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Understanding and Utilizing Two of the Seven Po in TCM: Solving Common Gastrointestinal Issues Like Irregular Bowel Movements and Colitis

Recognizing the Seven Po and Their Role in TCM

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of the Seven Po represents the innate instincts within our bodies. While we humans are intelligent and emotional beings, we still retain animalistic instincts essential for survival. These instincts, stored in the lungs, are referred to as the Seven Po, each with a specific name:

  1. Fu Shi (伏矢)
  2. Que Yin (雀阴)
  3. Fei Du (非毒)
  4. Chu Hui (除秽)
  5. Tun Zei (吞贼)
  6. Chou Fei (臭肺)
  7. Shi Gou (尸狗)

The Seven Po reflect the body’s self-healing and emergency response capabilities. In TCM, harnessing these abilities allows us to address various physical and emotional imbalances. However, neglecting these natural mechanisms can lead to significant health challenges.

Let’s focus on two key Po—Fu Shi and Shi Gou—and their activation points, which are particularly relevant for addressing common issues like bowel irregularities and sleep disturbances.

Fu Shi: The Link Between Lungs and Large Intestine in TCM

Switch: Yunmen Acupoint (云门穴)

Fu Shi plays a vital role in TCM’s understanding of the lung-large intestine connection. These two organs are closely interrelated, and Fu Shi serves as the bridge, guiding lung qi (energy) to the large intestine. This process ensures smooth digestion and waste elimination.

  • Name Breakdown in TCM Context:
    • “Shi” (矢) connects to “stool.”
    • “Fu” (伏) implies alignment or obedience.
      Together, Fu Shi represents the body’s ability to mold waste into well-formed stool, a critical aspect of digestive health in TCM.

If Fu Shi functions optimally, stools are well-formed with normal color and odor. However, irregularities such as diarrhea, discoloration, or foul odor may indicate an imbalance.

  • How to Activate Fu Shi:
    The Yunmen acupoint, located near the upper chest, acts as Fu Shi’s “switch.” In TCM, practitioners often recommend massaging or applying acupressure to this point to regulate bowel movements. Regular adjustments can improve issues like constipation or diarrhea.

Shi Gou: Balancing Sleep and Alertness in TCM

 Switch: Quepen Acupoint (缺盆穴)

Shi Gou, another critical Po in Traditional Chinese Medicine, governs both sleep quality and alertness during rest.

  • Key Functions:

    1. Promoting deep, restorative sleep.
    2. Maintaining a degree of alertness for emergencies during sleep.

  • Name Breakdown in TCM Context:

    • “Shi” (尸) refers to the physical body.
    • “Gou” (狗) symbolizes a guard dog, emphasizing protection and vigilance.

Balanced Shi Gou ensures restful yet responsive sleep.

  • Overactive Shi Gou causes light, restless sleep, easily disturbed by external noises.

  • Underactive Shi Gou results in overly deep, unresponsive sleep, where external stimuli go unnoticed.

  • How to Adjust Shi Gou:
    The Quepen acupoint, located in the hollow above the collarbone, serves as Shi Gou’s activation point. In TCM, practitioners often recommend gentle massages or acupressure on this point to balance qi and blood circulation.

Conclusion

By understanding and utilizing the Seven Po, particularly Fu Shi and Shi Gou, individuals can unlock the body’s innate healing abilities. This approach, rooted in TCM, offers effective and natural ways to address a wide range of health concerns.

Explore these TCM-based methods to enhance your overall well-being and maintain balance in your daily life!

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