Lesson 14: Outer world and how it influences us?
There are five external factors that directly impact our overall energy Qi: Wind, Heat, Damp, Dryness and Cold. When in moderation, these factors cause no harm to our body, especially when our vital energy is strong and vigorous.
According to the individual’s affinity with a particular element, each external factor may be more or less dangerous.
Wind is the climate associated with Wood. Wood types often experience various pain sensations when exposed for a longer time to extreme wind.
Excessive heat can hurt the Fire types, excess dampness (humidity) may create problems for the Earth types, extremely dry weather can adversely affect Metal types and extreme cold damages Water energy.
It is important to remember that these five influences may also come from within, creating internal climate conditions. Emotions that affect different organ systems will generate these climate conditions within.
WIND
When the wind invades the body, the symptoms migrate from place to place, just as the wind blows unpredictable in nature.
How to generally recognize a wind invasion:
- sore muscles
- muscle spasms and twitches
- itchy and sensitive skin (acne, rashes, boils)
- joint pain
- numbness
- headaches
If the wind reaches on of the main five organs, it will cause the following symptoms:
- The lungs: coughing and shortness of breath
- The heart: speech disturbances and dry lips/tongue
- The liver: dry throat and sudden anger
- The spleen: heavy limbs, lack of appetite, fatigue
- The kidneys: back pain and urinary problems
HEAT
Associated with the fire element and summer, the hear affects mainly the heart, creating irritability and disturbed sleep.
How to recognize a heat invasion:
- sore throat
- swollen glands
- low-grade fever
- dry mouth
- dark urine
- skin eruptions
- rapid pulse
- red or swollen tongue
- painful joints
- extreme thirst
- strong craving for cold beverages of cold climates
Extreme heat will disturb the blood, causing it to flow too fast, overflowing its natural boundaries producing: nosebleeds, bleeding gums, excessive bruising or hemorrhages.
DAMP
Dampness is associated with the Earth element, and therefore it affects mostly the spleen.
How to recognize a damp invasion:
- feeling of fullness and heaviness
- oily skin
- sticky perspiration
- water retention
- swollen joints
Damp rarely appears alone. It is usually linked to cold, heat or wind, therefore the symptoms must be taken into consideration by being associated with the rest of the influences.
DRY
Dryness is associated with the Metal energy and autumn season. Hot weather and dry winds can create external dryness.
How to recognize a dry invasion:
- dry, brittle nails/hair
- dry mouth
- dry nasal passages
- dry skin
- dry irritated eyes
- dry cough
- constipation
- low flow of urine
- lack of vaginal lubrication
COLD
Cold is associated with the Water element and the season of winter.
How to recognize a cold invasion:
- feeling of cold
- issues with urinary bladder or kidneys
- stiff shoulders
- toothaches
- kidney stones
- severe lower back pain
- prostate problems
- lack of stamina