Understanding Grief with Chinese Medicine
If you are in grief, whether it is fresh or something that has been with you for years, I hope you find some comfort here. In Chinese medicine, we see grief as a whole-body experience that touches both the physical and emotional self.
Grief is, of course, part of being human. Part of loving and being connected to others and to joy. It can arise from the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, a change in health, or even the loss of a dream. In Chinese medicine, we recognize that grief is not only an emotional experience. It is also something the body feels and processes physically. This connection between body and mind is central to how we view health.
How Chinese Medicine Understands Grief
In Chinese medicine, each organ system has a physical function and an emotional counterpart. Grief is most strongly connected to the Lung system. The Lungs are responsible for taking in fresh air and releasing what the body no longer needs. On an emotional level, they help us process and release experiences. When we are grieving, this letting go can feel blocked or overwhelming, leaving us feeling heavy, tight in the chest, or short of breath.
The Lungs work closely with the Large Intestine, which is also about release. When the Lungs and Large Intestine are out of balance, we might hold on to the past or have trouble finding a sense of renewal.
Other Organ Systems Affected by Grief
Grief rarely exists in isolation. The Heart, which houses the Shen or “spirit,” often feels the impact of loss. This can lead to sadness, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. The Spleen, which governs digestion and our ability to process life’s experiences, can become weakened, leading to fatigue, poor appetite, or digestive changes like diarrhea. Long-standing grief can also affect the Kidneys, which store our deepest reserves and help us adapt to life’s challenges. Over time, this can leave us feeling drained or more vulnerable to illness.
Treating Grief in Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture and herbal medicine work to restore balance to these organ systems and support the body’s natural healing process. For example:
• Strengthening the Lungs to help with breath, release, and emotional processing
• Calming the Heart to ease restlessness and support sleep
• Nourishing the Spleen to improve energy and digestion
• Supporting the Kidneys to rebuild resilience after long periods of sadness
Treatment is gentle and tailored to where you are in your process. It is not about forcing yourself to “move on” but about helping your body and mind work together so you can feel more steady, clear, and supported.
Caring for Yourself Through Grief
In addition to treatment, there are simple ways to care for yourself at home:
• Spend time outside, especially in fresh morning air, to nourish the Lungs
• Practice slow, deep breathing to ease tightness in the chest
• Eat warm, nourishing foods that are easy to digest
• Stay connected with people who make you feel safe and understood
Grief changes us, but with care and support, it can also be a time of quiet rebuilding. Chinese medicine offers a way to work with both the physical and emotional sides of loss, helping you find your footing again, one gentle step at a time.