If you want to fix your gut, take a look at your spleen. Those are just the rules of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
TCM has for eons now, considered the spleen and stomach to be ‘digestive partners’. Work in the Chinese concept of ‘Qi’ – which refers to your personal sense of vitality and life force, only as per this logic, made tangible – and you have for yourself a well-rounded analogy of why a good gut, needs a holistic well-being that goes far beyond the body, though the body itself is a good place to begin your TCM-led gut healing journey. TCM Acupuncturist and Herbalist, Dr. Lily Choi explains, “The type of thoughts we think affects our digestive health. When the Spleen experiences dysfunction, digestive issues, swelling, weak muscles, food allergies and weight gain can occur.” She shares five simple TCM ‘hacks’ that essentially signal a whole lifestyle overhaul, especially for the way one eats – but changes that will be worth the effort in the long run.
Make Chewing Intentional
Traditional Chinese Medicine has always believed that digestion begins in the mouth. Ensuring you chew your food thoroughly before it makes its way to the stomach, essentially allows the Spleen to transform your food into Qi. This may be the lifestyle switch to consider first, if you suffer from stagnation and bloating, especially after meals.