Emotional health and lifestyle consultations

Balancing emotions and health with Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the causes of disease are traditionally classified into three categories: external, internal, and lifestyle-related. External causes include environmental factors such as climate changes and viruses, which can contribute to illness.

Internal causes are primarily emotional, affecting the body’s balance and overall health. The third category encompasses lifestyle factors such as diet, work habits, stress, and sleep patterns, which also play a crucial role in maintaining well-being.

While the impact of external factors like viruses and lifestyle habits on health has long been understood, the connection between emotions and physical health has only been more widely acknowledged in recent decades. Scientific research now supports the idea that emotional distress, especially prolonged or unresolved emotional turmoil, can lead to various health issues. This is where TCM’s understanding of emotional health becomes particularly valuable.

Emotions and their physical manifestations

In TCM, emotions are not viewed as inherently negative but rather as natural parts of the human experience. However, when emotions become unbalanced, they can manifest physically in the body. Different emotional states affect specific parts of the body, and understanding these connections can help in both identifying and treating underlying imbalances.

• Worry, for example, is often felt in the stomach, leading to sensations like "butterflies in the stomach," which can be linked to digestive issues.

• Anxiety is typically experienced in the chest area, leading to feelings of tightness and palpitations, often affecting the heart.

• Stress and Frustration can turn into anger, which is associated with heat rising to the head, leading to irritability or "hot-headed" reactions.

When these emotions are not managed properly over time, they can cause both mental and physical exhaustion, disrupting the body's natural harmony.

Yangsheng: Nourishing life for balance and longevity

To support emotional and physical health, TCM offers the concept of Yangsheng, or “nourishing life,” which focuses on maintaining balance and promoting longevity. This holistic approach emphasises four key pillars that are interrelated: mind, body, diet, and sleep. According to the ancient principles of Yangsheng, all four of these elements must be given equal attention in order to achieve long-lasting health.

The wisdom of Yangsheng has stood the test of time, with its core principles remaining highly relevant today. Scientific studies have even found evidence supporting many of the insights found in Chinese medical practices, such as the importance of balanced sleep, nutritious food, and emotional stability. By integrating these principles into daily life, individuals can foster emotional balance and significantly improve their physical health.

Personalised consultations for emotional health and well-being

At 8Branches, we offer Emotional Health and Lifestyle Consultations that help clients navigate the complexities of emotional and physical health through the lens of TCM. Our consultations are designed to support you in integrating the four pillars of Yangsheng into your life. By focusing on small, manageable changes, we aim to restore balance and vitality, allowing you to feel your best, both mentally and physically.

During the initial consultation, we conduct a thorough review of your health and lifestyle, looking at both physical and emotional aspects of your well-being. Using the diagnostic principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, we identify the areas that may be contributing to any imbalances. Follow-up sessions are tailored to focus on each of the four pillars, helping you make meaningful, individualised improvements to your daily routine.

Packages and pricing:

• Health and Lifestyle Package: £175

  • Initial consultation (1.5 hours)

  • 5 follow-up sessions (1 hour each)

• Individual Consultations: £40 per session

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a more balanced and healthy life. Whether in-person or online, we offer flexible options to suit your needs.