In this blog, I will give an explanation for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) through the interesting and holistic lens of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory.
This is not a definitive theory.
SAD is a type of depression that typically occurs at certain times of the year, most commonly in the autumn and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. While the conventional understanding of SAD often emphasises the role of reduced sunlight exposure and its impact on serotonin levels, TCM offers a different perspective that encompasses not just the physical, but also the emotional and energetic aspects of us.
In TCM, the balance of Yin and Yang, the flow of Qi (vital energy), and the health of the internal organs are all considered crucial in maintaining mental health.
SAD affects a significant percentage of the population during the transition of seasons, particularly from summer to winter. Symptoms include low energy levels, irritability, and feeling stressed or depressed. Although commonly associated with winter, SAD can also occur leading into the summer season. Studies show that close to 1 in 15 individuals in the UK suffer from this form of depression, and in some cases, symptoms can last up to 40% of the year.
“Hence, the sages in spring and summer nourish the yang and in autumn and winter nourish the yin, and this way they follow their roots.” - Nei Jing
When looking at SAD from a Chinese medical framework, it is essential to first look at the concepts of Qi, Blood, and Essence, as these are fundamental elements that underpin the understanding of health and well-being in TCM.
Qi, often translated as "vital energy," is considered the life force that flows through the body, sustaining all physiological functions and maintaining balance. Qi can be affected by light, for example the length of day.
Blood, or Xue in this context, is not merely a physical substance but is also viewed as a vital component that nourishes the organs, tissues, and mind, providing the necessary nutrients and moisture that support both physical and mental health. Blood can be affected by temperature.
Essence, or Jing, is regarded as the foundational substance that governs growth, development, and reproductive health, serving as a reservoir of energy that influences one's vitality and longevity.
Understanding the interplay between Qi, Blood, and Essence is crucial when addressing SAD, particularly because this disorder can be influenced by seasonal changes that affect these vital substances. For instance, during the winter months, when sunlight is scarce, individuals may experience a decline in Qi and Blood, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, low mood, and lethargy, which are characteristic of SAD. The lack of sunlight can also disrupt the flow of Qi, resulting in stagnation that further exacerbates feelings of depression and anxiety.
In TCM, the treatment of SAD often involves strategies aimed at nourishing Qi and Blood while also tonifying Essence. This may include dietary recommendations that focus on warming foods, herbal remedies that support the spleen and kidney functions.
By addressing these foundational elements, practitioners aim to restore balance and promote emotional stability, thereby alleviating the symptoms associated with seasonal affective disorder.
Later in this piece, you will see how incorporating Zen Shiatsu treatments can help to balance your system.
Our bodies are constantly sensitive to the change in light and the atmosphere around us, responding to the subtle shifts in our environment in profound ways. As autumn gradually creeps in and we transition into the colder, harsher months of winter, a notable physiological response occurs within us. The response of our Blood is to become thicker and heavier, a natural adaptation to the changing climate and the need for our bodies to conserve heat and energy. This thickening of the Blood is not merely a physical change; it is indicative of a deeper, interconnected system at play within our bodies.
During this seasonal transition, the flow of Qi, which can be understood as the vital life force or energy that sustains our existence, also undergoes significant changes. As the Blood becomes denser, Qi must now work harder to pull this heavier substance. Consequently, both Blood and Qi begin to move at a slower rate, reflecting the lethargy often felt during the colder months. This deceleration is not just a random occurrence; it is a deliberate response to the environmental factors surrounding us, allowing our bodies to adapt and maintain balance amidst the shifting seasons.
This change in the dynamics of Blood and Qi has a knock-on effect on the influential cycle that connects Essence, Blood, Qi, and Spirit. The essence, which serves as the foundation for our vitality, influences the quality and quantity of Blood produced. In turn, Blood nourishes Qi, providing it with the necessary support to flow freely and effectively throughout the body. As the quality of Blood changes with the onset of winter, the nourishing aspect of Qi is also affected, leading to a potential stagnation in energy levels. This stagnation can impact our overall well-being, influencing not just our physical health but also our emotional and spiritual states.
Moreover, the relationship between Qi and Spirit becomes increasingly intricate during this time. As Qi slows down, the Spirit—often associated with our mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall consciousness—may also experience a shift. The interconnectedness of these elements highlights the importance of maintaining a harmonious balance within ourselves, particularly as the seasons change. If there is disharmony with the Spirit, it is unlikely to to play the vital role of creating more essences. Therefore, it becomes essential to be mindful of our lifestyle choices during this period, such as incorporating warming foods, engaging in gentle physical activity, this would include bodywork that is not over stimulating, and practicing mindfulness or meditation to support the flow of Qi and enhance our overall health. This could also include practices like Qi Gong combined with Zen Shiatsu treatments to help to balance your system.
In summary, the transition from autumn to winter serves as a reminder of our body's remarkable ability to adapt to external changes. By understanding the intricate relationships between Essence, Blood, Qi, and Spirit, we can better navigate these seasonal shifts and promote a sense of balance and well-being throughout the colder months.
Zen Shiatsu Approach to SAD
In Chinese medicine, the concept of taxation refers to the stress or burden placed on the Zang Fu, which are the vital organs and their associated functions within the body. This taxation can result from various factors, including emotional stress, physical strain, improper diet, and environmental influences. Interestingly, the effects of this taxation on the Zang Fu do not always manifest immediately or within the same season in which the taxation occurs. For instance, if an individual experiences significant stress or overexertion during the spring, the resulting impact on their liver, which is particularly sensitive during that season, may not become apparent until later in the year, such as during the summer or autumn. This delayed manifestation can be attributed to the intricate balance of the body's energy, known as Qi, and the interconnectedness of the organ systems. Each organ has its own seasonal affinity, but the repercussions of stress or taxation can ripple through the entire system, leading to imbalances that may only become evident when the body is subjected to additional seasonal changes or stressors. For example, a person may feel fatigued or emotionally unbalanced in the winter, even though the root cause of these symptoms lies in the taxation experienced during the preceding months.
Zen Shiatsu emphasises the importance of recognising these subtle shifts in health of the client, as they are indicative of deeper imbalances that may require attention. Zen Shiatsu practitioners often look at the broader context of a person's lifestyle, emotional state, and environmental factors to understand the full scope of how taxation affects the Zang Fu over time. By taking a holistic approach, we can provide more effective treatment strategies that not only address the immediate symptoms but also work to restore balance and harmony within the organ systems, ultimately promoting a better quality of life.
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