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Do you ever feel like you have trouble focusing? In conversation with a friend and suddenly you cannot remember a name or word you should know? Do you notice a loved one’s memory slipping more often? 

While some of these instances are common in most people from time to time – if this had become the norm, you may be suffering from a certain level of decline in your cognitive function. Cognitive functioning refers to multiple mental abilities, including learning, thinking, reasoning, remembering, problem-solving, decision-making, and attention. When it comes to the body, the central nervous system is where you need to focus attention to attend to a person’s cognitive function. 

Knowing this, we utilize scalp and spinal acupuncture to stimulate cognitive function at Earley Wellness. While this process is effective, it is not the sole part of the body that impact your cognitive function. Below we will discuss more of how the Heart Meridian and Kidney Meridian impact your nervous system and how these part of your body can be aided through the use of acupuncture and Chinese medicine to help optimize your brain power through a treatment approach that incorporates different modalities, including nutritional support.

1. The Heart Meridian: Blood/Shen

According to Science Direct, the Heart Meridian originates in the Heart and spreads over the 'Heart system,' which includes the pericardium, arteries, nerves and tissues around the heart, and descends through the diaphragm to connect with the Small Intestine. The heart meridian system’s function is to constantly pump blood throughout the body to bring oxygen and vital substances throughout but most specifically to the brain. The heart meridian also has another important responsibility when supporting brain function: to house the Shen.

Shen is roughly translated as the “spirit” or “presence” of a person. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shen is “a look behind the eyes,” or the presence of “light in the eyes.” It is associated with consciousness, and the capacity of the mind to form ideas and the desire to live life. Oftentimes those who struggle with cognitive function are said to have “tired eyes” or to be “blood tired” which is often caused by an iron deficiency. Through a combination of acupuncture and Chinese herbs, we can help to balance these level to combat the symptoms of being “blood tired”.

2. The Kidney Meridian: Jing/Stress

According to Science Direct, The Kidney meridian acts on the torso as para-axial lines of control over the ventral midline. From the leg, the meridian is said to touch the tip of the coccyx, then continues via a deep extension to the pubis where it is said to emerge. The kidney meridian contributes to a healthy brain as it supplies a vital substance called Jing. Jīng is the Chinese word for "essence", specifically kidney essence. Along with qì and shén, it is considered one of the Three Treasures. Jing is a unique, fundamental substance necessary for human life. It is theorized that a person is born with a fixed amount of jīng and individuals can also acquire jīng from food and various forms of stimulation. Acupuncture, Herbs, Qi Gong, Food, Sleep all can assist in nourishing and replenishing your deep Jing that is often challenged and depleted in activities we deem “stressful”.

Disharmony of the mind often manifests as anxiety, insomnia, muddled thinking, forgetfulness and chronic restlessness. Meditation and acupuncture, herbal medicine, as well as diet and physical exercises (Tai Chi, Yoga, Qi Gong), being engaged with nature (hiking, Kayaking, swimming, biking) can balance and strengthen the mind.

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Deb and her staff at Earley Wellness are committed to supporting you in finding relief and guiding you through Traditional Chinese Medicine techniques. At Earley Wellness Group we're here for you every step of the way.