Central to Traditional Chinese Medical theory is the notion that the Heart is the regulator of the entire human being. Like the other Viscera in Chinese medicine, the notion of the Heart is not confined to its anatomical dimensions though it includes them. The physical heart is felt also along its meridian energetically and has a specific emotional and mental function. The heart houses the shen, also translated as spirits, which are said to give purpose and meaning to human life and to all life. This view of a spiritual heart at the core of life is not unique to ancient China but was also observed in ancient India. Consider the following quote, thousands of years old from the Upanishads:

“Radiant in light, yet invisible in the secret most place of the heart, the spirit is the supreme abode wherein dwell all that move and breathe and see, know this as all that is and all that is not and end of love longing beyond all understanding, the highest in all beings.”

Want to read more? Suscribe to New Life Journal.

Home