Bills, work, the future. When worries keep circling in your head, your stomach ties itself in knots too. TCM has a name for this: “overthinking harms the Spleen.”
Maybe you know the feeling: you replay the same thing over and over until you can't eat, and when you do eat, you feel bloated. Then you lie down at night and your mind is more awake than it was all day.
The Spleen is your body's cooking pot
In TCM, the Spleen and Stomach belong to the Earth element. Their job is to turn the food you eat into qi and blood, which is why they're called the “foundation of postnatal life.” The emotion tied to the Spleen is pensiveness. A healthy amount of thinking is fine, but too much thinking and worrying for too long can keep that pot from “turning.” Many people notice it as a poor appetite, a bloated belly, fatigue and restless sleep.
When your body relaxes, clear choices come more easily.
A grounding ritual for nights when your mind won't quit
Sit with both feet flat on the floor and take five slow breaths down into your belly. Then press Zu San Li (ST36), four finger-widths below the kneecap, 36 times on each side. Finally, write down three small things that went well today, close the notebook and go to bed.
Earth-element scents are rich and sweet: aged tangerine peel, sandalwood, sweet orange. Breathing them in before bed is another way to help your thoughts settle down.
Shop the ritual: Abundance Ritual Set →
Keep reading
- Zu San Li (ST36): The Point Known as the “Longevity Point”
- Chinamaxxing: Why the West Is Suddenly Drinking Hot Water
- Moxibustion 101: How to Warm Up Safely at Home
We don't promise. We don't cure. We align. This article is for everyday wellness and cultural education only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a health concern, talk with your doctor first.
