Purpose: Moving Stagnant Qi
The purpose of Energy in both the human body and in nature is to "do things" or "make things happen". In the body Energy or Qi as it is said in Chinese (and pronounced "Chee") moves, warms and nourishes the muscles. It also makes Blood. This was explained in the first pattern/ plan of nourishing vitality. Qi's nature is to flow and move. When it does, we feel relaxed and vibrant and are able to express our feelings well.
When Qi does not flow we feel tense and at the same time tired, and we become either despondent or irritable or else find that we feel we can't cope with our feelings. Why do we feel tired with this pattern? It is because Qi flow can be likened to movement of water in a pipe: when there is a blockage in the pipe the amount of water [=Qi] getting to where it needs to go to is reduced. The kind of tiredness is characteristic: worse with inactivity and better with movement, and comes hand in had with the moodiness, irritability and of Qi Stagnation.
So moving helps as does actually getting things done, completing tasks and fulfilment of creative projects. Major causes of Qi stagnation ar sedentary lifestyles (including sitting at a desk) and stress. Not surprisingly Qi stagnation is extremely commonly seen in the clinic.
Nutritionally there are some approaches that are beneficial. Firstly a simple and less heavy diet will be helpful to reduce and improve stagnation. Avoiding alcohol and coffee in general will be of benefit.
The following specific foods will additionally be of benefit:
Herbs: Basil, Caraway, Cardamon, Cayenne, Chive, Clove, Coriander, Dill seed, Garlic, Marjoram, Mint, Mustard leaf, Star Anise.
Fruit and Vegetables: Carrot, Celery, Globe Artichoke, Kohrabi, Leeks, Mushroom, Orange peel, Peach, Peas, Plums, Radish, Tangerine peel.
Nuts and Seeds: Black sesame.
Other: Crayfish, Prawns (shrimp), vinegar, Marmalade.
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