Emptying and Filling

Dear Patient,

The Lungs and Large Intestine have much to teach us about emptying and filling.

These are our organs of letting go and releasing—the Large Intestine excreting remains of our food after vital nutrients are extracted; the Lungs releasing air from our body back to the environment before we take in a fresh new breath.

Interestingly, they’re the first two channels in the circuit of the twelve primary channels, corresponding to the early morning hours of 3-7AM. Each new day, each new lap of energy through our system, begins with the Lungs and Large Intestine.

The Lungs and Large Intestine relinquish what we no longer need. To begin anew, we start by emptying. We let go before we take in more. We can’t inhale if our lungs are already inflated with air. We have no appetite for food and nourishment if our intestines are full.

Releasing can happen in many ways: breath work, prayer, a good cry, a nap in the acupuncturist’s chair. Letting go makes room for new experiences, more joy, more love. Heed the wisdom of the Lungs and Large Intestine: we must first be empty before we can be filled.

Love and gratitude,

Your Acupuncturist