Jing, Qi, Shen

Jing (Essence) is the origin of life, the foundation of Qi and Shen.  It refers to all nutrients in the human body, which can be divided into prenatal and postnatal essence.  The prenatal essence is called Kidney Essence, as it is the genetic materials inherited from parents at the time of conception, that is stored in the Kidneys.  The postnatal essence is acquired from the food and nutrients digested and absorbed by the human body. As in ancient times, it’s called  “water and grain essence”.  To maintain sufficient Essence, one has to make sure the nutrients ingested are comprehensive, sufficient, and balanced to meet the needs of body function.  

Qi (Energy) is the power of life, the refined energy that nourishes the Jing and Shen.  Qi is related to the Lungs.  In TCM, Qi not only refers to the breath we inhale and exhale, it also represents the functional power of all the internal organs.  For example, Lung Qi circulates the defensive qi on the surface of the body, providing warmth and protection.  If Lung Qi is deficient, the immune system is weakened and one is prone to falling sick.  Spleen Qi  transforms food and drinks into qi and blood, and transports qi, blood and body fluids to the whole body.  When Spleen Qi is deficient, one experiences fatigue, poor appetite, weak muscles, fluid retention, weight gain, poor concentration, etc.  The factors that deplete qi of the organs include aging, improper diet, overexertion, and emotional imbalances.   

Shen (Mind-Spirit) is the embodiment of life, the most refined and immaterial of the three substances. It is related to the Heart. The state of Shen relies on the state of Jing and Qi as its fundamental basis.  It draws its nourishment from the prenatal Essence stored in the Kidneys and the post-natal Essence and Qi  produced by Lungs, Stomach and Spleen.  So if Jing and Qi are strong and flourishing, Shen will be happy, grounded, and alert. If Jing and Qi are depleted, Shen will suffer and likely become depressed, anxious or unstable.