by Gina Marie Cronin
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the heart, xin in Chinese, houses shen—the “spirit” or “mind”—explains Joseph Cheung, physical arts director at New York College of Health Professions. If an individual’s heart energy is strong, not only is his or her body strong, but so is the individual’s spirit and mind. If the heart is deficient and the blood doesn’t pump optimally, the person’s spirit may be weak. This is often signaled by dull eyes, pale skin and feeble limbs.
Heart Meridian. The heart meridian has nine points that start in the axillary under the armpit and go all the way to the tip of the pinky. A related meridian is the pericardium meridian, which is physically a membrane that surrounds and protects the heart, which starts on the chest and continues on the medial side of the arm to the middle finger. In energy healing, pericardium 8 on the palm is a very significant energy point and is utilized to balance energy of the heart, mind and spirit.
The Secret. According to Cheung, the best things one can do for one’s heart are:
- Qi Gong and Tai Chi. very important because if one moves energy in the body, it strengthens the energy of the heart. The blood carries qi, or life force energy, so when one circulates one’s blood, one improves one’s energy flow and, ultimately, one’s state of mind. Tai chi is a movement-based, gentle martial art. Qigong is the “yin” to tai chi’s “yang” as it is more stationary, utilizing meditation and deep-breathing techniques.
- Acupuncture. When an acupuncturist takes a pulse, he or she can feel the state of the heart. This holistic treatment can target points in the body where qi is blocked and release stagnation and tension throughout one’s physical, emotional and spiritual systems.
- De-Stress. Anxiety is the main factor that affects a person’s heart, spirit and psychology. Any way that an individual can breathe and relieve stress at work or in everyday life can help enrich his or her heart.
- Be Happy. Have a positive outlook on life and understand that whatever happens, happens.
Like the panda says to the peacock in Kung Fu Panda 2, Cheung reflects, “You’ve got to let go of the stuff from past—because it just doesn’t matter! The only thing that matters is what you choose to be now.” Just let it go and be happy. That is the secret to life and to a healthy and vibrant heart, mind and spirit.
Joseph Cheung is the physical arts director at New York College of Health Professions, in Syosset and multiple locations in Manhattan. To learn more about degree programs in massage therapy, acupuncture and Oriental medicine, visit www.nycollege.edu
Gina Marie Cronin is a staff writer for Natural Awakenings Long Island, as well as a meditation practitioner and guide.
