Understanding Trauma in Mind, Body, and Spirit
Trauma is not merely a past event; it can significantly impact your entire being long after the incident has occurred. At JD AcuCare, we recognize that trauma transcends the mind. Through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we understand that trauma can disrupt your energy, emotional balance, and physical health. While Western medicine identifies PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) as a psychological condition, TCM perceives it as a disturbance in the harmony of the mind, spirit, and body.
Understanding PTSD Through the Lens of TCM
PTSD is characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and a pervasive sense of being on edge. In TCM, trauma is viewed as a blockage in the healthy flow of energy, known as Qi, which can affect the organs associated with our emotions and weaken the body over time. Treatment in TCM traditionally aims to restore balance and flow.
Brain-Organ-Emotion Connections in TCM
In TCM, there is a direct connection between specific parts of the brain and our emotional experiences, which correspond to different organs in the body:
Amygdala (Fear & Alarm): Linked to the Liver and Lungs; trauma can lead to feelings of jumpiness or restlessness.
Hippocampus (Memory): Connected to the Heart and Blood; individuals may struggle with clear memory recall or feel stuck in the past.
Prefrontal Cortex (Logic & Planning): Tied to the Heart; a weakened state here may hinder focus and decision-making abilities.
Emotional Regulation Centers: Associated with the Spleen and Pericardium; trauma can leave one feeling overwhelmed or out of control.
Common TCM Patterns in PTSD
TCM practitioners often identify specific patterns based on symptoms presented by individuals healing from trauma. Here are some common patterns:
Liver Qi Stagnation Turning Into Fire: Symptoms may include irritability, headaches, and vivid dreams, reflecting emotional tension transforming into internal "heat."
Heart Fire Blazing: This pattern manifests as insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness, indicating an unsettled spirit (Shen) that struggles to find peace.
Phlegm Fire Harassing the Mind: Symptoms may include brain fog, confusion, and wild emotions, suggesting that emotional overload has created internal "phlegm" clouding thoughts and mood.
Heart and Spleen Deficiency: Individuals may feel exhausted, anxious, and forgetful, as long-term stress weakens emotional processing and energy levels.
Heart and Kidney Disharmony: Fear or trauma depleting reserves can lead to sleep disturbances, night sweats, or an ungrounded feeling.
Phlegm Mist and Blood Stagnation: Trauma that remains unprocessed may become "stuck" in the body, resulting in mental numbness and tension.
Where Trauma Hides in the Body: Luo Vessels
In TCM, specific pathways known as Luo Vessels can store emotional pain. When individuals are not ready to process certain emotions, their bodies may "tuck them away" for later. Over time, this hidden trauma can manifest as tension or illness. In TCM, gentle treatments such as gua sha (scraping therapy), cupping, or the warmth of moxibustion are traditionally used to release what is described as stored tension.
Healing the Spirit with Ghost Points
For deep-seated trauma, especially when individuals feel disconnected from themselves, TCM identifies this as a spiritual disturbance. Practitioners traditionally use specific acupuncture points known as “Ghost Points” for what TCM describes as spiritual disturbance.
Extraordinary Vessels in TCM
In cases where trauma affects one's sense of identity, purpose, or personal power, TCM employs pathways called Extraordinary Vessels:
Chong Mai: Traditionally associated with a sense of direction after significant life changes.
Ren Mai: Traditionally associated with feelings of safety and emotional bonding.
Du Mai: Traditionally associated with confidence and inner strength.
Dai Mai: Traditionally associated with long-held emotional pain.
Yin Qiao Mai: Traditionally associated with self-reflection and guilt.
Yang Qiao Mai: Traditionally associated with hyper-alertness and vigilance.
Gentle Movement & Breathing to Support Healing
Gentle movement and breath work may help support well-being alongside trauma care:
Qigong & Tai Chi: These slow, flowing movements may help you feel calmer and more centered.
TRE (Trauma Release Exercises): These exercises are used by some people and may help ease tension.
Nourishment: Foods Used in TCM
Foods Traditionally Used in TCM
For calming the mind: Lotus seeds (Lian Zi), longan fruit (Long Yan Rou), jujube dates (Da Zao), lily bulbs (Bai He)
For restoring energy: Millet (Xiao Mi), oats (Mai Pian), sweet potatoes (Hong Shu), pumpkins (Nan Gua)
For clearing internal heat: Mung beans (Lu Dou), chrysanthemum tea (Ju Hua Cha), cucumbers (Huang Gua)
Foods to Avoid
Spicy, greasy, or fried dishes
Alcohol and caffeine
Refined sugars and processed snacks
How Your Personality Affects Trauma Recovery: The Five Elements
Each individual experiences trauma in distinct ways based on their natural constitution. In TCM, the Five Elements framework provides insight into these personalities:
Wood Type: May express anger, control, or frustration.
Fire Type: Might cycle between joy and heartbreak.
Earth Type: Often worries excessively or eats for comfort.
Metal Type: May tend to isolate, grieve deeply, or experience regret.
Water Type: May experience fear or a sense of disconnection from life.
Understanding your elemental type can inform a more tailored healing approach.
Final Thoughts: Healing is a Journey
At JD AcuCare, we consider spirit, body, and emotions together when providing care. In TCM, the free flow of energy and nourishment of the organs are central ideas. Whether you are grappling with recent trauma or long-standing emotional wounds, TCM may offer complementary support. TCM does not treat PTSD itself or replace care from your doctor or mental health professional, so do not change any medication without speaking to your prescriber.
“You are not broken.” Support is available at every step. Embrace the journey, knowing that healing is not just a destination but a continuous process of rediscovery and growth.
📍 Located in Calgary, Alberta – easily accessible from the industrial area and ideal for post-work visits
📞 Book your acupuncture session today at 403-454-8246