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Chinese physiology
Shen (Spirit or Mind)
diagnoses

definition

SHEN

Translations of "Shen":
• that which is divine, a deity, god
• the supernatural, magical
• Spirit, Mind, Consciousness (both literal and figurative)
• affect
• intelligence

The Concept of Shen (Spirit):
• As Spirit: the least tangible and most undefinable aspects of an individual, the "mystery" in each of us
• As Mind or Consciousness:
» all thinking and feeling, subconscious motivations, unconscious instincts, and universal aspirations
» ability to pay attention, focus, concentrate, be present and alert, responding appropriately physically, mentally and emotionally

Five types or aspects of Shen and their "Zang" Organs of residence:
• Hun: Liver, the Yang soul (leaves the body at death), the persona, ego
• Po: Lung, the Yin soul (stays with the body at death), pertains to physical form, constitution and the energy it imparts
• Yi: Spleen, the capacity of memory, recollection
• Zhi: Kidney, the Will, of which there are two parts: intention, and commitment to follow through
• Shen: Heart, Mind/Spirit/Consciousness

Shen disturbances yield:
• mental/emotional problems, agitation, loss of consciousness, inappropriate responses to life, mental confusion, incoherent speech, disturbed sleep, delirium, insanity, stupor, coma
• the "cause" could be anything


footnotes