Brief Lexicon of Fundamental Concepts in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Energetic Acupuncture

Qi – Energy
Qi is the functional energy that animates all bodily processes. It enables movement, transformation, warming functions, protection against external influences, and the maintenance of organs in their proper position. A smooth and balanced circulation of Qi is essential for proper physiological functioning and emotional equilibrium.

Blood – Xue
In Chinese medicine, Blood nourishes and moistens tissues, muscles, tendons, the brain, and internal organs. It also carries the Shen (mental and emotional activity). Beyond its biological meaning, Blood represents a function of nourishment, support, and structural stability within the body.

Body Fluids – Jin Ye
Body Fluids refer to all physiological liquids such as saliva, tears, synovial fluid, secretions, and interstitial fluids. They ensure hydration, lubrication, tissue nourishment, and contribute to thermal regulation. Their production, circulation, and elimination depend on the coordinated function of several organs working together.

Zang Organs
The Zang organs (Liver, Heart, Spleen, Lungs, and Kidneys) correspond to functional systems rather than purely anatomical structures. Each is responsible for a set of physiological, emotional, and energetic functions and contributes to the body’s homeostasis.

• The Liver ensures the smooth flow of Qi, stores Blood, and is involved in adaptation, tendons, and emotional regulation.
  The Heart governs Blood circulation, houses the Shen, and influences sleep and mental clarity.
  The Spleen transforms food into Qi and Blood, supports digestion, and maintains the integrity of tissues.
  The Lungs govern respiration, distribute defensive Qi (Wei Qi), and play a key role in immunity and fluid regulation.
  The Kidneys store Essence (Jing), support growth, aging, reproduction, and water metabolism.

Shen – Mind and Spirit
Shen represents mental, emotional, and relational activity. It encompasses consciousness, memory, sleep quality, attention, and presence to oneself and others. In Chinese medicine, a harmonious Shen is reflected in emotional stability, clear thinking, and restful sleep.

A Functional Approach
In the energetic framework of Chinese medicine, health depends on the balance between Qi, Blood, Body Fluids, Zang organ functions, and the Shen. These elements constantly interact to ensure circulation, nourishment, protection, transformation, and the body’s adaptation to internal and environmental changes.

Energetic acupuncture aims to support these functions, promote their coordination, and restore dynamic balance when it becomes disrupted. 

This approach views the body as an integrated system in which physiological functions, emotions, and adaptive capacities are deeply interconnected.