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Observing and tuning in to a patient's Shen (spirit) is particularly important to help determine the overal state and prognosis of an imbalance. The Shen gives vital imformation about vitality, and mental, emotional, and spiritual well being. The Shen shows in the eyes, complexion, and state of mind.
Body (appearance)
The Five Elements can be associated with body shapes and constitutions
Wood Type
Slender and tall body shape
Fire Type
Pointed head and chin, small hands, with curly or a small amount of hair
Metal Type
Square and broad shoulders, strong body type, and a triangle shaped face
Earth Type
Large head, larger body and belly, strong legs, and a wide jaw
Water Type
Round face and body with a longer than normal torso
Long Term Body Changes
Emaciated, body, esp. with dry skin
Deficient Blood or Yin
Very large thighs
Spleen Deficiency
Great weight loss over course of long illness
Essential Qi exhausted
Overweight
Deficient Spleen Qi with tendency to Dampness or Phlegm (often with Stagnation of Qi)
Hair loss
Kidney Jing Deficiency or Blood Deficiency
Musculoskeletal pain, soreness, numbness or heaviness with swelling and restricted movement
Bi Syndrome (Painful Obstruction syndrome)
Gradual onset of weakness, motor impairment, and muscular atrophy of the limbs:
Wei Syndromes (flaccidity syndrome)
Short term bodily changes
Change in Muscles (e.g. flaccid, wasting)
Spleen disharmony
Change in Tendons (e.g. stiffness, weakness)
Liver disharmony
Change in Blood Vessels (hardening, producing hard pulse)
Heart disharmony
Change in skin (e.g. tone, dryness
Lung disharmony
Change in bones (e.g. brittle)
Kidney disharmony






