The Meaning of Blood in Chinese medicine

In Chinese medicine, the Meaning of Blood goes far beyond its Western medical understanding. While ancient practitioners, over 3,000 years ago, didn’t have the scientific tools we have today, they still made profound observations about the role of Blood in supporting health and happiness.

Blood is one of the core components of Chinese medicine, alongside Yin, Yang, and Qi. In fact, Blood is seen as a special form of Qi — a very Yin type of Qi, heavy and dense.

Without Qi, blood would be just an inert fluid, but Qi infuses it with vitality and life. This is a key distinction between Chinese and Western perspectives on Blood.

Chinese medicine considers Blood essential for personality, thought, and mental clarity. It plays a crucial role in concentration, sleep, and emotional well-being.

Acupuncturists often focus on Blood when treating a range of issues, including fertility challenges, menstrual irregularities, and skin conditions.

Blood nourishes and moistens, which is why problems like vision issues and ligament pain can arise from Blood deficiency.

Blood is the Basis for a Healthy Mind

An essential belief in Chinese medicine is that when Blood is in harmony, the Mind has a stable “residence” making Blood integral to mental health and emotional balance.

Many childhood mental health problems stem from deficient Blood. (We’ve got a page on ADHD but it’s quite a long read!)

So how do you cultivate good-quality Blood?

This starts with the right food — appropriately chosen, properly prepared, and thoroughly chewed. Acupuncturists often spend considerable time helping patients select and cook foods that suit their unique metabolisms.

Beyond dietary advice, acupuncturists work to relieve digestive discomfort, such as bloating and cramps, to ensure the body can effectively process nutrients and build better Blood.

When Blood is abundant and balanced, it leads to better sleep — an improvement that can profoundly enhance overall health, mood, and energy levels. Healthy Blood boosts resistance to illness, gives skin a radiant glow, and adds a bright spark to the eyes.

This introduction to the Meaning of Blood

Today’s introduction to the Meaning of Blood in Chinese medicine stands on its own but will resonate even more deeply for those who have attended our sessions on Food Energetics and the Five Elements. Understanding Blood in this way connects it to a broader system of holistic health, guiding you toward a more harmonious and balanced life.

Handouts will be available for those attending in person, but bring pen and notepaper!

(As mentioned, we have other sessions explaining Chinese medicine, such as on Cupping (November 16th 2024), Food Energy (December 14th 2024), The Five Elements (January 18^th 2025), and the Chinese Medicine Body Clock (February 22nd 2025).

Date: Saturday 22^nd March 2025

Place: 1 Cockburn Halls, Ormiston, East Lothian, EH35 5LS

Time: 10am – 1pm

Book: HERE!

or

https://buytickets.at/scottishcollegeforchinesemedicine/1426927

Access: plenty of free car parking spaces nearby, and Lothian Bus 113 comes direct from Central Edinburgh twice hourly.