The 3 Treasures; Jing, Qi, and Shen
According to this system, there are three basic energies that form the foundation of human health and potential, called the Three Treasures. They are known as "treasures" because they are the very foundation of life. These Three Treasures and their associated functions are:
Jing - The first treasure
(※ Essence ※ Deep Energy ※ Reserves ※ Longevity ※ Genetic Inheritance ※ Glandular Function)
Jing is generally known as regenerative energy or life essence. It is the fundamental energy created when an individual is conceived; it is the substance of our genetic potential that determines our longevity. Jing energy governs regeneration, longevity, youthfulness, sexual energy, mental stamina, fertility, courage, willpower, and deep long-term vitality. Jing energy also affects glandular function. A deficiency in Jing energy can result in premature aging and degenerative conditions.Everyone is born with a certain amount of Jing that is depleted in the process of living. It is exhausted by environmental toxins, excessive behavior, stress, substance abuse, poor diet, poor sleep habits, and overwork. This gradual loss of Jing affects our longevity as well as our quality of life. Pushing oneself past natural fatigue into exhaustion is said to deplete Jing energy.
We can nourish and preserve our Jing by choosing a healthy lifestyle and taking certain superior Jing herbs.
Jing herbs are divided into two categories: Yin Jing and Yang Jing. The secret to achieving radiant health is to restore and maintain the correct balance of Yin and Yang.
- Yin Jing Tonics: Provide the "deep substance of life" and nourish the body's fluids. Yin is defined as the accumulation and storage of energy that is considered the body's fundamental reserves, especially that stored in the Kidneys. In Chinese herbalism, the "kidney" actually encompasses all the structures and functions of the reproductive system, the brain, the adrenal glands (especially the hormone-producing cortex), the ears, the hair on the head, the skeleton, the teeth, and the bone marrow. Yin Jing tonics nourish these organs and their functions and are usually associated with the preservation of life, and many of them are the most important anti-aging and longevity herbs.
- Yang Jing Tonics: These are herbs of great power in Oriental herbalism. Like Yin herbs, they primarily affect kidney functions. 'Yang' is the utilization of 'Yin', the stored energy. Generally, Yang tonics are "warm" in nature. They are associated with mental creativity and some are famous as sexual tonics (aphrodisiacs). Yang herbs also stimulate the metabolism, build muscle, and reduce fat levels in the system. They strengthen the bones and skeleton, and are especially known for helping to strengthen the back (especially the lower back), knees, and joints.
Qi - The second treasure
(※ Daily Energy ※ Adaptability ※ Metabolism ※ Immune Function)
Qi is the energy we use daily. It is our body's ability to create energy daily from the food we eat and the air we breathe. It is the source of our everyday vitality. Qi affects the immune system, metabolic processes, nutrient utilization, and healthy glandular function.Superior Qi tonics that build and support our daily energy are divided into two categories: Qi (Energy) and Blood.
- Qi Tonics increase physiological energy production. They are never stimulants. Instead, they help the body function optimally, which results in a natural progressive increase in vitality. Qi tonics improve nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal system to produce energy and blood. They influence the "spleen" and also nourish the "lungs" in the body's energy system. Thus, Qi circulates throughout the body through the "meridian" system, providing the organs and tissues with the vitality necessary to live and function.
- Blood Tonics nourish the blood and help the body use nutrients to function optimally. Blood nourishes all body tissues and provides the primary means of distributing nutrients, hormones, and immune cells throughout the body. Blood tonics help build muscle and increase potential energy. They are generally believed to be useful for benefiting the quality and beauty of the skin. According to Oriental herbalism, men are governed by Qi and women are governed by Blood.
Shen - The Third Treasure
(※ Radiance of Spirit ※ Wisdom ※ Consciousness ※ Feelings of Well-being)
Shen is the energy of consciousness. It is often translated as "spirit." It is our personal radiance: the harmony of mind, body, and spirit. A person with strong Shen is one who is calm and at peace, aware, clear, centered, capable of communicating with others, and deeply happy.Certain superior Oriental herbs have been found through the centuries to cultivate this Shen energy and unveil our positive radiance. Shen tonics generally have a calming quality.
- Shen Tonics: Provide us with feelings of peace, calm, and serenity. If we are experiencing certain conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, or fear, these are known as Shen disorders. Shen tonics can help dissipate the energy of any Shen disturbance and can act as stabilizing agents that calm during times of stress.
The Candle Analogy for a better understanding of the Three Treasures
- Jing - Jing is represented by the candle's wax and wick. The quality of the wax and the reserve of wax available for burning determine the life of the candle. Your Jing, which is determined by your genetic inheritance and your deep energy reserves, determines your longevity. It takes a long time to deplete Jing and it is very difficult to replenish.
- Chi - Chi is represented by the candle's flame. It can spark and smoke or it can burn brightly and evenly. Your Chi is your daily vitality or energy. It provides the source of light; however, it eventually consumes the candle. When your Chi is used efficiently, your Jing lasts longer! Chi is easily depleted through daily activity and when a person is healthy it is easily replenished with sleep, nutrition, and correct breathing.
- Shen - Shen is represented by the light that radiates from the burning candle. The purpose of the candle is to light up the darkness. Your Shen is the radiance of your spirit. When Jing and Chi are in abundance, Shen is released.
Jing, Chi, and Shen work in harmony
Jing, Chi, and Shen work in harmony with each other. There must be an abundance of Jing and Chi for Shen to be strong. If Jing and Chi are weak, Shen will also be weak. Likewise, Jing and Chi support each other to create radiant health. If any of these treasures is weak, there will be illness; and if one disappears completely, life will cease to exist.There is a saying in Chinese herbalism: "it is okay to be fatigued... but we should never be exhausted." Fatigue depletes Chi, which can be easily restored. But exhaustion drains Jing, which is very difficult to replenish. The Three Treasures approach is designed to balance our bodies so that we can have a long life, enjoy good physical energy, and have a positive outlook on life.
