The Emotions and Traditional Chinese Medicine: How Feelings Affect Your Health

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), emotions are more than just feelings — they’re vital forces that influence our physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Each emotion is connected to a specific organ system and element, creating an intricate balance between body and mind. When emotions flow freely, we feel grounded and resilient. But when emotions are suppressed, prolonged, or excessive, they can disrupt the body’s natural harmony and contribute to physical or emotional symptoms.

Below, we’ll explore how five key emotions — grief, anger, fear, worry, and joy — connect to the body’s organ systems, and share simple acupressure points for emotional balance you can use at home.

Grief and the Lungs (Metal Element)

In TCM, grief is associated with the Lungs and the Metal element. The Lungs are our first line of defense against the outside world, responsible for circulating energy (Qi) and vitality throughout the body.

When we experience loss or sadness, it’s natural for the lungs’ energy to contract — think of the heaviness you feel in your chest when you cry. But when grief lingers or goes unexpressed, it can weaken the lungs and lead to fatigue, low immunity, or shallow breathing.

Grief also has a gift: it invites reflection, helping us release what no longer serves us and make space for what’s new.

Try this:

💧Lung 3 (Heavenly Palace) — located on the upper arm, about six inches above the elbow crease, on the outside edge of the biceps.

Gently massage this point to help process emotions, strengthen the lungs, and support self-compassion.

Anger and the Liver (Wood Element)

Anger corresponds to the Liver and the Wood element. Like trees that stretch toward the sun, the Liver’s energy thrives on smooth, upward movement. When that flow is blocked — by stress, frustration, or injustice — we feel anger, irritability, or resentment.

A healthy expression of anger can be motivating and empowering; it helps us set boundaries and take action. But when anger is suppressed or explosive, it can lead to headaches, muscle tension, digestive issues, or disturbed sleep.

Try this:

🌳 Liver 2 (Moving Between) — located between the first and second toes.

Pressing this point helps release pent-up energy, cools fiery emotions, and restores emotional balance.

Fear and the Kidneys (Water Element)

Fear is connected to the Kidneys and the Water element, which represent our deepest reserves of energy and resilience. The Kidneys store our jing, or essence — the foundation of vitality and longevity.

Prolonged fear, stress, or shock can deplete the Kidney system, leaving us feeling drained, anxious, or insecure. Conversely, when our Kidney energy is strong, we feel courageous, grounded, and adaptable.

Fear often arises when we’re called to grow — it can point us toward our purpose if we learn to listen without letting it control us.

Try this:

💧 Kidney 4 (Great Bell) — found just below the inside ankle bone, near the edge of the Achilles tendon.

Massaging this point helps calm fear, strengthen willpower, and restore a sense of inner stability.

Worry and the Spleen (Earth Element)

Worry and overthinking relate to the Spleen and the Earth element. The Spleen governs digestion — not just of food, but of thoughts and experiences.

When we ruminate or multitask excessively, the Spleen becomes overworked, leading to fatigue, digestive discomfort, brain fog, and a sense of heaviness or overwhelm.

The antidote? Mindfulness and nourishment — both physical and emotional. Try slowing down, eating without distractions, and focusing on one task at a time.

Try this:

🌾 Spleen 4 (Grandfather Grandson) — on the inner edge of the foot, just below the base of the big toe.

This point supports digestion, relieves mental strain, and promotes calm clarity.

Joy and the Heart (Fire Element)

Joy is associated with the Heart and the Fire element — the center of emotion, spirit (Shen), and consciousness. The Heart governs sleep, clarity, and our capacity for love and connection.

When joy is abundant, the Heart feels light and open. But both excessive excitement and lack of joy can disturb the Heart’s balance, leading to restlessness, anxiety, or insomnia.

True joy comes from inner peace, not constant stimulation. Rest, reflection, and time with loved ones nourish the Heart and rekindle genuine happiness.

Try this:

❤️ Heart 7 (Spirit Gate) — located at the wrist crease, just below the pinky finger.

Gently press this point to calm the spirit, ease anxiety, and promote restful sleep.

Acupuncture for Emotional Balance

Acupuncture is one of the most effective ways to support emotional well-being. By harmonizing the flow of Qi through the organ systems, it helps the body release tension, regulate the nervous system, and cultivate emotional resilience.

Whether you’re navigating grief, stress, fear, or simply feeling “off,” acupuncture offers a safe, gentle way to restore balance from the inside out.

✨ Schedule an appointment online or call us at:

• East Nashville: 615-457-1979
  
• Bellevue: 615-645-9866
  

We’re here to help you feel grounded, supported, and at peace.