Do you mind?

Did you know that many chronic healthcare problems are attributed to the workings of our mind? Our thoughts can actually make us ill and according to many experts, often do. So, what gives? In Chinese Medicine we say that disease arises from stagnant Qi (chee), the body's bio-electrical energy that drives organ/gland function, allowing us to stay warm, think, ward off disease, talk, move, etc. When Qi doesn't move smoothly, dis-ease/poor health ensues. The mind/thoughts are related to this process and may be best understood through this old Chinese adage: The Qi goes where the mind goes. A more descriptive explanation involves understanding how energy corresponds with various emotions. For example: Joy moves energy upwards and outwards, pensiveness exhausts energy, grief depresses energy, fear moves energy inwards, and anger/frustration/resentment stagnate energy. If you stop and think about all the times that we are "glass half full" kind of folks, it might make one ponder about the consequences of our chosen attitudes. And I will raise the bar...our choice of words. The brain hears what you say, even when you think you don't mean it or are saying it in jest. I would suggest that you start listening to yourself and what words you use; how do you respond to the question: How are you? Do you say: "GREAT!" or do you find yourself always saying: "Oh, I'm ok..." Now, I realize that it might not contribute to your well-being to become a liar, but learn to speak from your heart and be honest with your feelings. It is a great thing to feel "GREAT!" And sometimes, it will serve you to smile and say so, even when it might be a bit of an exaggeration. Stand back and watch yourself, like you are seeing yourself on TV. What is your body language saying, what words are you using, are you being angry and judgmental? You can instantly correct with the use of self-checks, and remember, it is a decision that will lead to a healthier and happier you.