In Chinese medicine, seasonal treatments occurring during the beginning of each season will help keep a person’s immune system strong. In addition to the four seasons, there also exists 24 periods or festivals within Chinese astrology, that are designated either Yin or Yang. Since Chinese medicine emphasizes balance of the Yin and Yang energies of the body, those who receive acupuncture treatments during these pivotal points in the natural energetic cycles of the body, tend to have less incidence of compromised health. These festivals are dependent on the Chinese New Year and occur about every 15 days and are based on a combination of both the solar and lunar months.
These natural cycles are similar to circadian rhythms. Chinese medicine has several interactive cycles. One cycle repeats every 60 years and is rooted in the concept of Yin, Yang, Chinese 5 Element theory and the Chinese astrological animal. Since 2005 is a Green Rooster year, the next Green Rooster year will not occur until 2065. An example of a shorter cycle is the concept of the Chinese clock. It recognizes that certain times of the day are either Yin or Yang and that specific organs are related, energetically, with specific periods of the day. For instance, the Liver is associated with the period between 1-3 AM and is responsible for patients who have difficulty sleeping during this time and afterwards.
When we begin to observe and respect the natural cycles that govern both the natural world, as well as our own lives, we can begin to maximize our health and wellness.
Meridian Harmonics