Everything in life strives for an even balance. The body is no different. There cannot be an excess or deficiency of one part without obvious problems occurring. To better understand the idea of excess and deficiency in terms of body and health, here are some examples:
- Agressive (excess)/Hesitant (deficiency)
- Fever (excess)/Cold extremities (deficiency)
- Obesity (excess)/Frailty (deficiency)
- Inflammation (excess)/Excess fluids (deficiency)
- Hyperactivity (excess)/Slowed reflexes (deficiency)
- Irritability (excess)/Lethargy (deficiency)
It is also necessary to understand the major difference between Western and Eastern thinking. In the West, we have a linear train of thought. If “A” happens, “B” follows. In the East, however, things are more circular. Eastern medicine is about balance and imbalance. Healthy state is achieved with steady balance. Illness can develop if the balance is disturbed for any length of time. Therefore, health is maintained by recognizing an imbalance before it becomes a disease. This concept of balance can be better explained with the concepts of Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang are opposite aspects of the universe and life. These two principles are inseparable extremes of every relationship, idea, concept and action.
Here are some examples of what is considered Yin or Yang like qualities:
- Recessive (Yin)/Active (Yang)
- Night (Yin)/Day (Yang)
- Back (Yin)/Front (Yang)
- Nurturing (Yin)/Aggressive (Yang)
- Soft (Yin)/Hard (Yang)
- Ornate (Yin)/Plain (Yang)
- Moon (Yin)/Sun (Yang)
The organs and body reflect the pairing of Yin and Yang properties, as well. Yin is processing organs: spleen, pancreas, lung, kidney, liver, heart (solid and dense). Yang is storage organs: stomach, large intestine, urinary bladder, gall bladder, small intestine (hollow and tubular).
- Yin: Excess is fluid build-up. Deficiency is constipation.
- Yang: Excess is inflammation. Deficiency is fatigue or lethargy.
For more information about Yin and Yang and how it relates to your pet’s health and well-being, please feel free to contact Dr. Cara Gardner, a certified veterinary acupuncturist, by emailing her directly at c.gardner.dvm@bracpet.com or calling her at 317.726.2711. You can also follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/HolisticPetDr
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