung Qi provides a body with a good resistance to attack by external pathogenic factors. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE">10 </span></u></b><u><span lang="EN-IE">They house the Corporeal Soul<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The Corporeal Soul (<st1:place w:st="on">Po</st1:place>) is called the ‘entering and exiting of Essence (<i>Jing</i>)’.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The <st1:place w:st="on"><i>Po</i></st1:place> allows the <i>Jing</i> to play a role in all physiological processes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE">11</span></u></b><u><span lang="EN-IE"> They are affected by worry, grief and sadness<o:p></o:p></span></u></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">Worry is said to ‘knot’ Qi. This manifests in shoulder and chest tension. Grief and sadness are said to deplete the Qi. This manifests in the Lung pulse becoming weak and fine (thin), the complexion becoming white and the tone of voice being feeble and weepy<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>The Lungs hold the office of minister and chancellor. The regulation of life-giving networks stem from it.</i></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Su Wen 8</span></span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">This quotation refers to the role (Minister) which the Lung plays in conversing with the sovereign (Heart). The Lung takes instructions and carries them out. There is an interdependence here which is key as the Heart controls blood and the Lung Qi, two of the key ‘substances’ that constitute a person.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><i>The Lung is a canopy for the zang.</i></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1992), p44</span></span></span></h4><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">This is a reference to <i>Su Wen</i> chapter 46. This exemplifies the importance of the Lung’s role in attracting influence of Heaven and transmitting it to the other organs.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Lung meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Metal Element are listed in Table 3 below:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Example point application<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LU 1</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div class="MsoHeader"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Middle</span></i></st1:placename><i><span lang="EN-IE"> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Palace</st1:placetype></span></i></st1:place><i><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE">Helps connect patient with Heavenly Qi and inspiration.<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LU 2</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Cloud Door<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE">If patient is feeling lost.<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LU 5</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Outside Marsh<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE">Helps patient to know themselves better.<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LU 6</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Greatest Hole<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE">If patient feels they have no point or purpose and are unable to cope with outside world.<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LU 8</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"><div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Meridian Gutter<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE">Helps bring patient into the present and relate to the future.<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 3 – Example of points and their application on Lung meridian<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">Hopefully the reader thus far has gained a sense of the importance of the role of the Lung Official in establishing and sustaining the spirit and the guidance and authority it brings to our lives. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The other half of the Metal Element Officials team is the Large Intestine Official. Whilst the Lung supports the intake of new and pure Qi to maintain balance it is important that we have a way to eliminate, or “let go” at the appropriate time. This “letting go” is the function of the Large Intestine Official.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>The Large Intestine/Colon (Da Chang) Official</u></span></b></span></span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE">The Large Intestine Official is the Official of <i>drainage and dregs</i>.<span> </span>It is the Yang/Fu organ of the Metal Element.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div><span lang="EN-IE"><span lang="EN-IE"> <div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The functions of the Large Intestine are listed below in Table 4.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div align="center"> <table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 248.4pt;" valign="top" width="331"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> Controls passage and conduction<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">2 </span></b><span lang="EN-IE">Transforms stools and reabsorbs fluids<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Table 4 – The Functions of the Large Intestine -<span> </span>Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 195<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">This Official takes away the waste not only from that which is left over from the digestive process but also from all the Officials.<span> </span>If this Official is not functioning properly then all the Officials are at risk of becoming sick as rubbish in any of the Officials will limit their physical function.<span> </span>This will also manifest in the mind and spirit just as much.<span> </span>Room needs to be made for anything new and vital.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"> <div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">When we come across someone whose words and whose mind are poisoned and filthy we may be in the presence of a person whose garbage is not being taken away.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4 style="text-align: right;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p155</span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Large Intestine meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Metal Element are listed in Table 5.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Example point application<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LI 1</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Merchant Yang<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE">Helps patient if they can’t see through their rubbish..<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LI 2</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Second Interval<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE">Helps patient who is rigid and needs to let go by assisting lubrication and thus helping patient to move more freely and live in accordance with Dao.<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LI 4</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Joining of the Valleys<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">(Great Eliminator)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE">Unblocks the constipation at body, mind and spirit level of patient and remove toxins.<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 41.4pt;" valign="top" width="55"> <h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">LI 11</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 126.0pt;" valign="top" width="168"> <div class="MsoHeader"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Crooked Pond<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"> <h6><span lang="EN-IE">Helps ground patient with a Metal CF who may be too “up in the clouds” .<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Table 5 – Example of points and their application on Large Intestine meridian<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoHeader"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-IE; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In conclusion in this paper we have looked at the importance of the energetic of the Metal Element which when in balance provides us with the ability to be inspired with fresh ideas but to be able to do this we also need to let go of the dregs!.<span> </span>These abilities we examined are provided by the two related Metal Officials of Lung (<i>Fei</i>) and Large Intestine (<i>Da Chang)</i>.<span> </span>The Lung contacts Heaven, the Large Intestine in the final stage in the digestive process, contacts the Earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004) <i>Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE">Churchill Livingstone<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1992) <i>Chinese Medicine from The Classics -</i> <i>The Lung</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Monkey Press<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) <i>The Foundations of Chinese Medicine</i>, 2<sup>nd</sup> Ed.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE">Churchill Livingstone<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Worsley, J.R. (1998) <i>Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">J.R. & J.B. Worsley<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
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</div><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Bibliogrpahy<o:p></o:p></span></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Five Notes.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) <i>Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements.<span> </span></i>2<sup>nd</sup> Edition.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:state w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Maryland</span></st1:state><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">U.S.A.</st1:place></st1:country-region>: Tai Sophia Institute<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-8228303213562902482011-08-24T15:50:00.001+01:002011-09-29T19:21:25.376+01:00Late Summer and its Officials<h2><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></h2><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Late Summer a pivotal point in the energy of the seasons when the Earth Element plays a central role. Described in ‘Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements’ as<i> </i>“<i>The forces of Nature are very precisely balanced and interacting every moment</i>” (Dianne Connelly 1994). Earth has a special significance in that it supports all the other elements. Earth is the source of the other elements, the centre from which they arise. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Earth’s energy comes to the fore in late summer and yields forth it’s ripe fruits and crops in the harvest which have been growing since the ascension of Yang from spring. The climax of Yang during summer has passed and provides an opportunity to prepare for the ascension of Yin, commencing in autumn, and peaking in winter. If we are “awake” to this opportunity we can realise this by storing and taking advantage of the bounties of Mother Earth. Earth has been “giving” of itself since spring, producing many sources of nourishment for us in fruits and vegetables, and now is resting before she starts to “receive” her own nourishment, for example through decaying leaves, to be ready to produce when the next spring season arrives. <o:p></o:p></span></div><h1><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">This is indicative of the early recognition of the gift, which Earth gives in providing nourishment. Plants need an appropriate soil to grow in where the roots can take hold and not be easily uprooted. This gives us an indication of other gifts provided by Earth in that it provides support and stability.</span></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Many civilisations have myths and stories about the Earth, a stable ground, which receives a “kiss of rain” from the heavens, which allows the ground to be fertile. In old diagrams of the Five Elements Earth was located in the centre surrounded by the other four elements. Like a mother surrounded by her children! This reflects Earths direction, which is centre.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Late Summer is a time to recognise the many gifts Earth presents to us. We also need to be aware of the challenges that Earth has for us. All the gifts, capacities and challenges affect the body, mind and spirit. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Gifts & Capacities</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Earth gives us somewhere to make our home. She provides the raw materials we need to build our homes. She provides the sources of energy that we use to provide light, heat etc in our homes. She rotates on a central axis providing us different seasons. These seasons in turn provide the various environmental conditions required for various food types to grow and mature which in turn play a vital role in providing us with physical nourishment. Having our physical needs met and prepared for through the harvest that come with late summer allows us to have a sense of belonging and a feeling of being safe and secure. This in turn allows us to operate from a centre, be at home with ourselves, at ease, be balanced and centred, and yet able to interact and connected to the rest of the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Earth is made of many varied terrains and landscapes. There is an abundance of life that provide us with many smells and sights that are pleasing to our mind and spirits. There are a huge variety of sights, smells and sounds, which reflect Earths capacity to cater “for all tastes” so-to-speak. There is something out there that may please the billions of individuals living on planet earth. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Mother Earth is a giant ‘re-cycling’ plant. She is capable of taking the pollutants we throw at her and re-cycle them by absorbing them and purifying </span>them. We have however, to maintain respect for this capability and not take it for granted and over stretch it. We can see signs of this strain on Mother Earth in feedback such as global warming.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Challenges</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">One of the key challenges that Earth presents to us is to be aware of what are our individual needs. We need to consider what is the right place on Earth for us? Having found a place we need to find out what we can do to ensure that Earth can fulfil it’s potential. If we are not aware of our needs this shows us an imbalance in our Earth element energy. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">We need to strike a balance in our life in taking care of our body, mind and spirit. In her book ‘Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements’ Dianne Connelly states “<i>If we care for ourselves be creating health, the children to whom we give birth must then be healthy and strong in life, learning to create harmony in the same way</i>.” (1994). This balance can be realised through an appropriate mix of nourishment via a balanced diet, regular exercise, and some time put aside to relax and meditate. Indeed the season of Late Summer is a time of stillness and an ideal opportunity to reflect upon the fun and relaxation we have experienced during the summer and prepare for the challenges if life during autumn and winter by filling the our storehouses to help us nourish our body, mind, and spirit. If we have an energetic imbalance in our Earth element in relation to taking stock from the harvest we could for example come from a position of having a fear of lack of, or not having enough. Always providing for the “just in case” scenario whether that be through always having cupboards full of food, or perhaps if travelling having a supply of food, blankets etc in the car. On the other side of this imbalance we may not use the harvest to rest and recuperate and lose the appropriate balance for caring for our self and others. We can give of our selves constantly and eventually burn out as an exhausted martyr. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">On the mind level we need to be aware of the energetic influences of the Earth element. In balance the mind can take in information and process it. Out of balance can result in over pensiveness for the mind. A strain is presented if for example we are constantly stuck in making decisions.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black;">Someone with well developed Earth energy is a well grounded, nurturing, compassionate person, sometimes depicted as the archtypical “earth mother”. Earth people like to bring others together and make good mediators or peacemakers and reliable friends. They often enjoy both preparing food and eating.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black;">When people have weak Earth Qi, they can be worriers and meddlers. They are prone to pensiveness. They may overwork, especially in studying or other intellectual work. They are vulnerable to digestive problems and diarrhea. They may gain weight easily and lose it with difficulty. Their bodies have a tendency to make excessive mucus, and they may suffer from cloudy thinking, muzzy-headedness, and a lack of clarity.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Associated with the Earth Element we have the Stomach (Wei) and Spleen (Pi) Officials. These play an important role in providing nourishment to our body, mind and spirit. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Stomach & Spleen Officials</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">“<i>The Element Earth is our connection with mother Earth herself. From her we receive our physical nourishment which, along with the air from the heavens, is the only way that we can replenish and revitalize the Qi energy with which we are born. We also receive from her the mental and spiritual nourishment which gives us the feeling of stability and security, the center and equilibrium on which our whole lives are founded. The Officials of the Earth Element, therefore, are vitally important to the whole economy of the body, mind and spirit</i>.” (J.R. Worsley 1998).<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
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</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">The Stomach (Wei) Official</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Stomach Official is the Official responsible for the <i>rotting and ripening of food and drink</i>. It’s an Official that people tend to be most disrespectful to. The stomach prepares the food and drink for the Spleen to extract the food Qi. As Su Wen <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Ch.</st1:place></st1:country-region> 19 states “<i>the stomach is the root of the 5 Yin organs</i>.” When allowed to function as it should we derive maximum benefit from food Qi or “Gu Qi” which supports the Jing (Essence), Blood and Shen (Spirit). We can realise this by eating a “balanced meal” which in Chinese medicine terms is one which includes all five tastes, (sour/acid, bitter, sweet, pungent/spicy, salty), in proper proportion. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">The chart below describes some of the common foods which serve to nourish the Earth Element:</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center"><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="background: #EEEEEE; mso-cellspacing: 0cm; width: 30.64%;"><tbody>
<tr> <td style="background: #FF6600; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></td> <td style="background: #FF6600; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: white; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 8pt;">EARTH</span></strong><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: white; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 8pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="background: #CCCCCC; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Grains</span></strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="background: #CCCCCC; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Millet<br />
Barley<span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="background: #CCCCFF; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Legumes</span></strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="background: #CCCCFF; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Garbanzo<br />
Peas<span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="background: #CCCCCC; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Nuts/Seeds</span></strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="background: #CCCCCC; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Pine Nut<br />
Pumpkin<span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="background: #CCCCFF; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Vegetables</span></strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="background: #CCCCFF; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Cabbage<br />
Carrot<br />
Parsnip<br />
Rutabaga<br />
Spinach<br />
Squash<span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr> <td style="background: #CCCCCC; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Fruits</span></strong><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="background: #CCCCCC; padding: .75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 13.0pt; text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><br />
Fig<br />
<st1:place w:st="on">Orange</st1:place><br />
Papaya<br />
Pineapple<br />
Strawberry<span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">If the Stomach Qi fails to descend we suffer from “rebellious Qi” which includes symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. We need a proper fluid intake to support the stomach in it’s role for it is said that the Stomach “likes wetness and dislikes dryness”.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The extent of the Stomach Officials influence within the body, mind and spirit if reflected by the extent of the pathway of it’s meridian. The Stomach meridian starts on the face just under the eye and finishes on the second toe. It has 45 points, making it the second largest <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Meridian</st1:place></st1:city> of the body!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Stomach Official also plays an important role in our mental and spiritual lives in that it takes in our mental and spiritual food. Our language is full of expressions which reflect this. For example we talk about “digesting” information, “chewing” over problems or finding something hard to “swallow”.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">There are points the Stomach meridian which describe their functions on the body, mind and spirit and it’s relationship to the Earth Element. For example St 4: Earth Granary, St 8: Head Tied, St 14: Storehouse, St 20: Receiving Fullness, St 24: Lubrication Food Gate and St 25: Heavenly Pivot.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Stomach Officials most energetic time of day is 7am to 9am and it’s weakest energetic time is 7pm to 9m. This is reflected in the wisdom of the old adage to breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">So we need to respect our Stomach Official for if it is sick then none of the other Officials can have any nourishment. In such a scenario the rest of a patient’s body will make itself heard screaming out for food and from this will arise an excessive need for sympathy, mother’s love and cravings for sweet tasting food which goes directly to the Earth Element within the patient. Over time may come the other extreme where there is a rejection by the child who no longer trusts its mother. Any sympathy, nourishment etc that is offered is cast aside.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The other half of the Earth Element Officials team is the Spleen Official. The rotting and ripening of food for the Officials is only of value if it can be distributed to the rest of the body, mind and spirit. This is the function of the Spleen Official.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">The Spleen (Pi) Official</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Spleen Official is the Official responsible for <i>transportation and distribution</i>. The Spleen transforms food and drink, extracting ‘Food Qi’ and ‘food essences’ which are distributed to Lungs, Heart and Liver. This is an important process in production of both Qi and Blood. The Spleen directs Qi to the muscles, especially those of the limbs. So for example, if the Spleen Official is weak, a person may suffer from cold hands and cold feet because the Spleen Official is seen to behave like the driver who is too tired to finish their rounds. The Spleen produces a lifting effect along the midline of the body helping ensure that the internal organs are in place.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The responsibility for movement also extends to the mind and spirit. This is reflected once again in everyday expressions such as when we describe our minds as being “stuck”. We need to allow our thoughts to “flow” for creative processes. In an energetic imbalance the impact on mind and spirit can result in things such as poor concentration, worry and anxiety. Mental agility can show signs of losing the flow.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">“<i>In the spirit the same sort of distress arises from the lack of proper distribution of the nourishment. The Officials between them ensure our connection to the spirit of Nature and the Dao, and each has to work to full capacity in partnership with the other to achieve harmony and balance in all our affairs. If some are under-nourished because this Official cannot transport Qi energy to them there will be the same sort of rootlessness and agitation which we see in the motherless child. Lack of comfort, lack of love, and lack of compassion in some and no tin others is going to lead all off the disunity we see when some children are better cared for than others. The jealousy, spite, attention-seeking, depression and isolation shatter the harmony of the spirit, and only when a solid connection with Mother Earth is re-established will the Officials, together as a whole, be able to breath a sigh of collective relief.</i>” (J.R. Worsley 1998).<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Spleen meridian which describe their functions on the body, mind and spirit and it’s relationship to the Earth Element are: Sp 8: Earth Motivator, Sp 17: Food Drain, Sp 21: Great Enveloping.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoHeader"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In conclusion having looked at the Earth Element and it’s related Officials of Stomach (Wei) and Spleen (Pi) we conclude by looking at some suggestions that may help us to live in harmony with Earths season of Late Summer.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">- Be thoughtful of how we can nourish others!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">- Be conscious of the harvest in our life!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">- Consider what we need to do to make ready for the letting go of autumn.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">- Enjoy the abundance!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
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</div><h1><span lang="EN-IE">References:</span></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) <i>Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements. </i>2<sup>nd</sup> Edition.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:state w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Maryland</span></st1:state><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">U.S.A.</st1:place></st1:country-region>: Tai Sophia Institute<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader"><span lang="EN-IE">Five Element Nutrition<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="http://www.yinyanghouse.com/chinesetheory/theory/theory-nutrition.html">http://www.yinyanghouse.com/chinesetheory/theory/theory-nutrition.html</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Worsley, J.R. (1998) <i>Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">J.R. & J.B. Worsley<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="http://www.acupuncture-online.com/tradition3.htm">http://www.acupuncture-online.com/tradition3.htm</a></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
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</div><h1><span lang="EN-IE">Bibliogrpahy</span></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Notes.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Franglen, Nora (2001) <i>Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:country-region w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Kent</span></st1:country-region><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">England</st1:place></st1:country-region>: Global Books Ltd.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Herrmann, Christa-Maria (2000) <i>The Five Elements Volume 1.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Coventry</span></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on">England</st1:country-region></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE">: Paul Coughlin Ltd.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader"><br />
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</div>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-8683536248170510142011-06-16T15:59:00.001+01:002011-09-29T19:23:31.393+01:00Summer and the Fire Element<h2><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></h2><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The season associated with the Element Fire is Summer. It is the time of year when Yang reaches it’s peak. Growth slows down and plants flower and crops ripen. Nature soaks up heat and energy form the sun in preparation for a good harvest. The qi of Heaven and Earth intertwine. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Heaven thus bears witness to the gift of life that it communicates to the 10,000 beings, especially through the growth of vegetation.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994) <i style="font-weight: normal;">The Way of Heaven</i> p 110</span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">It is also worth noting however that whilst Yang reaches it’s peak during summer, after the summer solstice that Yin starts it’s ascendancy. The preceding season of Spring and it’s associated Element Wood need the warmth of the Fire Element to bring all it’s activities to bloom.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><span lang="EN-IE">Nature too, flings wide its arms as the trees unfurl to their greatest height, and all growing things reach their maturity.</span></div><div class="MsoBodyText2"><br />
</div></div><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8pt;"> Franglen, Nora (2001) <i>Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture</i> p85</span></b><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The days are longer and allow us the space to get a days work done and still have time to socialise with friends and share the longer evenings. Not only is nature showing it’s rich colours but people will dress is bright and lighter clothing. We are more open and relaxed. We can be more present and after the hard work of the Spring have more of a sense of freedom and have the time to enjoy this with our friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">There is such a profusion of wonderful colours, sounds, smells and tastes that it should be impossible not to enjoy and find happiness in them.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8pt;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), </span></b><b><i><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8pt;"> p5<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The primary correspondences for Fire are listed in Table 1.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center"><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; margin-left: -11.45pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Season<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Summer<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Colour<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Red<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Sound<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Laughter/Lack Of<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 3;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Odour<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Scorched<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 4;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Emotion<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Joy<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 5;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">1<sup>st</sup> Yin Official / Zang Organ<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Heart<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 6;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">2<sup>nd</sup> Yin Official / Zang Organ<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Pericardium<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 7;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">1<sup>st</sup> Yang Official / Fu Organ<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Small Intestine<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 8;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">2<sup>nd</sup> Yang Official / Function<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Triple Heater<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 9;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">1<sup>st</sup> <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Yin</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Official</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Peak</st1:placetype></st1:place> Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">11am – 1pm<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 10;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">2<sup>nd</sup> <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Yin</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Official</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Peak</st1:placetype></st1:place> Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">7pm – 9pm<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 11;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">1<sup>st</sup> <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Yang</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Official</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Peak</st1:placetype></st1:place> Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">1am – 3am<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 12;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">2<sup>nd</sup> Yang Offical Peak Time<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">9pm – 11pm<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 13;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Climate<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Heat<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 14;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Sense Organ/Orifice<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Tongue / Ear<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 15;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Tissue/Body Part<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Blood & Blood Vessels<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 16;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Residue<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Hair<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 17;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Taste<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Bitter<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 18;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Direction <o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">South<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 19;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Fluid Secretion<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Perspiration<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 20; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 163.0pt;" valign="top" width="217"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Power<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 106.85pt;" valign="top" width="142"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Maturity<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div class="MsoCaption" style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-IE"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Table 1 – Fire’s primary correspondences</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Fire Element within us provides us with the gifts and capacities to support our body, mind and spirit by providing us with ability to communicate with the spirits of those around us. To be able to love and to establish relationships. There will also be challenges to face. Some of these gifts, capacities and challenges are discussed in the next sections of this paper. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Gifts & Capacities</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Below is a brief discussion on some of the gifts and capacities that the Fire Element brings to our lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeading8"><span lang="EN-IE"><b>Love and Joy</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Fire within us fires our spirit and allows us to share in the spirit of the divine spark which is present everywhere. It flows through all our relationships. It enables us to set aside the blocks we have in our egos and to reach the heart of everyone. This in turn is a source of great joy in us, which in turn gives us the energy and enthusiasm for fun in our work, duty and play.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeading8"><span lang="EN-IE"><b>Warmth</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Fire Element provides us with an ‘inner sun’ which gives us the physical warmth we need to survive. This heat helps the blood in our veins move more quickly, speeds up or digestive process and assimilation of food along with all the chemical processes, which maintain our life.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE"><b>Communication</b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The tongue and power of speech is under the control of the Fire Element. This allows us to communicate our emotions and thoughts.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE"><b>Clarity of thought</b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The Fire Element lights up and fires the mind with enthusiasm. At the mental level this expresses in lively and keen intelligence and in the ability to have clear thought and memory. The essence of this notion is captured through the use of the word ‘bright’ to describe someone with a balanced Fire Element.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE"><b>Understanding</b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">This characterizes and encompasses all the gifts previously listed. Taking time to listen and empathise with others with a honest exchange of thoughts and feelings is a sign of maturity and is a wonderful experience for all involved. When we feel understood we can experience a soothing balm for whatever energetic imbalances we have. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Challenges</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">So whilst there are many gifts and capacities which the Fire element bestows to us we need to be aware that the love warmth from the Fire within us is given in an appropriate measure and within proper boundaries. If left unchecked that same energy can scorch and destroy life.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">The fire in a furnace warms a house, whereas in the forest, out of control it wastes and destroys the land .<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div></div><div align="right" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: right;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;"> Beinfield Harriet, Korngold Efrem (1991) <i>Between Heaven and Earth A Guide to Chinese Medicine</i> p 178<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">On a physical level a serious Fire imbalance will manifest as an excess of heat which can show as a red face and red skin. A person may have a thirst and all the secretions which keep a body moist may dry up.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">If on the other hand someone has a weak ‘inner sun’ there will insufficient heat in their body. On a physical level symptoms of wet and coldness will be present. Their blood may be slow and cold and their face will appear drab due to lack of blood flow.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In terms of communication a Fire imbalance can result in a disturbance in a persons ability to speak and communicate as the power of speech and tongue under Fire’s control is affected. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Everything which flows to make speech possible stops at source, and with no energy to drive it the tongue weakens, the voice falters, and the mind and spirit seize up.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8pt;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), </span></b><b><i><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8pt;"> p31<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Too much heat can result in everything overheating and moving a great deal too quickly. Words can tumble out if control and race away.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">A Fire imbalance can also drive people to be desperate to be understood. They may appear selfish and attention seeking as they search for someone who knows exactly how they feel.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">A Fire imbalance can also affect how open or closed a person is. This is a function of the Pericardium discussed in more detail later in this paper. A person may go about wearing their heart on their sleeve or in the other extreme never dare to expose themselves for fear of losing love or loosing themselves. They will feel vulnerable and frail.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">The saying ‘laugh and the world laughs with you; cry and you cry alone’ might have been written by a Fire type.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela & Hicks, John (1999) <i style="font-weight: normal;">Healing your Emotions</i> p 62</span></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Associated with the Fire Element we have the Heart (<i>Xin</i>) , Small Intestine (<i>Xiao Chang</i>), Pericardium (Xin Bao) and Triple Heater (<i>San Jiao</i>) Officials. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Their role is discussed in some more detail in the next sections of this paper. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">The Heart (Xin) Official<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">The Heart holds the office of lord and sovereign. The radiance of the spirits stems from it.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Su Wen</span></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Ch.</st1:country-region></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE"> 8</span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Heart is often referred to as the Supreme Controller. Its role is as an emperor in the kingdom of the all the Officials in the body. Whilst there is an interdependency between all the Officials the Heart is important because it governs every other Organ. If the emperor is calm and well, the Officials can carry out their respective charges and functions. If the emperor is disturbed or unwell the Officials are unable to function well.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Chinese character for most Organs, contain the ‘flesh’ radical, indicating that the organ is part of a physical body. The ideogram for the Heart Official, <i>xin</i>, has no ‘flesh’ radical and instead shows a space. This illustrates that the Heart is not just a muscle to pump blood but that the space where our <i>shen</i>, or mind-spirit resides. The heart is more to do with ‘being’ than with ‘doing’.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">This is reflected in the two aspects of the Heart <b><i>jin</i></b> (the Heart as lord and sovereign) and <b><i>zhu</i></b> (this authority at work) <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">At the center, there is nothing but emptiness, the only possible shelter for the spirits. Sovereign of the being and pivot of life, the heart is the guarantor of the unity of a person’s existence.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1995) <i>Rooted in Spirit – The Heart of Chinese Medicine </i>p174<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The Shen is said to have 4 functions:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">1.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-IE">To make us fully conscious – in the sense of being physically and emotionally self aware<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">2.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-IE">To help us think clearly – to be able to think a problem through with a clear objective and to speak coherently<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">3.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-IE">To have a good memory – this is in the short term sense of not being absent minded and knowing where are keys are of remembering the name of the person we just met<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">4.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span lang="EN-IE">To sleep well – especially being able to drop off to sleep quickly and sleep deeply<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The functions of the Heart are listed in Table 2.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center"><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 248.4pt;" valign="top" width="331"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It governs Blood<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">2 </span></b><span lang="EN-IE">It controls the blood vessels<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">3</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It manifests in the complexion<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">4</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It houses the Mind (<i>Shen</i>)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">5</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It is related to joy<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">6</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It opens into the tongue<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">7</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It controls sweat<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 2 – The Functions of the Heart - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><i><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">The Foundations of Chinese Medicine</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;"> p 107<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The Heart’s authority is exerted through the Blood (<i>Xue</i>) and through the life-giving network (the <i>mai</i>). The Heart communicates it’s orders to the <i>zang</i> through the Pericardium (<i>xin bao luo)</i>. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Heart meridian, which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Fire Element, are listed in Table 3 below:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Example point application</span></span></h6></td></tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;"><td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">HT 5</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Penetrating Inside<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB">Opens into the tongue. </span><span lang="EN-GB">Good for stammering. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal">If they’re “dying of loneliness”. Bring warmth from the heart to Mind/Body/Spirit.</div></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">HT 7</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Spirit Gate<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Use this point for nourishing a Fire CF. Takes this person back to the safe place of the source. Has the virtue of Heaven when used on any CF. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Use when the spirit is willing but the body cannot go – “I really want to but…”.</span></h6></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 3 – Example of points and their application on Heart meridian<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 32px; font-weight: bold;"><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;"><br />
</span></u></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 32px; font-weight: bold;"><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">The Small Intestine (Xiao Chang) Official</span></u></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="MsoCaption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">The Small Intestine is responsible for receiving and making things thrive. Transformed substances stem from it.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><h4><span lang="EN-GB">Su wen, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Ch.</st1:place></st1:country-region> 8</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The Small Intestine is the Yang/Fu organ of the Fire Element. It provides an extremely important function of “separating pure from impure”. This separation takes place at the level of body mind and spirit. On a physical level this Official supports us by extracting pure Qi energy from the food we consume, however polluted or inappropriate this may be. On the mind level this Official supports us be helping us separate the simple values we need for our lives from the glut of information that is thrown at us on a daily basis. On the spiritual level it helps us to know the proper path we need to take, our Tao, and also gives us our sense of natural justice.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">In this lies its connection with the essence of Fire, for by using the heat of the fire to transform Qi energy in this way and keeping nothing but the clean and the pure and discarding the impure, there is maximum joy in our lives. The warmth and love of which we are capable is not tainted by corruption or wickedness.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm;"><br />
</div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8pt;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), </span></b><b><i><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 8pt;"> p130<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The functions of the Small Intestine are listed below in Table 4.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center"><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 248.4pt;" valign="top" width="331"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It controls receiving and transforming<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">2</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It separates fluids<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 4 – The Functions of the Small Intestine - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><i><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">The Foundations of Chinese Medicine</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;"> p 191<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Small Intestine meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Fire Element are listed in Table 5.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Example point application<o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">SI 1</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Little Marsh<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To help patient sort out appropriate and inappropriate</span></span><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">A marsh offers fertility. I</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">nvolves separating the pure from the impure (alchemy).</span></h6></td></tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"><td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">SI 5</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Yang</span></i></st1:placename><i><span lang="EN-IE"> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Valley</st1:placetype></span></i></st1:place><i><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Pulls the arm Yang points together. Helps with mental clarity and seeing the right path. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Revitalizes the essential elemental essence of the II Official. H</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">elp a person who is weak in spirit and unable to cope. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Build the spirit and calm mania/anxiety.</span></h6></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 5 – Example of points and their application on Small Intestine meridian<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">The Pericardium (Xin Bao) Official</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoCaption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Tan Zhong has the charge of resident as well as envoy (of the Heart). Elation and joy stem from it.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div></div><h4><span lang="EN-GB">Su wen, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Ch.</st1:place></st1:country-region> 8</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The Pericardium is seen in Chinese medicine as something that protects the heart not only physically, but also emotionally. It will function to do it’s best to prevent us from experiencing a <i>broken heart</i>!. It is likened to an imperial bodyguard!. The Pericardium’s capacity to protect the heart depends on how healthy and balanced it is. Like all organs during our childhood it takes time to mature. A child will love unconditionally from the moment it comes into the world. Over time it realises that some people are less friendly and others even dangerous. The people around the young child help it to develop an emotional awareness to love appropriately and in turn nurture the development of the heart protector function of the Pericardium. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">In addition to the Heart’s openness, there are other internal factors that in excess, strain the Pericardium’s managerial energies; these include: Wood’s directionality, Metal’s propensity to “let go,” the Water’s chaotic drive and power. The Pericardium must restrain and regulate all of these forces so that there is no outpouring of energy beyond what one receives.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div></div><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Hammer</span></b></st1:city><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region></span></b></st1:place><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;"> (1990) <i>Dragon Rises, Red Bird Flies</i> p203<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The Pericardium is also responsible for all internal and external sexual secretions. In this regard it has a close relationship with the <i>ming men</i>. This reflects its role as much as an ambassador as a guard in that it helps to distribute and dispense the warmth. Also in its role as ambassador it takes charge of all the other Officials by passing on the light of the spirits of the Heart (the <i>shen ming</i>).<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Pericardium meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Fire Element are listed in Table 6.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Example point application</span><o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">PC 1</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Heavenly Pond<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Gives a new perspective when life has lost its sparkle. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style';"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> If</span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> spirit is dry, a divine bath. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">If shy/withdrawn/cut off in relationships.</span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">PC 8</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Palace</span></i></st1:placetype><i><span lang="EN-IE"> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Weariness</st1:placename></span></i></st1:place><i><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Tonifies the Heart and the Heart Protector. Reinvigorates Fire. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">If isolated, feeling cut off.</span></h6></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 6 – Example of points and their application on Small Intestine meridian<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><h1><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">The Triple Heater (San Jiao) Official</span><span lang="EN-IE"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoCaption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;"><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">The Three Heater is responsible for the opening up of passages and irrigation. The regulation of the waterways stems from it.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0cm; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div></div><h4><span lang="EN-GB">Su wen, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Ch.</st1:place></st1:country-region> 8</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></h4><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The relationship of the Triple Heater to all the other organs in the body is indicated in the ideogram for the <i>Jiao</i> which shows the all of the elements of the body linked together and joined on a central stem. There is also a fire underneath, providing the warmth necessary for life processes. The three <i>Jiao</i> divide the torso of the body into three areas with each corresponding to certain internal organs. The Upper Heater (<i>Shang Jiao</i>) ‘contains’ the Lungs, Heart and Pericardium and lies above the diaphragm. It’s primary function is receiving Qi energy and distribution of protective Qi (<i>Wei Qi</i>). The Middle Heater (<i>Zhong Jiao</i>) ‘contains’ the Stomach, Spleen, Liver and Gall Bladder and is responsible for rotting, ripening and transforming the Qi energy. The Lower Heater (<i>Xia Jiao</i>) ‘contains’ the Small and Large Intestine, the Kidneys, and the Bladder and is concerned with separating the pure from the impure energy and expelling wastes. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">The Three Heater is responsible for maintaining an even balance of heat between the Three <i>Jiao</i> and also between the whole body and it’s environment. This is often likened to the western medicine concept of homeostasis. Without this even temperature within each <i>Jiao</i> the other Officials could not work at all. If this Official is in imbalance the effects are going to be felt by all other Officials. Emotionally the Three Heater helps prevent us from blowing ‘hot and cold’ in our relationships so that we maintain a balanced emotional temperature.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">The functions of the Triple Heater are listed below in Table 7.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div align="center"><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 248.4pt;" valign="top" width="331"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">1</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It mobilises the Original Qi (<i>Yuan Qi</i>)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">2</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It controls the transportation and<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> penetration of Qi<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE">3</span></b><span lang="EN-IE"> It controls the Water passages and the<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"> excretion of fluids<o:p></o:p></span></div></td> </tr>
</tbody></table></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 7 – The Functions of the Triple Heater - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><i><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">The Foundations of Chinese Medicine</span></i></b><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;"> p 209<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Some examples of points on the Three Heater meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Fire Element are listed in Table 8.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-insideh: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-border-insidev: .5pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-alt: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;"><tbody>
<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0;"> <td style="background: black; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Point<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;">Title<o:p></o:p></span></b></div></td> <td style="background: black; border-left: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Example point application</span><o:p></o:p></span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 1;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">TH 18</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Feeding Meridians<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The intermediary between the Ming Men and the source points. Sends Yuan Qi to the source points. Can be used on any CF. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style';"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Feeds ALL meridians.</span></h6></td> </tr>
<tr style="mso-yfti-irow: 2; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"> <td style="border-top: none; border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 50.4pt;" valign="top" width="67"><h1><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">TH 12</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 117.0pt;" valign="top" width="156"><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><i><span lang="EN-IE">Relax and Enjoy<o:p></o:p></span></i></div></td> <td style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-left: none; border-right: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border-top: none; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-left-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-border-top-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; width: 258.7pt;" valign="top" width="345"><h6><span lang="EN-IE" style="color: black; font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Let the sun warm your bones. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style';"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Relaxation that creates joy and happiness. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">When burned out and in need of a vacation.</span></h6></td> </tr>
</tbody></table><div align="center" class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt; text-align: center;"><b><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 8pt;">Table 8 – Example of points and their application on Three Heater meridian<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><b><u><span lang="EN-IE" style="font-size: 14pt;">Conclusion<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">In conclusion in this paper we have looked at the importance of the energetic of the Fire Element, which provides us with the key ability to understand. The Heart Official along with its three ministers are the means by which the light and warmth of the spirit are kept alive in us!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE">Finally below are some suggestions for tending our Fire during the Summer season:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="1"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">Have fun on a regular basis. Make this a priority, which may require we schedule time for fun!<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">Share some of yourself with others. Take time to listen. Look inside your heart and find out what you have to give to others unconditionally.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">Live your passion, whatever it may be, e.g. song writing, hill walking, photography. If you don’t know what your special passion is, be willing to admit that you don’t – in the meantime, stay amused and keep looking!<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE">Get physical. Get into your body and out of your head. Love, exercise, dance, run, play. Get your circulation going. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
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</div><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">References:<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Beinfield Harriet, Korngold Efrem (1991) <i>Between Heaven and Earth A Guide to Chinese Medicine</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">New York</span></st1:place></st1:state><span lang="EN-IE">: Ballantine Books<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Franglen, Nora (2001) <i>Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture.</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:country-region w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Kent</span></st1:country-region><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">England</st1:place></st1:country-region>: Global Books Ltd.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Hammer</span></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on">Leon</st1:country-region></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE"> (1990) <i>Dragon Rises, Red Bird Flies</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Barrytown</span></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE">: Station Hill Press, Inc.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela & Hicks, John (1999) <i>Healing your Emotions</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">London</span></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on">England</st1:country-region></span></st1:place><span lang="EN-IE">: Thorsons<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1995) <i>Rooted in Spirit – The Heart of Chinese Medicine</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">New York</span></st1:place></st1:state><span lang="EN-IE">: Station Hill Press<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994) <i>The Way of Heaven</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Monkey Press<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) <i>The Foundations of Chinese Medicine</i>, 2<sup>nd</sup> Ed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Churchill Livingstone<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998) <i>Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">J.R. & J.B. Worsley<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><h1><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Bibliogrpahy<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Thirteen Notes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) <i>Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements. </i>2<sup>nd</sup> Edition.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:state w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">Maryland</span></st1:state><span lang="EN-IE">, <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">U.S.A.</st1:place></st1:country-region>: Tai Sophia Institute<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004) <i>Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Churchill Livingstone<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="http://www.5elements.com/fire.htm"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.5elements.com/fire.htm</span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Kaptchuk, Ted J (1983) <i>The Web that has no Weaver</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoHeader" style="tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE">London</span></st1:place></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE">: Rider<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Veith, Ilza (2002) <i>The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">London</span></span></st1:place></st1:city><span lang="EN-IE"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">: University of California Press, Ltd.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-25895251615429783112011-05-11T15:17:00.004+01:002011-05-11T15:19:28.276+01:00New Five Element Acupuncture College for Dublin, Ireland!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">Dear Friends,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">I am delighted to include a link to our new College of Five Element Acupuncture in Ireland. This is currently the only College offering a full undergraduate course in the European Union in Five Element Acupuncture. We have structured the course to allow people continue with working and/or looking after family etc... by having classes once a month for the first two years. Classes will be held on Thursdays/Fridays/Saturdays and Sundays again to minimise the effect for the prospective student on the working week. The cost of attending the three year course is highly competitive when compared with other Acupuncture Courses available.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">The Course is recognised and has attained professional status from two bodies:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">• The Worsley Institute – the umbrella body for Classical Five Element Acupuncture worldwide</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">• Graduates from the College will be eligible to apply to the Acupuncture Council of Ireland (ACI) for membership. The Council is responsible for the regulation and maintenance of a Register of Acupuncturists. Only fully qualified and insured practitioners can become members of ACI. All members are bound by a Code of Ethics and Code of Practice, which is strictly enforced by the Executive Committee of the ACI, thus offering a guarantee of confidence to any patient seeking treatment. Membership will give the graduate access to a ‘block’ insurance policy of professional indemnity and public liability cover. Patients of Members can apply to their private health insurance (Quinn Healthcare/AVIVA/VHI) for refunds on the cost of their treatments.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">The Course Structure will also be attractive to those living outside of Ireland – the course is being held 20 minutes away from Dublin International Airport and flights to Dublin have become low cost with the advent of budget flight companies. In addition the cost of attending the three year course is highly competitive when compared with other international acupuncture courses available. For prospective students living in the UK - the favourable €/£ exchange rate means that the cost of the course and other related costs eg accommodation will be cheaper than at home.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">For more information</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT86" style="color: darkblue; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT87" style="color: darkblue; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://www.cofea.ie/" style="color: darkblue; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">www.cofea.ie</a></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">email</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT88" style="color: darkblue; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;"><span class="Object" id="OBJ_PREFIX_DWT89" style="color: darkblue; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;">info@cofea.ie</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">Phone 00 353 1 8330865</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;"><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: monospace;">Please pass the word on to anyone you know who may be interested!!!</span>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-47864867085884652142011-02-06T16:25:00.002+00:002011-09-29T19:24:45.053+01:00Spring & Wood Element<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Introduction</span></strong><br />
The season associated with the element Wood is Spring. It is the time when Yang starts is ascension following the fullness of Yin during Winter. It is a time when a connection is re-established between Heaven and Earth. The process of life is invigorated on it’s way towards it’s full blossom which takes place in Summer.<br />
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<em>The 3 months of spring are called springing up and unfolding. Heaven and Earth together produce life, And the 10,000 beings are invigorated.</em> ~ Sun wen 2<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994) The Way of Heaven p 107</span><br />
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Spring is a time of birth and regeneration. Wood which has been resting, storing it’s energy under Winter’s blanket now bursts upwards. New life pierces the Earth’s crust. There is a surge of rising energy. This is reflected in the shoots of plants which move upwards with a power and determination so much so that we can see their growth make it’s way through concrete. They have a simple blueprint for life and a “vision” and quality of fierceness to move towards realising their destiny.<br />
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<em>Spring is the time of birth and regeneration. The burst of activity which surges out of the stillness of the winter has no equal elsewhere in the year; there is an energy of dynamic force abroad which brings life and vigor to everything.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials p12</span><br />
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If we have been in accordance with the Tao and used the Winter to rest we are in a position to be ready to make new beginnings with a clear vision and a sense of purpose. To use the Spring to plant seeds for a future harvest. To look ahead and make new plans for the coming year and to take action to move towards realising these plans. <br />
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<em>Hope is in the air. All things feel possible, as the future opens up before us.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Franglen, Nora (2001) Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture p76</span><br />
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Spring’s increasing warmth encourages us stay outside more than we did in Winter. The warmth we can experience also comes from the interaction we experience with friends and relations. We find ourselves going to and home from work in daylight!. We might be planning our Summer holidays. If we are in harmony with our Wood energetic then we will feel the natural desire for horizontal extension and to get up and expand. <br />
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Associated with Spring is the colour green which is the colour which most frequently ‘springs’ to mind when we think of Spring. Whilst the colour green is present throughout the entire year it is especially in springtime when we see the natural colour green in plants growing that we understand what these plants actually are. <br />
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The image of a tree is often used to illustrate the essence of wood. Indeed this is reflected in the ideogram for Wood (Mu),<br />
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<em>This character represents a tree. The vertical line is the backbone of the tree, the trunk and root. The line at the top represents the branches. The horizontal line is the earth, reminding us that much of the tree is below ground.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004) Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture p 54</span><br />
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Take some personal time to reflect on a question that Prof. J.R. Worsley used to pose to his students: “What kind of tree are you?”. For example do you have deep roots, a strong connection with the Earth? What colour are the leafs on your tree? Is your tree easily ‘swayed’? Does your tree bear any type of fruit?<br />
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The primary correspondences for Wood are listed in Table 1.<br />
Season : Spring<br />
Colour : Green<br />
Sound : Shouting/Lack Of<br />
Odour : Rancid<br />
Emotion : Anger<br />
Yin Official / Zang Organ : Liver<br />
Yang Official / Fu Organ : Gall Bladder<br />
Yin Official Peak Time : 1am – 3am<br />
Yang Official Peak Time : 11pm – 1am<br />
Climate : Wind<br />
Sense Organ/Orifice : Eyes<br />
Tissue/Body Part : Sinews & Tendons<br />
Residue : Nails<br />
Taste : Sour<br />
Direction : East<br />
Fluid Secretion : Tears<br />
Power : Birth<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Table 1</strong> – Wood’s primary correspondences</span><br />
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The Wood Element within us provides us with the gifts and capacities to support our body, mind and spirit by providing us with a vision and hope for the year ahead. To make plans for our future and the decision making capability to realise these plans. There will also be challenges to face. Some of these gifts, capacities and challenges are discussed in the next sections of this paper. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Gifts & Capacities</strong></span><br />
The season of Spring offers us inspiration which, if we are in reasonable balance energetically with the other seasonal elements will overtake their presence in our lives. Some of these gifts and capacities are vision, decision making, expression of anger, growth, movement & flexibility and birth. These are discussed in more detail below.<br />
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<strong><u>Vision</u></strong><br />
Wood through the function planning and strategy capability provided by the Liver Official provides us with the ability to see a purpose in our lives. To have a roadmap to live in accordance with our Tao. This is our Hun or ‘Ethereal soul’ (spirit of our Liver), in function. <br />
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<em>Our Hun is responsible for our ‘life plan’, sense of purpose and sense of direction.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela & Hicks, John (1999) Healing your Emotions p 22</span><br />
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In Sun Wen 5 it is written “the Liver masters the eye”. This relationship between the Liver and the eyes is not just restricted to physical vision but also to mental and spiritual vision. Hence on one hand we can have a sense of ‘hope’, ‘vision’ and ‘purpose’ to our lives but on the other hand we more often find that ‘despair’, ‘futility’ and ‘hopelessness’ are the sense that people have in the stress and strains of day-to-day living.<br />
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<u><strong>Decision Making</strong></u><br />
Having a plan is fine but we need to be able to make decisions which, will enable us to carry out this plan. This is the function of the Gall Bladder Official. Decision making is also very important in our day-to-day living and is a gift which most of us take for granted because it is almost a subconscious activity. One only needs to reflect on all the decisions that we make for example from the time we wake up in the morning to starting our journey to work.<br />
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<strong><u>Expression of Anger</u></strong><br />
Being able to express the emotion associated with Wood, i.e. anger is important because there are times when it is appropriate to express anger. Constantly suppressing our anger, an imbalance in Wood, is known to have damaging effects on our health. The other side of a Wood imbalance can be an over expression of anger and as Su Wen 5 tells us anger injures the Liver. <br />
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<em>In springtime anger is seen as the typical expression of the will. Anger is only one of the possible translations, and it is difficult to because it sounds reproachful in our interpretation of language. It implies the same tension that you get when you draw a bow. In your mind, your will power corresponds to anger. It is just tension.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1999) The Liver p 56</span><br />
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Anger as pointed out above dose not really convey the emotion which arises from the Wood element. The energy of Wood is powerful and thrusting and when it is blocked we can get a sense of the hostility, resentment and frustration which arises. It is important therefore to realise that people get angry for many different reasons. <br />
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<strong><u>Growth</u></strong><br />
For most people the association with growth and Spring seems like a natural association when we think of images of buds emerging, daffodils and snowdrops appearing. It is important however to be aware that this growth is not just restricted to the nature around us and that Spring is also a time when we as humans can use the opportunity to, for example, let go of old hurts. It is also an opportunity for us to take a ‘fresh look’ at ourselves and maybe see parts of ourselves we are unaware of. <br />
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<strong><u>Movement & Flexibility</u></strong><br />
The Chinese associate the Wood Element with the sinews and tendons<br />
<br />
Our muscular forces are similar to Wood in that they can bend and stretch and then straighten out. Like the branches of a young tree our bodies are more flexible when younger and as we grow older just as in a tree where the sap ceases to flow our sinews and joints tend to stiffen up. Our sinews and tendons also us to move in a way which has a purpose and goal. <br />
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<strong><u>Birth</u></strong><br />
The association with birth is usually an easy one for us to relate to in Spring. It’s a time of birth for example for a lot of the animal kingdom. We can usually easily visualise new born lambs in the countryside. The Yang rising power is also present in the function of the reproductive organs. Indeed the meridians of the Liver and Gall Bladder both traverse the genital area in both sexes. On a mental level we typically can find we are ‘hatching’ fresh ideas and plans for the year ahead.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Challenges</strong></span><br />
So whilst there are many gifts and capacities which the Wood element bestows to us we need to be aware that we can as it were ‘go to far’ in the exuberance and vigor of the rising yang. We need to be aware that we can fall into the trap of being over attentive, pay too much detail to structure and rules.<br />
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We need to be aware that we can end up chasing distant dreams and not slowing down to ‘smell the roses’ and enjoy the fruits of our labours. On the opposite side of this we can become rooted to a spot and inflexible, solid and dependable but totally incapable of any real movement. We can become over assertive and become too belligerent. We need to recognise boundaries and know when to stop otherwise we can end up rambling on and aimlessly expanding for no apparent purpose.<br />
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Associated with the Wood Element we have the Liver (Gan) and Gall Bladder (Dan) Officials. The Liver plays an important role in storing and distributing blood and the Gall Bladder in supporting our decision making processes for our body, mind and spirit. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>The Liver (Gan) Official</strong></span><br />
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<em>The Liver has the functions of a military leader who excels in his strategic planning.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Veith, Ilza (2002) The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine p28</span><br />
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The Liver official is the Zang/Fu organ of the Wood Element. It provides a significant role in filtering toxic chemicals form our body.<br />
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The functions of the Liver are listed in Table 2.<br />
1 It stores Blood<br />
2 It ensures the smooth flow of Qi<br />
3 It controls the sinews<br />
4 It manifests in the nails<br />
5 It opens into the eyes<br />
6 It controls the tears<br />
7 It houses the Ethereal Soul<br />
8 It is affected by anger<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Table 2</strong> – The Functions of the Liver - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Foundations of Chinese Medicine p 117</span><br />
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Some of these functions are discussed below:<br />
<br />
<u>1 It stores Blood</u><br />
The Liver regulates the volume of Blood in the body according to physical activity. When the body is active, Blood flows to the muscles and sinews; when the body is at rest Blood flows back to the Liver<br />
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<em>The Liver bears the Yin responsibility of storing and the Yang role of distributing the blood.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Beinfield Harriet, Korngold Efrem (1991) Between Heaven and Earth A Guide to Chinese Medicine p 107</span><br />
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This reflects an old Chinese explanation for the ideogram Mu which, explains that it is only because there is a deep rooting that there can be a springing upwards towards heaven. The sap rising is likened to distribution of the blood by the Liver.<br />
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<u>2 It ensures the smooth flow of Qi</u><br />
This is the most important of all the Liver functions and it is central to nearly all Liver disharmonies. The Liver ensures the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body, in all organs and in all directions. The smooth flow of Liver Qi affects the emotional state, digestion and secretion of bile. It facilitates descending Lung Qi, ascending Spleen Qi, descending Stomach Qi and descending Intestines Qi. From a mental perspective this supports our powers of reason.<br />
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<u>7 It houses the Ethereal Soul</u><br />
Blood is the residence of Hun. The Hun along with the Po (spirit which resides in Lungs) are the Yin and Yang expression of the Shen. The Hun and Po are an archetype of Yin and Yang working in a human being. The Hun influences the capacity of planning our life and finding a sense of direction in life.<br />
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The Liver meridian begins as the superficial pathway at the lateral nail point of the big toe and has a deep pathway which runs to the top of the head. <br />
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<em>This is the beginning of the motion after the hibernation of winter. The muscular forces must be unleashed again. The qi must circulate freely now, and go up to the top of the body which is the end of the Liver meridian. You will remember that it is the only yin meridian which has a pathway through the head to the summit and the meeting point of all the yang qi.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1999) The Liver p 18</span><br />
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Some examples of points on the Liver meridian which, describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Wood Element are listed in Table 3 below:<br />
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<strong>Point Title Example point application</strong><br />
Liv 1 <em>Great Esteem</em> Grants patient confidence to surge forth with the power of springtime – to push ahead, give birth and grow.<br />
Liv 13 <em>Chapter Gate</em> To help patient move on to a new Spring in their life .<br />
Liv 14 <em>Gate of Hope</em> Where patient is depressed, ho hope, and can’t see potential to realise their plans.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Table 3</strong> – Example of points and their application on Liver meridian</span><br />
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The other half of the Wood Element Officials team is the Gall Bladder Official. Whilst the Liver is charged with planning the Gall Bladder is charged with the decision making capability which helps us to execute our plans. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>The Gall Bladder (Dan) Official</strong></span><br />
<em>The Gall Bladder occupies the position of an important and upright official who excels through his decisions and judgement.</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Veith, Ilza (2002) The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine p28</span><br />
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The Gall Bladder is the Yang/Fu organ of the Wood Element. It is one of the extraordinary fu in that it has a function of storing essences. So in effect it has a double role. It is concerned with what is clear and pure, in a manner which is central and which gives exactitude. <br />
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The functions of the Gall Bladder are listed below in Table 4:<br />
1 It stores and excretes bile<br />
2 It controls decisiveness<br />
3 It controls sinews<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Table 4</strong> – The Functions of the Gall Bladder - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Foundations of Chinese Medicine p 199</span><br />
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Some of these functions are discussed in below.<br />
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<u>2 It controls decisiveness</u><br />
The Gall Bladder controls our capacity to make decisions. Whilst the Liver is said to control our life planning ability it is the harmony of both these Officials functions so that can plan and act accordingly.<br />
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<em>If the Liver and Gall Bladder are dissonant, action occurs without judgement, decisions go unactualised , or a Hamlet-like paralysis of decision and action persists</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Beinfield Harriet, Korngold Efrem (1991) Between Heaven and Earth A Guide to Chinese Medicine p 108</span><br />
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The Gall Bladder also has a role in supporting the other Officials in that it is said to motivate them.<br />
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Some examples of points on the Gall Bladder meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Wood Element are listed in Table 5.<br />
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<strong>Point Title Example point application</strong><br />
GB 24 <em>Sun and Moon</em> To help patient see all possibilities and see both sides impartially by the “light of the sun” and the “light of the moon”.<br />
GB 20 <em>Wind Pond </em> For relief of migraines and headaches, especially around back of neck area.<br />
GB 37 <em>Bright and Clear</em> When patient is stuck in the dark and can’t see the light.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Table 5</strong> – Example of points and their application on Gall Bladder meridian</span><br />
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<u>Liver Imbalance Manifestations</u><br />
In this section I have listed some of the manifestations on body, mind and spirit which can arise as a result of imbalance in the Liver Official. <br />
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<em>A Liver disharmony, then, would be the converse of smoothness, and so the Liver is the Organ most sensitive to stagnation, or “stuckness”</em><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kaptchuk, Ted J (1983) The Web that has no Weaver p 59</span><br />
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<strong>Body</strong><br />
Imbalance at physical level is reflected in the body’s rhythms which, depend on the planning function of the Liver. For example infrequent or over-frequent periods, mid-cycle bleeding. As planning function breaks down the order within the body starts to break down too. For example we can suffer from gastric pains as food arrives in the wrong place at the wrong time. Other signs of imbalance at body level would include dry or red eyes, myopia and other distortions of the lens. Loss of suppleness in tendons and ligaments. Nails which are brittle, pitted and ridged.<br />
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Where there is excessive Qi rising there can be pains in the head and or blurred vision. If the descending function of the stomach is overcome there can be vomiting. In extreme cases the Liver may lose it’s function of storing blood and then there will be blood in the vomit or spitting of blood.<br />
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Where blood does not get to nourish the tendons and ligaments there can be cramps, spasms and muscular contractions, which can reach the point of paralysis if the lack of nutrition lasts a long time.<br />
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As the Liver meridian passes through the genital area imbalance in Liver Official can result in swollen genitals, spasm and cramps in the penis or vagina, and poor sexual function. <br />
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<strong>Mind</strong><br />
Liver Official Imbalance at the mental level can result in person being unable to make plans. In some cases person may get involved in too many plans, blowing with the wind with none of the plans anywhere near completion. Person maybe unable to plan their own life but think nothing of jumping in feet first to tell someone else how to organise their life.<br />
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<strong>Spirit</strong><br />
Liver Official Imbalance at the spirit level can result is person having no plans or purpose for their whole life. Person cannot see any future and may feel that they might just as well give up. A feeling of depression and resignation. Person may however be attached to one rigid plan and be very inflexible about intolerant of others who do not share what that person sees as their future. They can spend their life missing opportunities because of a tunnel vision.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></strong><br />
In conclusion in this paper we have looked at the importance of the energetic of the Wood Element which provides us with the primary abilities to plan and make decisions. These abilities we examined are provided by the two related Wood Officials of Liver (Gan) and Gall Bladder (Dan).<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>References:</strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Beinfield Harriet, Korngold Efrem (1991) Between Heaven and Earth A Guide to Chinese Medicine</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">New York: Ballantine Books</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Franglen, Nora (2001) Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kent, England: Global Books Ltd.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela & Hicks, John (1999) Healing your Emotions</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">London, England: Thorsons</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004) Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Churchill Livingstone</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kaptchuk, Ted J (1983) The Web that has no Weaver.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">London: Rider</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994) The Way of Heaven</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Monkey Press</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) The Foundations of Chinese Medicine, 2nd Ed.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Churchill Livingstone</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Veith, Ilza (2002) The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">London: University of California Press, Ltd.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Worsley, J.R. (1998) Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">J.R. & J.B. Worsley</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Bibliogrpahy</strong><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Ten Notes.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements. 2nd Edition.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Maryland, U.S.A.: Tai Sophia Institute</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<a href="http://www.5elements.com/wood.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.5elements.com/wood.htm</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1999) The Liver</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Monkey Press</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-78739751730930028832010-12-08T13:32:00.003+00:002010-12-08T13:39:09.588+00:00Living in harmony with Winter<strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Some suggestions for living in harmony with the Winter season<br /></span></strong><br />1. Take more rest. Allow you body, mind and spirit to repair and regenerate to be ready for the season of Spring.<br /><br />2. Make more time for your inner life. Take time to reflect and nurture the spirit.<br /><br />3. As the weather cools, support your body’s need for warmth by inclusion of appropriate cooked foods, such as whole grains, potatoes, carrots and garlic in your diet.<br /><br />4. Use the time to rejuvenate and deepen relationships with your nearest and dearest round a nice warm fire.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-6632310029885157232010-12-01T18:56:00.006+00:002011-09-29T19:25:49.355+01:00Winter & Water Element<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Introduction<br />
</span></strong>The season associated with the element Water is Winter. It is the time of maximum Yin. The essence of life is emphasised as the external display of life is absent and life is laid bare. For example skeletons of trees are clearly visible, stripped to the bone. In Neolithic times living inside the earth was common practice in Winter and something of this remains today.<br />
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<em>One goes to bed early; one gets up late ~ </em>Sun Wen 2<br />
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Winter is a time for looking inwards and storing of energy. It is a time to be less active. We gather strength for the year ahead. Having abundant reserves within give us courage and strength of will. Su wen chapter 2 says that in Winter heaven and earth are like strangers, Yin and Yang have nothing more to do with each other. According to the Book of Rites it is the period of the mysterious gathering of water inside the earth ready to receive the impulse of heaven, the Yang inside.<br />
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<em>Contrary to what one does in summer, when the qi likes to escape outside and can do so safely, in winter it is contained under the skin, allowing it to be as concentrated as possible. Once spring returns, the qi that is kept tightly within the body will be able to surge out strongly again. ~ </em>Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994), p118<br />
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Winter is a season of “rest”. We need to preserve our energy and draw upon our reserves to survive the lean months of Winter. Though less obvious in the developed and richer countries such as we live in where supplies are generally available all year round in super markets, this absence of bounty is reflected in nature where for example animals hibernate and on the surface there is no sign of activity. We as humans also need to follow a similar pattern of resting to remain healthy and in balance. This is explored further later in this paper in relation to the Kidneys which facilitates our storing not only on a physical but also on a mind and spirit level.<br />
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<em>Every living thing has a potential to grow and multiply. What carries each through the dark age of winter is the ambition and drive to see its dark and impenetrable surface is a vast and unyielding force which powers the flow of season into season. ~ </em>Worsley, J.R. (1998), p12<br />
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During Winter life seems to have stopped. Life is however present but hidden underground. This reflects the elusive nature of the Water Element which is associated with the season Winter.<br />
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<em>Water is the alpha and the omega of all the elements, their beginning and their end. It brings the cycle of the elements full circle. ~ </em>Franglen, Nora (2001), p110<br />
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The human body is composed of more than 75% water. We are in many ways like a large skin covered water repository. Water has a function in our bodies right down to the cell level. Our blood system is primarily water. Water supports our life in transporting nutrients, oxygen and hormones. It also carries away waste products, and through the work of it’s two Officials, the Bladder and the Kidney, filters out and removes impurities for us. It is the basis of the secretions and fluids that allow us to move our joints.<br />
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<em>When the Element is out of balance, therefore, it affects every single cell in the body. ~ </em><br />
Worsley, J.R. (1998), p59<br />
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Indeed ageing is partly a drying up process a sign that the Water Element is weakening and that we are losing our water reserves. The ageing process, it’s manifestations and seven year cycles for females and eight year cycles for males is to be found in Su Wen 1.<br />
<br />
Water has many manifestations in nature which reflects something of it’s elusive nature. It is the most Yin of all the Elements. It is everywhere, but has no shape, taking only the form given by containers. It is the only element, which can take on different states: liquid, solid and gas. It knows where it wants to go and behaves in a determined manner to get there.<br />
<br />
Indeed this is reflected in the ideogram for Water (Shui), (see illustration 1). The ideogram represents a central current of Water, which is bordered by small whirlpools. The whirlpools arise from the difference in flow between the central stream and the edges where the current may be slower or even running in the opposite direction.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;"><b></b></span> The primary correspondences for Water are listed in Table 1.<br />
<br />
Season : Winter<br />
Colour : Blue/Black<br />
Sound : Groaning<br />
Odour : Putrid<br />
Emotion : Fear<br />
Yin Official / Zang Organ : Kidney<br />
Yang Official / Fu Organ : Bladder<br />
Yin Official Peak Time : 5pm – 7pm<br />
Yang Official Peak Time : 3pm – 5pm<br />
Climate : Cold<br />
Sense Organ/Orifice : Ears<br />
Tissue/Body Part : Bones<br />
Residue : Teeth<br />
Taste : Salty<br />
Direction : North<br />
Fluid Secretion : Saliva/Spittle<br />
Power : Emphasis/Storage<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 1 – Water’s primary correspondences<br />
<br />
</span></strong><br />
The Water Element within us provides us with the gifts and capacities to support our body, mind and spirit to survive the Winter and from year to year. There will also be challenges to face. Some of these gifts, capacities and challenges are discussed in the next sections of this paper.<br />
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<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Gifts & Capacities<br />
</span></strong>The Water Element provides us with reserves, flow, and cleansing power.<br />
The reserves provide us with the strength to survive through each year and from year to year. The significant volume of water in our bodies was discussed in the introduction to this paper. The flow is important for the removal of impurities from the body, not only on a physical level but also at the mind level when we can clean out and dispose of old ideas and dreams and at the spirit level to maintain a purity of spirit.<br />
<br />
<em>To exist through the cold, dark months on the reserves gathered in the autumn takes will and determination, a powerful resolve to carry on through hardship. The essence of Water is embodied in this indomitable strength. ~ </em>Worsley, J.R. (1998), p61,62<br />
<br />
The Water Element within us gives us the capacity to assess risks e.g. the security of our homes. The normal process we go through is that we perceive a threat. This is usually accompanied by a feeling of fear. We assess the risk level and then finally we take action to ensure our safety. We can carry out this process when our Water Element is in balance.<br />
<br />
Another gift or capacity of the Water Element is the ability to protect ourselves. Our fear alerts us to danger. We feel a threat and to survive we respond appropriately. This is our zhi (spirit of our Kidneys), in function.<br />
<br />
<em>The five will-powers, wu zhi, are the special natural living tensions which arise from each of the five zang. For the kidneys it is fear , kong. ~ </em>Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (2001), p85<br />
<br />
At the most fundamental level the zhi gives us the drive to survive.<br />
<br />
When we move through life, enacting our destiny through the support of balanced Kidney Qi we accumulate the virtue of wisdom.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;"><br />
Challenges<br />
</span></strong>One of the key challenges that Water presents to us is to be aware of not overtaxing our reserves. To be aware of the literal truth of the idea of ‘living fast and dying young’.<br />
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<br />
<em>Like every other blessing which we are given we have to use the power of will and endurance to its appropriate extent, and will pay the penalty if we do not allow ourselves an inner winter to rest and to re-build our reserves. ~ </em>Worsley, J.R. (1998), p63<br />
<br />
We will deplete the Kidney Offical naturally from cradle to grave. Therefore we need to be aware of and avoid overtaxing our reserves for example by ‘burning the candle at both ends’ or through overuse of drugs. The role of the Kidney Official on our “reserves” is discussed in more detail in the Kidney section of this paper.<br />
<br />
When the Water Element is out of balance any aspect of fluidity within our body, mind and spirit may be affected, brittleness of joints, dryness and thirst, frequency or infrequency of urination, excess or deficiency of perspiration, the lack of flow of thought processes and emotions, feelings and fears of inundation, being overwhelmed by things. People can experience the mind going blank, their mouth drying up or simply being paralysed by fear.<br />
<br />
In our day-to-day parlance we can find references to imbalances of the Water Element within us. Those who are fearless we describe as having a strong ‘backbone’ and those who are fearful as ‘spineless’. This links into one of the functions of the Kidney to produce marrow, which is discussed in the Kidney section of this paper.<br />
<br />
<strong>Case Study:<br />
</strong>Derek sit’s quite still most of the time but his eyes are constantly darting around. Darren will not take action without first having re-assured himself that what he is about to do is “safe” and won’t get him into any type of trouble.<br />
<br />
<strong>Case Study:<br />
</strong>Carl is into “tough” sports such as rugby. He also likes fast cars and goes drag racing. He walks about with an air of confidence. Will jump in without considering the implications of his actions for his safety. Never admits to any form of weakness.<br />
<br />
Associated with the Water Element we have the Kidneys (Shen) and Bladder (Pang Guang) Officials. The Kidneys plays an important role in storing Qi and the Bladder in providing a reservoir for our body, mind and spirit.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">The Kidney Official<br />
</span></strong>The Kidney Official is the Official who Controls the Waterways. It is the Yin/Zang organ of the Water Element. The Kidneys are the only Zang organ which are double, all the others are single. The Kidneys are located low down in the body, which reflects their relationship to Yin, which reigns in winter.<br />
<br />
The Kidneys are the foundation for all the Yin and Yang energies of the body.<br />
Kidney-Yin also called ‘Primary Yin’ is the foundation for all of the Yin energies of the body, in particular that of the Liver, Heart and Lungs. Kidney-Yang also called ‘Primary Yang’ is the foundation of all the Yang energies of the body, in particular that of the Spleen, Lungs and Heart. Kidney-Yin is the fundamental substance for birth, growth and reproduction whereas Kidney-Yang is the motive force of all physiological processes. Kidney-Yin is the material foundation for Kidney-Yang, and Kidney-Yang represents the physiological activity that transforms Kidney-Yin.<br />
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The functions of the Kidneys are listed in Table 2.<br />
<br />
1 They store Essence and govern birth, growth, reproduction and development<br />
2 They produce Marrow, fill up the brain and control bones<br />
3 They govern water<br />
4 They control the reception of Qi<br />
5 They open into the ears<br />
6 They manifest in the hair<br />
7 They control spittle<br />
8 They control the two lower orifices<br />
9 They house the Will-power (Zhi)<br />
10 They control the Gate of Life (Minister Fire)<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 2 – The Functions of the Kidneys - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 155</span></strong><br />
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<br />
Some of these functions are discussed in below.<br />
<br />
1 They store Essence and govern birth, growth, reproduction and development<br />
The Essence (Jing) of the Kidneys is a precious substance that is inherited from the parents but also partly replenished by the Qi extracted from food (Gu Qi). It derives from both the Pre-Heaven and Post-Heaven Essence. It determines a person’s constitution. It circulates all over the body, particularly in the Eight Extraordinary Vessels.<br />
<br />
2 They produce Marrow, fill up the brain and control bones<br />
The ‘Marrow’ (sui) does not correspond to the bone marrow of Western medicine but in Chinese medicine it is a substance that is the common matrix of bones, bone marrow, brain and spinal cord. The ‘Spiritual Axis’ in chapter 33 says: ‘The Brain is the Sea of Marrow’. Kidney-Essence when strong will nourish the brain and memory, concentration and thinking. This reflects the thinking of Chinese Medicine that the Kidneys are the origin of skill and intelligence.<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>The kidneys are double: they are not both kidneys. The on one the left is the kidney; the one on the right is ming men, the door of individual destiny. Ming men is the residence of shenjing, spirits/essences; it is where the original qi, yuan qi is attached. There man stores the essences (sperm, jing) and woman attaches the reproductive organs (uterus, bao). Thus the kidneys are unique. ~ </em>Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (2001), p9<br />
<br />
The Ming Men also referred to as ‘Minister Fire’, ‘Gate of Life/Vitality’. The Ming Men is an essential aspect of Kidney function. It is an important link between Fire and Water in the body. It warms the Jing and facilitates the conjoining of Kidney-Yin and Kidney-Yang to form Kidney Qi.<br />
<br />
The main functions of the Ming Men are listed in Table 3.<br />
<br />
1 The root of Yuan (“Source” or “Original”) Qi<br />
2 A source of Fire for the Internal Organs<br />
3 Warms the Lower Jiao and Bladder<br />
4 Warms Stomach and Spleen and aids digestion<br />
5 Harmonises sexual function, warms Jing and Uterus<br />
6 Assists the Kidneys in the reception of Qi<br />
7 Assists the Heart function of housing the Shen<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 3 – The Main Functions of the Ming Men<br />
<br />
</span></strong>In Ling shu 47 the Triple Heater is connected with the Ming Men. The Triple Heater can be considered like a messenger or servant of Ming Men for the distribution of Yuan Qi through the body.<br />
<br />
Some examples of points on the Kidney meridian which, describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Water Element are listed in Table 4 below:<br />
<br />
<strong><em><br />
</em></strong>KI 1 <em>Bubbling Spring</em> : When patient lacks strength and stamina they need to take action.<br />
KI 3 <em>Greater Mountain</em> : Stream To bring strength and certainty to one who is too scared to<br />
begin anything.<br />
KI 5 <em>Water Spring</em> : Give patient a fresh perspective.<br />
KI 6 <em>Illuminated Sea</em> : Bring ability to look at things more clearly.<br />
KI 7 <em>Returning Current</em> : Strengthen zhi and support patient in overcoming fear and obstacles in their path.<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 4 – Example of points and their application on Kidney meridian<br />
</span></strong><br />
It is also worth noting that Kidney chest points (KI 22 – KI 27) are useful for treatment of patients of any Causative Factor particularly in supporting Essence and Spirit.<br />
<br />
The other half of the Water Element Officials team is the Bladder Official. Whilst the Kidneys are more concerned with the quality of the fluids the Bladder is concerned with the fluid distribution.<br />
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<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">The Bladder (Pang Guang ) Official<br />
</span></strong>The Bladder Official is the Official responsible for Storage of Water. It is the Yang/Fu organ of the Water Element. The Bladder is responsible for keeping dry areas separate from wet areas.<br />
<br />
The functions of the Bladder are listed below in Table 5.<br />
<br />
1 It removes water by Qi transformation<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 5 – The Functions of the Bladder - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 205</span></strong><br />
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This function uses the energy of the Yang aspect of the Kidney which provides Qi and heat. The Bladder is also assisted in its function of fluid transformation by the Lower Heater function of the Triple Heater.<br />
<br />
This Official is charged with disposing of the urine, which contains a large number of waste products, which have been filtered by the Kidney. There is an active process of choice and decision with regard to setting aside the impurities for discharge and retaining water that is needed to maintain the reservoir of excess water, which the Bladder holds. On a physical level if failure happens then water may be poured away too quickly and dehydration takes place, e.g. dry skin and dry hair. If on the other hand not enough water is passed away then the reservoir overflows into the surrounding lands and a feeling of bloatedness occurs from being waterlogged.<br />
On the mind level if properly irrigated then one can let ideas and thoughts flow. On a spiritual level if there is a reserve we can feel safe and secure and have the fuel in place for the growth of spring and protection from the heat of the summer.<br />
<br />
<em>Many of the words we associate with the Water Element, such as endurance, ambition and determination, are founded on the ability to have and to maintain an inner reservoir upon which everything else we do depends. By providing this on all levels the Bladder is the source of our deepest reserves and strength. ~ </em>Worsley, J.R. (1998), p168<br />
<br />
The Bladder Officials important function of storing water for the whole body is reflected by it’s having sixty seven points on it’s meridian, the largest number on any meridian on the body. This is also reflected in the extent of the meridians superficial pathway which begins at the medial canthus of the eye, passing over the skull, down the neck and back, continuing down the posterior aspect of the leg ending on the lateral nail point of the little toe.<br />
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Some examples of points on the Bladder meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Water Element are listed in Table 6.<br />
<br />
BL 1 <em>Eyes Bright</em> : To help patient have an uncontaminated higher vision and clear sighted mental level.<br />
BL 10 <em>Heavenly Pillar</em> : When the patient is frightened of their future, provides strength to endure.<br />
BL 47 <em>Ambition Room</em> : To re-awaken the urge to continue and and see through the authentic destiny of their life.<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 6 – Example of points and their application on Bladder meridian<br />
<br />
</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Conclusion<br />
</span></strong>In conclusion in this paper we have looked at the importance of the energetic of the Water Element which provides us with the reserves to survive Winter and from year to year. We need to be mindful of not over taxing these reserves by for example “burning the candle at both ends”. When in balance it also provides us with the ability to assess risks and protect ourselves. Out of balance we become overwhelmed by excessive fear or are unable to appreciate real danger. These abilities we examined are provided by the two related Water Officials of Kidneys (Shen) and Bladder (Pang Guang).<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;"><strong>References:<br />
</strong>Franglen, Nora (2001) Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture.<br />
Kent, England: Global Books Ltd.<br />
<br />
Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1994) TheWay of Heaven<br />
Monkey Press<br />
<br />
Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (2001) Chinese Medicine from The Classics - The Kidneys<br />
Monkey Press<br />
<br />
Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) The Foundations of Chinese Medicine, 2nd Ed.<br />
Churchill Livingstone<br />
<br />
Worsley, J.R. (1998) Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials.<br />
J.R. & J.B. Worsley<br />
</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;"><strong>Bibliogrpahy<br />
</strong>College of Traditional Acupuncture (2004) Acupuncture Point Compendium<br />
<br />
College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Five Notes.<br />
<br />
Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements. 2nd Edition.<br />
Maryland, U.S.A.: Tai Sophia Institute<br />
<br />
Hicks, Angela & Hicks, John (1999) Healing your Emotions<br />
London, England: Thorsons<br />
<br />
Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004) Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture<br />
Churchill Livingstone<br />
<br />
</span><a href="http://www.5elements.com/water.htm"><span style="font-size: 85%;">http://www.5elements.com/water.htm</span></a>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-72838608812195957952010-11-04T08:24:00.003+00:002011-09-29T19:26:59.801+01:00Autumn<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Introduction<br />
</span></strong>The season associated with Metal Is Autumn. The overflowing effects of Summer are realised and it’s time for harvesting. The harvesting must not only be of the food stuffs which are put in storehouses but also of Spirits and Breaths in our own storehouses. We need to protect our own vitality to survive the Winter. Our breaths are taken in by the Lung which receives the pure heavenly Qi. Located between Summer and Winter the energetic tendency towards of Autumn is Yin ascending. It’s a season of balancing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>In the Book of Rites, another of the Five Classics, it says that Autumn puts everything back in the balancing scales.<br />
</em><br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1992), p6<br />
</span><br />
<br />
Autumn is also a season of “letting go”. We need to clear out the old to make room for the new. This is reflected in nature where for example the trees let go of their leaves and seeds. The leaves serve to compost the earth to support the germination of the seeds when Spring arrives. We as humans also need to follow a similar pattern of letting go to remain healthy and in balance. This is explored further later in this paper in relation to the Large Intestine which facilitates our letting go not only on a physical but also on a mind and spirit level.<br />
<br />
<br />
Metal’s manifestation in nature is probably one of the more difficult to notice.<br />
Indeed this is reflected in the ideogram for Metal (Jin), (see illustration 1), which includes the character for Earth. Whilst the Earth ideogram only has two horizontal lines the Metal ideogram includes a third line indicating that Metal is deep within the earth. The two shorter lines at the bottom represent<br />
nuggets of gold which can be likened to unseen growth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The primary correspondences for Metal are listed in Table 1.<br />
<br />
Season : Autumn<br />
Colour : White<br />
Sound : Weeping<br />
Odour : Rotten<br />
Emotion : Grief/Sadness<br />
Yin Official / Zang Organ : Lung<br />
Yang Official / Fu Organ : Large Intestine<br />
Yin Official Peak Time : 3am – 5am<br />
Yang Official Peak Time : 5am – 7am<br />
Climate : Dryness<br />
Sense Organ/Orifice : Nose<br />
Tissue/Body Part : Skin<br />
Residue Body : Hair<br />
Taste : Pungent/Spicy<br />
Direction : West<br />
Fluid Secretion : Mucus<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 1 – Metal’s primary correspondences<br />
</span><br />
Autumn is the time of year when less is required. One becomes a sage and reflects inwardly. The Metal Element within us provides us with the gifts and capacities to support our body, mind and spirit in preparation for Winter. There will also be challenges to face. Some of these gifts, capacities and challenges are discussed in the next sections of this paper.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Gifts & Capacities<br />
</span></strong>In our environment minerals provide nutrients to the earth from which food is grown. Ores provide fuel for heat, others material for structural strength, others gems for beauty. Metal is a key component in most systems of communication. Metal conducts electricity.<br />
<br />
In the human body the Metal Element provides us with the capacity to receive pure Qi from the heavens via the Lung and also to eliminate toxins and waste substances via the Large Intestine. Receipt of pure Qi from the heavens is linked to our ability to be inspired. The Chinese saw the Earth Element as the Mother, both for us and within us, and the saw the role of the Metal Element as a natural association with the Father from the heavens above. This reminds us of our connection between heaven and earth. Many forms of meditation use the principles of breathing exercises to enhance the mind and spirit directly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>Of all the Officials the Lung is perhaps the most vital in establishing and sustaining the spirit. By taking in the pure Qi energy from the heavens it brings the guidance and authority which our lives need.<br />
<br />
</em><span style="font-size: 85%;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p162<br />
</span><br />
<br />
Expanding on the connection to the Heavens is the notion of respect which is attached to the idea of the father in almost every culture. When Metal is balanced within us when can also be aware of self respect which provides us with a sense of self-esteem. This in turn gives our lives a sense of quality.<br />
This in turn supports our ability to make judgements and decisions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>Every Element is qualitatively enriched in it’s own Nature by the Metal Element.<br />
</em><br />
Worsley, J.R. (1998), p48<br />
<br />
<br />
Just as the Lung receives the Large Intestines eliminates all the waste and rubbish within us. This is not just our physical body waste but also our mental and spiritual waste. The importance of “letting go” is discussed in the next section of this paper.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Challenges<br />
</span></strong>One of the key challenges that Metal presents to us is to be aware of the importance of letting go.<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>Our ideas, our emotions, our food, even the stages in the growth of our spirit, all have their hour and then have no more to offer. Once they are finished we have to be able to let go and move on.</em><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p50<br />
</span><br />
<br />
Without clarity provided by ‘letting go’ our judgement can be impaired and we can fail to recognise the quality of our decisions. Our self-esteem can suffer and we can forget to nourish our bodies properly. We could potentially swing towards the side of excessive sex, drugs and rock n’ roll.<br />
<br />
Some of the physical charactertistics we can observe in a person with a Metal Causative Factor (C.F.). are a display of stillness. An outward sense of everything being in it’s proper place. A shiny exterior which often belies the tumultuous interior. This reflects the other direction in which Metal can take us where we present a peacock style appearance to the world. This can include being festooned with “shiny” jewellery. <br />
<br />
What can also be demonstrated is that quality of Metal which looks for respect. You may sometimes get a response of incredulity if your rapport is not in keeping!<br />
<br />
<strong>Case Study:</strong><br />
Mark is a very quite individual. Not easy to get to know. Mark will not prolong any conversation with most folk. He likes to observe and will not for example participate in games unless he is confident of doing well. With his few close friends, those whom he respects and who in turn respect him, he will converse freely and for long periods of time.<br />
<br />
Mark is an example of the connection qualities of Metal. Metal does not need to make a connection but when a connection is made it can be quite strong and intimate.<br />
<br />
Associated with the Metal Element we have the Lung (Fei) and Large Intestine (Da Shang) Officials. The Lung plays an important role in receiving Qi and the Large Intestine in “letting go” for our body, mind and spirit.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">The Lung (Fei) Official<br />
</span></strong><br />
The Lung Official is the Official who receives the pure qi energy from the heavens. It is the Yin/Zang organ of the Metal Element.<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>In ancient texts, the Chinese, probably because the writers were more function oriented, usually spoke of the Lung as a single organ. From the Nei Jing onwards, however, they often say that the Lung is divided into two parts.<br />
<br />
</em><span style="font-size: 85%;">Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004), p138</span><br />
<br />
<br />
The Lungs are considered to be ‘tender’, ‘delicate’ or ‘fragile’ organ. This is because, of all the internal organs, it is the first one to be attacked by external pathogenic factors.<br />
<br />
The functions of the Lungs are listed in Table 2.<br />
<br />
<br />
1 They govern Qi and respiration<br />
2 They control channels and blood vessels<br />
3 They control diffusing and descending of Qi and Body Fluids<br />
4 They regulate all physiological activities<br />
5 They regulate Water passages<br />
6 They control the skin and the space between skin and muscles<br />
7 They manifest in the body hair<br />
8 They open into the nose<br />
9 They control nasal mucus<br />
10 They house the Corporeal Soul<br />
11 They are affected by worry, grief and sadness<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 2 – The Functions of the Lungs - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 139</span><br />
<br />
<br />
Some of these functions are discussed in below.<br />
<br />
1 They govern Qi and respiration<br />
In terms of governing Qi and respiration this refers to the inhalation of ‘pure Qi’ (air) and exhalation of ‘dirty Qi’. The Lungs also govern Qi by the process of forming Qi. Food-Qi (Gu Qi) extracted by the spleen is directed to the lungs where it combines with the inhaled air to form what is referred to as Gathering Qi (Zong Qi).<br />
<br />
6 They control the skin and the space between skin and muscles<br />
The space between the skin and muscles is called the “Cou Li” space. This is the space where Defensive Qi (Wei Qi) flows. Strong Lung Qi provides a body with a good resistance to attack by external pathogenic factors.<br />
<br />
10 They house the Corporeal Soul<br />
The Corporeal Soul (Po) is called the ‘entering and exiting of Essence (Jing)’.<br />
The Po allows the Jing to play a role in all physiological processes.<br />
<br />
11 They are affected by worry, grief and sadness<br />
Worry is said to ‘knot’ Qi. This manifests in shoulder and chest tension. Grief and sadness are said to deplete the Qi. This manifests in the Lung pulse becoming weak and fine (thin), the complexion becoming white and the tone of voice being feeble and weepy<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>The Lungs hold the office of minister and chancellor. The regulation of life-giving networks stem from it.</em><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Su Wen 8</span><br />
<br />
<br />
This quotation refers to the role (Minister) which the Lung plays in conversing with the sovereign (Heart). The Lung takes instructions and carries them out. There is an interdependence here which is key as the Heart controls blood and the Lung Qi, two of the key ‘substances’ that constitute a person.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>The Lung is a canopy for the zang.<br />
</em><br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1992), p44</span><br />
<br />
This is a reference to Su Wen chapter 46. This exemplifies the importance of the Lung’s role in attracting influence of Heaven and transmitting it to the other organs.<br />
<br />
Some examples of points on the Lung meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Metal Element are listed in Table 3 below:<br />
<br />
IX (Lu) 1 Middle Palace<br />
Helps connect patient with Heavenly Qi and inspiration.<br />
IX (Lu) 2 Cloud Door<br />
If patient is feeling lost.<br />
IX (Lu) 5 Outside Marsh<br />
Helps patient to know themselves better.<br />
IX (Lu) 6 Greatest Hole<br />
If patient feels they have no point or purpose and are unable to cope with outside world.<br />
IX (Lu) 8 Meridian Gutter<br />
Helps bring patient into the present and relate to the future.<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 3 – Example of points and their possible application on Lung meridian</span><br />
<br />
Hopefully the reader thus far has gained a sense of the importance of the role of the Lung Official in establishing and sustaining the spirit and the guidance and authority it brings to our lives.<br />
<br />
The other half of the Metal Element Officials team is the Large Intestine Official. Whilst the Lung supports the intake of new and pure Qi to maintain balance it is important that we have a way to eliminate, or “let go” at the appropriate time. This “letting go” is the function of the Large Intestine Official.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">The Large Intestine (Da Chang) Official<br />
<br />
</span></strong>The Large Intestine Official is the Official of drainage and dregs. It is the Yang/Fu organ of the Metal Element.<br />
<br />
The functions of the Large Intestine are listed below in Table 4.<br />
<br />
<br />
1 Controls passage and conduction<br />
2 Transforms stools and reabsorbs fluids<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 4 – The Functions of the Large Intestine - Maciocia, Giovanni (2005), p 195</span><br />
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<br />
This Official takes away the waste not only from that which is left over from the digestive process but also from all the Officials. If this Official is not functioning properly then all the Officials are at risk of becoming sick as rubbish in any of the Officials will limit their physical function. This will also manifest in the mind and spirit just as much. Room needs to be made for anything new and vital.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>When we come across someone whose words and whose mind are poisoned and filthy we may be in the presence of a person whose garbage is not being taken away.<br />
</em><br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Worsley, J.R. (1998), p155<br />
</span><br />
<br />
Some examples of points on the Large Intestine meridian which describe their possible application in supporting the body, mind and spirit and also reflect their relationship to the Metal Element are listed in Table 5.<br />
<br />
<br />
X (LI) 1 Merchant Yang<br />
Helps patient if they can’t see through their rubbish..<br />
X (LI) 2 Second Interval<br />
Helps patient who is rigid and needs to let go by assisting lubrication and thus helping patient to move more freely and live in accordance with Dao.<br />
X (LI) 4 Joining of the Valleys (Great Eliminator)<br />
Unblocks the constipation at body, mind and spirit level of patient and remove toxins.<br />
X (LI) 11 Crooked Pond<br />
Helps ground patient with a Metal CF who may be too “up in the clouds” .<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">Table 5 – Example of points and their application on Large Intestine meridian</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Conclusion<br />
</span></strong>In conclusion in this paper we have looked at the importance of the energetic of the Metal Element which when in balance provides us with the ability to be inspired with fresh ideas but to be able to do this we also need to let go of the dregs!. These abilities we examined are provided by the two related Metal Officials of Lung (Fei) and Large Intestine (Da Chang). The Lung contacts Heaven, the Large Intestine in the final stage in the digestive process, contacts the Earth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;"><strong>References:<br />
</strong>Hicks, Angela; Hicks, John; Mole Peter (2004) Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture<br />
Churchill Livingstone<br />
<br />
Larre, Claude & De La Valle, Elizabeth Rochat (1992) Chinese Medicine from The Classics - The Lung<br />
Monkey Press<br />
<br />
Maciocia, Giovanni (2005) The Foundations of Chinese Medicine, 2nd Ed.<br />
Churchill Livingstone<br />
<br />
Worsley, J.R. (1998) Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials.<br />
J.R. & J.B. Worsley<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Bibliogrpahy</strong><br />
College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Five Notes.<br />
<br />
Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements. 2nd Edition.<br />
Maryland, U.S.A.: Tai Sophia Institute<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</span>5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-18094091897759100892010-08-27T15:07:00.006+01:002011-09-29T19:27:42.194+01:00Late Summer<div><strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Introduction<br />
</span></strong>Late Summer a pivotal point in the energy of the seasons when the Earth Element plays a central role. Described in ‘Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements’ as “<em>The forces of Nature are very precisely balanced and interacting every moment</em>” (Dianne Connelly 1994). Earth has a special significance in that it supports all the other elements. Earth is the source of the other elements, the centre from which they arise.<br />
<br />
Earth’s energy comes to the fore in late summer and yields forth it’s ripe fruits and crops in the harvest which have been growing since the ascension of Yang from spring. The climax of Yang during summer has passed and provides an opportunity to prepare for the ascension of Yin, commencing in autumn, and peaking in winter. If we are “awake” to this opportunity we can realise this by storing and taking advantage of the bounties of Mother Earth. Earth has been “giving” of itself since spring, producing many sources of nourishment for us in fruits and vegetables, and now is resting before she starts to “receive” her own nourishment, for example through decaying leaves, to be ready to produce when the next spring season arrives.<br />
<br />
The origin of the Chinese ideogram for Earth (Tu), was derived from the image of a plant growing from soil.</div><br />
<br />
<div align="left"></div><div align="left"><br />
This is indicative of the early recognition of the gift, which Earth gives in providing nourishment.Plants need an appropriate soil to grow in where the roots can take hold and not be easily uprooted. This gives us an indication of other gifts provided by Earth in that it provides support and stability.<br />
<br />
Many civilisations have myths and stories about the Earth, a stable ground, which receives a “kiss of rain” from the heavens, which allows the ground to be fertile. In old diagrams of the Five Elements Earth was located in the centre surrounded by the other four elements. Like a mother surrounded by her children! This reflects Earths direction, which is centre.<br />
<br />
Late Summer is a time to recognise the many gifts Earth presents to us. We also need to be aware of the challenges that Earth has for us. All the gifts, capacities and challenges affect the body, mind and spirit.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Gifts & Capacities</span></strong><br />
The Earth gives us somewhere to make our home. She provides the raw materials we need to build our homes. She provides the sources of energy that we use to provide light, heat etc in our homes. She rotates on a central axis providing us different seasons. These seasons in turn provide the various environmental conditions required for various food types to grow and mature which in turn play a vital role in providing us with physical nourishment. Having our physical needs met and prepared for through the harvest that come with late summer allows us to have a sense of belonging and a feeling of being safe and secure. This in turn allows us to operate from a centre, be at home with ourselves, at ease, be balanced and centred, and yet able to interact and connected to the rest of the world.<br />
<br />
The Earth is made of many varied terrains and landscapes. There is an abundance of life that provide us with many smells and sights that are pleasing to our mind and spirits. There are a huge variety of sights, smells and sounds, which reflect Earths capacity to cater “for all tastes” so-to-speak. There is something out there that may please the billions of individuals living on planet earth.<br />
<br />
Mother Earth is a giant ‘re-cycling’ plant. She is capable of taking the pollutants we throw at her and re-cycle them by absorbing them and purifying them. We have however, to maintain respect for this capability and not take it for granted and over stretch it. We can see signs of this strain on Mother Earth in feedback such as global warming.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Challenges</span></strong><br />
One of the key challenges that Earth presents to us is to be aware of what are our individual needs. We need to consider what is the right place on Earth for us? Having found a place we need to find out what we can do to ensure that Earth can fulfil it’s potential. If we are not aware of our needs this shows us an imbalance in our Earth element energy. </div><div><br />
We need to strike a balance in our life in taking care of our body, mind and spirit. In her book ‘Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements’ Dianne Connelly states “<em>If we care for ourselves be creating health, the children to whom we give birth must then be healthy and strong in life, learning to create harmony in the same way</em>.” (1994). This balance can be realised through an appropriate mix of nourishment via a balanced diet, regular exercise, and some time put aside to relax and meditate. Indeed the season of Late Summer is a time of stillness and an ideal opportunity to reflect upon the fun and relaxation we have experienced during the summer and prepare for the challenges if life during autumn and winter by filling the our storehouses to help us nourish our body, mind, and spirit. If we have an energetic imbalance in our Earth element in relation to taking stock from the harvest we could for example come from a position of having a fear of lack of, or not having enough. Always providing for the “just in case” scenario whether that be through always having cupboards full of food, or perhaps if travelling having a supply of food, blankets etc in the car. On the other side of this imbalance we may not use the harvest to rest and recuperate and lose the appropriate balance for caring for our self and others. We can give of our selves constantly and eventually burn out as an exhausted martyr.<br />
<br />
On the mind level we need to be aware of the energetic influences of the Earth element. In balance the mind can take in information and process it. Out of balance can result in over pensiveness for the mind. A strain is presented if for example we are constantly stuck in making decisions.<br />
<br />
Someone with well developed Earth energy is a well grounded, nurturing, compassionate person, sometimes depicted as the archtypical “earth mother”. Earth people like to bring others together and make good mediators or peacemakers and reliable friends. They often enjoy both preparing food and eating.<br />
<br />
When people have weak Earth Qi, they can be worriers and meddlers. They are prone to pensiveness. They may overwork, especially in studying or other intellectual work. They are vulnerable to digestive problems and diarrhea. They may gain weight easily and lose it with difficulty. Their bodies have a tendency to make excessive mucus, and they may suffer from cloudy thinking, muzzy-headedness, and a lack of clarity.<br />
<br />
Associated with the Earth Element we have the Stomach (Wei) and Spleen (Pi) Officials. These play an important role in providing nourishment to our body, mind and spirit.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Stomach & Spleen Officials</span></strong><br />
“<em>The Element Earth is our connection with mother Earth herself. From her we receive our physical nourishment which, along with the air from the heavens, is the only way that we can replenish and revitalize the Qi energy with which we are born. We also receive from her the mental and spiritual nourishment which gives us the feeling of stability and security, the center and equilibrium on which our whole lives are founded. The Officials of the Earth Element, therefore, are vitally important to the whole economy of the body, mind and spirit</em>.” (J.R. Worsley 1998).<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">The Stomach (Wei) Official</span></strong><br />
The Stomach Official is the Official responsible for the rotting and ripening of food and drink. It’s an Official that people tend to be most disrespectful to. The stomach prepares the food and drink for the Spleen to extract the food Qi. As Su Wen Ch. 19 states “<em>the stomach is the root of the 5 Yin organs</em>.” When allowed to function as it should we derive maximum benefit from food Qi or “Gu Qi” which supports the Jing (Essence), Blood and Shen (Spirit). We can realise this by eating a “balanced meal” which in Chinese medicine terms is one which includes all five tastes, (sour/acid, bitter, sweet, pungent/spicy, salty), in proper proportion.<br />
<br />
If the Stomach Qi fails to descend we suffer from “rebellious Qi” which includes symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. We need a proper fluid intake to support the stomach in it’s role for it is said that the Stomach “likes wetness and dislikes dryness”.<br />
<br />
The extent of the Stomach Officials influence within the body, mind and spirit if reflected by the extent of the pathway of it’s meridian. The Stomach meridian starts on the face just under the eye and finishes on the second toe. It has 45 points, making it the second largest Meridian of the body!<br />
<br />
The Stomach Official also plays an important role in our mental and spiritual lives in that it takes in our mental and spiritual food. Our language is full of expressions which reflect this. For example we talk about “digesting” information, “chewing” over problems or finding something hard to “swallow”.<br />
<br />
There are points the Stomach meridian which describe their functions on the body, mind and spirit and it’s relationship to the Earth Element. For example St 4: Earth Granary, St 8: Head Tied, St 14: Storehouse, St 20: Receiving Fullness, St 24: Lubrication Food Gate and St 25: Heavenly Pivot.<br />
<br />
The Stomach Officials most energetic time of day is 7am to 9am and it’s weakest energetic time is 7pm to 9m. This is reflected in the wisdom of the old adage to breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper.<br />
<br />
So we need to respect our Stomach Official for if it is sick then none of the other Officials can have any nourishment. In such a scenario our body will make itself heard screaming out for food and from this will arise an excessive need for sympathy, mother’s love and cravings for sweet tasting food which goes directly to the Earth Element within us. Over time may come the other extreme where there is a rejection by the child who no longer trusts its mother. Any sympathy, nourishment etc that is offered is cast aside.<br />
<br />
The other half of the Earth Element Officials team is the Spleen Official. The rotting and ripening of food for the Officials is only of value if it can be distributed to the rest of the body, mind and spirit. This is the function of the Spleen Official.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">The Spleen (Pi) Official<br />
</span></strong>The Spleen Official is the Official responsible for transportation and distribution. The Spleen transforms food and drink, extracting ‘Food Qi’ and ‘food essences’ which are distributed to Lungs, Heart and Liver. This is an important process in production of both Qi and Blood. The Spleen directs Qi to the muscles, especially those of the limbs. So for example, if the Spleen Official is weak, a person may suffer from cold hands and cold feet because the Spleen Official is seen to behave like the driver who is too tired to finish their rounds. The Spleen produces a lifting effect along the midline of the body helping ensure that the internal organs are in place.<br />
<br />
The responsibility for movement also extends to the mind and spirit. This is reflected once again in everyday expressions such as when we describe our minds as being “stuck”. We need to allow our thoughts to “flow” for creative processes. In an energetic imbalance the impact on mind and spirit can result in things such as poor concentration, worry and anxiety. Mental agility can show signs of losing the flow.<br />
<br />
“<em>In the spirit the same sort of distress arises from the lack of proper distribution of the nourishment. The Officials between them ensure our connection to the spirit of Nature and the Dao, and each has to work to full capacity in partnership with the other to achieve harmony and balance in all our affairs. If some are under-nourished because this Official cannot transport Qi energy to them there will be the same sort of rootlessness and agitation which we see in the motherless child. Lack of comfort, lack of love, and lack of compassion in some and no tin others is going to lead all off the disunity we see when some children are better cared for than others. The jealousy, spite, attention-seeking, depression and isolation shatter the harmony of the spirit, and only when a solid connection with Mother Earth is re-established will the Officials, together as a whole, be able to breath a sigh of collective relief</em>.” (J.R. Worsley 1998).<br />
<br />
Some examples of points on the Spleen meridian which describe their functions on the body, mind and spirit and it’s relationship to the Earth Element are: Sp 8: Earth Motivator, Sp 17: Food Drain, Sp 21: Great Enveloping.<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: 130%;">Conclusion</span></strong><br />
In conclusion having looked at the Earth Element and it’s related Officials of Stomach (Wei) and Spleen (Pi) we conclude by looking at some suggestions that may help us to live in harmony with Earths season of Late Summer.<br />
<br />
- Be thoughtful of how we can nourish others!<br />
- Be conscious of the harvest in our life!<br />
- Consider what we need to do to make ready for the letting go of autumn.<br />
- Enjoy the abundance! </div><br />
<strong>References:</strong><br />
Connelly, Dianne M. (1994) Traditional Acupuncture The Law of the Five Elements. 2nd Edition.<br />
Maryland, U.S.A.: Tai Sophia Institute<br />
<br />
Worsley, J.R. (1998) Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials.<br />
J.R. & J.B. Worsley<br />
<br />
<strong>Bibliogrpahy<br />
</strong>College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Notes.<br />
<br />
Franglen, Nora (2001) Simple Guide to Using Acupuncture.<br />
Kent, England: Global Books Ltd.<br />
<br />
Herrmann, Christa-Maria (2000) The Five Elements Volume 1.<br />
Coventry, England: Paul Coughlin Ltd.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-76206725452114068052010-07-19T20:54:00.003+01:002010-07-19T21:09:56.792+01:00More is less<span style="font-family:georgia;">I can recall a lecturer at college saying something akin to 'the more we know, the less we know!'. We I can certainly resonate wth that expression at the moment. There are perhaps two sides to this, like all great duality, yin and yang. One side, and the one that I don't like the feel of, is that there is so much I don't know that I sometimes feel overwhelmed and insignificant. The other side is that I feel humbled and grateful that there is so much more to learn and experience!</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">I recently had that 'overwhelmed' feeling (again!), and whilst at mass last Sunday was struck by something the priest shared in his thoughts about the gospel. It basically broke down to 'keep it simple' when it comes to spending time in God's pressence. It struck me that this principle is also valid for my practice and development. If I over complicate, over theorise, over analyse etc., in short get attached to my thoughts and ego processes I become distracted from the simple beauty of nature and its natural energy available to me via Classical Five-Element Acupuncture when I 'get out of my head and come to my senses'. There will always be so much I won't know, and what I do know is what I currently have to work with!!!</span><br /><br />It is said the great acupuncture masters knew which single acupuncture point was required by the patient. A simple treatment but getting to that place where that simple treatment is revealed to me is a lifelong journey and a destination I may, or may not reach. I hope to remember to stop and smell the roses along the way.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-50698812835184449962010-07-06T23:04:00.000+01:002010-07-06T23:06:11.896+01:00Advice for living in harmony with SummerBelow are some suggestions for tending our Fire during the Summer season:<br /><br />1: Have fun on a regular basis. Make this a priority, which may require we schedule time for fun!<br /><br />2: Share some of yourself with others. Take time to listen. Look inside your heart and find out what you have to give to others unconditionally.<br /><br />3: Live your passion, whatever it may be, e.g. song writing, hill walking, photography. If you don’t know what your special passion is, be willing to admit that you don’t – in the meantime, stay amused and keep looking!<br /><br />4: Get physical. Get into your body and out of your head. Love, exercise, dance, run, play. Get your circulation going.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-14801747886495559062010-07-06T14:29:00.001+01:002010-07-06T14:52:24.824+01:00Styles Apart!As a relative new comer to the world of acupuncture practice I've been a bit surprised by the variations/styles/approaches......, call them what you will, to acupuncture. It sometimes seems that beneath the title of acupuncture, which I suspect the majority of prospective patients have a far simpler viewpoint of, there exists a labyrinth of ideas, theories and devotees. The public I think really only sees the tip of the iceberg in being aware of "Acupuncture" in its widest meaning. The term Traditional Acupuncture gets a lot of use but I for one am never clear as to what that means any more. Even more fuzzy to me is the term TCM. The boundaries and scopes of these widely used terms seem to bend and assume a different form depending upon where the practitioner has received schooling. Perhaps one persons meat is another persons poison and the patient may feel more at home with one practitioner than another. As a for instance see the article at:<br /><a href="http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32238">http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=32238</a><br /><br />One might argue that the results the patient experiences, hopefully a permanent relief from whatever is troubling them, is what is important and how this is realised via whatever variation/style/approach of acupuncture is then irrelevant. But perhaps not as there seems to be more and more interest in applying research to understand how acupuncture works. Then perhaps the 'flavour' of acupuncture utilised may look more favourable.<br /><br />It strikes me that some practitioners are mixing and matching various protocols, techniques etc. from various sources as they feel they are most appropriate to various conditions.<br /><br />Initially I felt uneasy about sticking to one 'approach' in case I was possibly not serving my patients as best as they could be served. A few years on I'm more at peace within myself now about using as clear a transmission as I can of Classical Five-Element Acupuncture. It is, in my opinion and experience, in many ways a simple, but powerful system of medicine. One can never stop learning nor always have something new to learn. One of the main reasons for this is that each patient is seen as a unique creation and therefore a combination of Qi and experiences that no-oneelse can claim. Treatments are therefore unique to and for the patient. <br /><br />So I've come to recognise there are many paths up the same mountain. My journey is along the Classical Five-Element Acupuncture path. To paraphrase what I heard a master practitioner say "It's not the only way, but its the way we love!". Amen to that.<br /><br />For those who wish to learn more about how various approaches/styles, concepts etc. to acupuncture, evolved in the West, the following book provides a robust and objective background:<br /><br />Eckman, Peter (1996) In The Footsteps Of The Yellow Emperor.San Francisco: Cypress Book Company.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-53459942357185954192010-02-06T19:16:00.000+00:002010-02-06T19:27:12.009+00:00Living in harmony with SpringHere are some suggestions for living in harmony with the Spring season:<br /><br />1. Start the day early, with a brisk walk. Allow the muscles and tendons in your body to start stretching again. As you walk observe the life within you and around you. Make a garden. Eat greens.<br /><br />2. Begin new things – at home, in your work and in yourself. Just as nature reinvents itself use this time to see people and situations around you with new eyes. Let new tissue grow over old hurts, and take fresh hope. Be creative. Make things, do things. Begin! <br /> <br />3. Consider how you wish to make ready for Summer harvest. As Spring won’t last forever use it’s bountiful energy wisely so that the seeds you sow – again, in yourself, in your work, and in your life – are those you wish to harvest. Use the energy of vision that Spring brings.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-33136095052444288072010-02-04T16:35:00.000+00:002010-02-04T16:45:40.237+00:00<strong>Introduction</strong><br />This paper is a brief exploration of the concept of the model of the Five Elements and the Twelve Officials, and the interrelationships between them, as understood in traditional acupuncture theory. Having read this paper it is expected that the reader, will have an appreciation of the insights into human health and disease, which the “Five Elements” and the “Twelve Officials” offer.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Origins</strong><br />Prior to the development of the concept of the Five Elements the Chinese had already developed more fundamental concepts in relation to Oriental Medicine such as the Dao and Yin/Yang. Indeed a more formal title ascribed to the Five Elements is “Five Transformations of Yin/Yang”. This is being illustrated to show, albeit very briefly, a development path to the Five Elements.<br /><br />The Five Elements are a translation of the Chinese term ‘wu xing’. <br /> <br /><br />Wu is the number five, and xing means “walk”, “move”, “fundamental processes”, “agents”, “interactive phases”, “transformations”, or “powers” . Wu xing has other translations associated with it including “Five Phases”, “Five Moons”, “Five Movements” and “Five Cycles”. We find can the Five Elements mentioned in various Chinese classics including the Book of History and the Book of Rites both of which are at least as old as the fifth century B.C., and the Five Elements are embedded in the very fabric of the Nei Jing, (The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine), the most classical of all books about acupuncture. <br /> <br />Irrespective of the translation of ‘wu xing’ we are attracted to there are some important points to remain aware of from a traditional acupuncture theory point of view. In ‘Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials’ professor J.R. Worsley states<br /><br />“The ancient Chinese never saw the Elements as five distinct ‘things’ or ‘types of matter’ because ultimately there is only one Qi energy and one Dao.” <br /><br />And also states<br /><br />“When we look at the individual Elements, therefore, we always have to keep in our minds that we are looking only at parts of a much bigger picture.”<br /><br />Also worth noting at this point is that when any of the Elements become distressed, it will lead to some degree of imbalance in the Qi of the body, mind or spirit. Diagnosis of the source of the energetic imbalance is made from observation of four primary correspondences linked to each Element. These will be discussed later in this paper in the section entitled ‘Correspondences’.<br /><br /><br /><strong>The Five Elements</strong><br />If we observe nature, and in particular the seasons, we cannot fail to notice that there are major changes of quality and function of energy throughout the year. The Chinese observed that there were five major changes and described them as the following five seasons, Spring, Summer, Late Summer, Autumn and Winter. The Chinese associated an elemental name with each of the seasons which described the quality of the Qi for that particular season., see table 1 below.<br /><br /><strong>Season Element</strong><br />Spring Wood<br />Summer Fire<br />Late Summer Earth<br />Autumn Metal<br />Winter Water<br />Table 1: Seasons and associated elements<br /><br />The associated season gives us a clue to the inherent quality of the Qi during a particular season. A brief overview of the quality of Qi associated with each season is described in the following paragraphs.<br /><br /><strong>Wood/Spring</strong><br />Spring is a time of birth and regeneration. There is tremendous energy about as unlike any other time of year as for example seeds thrust through the earth with remarkable strength. There is a sense of possibilities and a future in the air. Words commonly associated with this season are ‘birth’, ‘growth’, ‘regeneration’, ‘future’, ‘vision’, ‘hope’, ‘activity’, ‘vitality’ and ‘exuberance’.<br /><br /><strong>Fire/Summer</strong><br />Summer is a time of blossoming and ripening. The energetic growth of spring slows down. It represents the zenith of the year’s energetic cycle. Days are longer and the warmth that is present spills into relationships. Love is in the air! <br /><br /><strong>Earth/Late Summer</strong><br />Late Summer is a time between the transformation of the yang cycle of energy which began in spring and peaks in summer into the yin cycle of which commences with autumn. It is a time characterised by the words ‘nourishment’ and ‘harvest’. It is a time for reflection upon the activities of the summer and an opportunity to appreciate them. <br /> <br /><strong>Metal/Autumn</strong><br />Autumn is a time of decline and death. Nature let’s go and stops hanging on to the life and the warmth of summer. Energy starts to move downward and there is an increasing stillness. The decay process serves an important role in providing nutrients for next year’s growth.<br /><br /><strong>Water/Winter</strong><br />Winter is a time when life seems to have stopped. The energy of the year is at its low point. The stage is being prepared for the start of the energetic growth in spring. Life is still present but is hidden underground. It is a time of endurance and survival. There is a determination to make it through the winter.<br /><br />Having looked at the quality of the Qi present in each season and it’s corresponding Element we are now prepared to look at the relationship of the Elements to each other.<br /><br /><br /><strong>The Relationship of the Elements</strong><br />The movement of Qi throughout the seasons is mirrored in the Elements. If any of the seasons is too dominant or too weak, the whole annual cycle will be affected as result. The same is true of the Elements. There two primary cycles which illustrate the relationships of the Elements, the Sheng cycle and the Ke (sometimes referred to as K’o) cycle. <br /><br />The Sheng cycle is a cycle of creation and nourishment. It represents the natural flow order and progression of energy flow between the Elements. This is represented in figure 1 by the circle linking each Element with arrows showing clockwise flow of energy Each Element depends for its very existence on its predecessor for its birth and nourishment. For example we use wood to nourish a fire. The Sheng cycle also illustrates for us a natural law of nature called the Law of the Mother/Child. Each Element is a mother to the child Element which follows it in the Sheng cycle. So for example, Fire is the mother of Earth and a child of Wood. If any one of the elements is out of balance we can expect that all Elements, especially the following one, will be affected in turn. It is important however to note that effects of an energetic imbalance in an Element if only a manifestation of disease and distress and not a reliable sign of its true cause!.<br /><br />The Ke cycle,is a controlling cycle. Growth and change do not run unchecked in nature and the Ke cycle reflects this relationship between the elements. This is represented in figure 1 by the lines drawn between alternate Elements, arrowed to indicate a clockwise movement. For example Earth controls Water. Visualise the banks of a river, which channel and contain the flow.<br /><br />The flow of Qi in the human body is along meridians, which are linked to various major organs in the body. The Chinese linked these organs to the Five Elements and called them “The Twelve Officials”. These are discussed in the next section of this paper.<br /><br /><br /><strong>The Twelve Officials</strong><br />The Chinese view of the Elements at work inside the body is akin to the Officials, Ministers of an Imperial court. The titles and functions of the twelve officials are given in Su Wen 8. Each organ is known as being Yin/Zang or Yang/Fu. The internal, predominantly Yin organs are known as the Zang, (viscera), the solid, mass, blood-filled organs, also known as the “treasure organs”. These organs are principally concerned with the production, transformation and regulation of the Qi energy which the body uses. The external, predominantly Yang organs are known as the Fu (bowels) organs, which are hollow, “workshop” organs. These organs are considered to be more concerned with the storage and excretion of the raw materials and waste of the body’s processes. The name ‘hollow’ attributed to them, because at various times they are without any contents, whereas the same could never be said of the predominantly yin organs.<br /><br />In <em>‘Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials’ </em>professor J.R. Worsley states<br /><br />“The great importance and value of the concept of the Officials lies in two simple statements: no Official can do the job of any other, and every single Official depends on the functions of the others in order to carry out its own tasks”. <br /> <br />The Officials also share the relationships of the Elements in the Sheng and Ke cycles. There is an inner cycle of the yin Officials and an outer circle of the yang Officials. Both type of organs are subject to the law of the Mother/Child. <br />For example if the Lung (Zang/Yin) official is in imbalance it could point to the Spleen as the Mother of the Lung or the Kidney as Child of the Lung, which shows the main distress. If the Large Intestine (Fu/Yang) organ is in imbalance it could point to the Stomach as the Mother of the Large Intestine or the Bladder as Child of the Large Intestine, which shows the main distress.<br /><br />It is important to note that in relation to the Ke cycle only the predominantly yin Official of the two Officals of the Element exercises control over the predominantly yin Official of the Element across the Ke cycle.<br /><br />So having established the relationships of the Elements and their Officials one might ask how can we use this information to diagnose ill health in a patient? This is explored in the next section entitled Correspondences.<br /><br /><strong>Correspondences</strong><br />The correspondences represent the visible aspects of the Elements. When someone’s energy is blocked, weakened, or over-active this will become apparent in the basic diagnostic signs of colour, sound odour and emotion.<br />These four elemental correspondences are used for establishing the Causative Factor of a patient’s imbalance. In <em>‘Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials’</em>, it is stated that “The Causative Factor is the name given to the one Element whose weakness, whether congenital or caused in early childhood, is the key to all the patterns of disharmony within the body, mind and spirit.” (J.R. & J.B. Worsley 1998). <br /><br /><strong>Conclusion</strong><br />In conclusion this paper on the Five Elements and The Twelve Officials has provided the reader with a historical perspective on the origins of these two fundamental concepts of oriental medicine. The paper then went on to explore the Five Elements and the quality of Qi associated with each Element. This was followed by a look at the relationships, which exist between the Elements in particular the Sheng and Ke cycles. The Twelve Officials were introduced and linked to the relationships of the elements. The relationships and interdependence of the Twelve Elements was also examined. Finally the application of Correspondences to diagnose energetic imbalance in a patient with particular attention to the four principal correspondences used to determine the Causative Factor, the root of ill health in a patient, sound, colour, odour and emotion. <br /><br /> <br /><br />References:<br />Worsley, J.R. (1998) Classical Five-Element Acupuncture™ Volume III The Five Elements and The Officials.<br />J.R. & J.B. Worsley<br /><br /><br /><br />Bibliogrpahy<br />College of Traditional Acupuncture (2005) Blue Group S2005 Session Notes.<br /><br />Eckman, Peter (1996) In The Footsteps Of The Yellow Emperor.<br />San Francisco: Cypress Book Company<br /><br />Kaptchuk, Ted J (1983) The Web that has no Weaver.<br />London: Rider<br /><br />Mole, Peter (1992) Acupuncture energy balancing for body, mind & spirit.<br />Longmead, Shaftesbury, Dorset: Element Books Limited<br /><br />Veith, Ilza (2002) The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Internal Medicine.<br />London: University of California Press, Ltd.5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-762054952435017651.post-83768320069991296532010-01-21T14:40:00.000+00:002010-01-21T14:49:48.032+00:00Winter lessons!Winter weather this year in Dublin brought with it some reminders of the experiences of the winter season which all too often we forget due to our normally milder winters. The emotion assoicated with winter in Classical Five-Element Acupuncture is fear. This becomes more of a reality for us when the snow and ice prevent us from travelling in the relative safety we are used too. There is the fear of falling on the frozen snow and possibly breaking bones. People used to and in some parts of the world still need to store food and provisions to survive winter. We are possibly all too used to just shopping at the local supermarket to 'pick up' what we want. The snow after a while began to threaten deliveries so shelves were left empty. Did you feel at any level your survival was a little challenged by all this?5 Element Acupuncture Dublinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09849241171924761481noreply@blogger.com0