Abdomen the root of the human body | Dr Maggie Ju Acupuncture Belgravia, Notting Hill, Richmond London

The Abdomen: The Root of the Human Body

The human body is a marvel of biological engineering, with each part playing a vital role in maintaining balance, health, and functionality. While it may be easy to focus on more visible or active parts of the body—like the brain or limbs—it's the abdomen that can truly be considered the root of the body. From a physiological, energetic, and even symbolic perspective, the abdomen is at the center of everything, anchoring us and ensuring our well-being.

1. The Physiological Core

On a purely physical level, the abdomen houses many of the body’s essential organs, including the stomach, intestines, liver, kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. These organs are responsible for vital functions like digestion, metabolism, detoxification, and waste removal. Without the harmonious operation of these abdominal organs, the body would quickly fall into dysfunction.

Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: The stomach and intestines process food, breaking it down into nutrients that the body needs to function. This is where energy is derived, making the abdomen the literal center of life force.

Detoxification: The liver and kidneys filter toxins from the bloodstream, maintaining homeostasis and protecting the body from harmful substances.

Immune Support: The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" because of its vast network of neurons and its role in immune function. A healthy gut microbiome not only aids digestion but also fortifies the immune system.

2. The Core of Physical Stability

The muscles of the abdomen, known as the core muscles, play a key role in stabilizing the body. These muscles, including the rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis, support the spine, assist in posture, and enable almost all forms of physical movement. Whether lifting, twisting, or simply standing, a strong core is essential for balance and mobility.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often emphasize core strength, as it improves performance and reduces the risk of injury. However, a stable core is not just for the active—it is critical for everyone. Without adequate abdominal support, other parts of the body, such as the lower back, take on unnecessary strain, which can lead to chronic pain and long-term health issues.

3. The Energetic and Symbolic Center

In many ancient traditions, the abdomen is seen as more than just a hub of physiological activity—it is considered the energetic core of the body. In Eastern philosophies, the "hara" (in Japanese culture) or "dantian" (in Chinese medicine) is located in the lower abdomen. This area is believed to be the seat of vital energy, or "qi" (chi), which powers the body and mind. The abdomen is also the location of the solar plexus in yogic and chakra systems. The solar plexus chakra (Manipura) is linked to personal power, confidence, and emotional health.

In essence, the abdomen is regarded as the center of one's life force, grounding the individual and connecting them to the world around them. Practitioners of martial arts, yoga, and meditation often focus on strengthening and calming the abdominal area to foster inner strength and stability.

4. The Emotional and Psychological Connection

Interestingly, modern science is also beginning to support the ancient belief that the abdomen is intimately connected to our mental and emotional well-being. The gut-brain connection is now a well-established concept, highlighting the communication between the digestive system and the brain. This communication occurs through a complex network of nerves and hormones that influence our moods, thoughts, and emotions.

The term "gut feeling" isn't just a metaphor. When we experience anxiety, stress, or excitement, it’s often the abdomen that first signals these emotions. The gut-brain axis helps explain why digestive issues can worsen during times of stress and why improving gut health can lead to better mental health outcomes.

Moreover, abdominal breathing, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, is a well-known technique used to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote relaxation. By engaging the abdominal muscles and breathing deeply, individuals can tap into their parasympathetic nervous system, the body's "rest and digest" mode, which counteracts stress and anxiety.

5. Health Begins in the Abdomen

The idea that the abdomen is the root of the body also holds in the context of holistic health. Traditional systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) often focus on the digestive system as the starting point for diagnosing and treating illnesses. In these systems, imbalances in digestion or energy flow through the abdomen are considered foundational causes of disease.

Maintaining the health of the abdominal organs is paramount for overall well-being. Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, staying hydrated, and practicing mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques like yoga and meditation abdominal acupuncture can all contribute to a healthy abdomen. Additionally, exercises that strengthen the core not only protect the body but also boost digestion and reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal issues.

The Abdomen as the Anchor of Life

The abdomen, as the root of the body, is indispensable to our physical, emotional, and energetic well-being. Its role as a center for digestion, a stabilizer for movement, an energetic core, and a reflection of our emotional health underscores its importance in every aspect of life.

To nourish the abdomen is to nourish the whole self. Whether through diet, exercise, mindfulness or abdominal acupuncture focusing on abdominal health can lead to greater vitality, emotional balance, and physical strength. Understanding the centrality of the abdomen allows us to connect more deeply with our bodies and minds, reminding us that our foundation lies in the very core of our being.

Why Your Abdomen is Your Second Brain

When people talk about intelligence, they often think of the brain. However, science is now proving that another vital organ system in our body—the abdomen—plays a crucial role in our mental and emotional well-being. The gut is frequently referred to as the "second brain," and for good reason. This concept is rooted in the presence of the enteric nervous system (ENS), a complex network of neurons lining the digestive tract, which operates independently of the central nervous system.

The Enteric Nervous System: A Brain in Your Belly

The enteric nervous system consists of about 100 million neurons—more than the spinal cord—spread throughout the gastrointestinal tract. This intricate network of neurons regulates digestion, absorption, and waste elimination. What makes it particularly fascinating is its ability to function autonomously, sending and receiving signals independently of the brain.

The Gut-Brain Connection

The gut and the brain are closely connected through the vagus nerve and a network of neurotransmitters. This bidirectional communication system, known as the gut-brain axis, allows the two organs to influence each other profoundly. Studies have shown that gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood, cognition, and overall mental health. In fact, about 90% of serotonin—the neurotransmitter responsible for happiness—is produced in the gut.

Emotional and Cognitive Functions of the Gut

Ever had a "gut feeling" about something? That’s because your enteric nervous system is wired to process emotional and environmental signals. Stress, anxiety, and other emotions can directly impact digestion, leading to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Conversely, gut health can affect mental clarity, focus, and even emotional resilience.

Microbiome: The Hidden Brain Cells in Your Gut

The gut microbiome, composed of trillions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, plays a significant role in overall health. These microorganisms influence digestion, immune function, and even brain chemistry. Studies have linked gut dysbiosis (imbalanced gut bacteria) to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

How to Support Your Second Brain

Since gut health plays such a crucial role in overall well-being, maintaining a balanced diet and lifestyle is essential. Here are some ways to support your gut-brain connection:

Consume prebiotics such as garlic, onions, and bananas to feed beneficial microbes.

Manage stress through acupuncture, exercise, and proper sleep to keep the gut-brain axis functioning smoothly.

Stay hydrated to support digestion and nutrient absorption.

Avoid processed foods and excessive antibiotics, which can disrupt gut flora.

Your abdomen is more than just a digestive organ—it’s a second brain that significantly impacts your emotions, cognitive abilities, and overall health. By taking care of your gut, you’re also taking care of your mind. So, the next time you experience "butterflies in your stomach" or follow a "gut feeling," remember: your second brain is always at work. Abdominal acupuncture is a useful tool to look after your abdomen.

Is there a Memory in the Abdomen: The Science Behind the "Gut Feeling"

Have you ever felt uneasy about a situation but couldn't explain why? Or experienced a "gut feeling" that turned out to be correct? While memory and cognition are often associated with the brain, emerging research suggests that the abdomen—specifically the gut—plays a crucial role in memory, emotions, and decision-making. This article explores the fascinating connection between the gut and memory, shedding light on the concept of the "second brain."

The Enteric Nervous System (ENS) and the Gut-Brain Axis

The human digestive system is home to a complex network of neurons called the Enteric Nervous System (ENS), often referred to as the "second brain." This system contains approximately 100 million neurons, which is more than the spinal cord. The ENS operates independently but communicates extensively with the brain through the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system linking the gut and central nervous system via the vagus nerve and biochemical signaling.

Memory Storage and Emotional Recall in the Gut

While the ENS does not store memories in the same way the brain does, it significantly influences emotional memory and recall. The gut produces neurotransmitters like serotonin (about 90% of which is made in the intestines), dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), all of which are crucial for mood regulation and cognitive function. When we experience emotional events, these neurotransmitters interact with the central nervous system, reinforcing emotional memory storage in the brain.

Gut Microbiota and Cognitive Function

The gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. Research shows that these microbes influence brain function, memory retention, and emotional responses. An imbalance in gut bacteria has been linked to conditions like anxiety, depression, and even neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Certain probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary changes can positively affect gut health, potentially enhancing cognitive abilities and memory.

The Role of the Gut in Decision-Making

Many people describe making decisions based on a "gut feeling." This intuitive process is backed by neuroscience. The ENS and gut microbiota interact with the limbic system, the brain’s emotional center, to process past experiences and predict outcomes subconsciously. Studies suggest that people with a healthy gut microbiome tend to have more balanced emotional responses and improved decision-making skills.

The abdomen is more than just a digestive organ—it plays a pivotal role in our emotions, memory, and intuition. By maintaining a healthy gut through proper nutrition, stress management, and probiotics, we can improve not only our digestive health but also our cognitive function and emotional well-being. As research on the gut-brain connection continues to expand, it becomes increasingly clear that trusting our "gut feeling" may be more scientifically valid than we ever imagined.

Abdominal diagnosis ---an ancient diagnosis method

Nanjing, or "The Classic of Difficult Issues," is a significant ancient Chinese medical text from the Han Dynasty. It serves as a foundational work in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and provides insight into diagnosis, particularly focusing on the pulse and the abdominal examination. The concept of abdominal diagnosis, also known as fukushin in Japanese, is rooted in Chinese medicine and was later developed extensively in Japan, especially by Changye Songben (also known as Sōhaku Matsumoto), a prominent figure in the Japanese adaptation of abdominal diagnosis.

1. Background of the Nanjing and Its Influence

The Nanjing, attributed to the scholar Bian Que, contains 81 chapters or “difficult issues” that attempt to clarify and address questions left by earlier works, like the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic). Each chapter provides insights into diagnostic and therapeutic methods that were revolutionary at the time. The Nanjing emphasizes holistic approaches, combining observations on the pulse, tongue, and, notably, the abdomen as a means of understanding the body's internal health.

Abdominal diagnosis, as described in the Nanjing, emphasizes the palpation of specific areas on the abdomen to understand the state of internal organs, the flow of Qi, and the balance of Yin and Yang. This diagnostic method assesses tension, sensitivity, temperature, and other physical signs that reveal the underlying energetic state of the patient.

2. Abdominal Diagnosis in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In TCM, the abdomen is seen as the center of the body's Qi, as it houses vital organs like the spleen, stomach, intestines, liver, and kidneys. The Nanjing's concept of abdominal diagnosis operates on the idea that each area of the abdomen corresponds to specific internal organs or meridians. For example:

Upper abdomen: Reflects the spleen and stomach's Qi.

Lower abdomen: Associated with the kidneys and reproductive system.

Liver area: Associated with the right side of the abdomen near the ribs.

By gently palpating the abdomen, TCM practitioners observe physical signs such as hardness, tenderness, or pulsations, which can indicate various conditions, such as Qi stagnation, blood stasis, or internal dampness.

3. Development of Abdominal Diagnosis in Japan: Changye Songben (Sōhaku Matsumoto)

Abdominal diagnosis gained further prominence in Japan, where it became known as fukushin. During the Edo period, Japanese medicine experienced a shift that emphasized the practical and observational aspects of Chinese theories, including abdominal diagnosis, and honed it into a unique diagnostic art form. Changye Songben (Sōhaku Matsumoto), a notable Japanese physician, was instrumental in advancing this method.

Changye Songben studied TCM texts like the Nanjing and adapted its theories to fit the evolving medical practices of Japan. He developed a structured approach to abdominal diagnosis that categorized different types of abdominal findings, such as abdominal hardness, tension, and specific reactive points, which became central to Japanese Kampo medicine (the Japanese adaptation of Chinese medicine).

Songben’s influence extended the scope of abdominal diagnosis to become a mainstay of Kampo, where specific abdominal findings inform herbal prescriptions. This method is particularly important in Japan, where abdominal palpation is used routinely and in conjunction with other diagnostic methods like pulse and tongue assessment. Practitioners find that it provides valuable insights into conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders, stress-related ailments, and energy imbalances.

4. Changye Songben’s Contributions to Abdominal Diagnosis Techniques

Changye Songben expanded upon the traditional Chinese techniques by organizing abdominal diagnosis into a more systematic method:

Patterns and Areas of Observation: Songben identified that specific abdominal patterns correlated with distinct pathological states and imbalances in TCM. For example, he noted that a cold, tight abdomen often related to Qi deficiency or cold syndromes, while warmth and distension were linked to excess heat.

Subcategorizing Abdominal Responses: Songben categorized abdominal findings into types, such as pulsation, pain, or rigidity, and linked these to specific organ imbalances, such as liver or spleen Qi stagnation.

Herbal Prescriptions Based on Findings: In Japanese Kampo medicine, abdominal findings directly inform herbal formulations. For example, a tight and sensitive abdomen might indicate the use of warming herbs like ginger to alleviate cold stagnation.

5. Legacy of the Nanjing and Changye Songben in Modern Abdominal Diagnosis

The Nanjing laid the groundwork for the holistic understanding of the human body in TCM, and Changye Songben's work ensured that abdominal diagnosis became a refined, systematic method in Kampo medicine. While abdominal diagnosis is less emphasized in TCM practices outside of Japan, it continues to thrive in Japanese Kampo clinics and schools, demonstrating the method’s practicality and efficacy in diagnosing and treating complex conditions.

The evolution of abdominal diagnosis from the Nanjing to Changye Songben’s Japanese adaptations highlights the interplay between classical Chinese theories and Japanese medical innovation. Songben’s structured approach has provided Kampo practitioners with a practical, hands-on diagnostic method that bridges ancient wisdom with modern therapeutic needs. The technique remains a testament to the enduring influence of the Nanjing on East Asian medicine, illustrating how diagnostic approaches can be both deeply traditional and continually evolving to meet the demands of modern clinical practice.

Exploring the Intricacies of Chinese Medicine Abdominal Diagnosis

Chinese medicine, deeply rooted in ancient philosophies and holistic principles, offers a unique perspective on healthcare. Central to this approach is abdominal diagnosis, a method that has been refined over centuries, aiming to uncover imbalances within the body's vital systems. This diagnostic technique, known as "Fu" in Chinese, focuses on the abdomen as a microcosm of the entire body's health.

Understanding Chinese Medicine Abdominal Diagnosis

In Chinese medicine, the abdomen is regarded as a center of vital energy, or Qi, and the home to several important organs. The diagnosis involves careful observation and palpation of the abdomen to gather information about the body's internal conditions, meridian pathways, and organ functionality.

Diagnostic Techniques in Chinese Abdominal Diagnosis

Observation: Practitioners observe the abdomen’s shape, color, and the presence of any visible abnormalities, such as scars, rashes, or discoloration. These visual cues provide insights into potential underlying imbalances.

Palpation: The art of palpation involves gently pressing and feeling different areas of the abdomen to detect tenderness, tension, temperature variations, and the presence of masses or abnormal growths. Specific points, called "acupoints," might also be palpated to assess tenderness or other sensations linked to various organs.

Listening and Smelling: In some cases, Chinese medicine practitioners pay attention to sounds emitted from the abdomen or assess any specific odors, which could further aid in diagnosis.

Interpretation of Findings

Chinese abdominal diagnosis interprets findings based on the principles of Yin and Yang, Five Elements theory, and the flow of Qi and Blood within the body. For example:

Imbalances in Organ Function: Palpation might reveal tenderness or tension in certain areas, indicating potential organ dysfunction or energy blockages.

Meridian Assessment: Specific areas of tenderness or sensitivity might correlate with meridians associated with certain organs. For instance, tenderness in the lower abdomen might suggest issues related to the bladder or reproductive system.

Color and Texture Analysis: Observing the skin's color, texture, and any abnormalities assists in understanding potential deficiencies or excesses in the body.

Conditions Treated with Chinese Abdominal Diagnosis

Chinese medicine utilizes abdominal diagnosis to address various health issues, including digestive disorders, menstrual irregularities, fertility concerns, emotional imbalances, and chronic pain. By identifying underlying imbalances, practitioners aim to restore harmony within the body, facilitating self-healing mechanisms.

Limitations and Integration

While Chinese abdominal diagnosis offers valuable insights, it's essential to recognize its limitations when used as a standalone diagnostic tool. Integrating it with modern medical diagnostics can offer a more comprehensive understanding of a patient's health.

Closing Thoughts

Chinese medicine abdominal diagnosis stands as a testament to the holistic approach of ancient healing practices. Its focus on the abdomen as a reflection of overall health, combined with the principles of balance and harmony within the body, continues to intrigue practitioners and patients alike. When integrated with contemporary medical practices, it can offer a holistic perspective on health and wellness, fostering a more comprehensive approach to patient care.