During one of my sessions last week, my client said,
“I have been sick for the past couple of days. I think I caught something over the weekend, so did some of my friends,
it seems like EVERYBODY is getting sick.”
I couldn’t help but to interject, “It might seem like more people are getting sick around you, but it is NOT EVERYBODY.”
This exchange highlights something important: our beliefs and mindset shape our reality.
Thoughts are seeds in our mind—tend to your inner garden carefully and observe what sprouts.
When we believe “everyone” is sick, we may unconsciously prepare our bodies to follow suit.
Understanding External Pathogenic Factors
This conversation naturally led us to discuss external pathogenic factors (EPFs). In modern medicine, we identify these as bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. However, traditional Chinese Medicine offers a different perspective based on centuries of observation.
According to Chinese Medicine, there are six EPFs:
- Wind
- Cold
- Dampness
- Heat
- Dryness
- Summer heat
For example, Wind-Heat Invasion on the exterior will manifest as flu-like symptoms.
Disease arises when our bodies don’t have sufficient resources to manage these influences.
This is why Chinese Medicine has always prioritized disease prevention over cure, even though therapeutic methods and medicinals were readily available.
Contrast this with our modern approach, where disease treatment often takes center stage while health coaching becomes separated from medicine.
Self-Reflection as Medicine
One of my teachers used to say, “Chinese Medicine is for character building and self-cultivation.”
True healing invites us to look within and identify internal harmony (or disharmony): physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Our physical reality often reflects our inner state.
Consider these scenarios:
“Am I bored with my work, so I binge-watch TV at night and scroll on the phone during work?”
“Am I feeling unsupported by my coworkers, so I dread going to work in the morning?”
These patterns of behavior and illness can reveal deeper imbalances that need addressing.
Just last week, a friend of mine finally quit a job she didn’t like and told me how relieved she felt, even though the future seems unclear.
Sometimes, letting go of things that don’t serve us are the medicine we need.
Seasonal Transition Support
During this time of seasonal transition from winter to spring, our bodies might have a harder time acclimating to environmental changes. Here are a few practical tips to support your well-being:
- Avoid iced beverages and cold foods (hold off on raw salads for now)
- Cover your neck and throat during this time—the spring wind is particularly strong
- Start rising a little earlier than in winter months, and spend more time in morning sunlight (without sunglasses and sunscreen) to help set your circadian rhythm and improve your immune system.
This spring, I encourage you to observe how external changes affect your internal state.
Notice what depletes you and what nourishes you. Sometimes the most profound medicine is simply paying attention.
If you’d like support on your wellness journey during this seasonal transition, I’m here to help.
Much love to you on your journey to better well-being.
-Anthony
Beacon, 3/12/25