The 3 “States of Mind” In Traditional Chinese Medicine:
We can break the self-aware/conscious brain down into 3 basic categories of dis-ease. Note that these states aren’t so much a dis-ease of consciousness itself but rather an imbalance in the harmony between it and the other aspects of the brain.
- Mind Weakened
- Mind Unsettled
- Mind Obstructed
These 3 “dis-eases” are described in wonderful detail on the “states of mind and anxiety page”.
The important takeaway here is that a healthy and thriving life requires a strong self-aware/conscious brain. This is because all 3 states of mind have as part of their pathology either a general lack of awareness (mind weakened), a hyperawareness of aspects of awareness to the exclusion of general awareness (mind unsettled), or a loss of general clarity entirely (mind obstructed).
How Do You Strengthen Your Self-Aware Brain?
- The BEST way I am aware of to strengthen your self-aware brain is through mindful meditation. There are many other great exercises you can practice to develop this part of the Mind as well which can be discussed 1 on 1 via zoom. TantrikaInstitute.org is the best resource I have found on this particular aspect of the Mind.
- You will find great practical information on this topic in the relevant “pick your struggle.”
- The physical body plays a role:
As mentioned throughout this blog the physical and mental/emotional body are interconnected and influence each other in a variety of ways. All three main parts of the brain (body, thinking/emotional, and self-aware/conscious) recieve support from different physical parts of the body and are therefore affected by dis-ease in these specific areas.
In TCM each major organ provides support for a particular mental/emotional function. The heart organ is responsible for providing support for the self-aware/conscious brain.
Healthy eating habits can lay a great foundation for a strong and healthy “state of mind” and can help encourage it to move when it becomes “dis-eased.” This is a complex issue and so will be covered in detail in the relevant “pick your struggle” however I will offer a few simple guidelines here:
In general the heart organ requires grains to function normally. Mushrooms are also tremendously helpful.
Sprouted brown rice, quinoa, dates, and shitake mushrooms can be remarkably helpful for keeping the balance.
Up Next: Let’s build on your last experience! New podcast on becoming aware of your conscious brain!