Traditional Oriental Medicine and the Chinese New Year of the Wooden Dragon 2024

On the threshold of the Chinese New Year of the Wooden Dragon, which begins on February 10, 2024, we explore the practice of rituals, recognized for their auspicious nature. However, beyond traditional beliefs, we delve into the intricate connection between these rites and the power of the subconscious.

How do these symbolic acts influence our mind and well-being?

This blog will delve into understanding how rituals, when performed with awareness and connection, can resonate with our subconscious, enhancing benefits beyond the superficial. Likewise, we will explore recommendations to promote harmony and balance in health, providing valuable perspectives to start the new year with serenity and well-being.

Below are some of the rituals to welcome the year of the Dragon:

1. Cleansing and Purification:

   – Perform a deep clean in your home, focusing on getting rid of unnecessary objects and stagnant energy.

   – Use elements such as incense or herbs such as sage to purify spaces.

   – Open windows and doors to allow fresh energy to flow.

2. Significant Decoration:

   – Adorn your home with images, statues or decorative elements that represent the dragon.

   – Place red objects, considered auspicious in Chinese culture, to attract good fortune.

   – Place red objects, considered auspicious in Chinese culture, to attract good fortune.

3. Meditation and Reflection:

   – Dedicate time daily to meditation to calm your mind and focus on your goals.

   – Use creative visualizations that involve the powerful and positive energy of the dragon.

   – Reflect on your goals and aspirations, setting clear intentions for the year.

4. Conscious Eating:

   – Follow principles of the five element diet, incorporating foods that balance flavors (sweet, bitter, sour, spicy and salty).

   – Eat red and green foods, colors associated with the dragon in Chinese culture.

   – Avoid excess processed foods and opt for fresh and nutritious ingredients.

5. Body Practices:

   – Integrate gentle exercises such as tai chi to improve the circulation of vital energy (qi) in the body.

   – Consider the practice of qi gong, which combines movement, breathing and meditation to balance energy.

   – Perform stretching and strengthening exercises to maintain physical and mental health.

Learn more about Tai Chi in this blog

Why might you do these Rituals?

These rituals are based on the idea of ​​balancing energy and attracting positive influences during the Year of the Dragon. Although common practices, specific interpretation may vary depending on individual traditions and beliefs.

Rituals in the Chinese New Year wooden dragon can have a significant connection with the subconscious through several psychological mechanisms:

1. Symbolism: Elements used in rituals, such as images of dragons, specific colors or symbolic gestures, can have deep meaning on the subconscious level. These symbols can activate deep-rooted associations and emotions in the mind.

2. Repetition and Routine:The repetition of rituals creates a routine that the subconscious recognizes and associates with certain emotional states or intentions. This can influence the way you perceive and respond to everyday situations.

3. Focus and Mindfulness:By consciously participating in rituals, you immerse yourself in the present, which can calm the mind and reduce anxiety. This mindfulness can have positive effects on the subconscious, influencing patterns of thought and behavior.

4. Setting Intentions:By reflecting on goals and aspirations during rituals, you are setting conscious intentions that can permeate the subconscious. This can influence your decision making and the direction of your efforts over time.

5. Emotional Conditions:Rituals are often accompanied by specific emotions and moods. These emotional conditions can be associated with ritual practices and, over time, influence how you feel and perceive certain situations.

Rituals act as bridges between the conscious and subconscious, using symbols, repetition and focus to impact the mind in ways that can influence perception, emotions and behavior at a deeper level.

Considering the Year of the Dragon from the perspective of Eastern Medicine and health, here are some general recommendations:

1. Balance in Nutrition:

   – Prioritizes a balanced diet according to the theory of the five elements, incorporating a variety of foods and colors.

   – Eat fresh and seasonal foods, giving preference to those that strengthen your vital energy.

2. Hydration and Tea:

   – Stay well hydrated with warm water or herbal teas that align with your specific health needs.

   – You can incorporate teas that are appreciated in Chinese medicine, such as green tea or jasmine tea, known for their beneficial properties.

3. Moderate and Sustainable Exercise:

   – Practice exercises such as tai chi or qi gong, which not only benefit physical health, but also harmonize energy.

   – Adjust your exercise routine according to your physical condition and individual needs.

4. Rest and Sleep:

   – Prioritize a good sleep pattern, making sure you get enough rest each night.

   – Create an environment conducive to sleep, avoiding stimulants before bed and maintaining a relaxing routine.

5. Stress Management:

   – Incorporates practices such as meditation and conscious breathing to reduce stress and maintain emotional balance.

   – Identify activities that relax you and enjoy moments of rest during the day.

6. Professional Consultations:

   – Consider consulting with an Oriental Medicine professional to receive personalized guidance.

Remember that these recommendations are general and it is important to adapt them to your individual needs and circumstances. It is always advisable to consult with health professionals before making significant changes to your lifestyle.

Schedule your Oriental Medicine appointment with Sheng Health

7. Respiratory Practices:

   – Spend time consciously breathing, focusing on deep, slow breaths to calm the mind and energize the body.

   – Explore specific breathing techniques such as abdominal breathing or diaphragmatic breathing.

8. Meditation:

   – Integrate regular meditation into your daily routine to calm the mind and allow energy to flow unhindered.

   – Practice mindfulness to be present in the moment and reduce stress.

9. Set Positive Intentions:

   – Reflect on your goals and aspirations, setting positive intentions for the year.

   – Visualize your goals in detail and maintain a positive attitude toward your ability to achieve them.

Remember that these practices seek to harmonize Qi in a holistic way. Coherence and consistency in these activities can help maintain a balanced flow of life energy throughout the Year of the Dragon.

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