Emotions & Organs
A foundational pillar of Earthy Plate is the belief in the profound connection between mind, body, and nutrition. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) shows us this interplay, emphasizing how our emotions are intricately and specifically linked to our organs. By understanding these relationships, we move towards deeper balance within ourselves.
The Five Emotions and Their Corresponding Organs
1. Anger – Liver
Impact: Excessive anger can disrupt the liver's function, potentially leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or high blood pressure.
Balance Tip: Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and consuming calming foods can help soothe the liver.
Liver-Friendly Foods: Incorporating green, leafy vegetables and sour-tasting foods to support liver health.
2. Joy – Heart
Impact: While joy is beneficial, excessive excitement or stimulation can overburden the heart, possibly causing insomnia or restlessness.
Balance Tip: Maintaining emotional equilibrium and engaging in calming activities support heart health.
Heart Health: Including whole grains and naturally sweet foods to nourish the heart.
3. Worry – Spleen
Impact: Overthinking or chronic worry can impair the spleen's role in digestion, leading to fatigue or digestive issues.
Balance Tip: Mindful eating and stress-reduction techniques can strengthen spleen function.
Spleen Support: Offering easily digestible meals with warm, cooked foods to aid the spleen.
4. Sadness/Grief – Lungs
*Impact: Prolonged grief can weaken lung function, manifesting as shortness of breath or lowered immunity.
Balance Tip: Breathing exercises and expressing emotions healthily can bolster lung health.
Lung Nourishment:** Featuring white foods like pears and radishes to benefit the lungs.
5. Fear – Kidneys
Impact: Chronic fear or anxiety can deplete kidney energy, potentially causing issues like lower back pain or fatigue.
Balance Tip: Practices like qigong and adequate rest can rejuvenate kidney energy.
Kidney Strength: Providing beans and legumes to reinforce kidney function.
We want to understand and respect the connection between our physical and mental bodies. This is our path towards holistic well-being. May the journey of self-knowledge create ease towards a balanced and vibrant lifestyle.
