“What is the difference between a living thing and a dead thing? In the medical world, a clinical definition of death is a body that does not change. Change is life. Stagnation is death. If you don’t change, you die. It’s that simple. It’s that scary.” – Leonard Sweet
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) stagnation is the state of being stuck. It is referred to in relation to the cause of symptoms and disease development. Stagnation can occur on any level: physical from an injury, emotional from suppressed feelings, mental from repetitive negative-self talk, spiritual from lack of presence in the current moment. No matter at which level stagnation develops, it will eventually touch all parts of you and manifest physically in your body.
Health Problems Associated With Stagnation
- Migraines
- Fibromylagia
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Dysmennorhea (painful periods)
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Recurrent or slow healing injuries
- Depression
- Infertility
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder (GERD or acid reflux)
- Morning sickness
- Moodiness (including: anger, irritability and frustration)
- Chronic pain
- Constipation
How to Eradicate Stagnation from Your Life
- Welcome Change: Often fear and resistance meet the potential of change. Instead, greet newness with gratitude for growth and opportunity.
- Movement: Movement is the very antithesis of stagnation. Take small breaks during work to get up at stretch, exercise daily, go for walks, dance – anything to get your body moving will combat stagnation.
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture works on every level of being and can help physical ailments, as well as mental, emotional and spiritual problems. Read more about acupuncture here.
- Become More Present: Being aware in every moment of what is happening inside of you is just as important as paying attention to your external environment. Cultivate awareness with meditation.
- Break Through Blockages: this past blog post explains it all, complete with suggestions.
Inner Inquiry
Set yourself up for success with honest answers to these simple questions:
- What are my insights after reading this?
- Is stagnation a factor in my life right now?
- Could I or someone I know suffering from these health problems benefit from this information?