Dr. Sang Nguyen, L.Ac
“Shock is a critical condition brought on by the sudden drop in blood flow through the body” explained by the Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-shock/basics/art-20056620). Shock can derive from an experience, such as a family member dying, divorce, car accident, allergic reaction, etc. Trauma/shock can also affect the Kidneys, making them deficient. These could lead to physiological disturbance, and/or hormone imbalance, and may drain the way the energy (qi) and blood circulate in the body. In TCM, shock is associated with the Heart qi. When it is deficient, it depletes the peripheral circulation. Heart qi deficiency combined with KD deficiency can lead to amenorrhea, irregular menstruation, and erectile dysfunction, which aggravate by obstructing energy.
A shock, which happened during childhood may also influence health many years later in life if it was not taken care of properly.
Primary symptoms to look for with Heart Qi disturbance: unsettled sleep, anxiety, talkativeness, and palpitation;
Secondary symptoms to look for with KD def: poor stamina, low energy, soreness or weakness in the lower back, creating dark color under the eyes.
When the Kidneys and Heart do not communicate or work synergistically, insomnia may happen.
What can we do?
Use acupuncture and herbal medicine to nourish heart blood, support Kidneys, calm the spirit, and resolve Heart Qi stagnation.
What can you do to avoid or manage these manifestations?
Spend time hiking or in nature to reground yourself.
Practice meditation, QiGong, and Yoga to help calm the mind.
Use Acupressure by applying firm pressure for 3 -5 minutes daily on KD 4 and HT 7; follow with essential oil on these points.
Note: KD 4 (Da Zhong: Great Bell) locates on the medial side of the ankle and the anterior border of the Achilles tendon.
HT 7 (Shen Men: Spirit Gate) locates on the radial side, at the wrist joint.