In Chinese medicine, the Xin (heart) stores the Shen. Providing a residence for Shen is a great honor that only the heart holds. What is Shen? It can be described as the seat of our consciousness. Shen is used in preference to spirit since the latter implies spirit as opposed to body. In Chinese medicine, the interwoven complexity of the functional interrelationships is never separate from one another. When the Shen is harmonious, the mind is calm and peaceful, and there is clear consciousness and mental activity.
Heart and Mind Connect as One
The functions of Xin/heart are abundant, but the two functions I will write about today are the housing of Shen and the motility and sense of taste of the tongue. The tongue is said to be the mirror of the heart. The term “the language of the heart” is relevant here. How we communicate our feelings is connected to speaking and expression. How many songs are out there in the world today? How does it feel to say I love you?
On the spectrum of emotions, the heart can range anywhere from fear to elation and joy. Because our hearts traverse such a wide spectrum of emotions, I decided to post two charts with lists of the emotions we are capable of feeling over the course of one single day. In relation to the capacity we hold within the communication of the heart and mind, these lists only dip a toe into the ocean of this universe.
Feel free to download these lists and share them with friends. I find these emotional charts very helpful as guides to our emotional expanse. They can also give words to feelings, guide us in understanding, and show us how much we are capable of.
RareBird Acupuncture Emotions Chart
RareBird Acupuncture Emotions Chart 2
May your heart light sing,
Dr. Jean Loscalzo
