The 4th of the 5 taxations in Chinese Medicine is excessive use of the eyes.
In modern times, we can relate to this stress on our body well – we look at screens all day, we read and we use our eyes for driving.
It is a rare moment where our eyes are resting, unless we are asleep or meditating with a soft gaze – unfocussed on our environment.
This taxation harms the Liver, as the Liver opens into the eyes, and the Blood which is stored by the Liver fuels the eyes.
Use of the eyes at night worsens this taxation – think late night television, late night driving and screen viewing in a dark room.
Over time, the over use of the eyes can lead to dry eyes, tendon pain and stiffness, fatigue, difficulty falling asleep, short-term memory loss, postural dizziness and amenorrhea (absence of menses or short/low flow menses) in women.
How do we protect against this taxation?
Reduce your evening screen time – use a soft light in the room where you watch television, and try to allow your eyes some down time during the day, taking a soft gaze break for 3-5 minutes each hour where you let your eyes gaze without locking onto anything.
Consume blood nourishing foods such as black beans, black rice, beef, chicken broth, bone broth, slow cooked casseroles and stews and avoid overly pungent/spicy and bitter foods.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, and would like help with an individualised TCM treatment plan including diet, lifestyle and Chinese Herbal/Acupuncture treatment, message me to make an appointment today.
#thefivetaxations #fivetaxations #traditionalchinesemedicine #chinesemedicine #acupuncture #adelaide #adelaidehealth #adelaidelocal #screentime #visionproblems #eyehealth #liverhealth
