Anticipating what is to come is a very human thing to do.  The act seems to prepare us for many possible variables that may occur at any time. You know, getting all your ducks in a row!  Planning is not wrong, if done for select situations of great consequence, the act can be rewarding and put people at ease.  Early in human existence, avoiding great consequences with the use of anticipatory or tactical thinking meant the difference between life and death.  In the modern era, these same self-preservation strategies are often used for less perilous situations.  Frequent high intensity use of this survival skill can damage your state of balance within the heart dynamic of emotion, thought and the ability to be at rest.

Several reports published reveal that this current pandemic is affecting us in many ways.  Some of the most abundant areas of impact seems to be towards anxiety, poor sleep and insomnia.  Traditional Asian Medicine associates these imbalances to Heart influences or Heart energy. Practitioners of Traditional Asian Medicine are taught that three primary components are needed to co-exist in even measure, like legs on a stool or tripod, for “Heart energy” to know balance.  These components include relationships, communication and boundaries. Any one of the three can be a challenge to navigate by itself, acupuncturists understand the difficulty keeping all three in balance. 

Often people struggle with communication or boundaries in a way that diminishes their relationships.  Too much of one or not enough of another affects the third.  If the balance is not right, the heart or mind will provide symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia or restlessness.  As if seeking balance within communication, boundaries and relationships was not an epic challenge in itself, stress responses can keep the most well intentioned person further from their heart/love goals.  What most people desire in their relationships are a two way street of communication flowing without emotional traffic jams and boundaries that nurture and hold the other two together.  Acupuncture’s remarkable ability lower stress is often a key to improvement.

As Valentine’s Day approaches we are culturally compelled to examine all dynamics of the heart.  Do yourself a favor this year and reduce the grip stress has on you and those you love.  Do something for yourself that helps reduce barriers of communication and gives you the room to speak your heart to someone.  Exercise reduces the stress response and enhances your sense of calm.  A strong heart and a quiet mind allows strong boundaries and a stronger sense of self that improves boundary development.

In conclusion please remember, in relationships, listen twice as much as you speak and speak as much truth as you dare.  Smile with more than just your face.  Watch something funny together and learn jokes to tell.  Share how you fell often, challenge your comfort zone and hold hands when crossing the street.  Love everyone for different reasons.  Ask for help, sometimes even if you don’t need it.  Do hard things.  Finally, know when to stop.