Windows to the Soul: How Your Eyes Reveal Your Overall Health
According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, the eyes are closely linked to the overall health of the body. Each part of the eye is believed to correspond to a specific organ or system within the body. For instance, the iris is associated with the liver, the sclera with the lungs, and the pupil with the kidneys. A person with bright, clear eyes typically indicates that they have sufficient energy and blood, as well as properly functioning internal organs. On the other hand, eyes that appear dull, red, or swollen, or those with a yellowish tint to the whites, may signal underlying health issues.
9 June 2025
The condition of the eyes can also reflect the balance of "yin" and "yang" energies within the body, with an imbalance potentially leading to various health problems. For example, eyes that are overly dry or irritated may suggest a deficiency in "yin" energy, while eyes that are consistently red or inflamed may indicate an excess of "yang" energy. Furthermore, liver health can be inferred from eye symptoms, such as eye pain and tearing, or decreased vision, which can indicate liver problems due to the liver meridian's connection to the eyes.
In addition to eye symptoms, other signs that may indicate liver issues include rough nails, premature whitening or loss of hair, insomnia and vivid dreams, facial spots, changes in face color, poor circulation, menstrual irregularities, and irritability. To maintain liver health, regular exercise, including massage of specific points like 大敦穴 and 太冲穴, can be beneficial. A diet rich in easy-to-digest proteins and sugars, as well as consuming foods that help protect the liver, such as mountain hawthorn and nuts like walnuts and pistachios, is also recommended. Drinking plenty of water is emphasized as a way to increase blood volume, enhance liver cell activity, and facilitate the removal of waste products, thus supporting liver health.
Experts in traditional Chinese medicine emphasize the importance of maintaining eye health through a combination of lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments. This includes taking regular breaks when working on computers or other digital devices, avoiding excessive late-night activities, and consuming foods rich in lutein, such as carrots, corn, tomatoes, and broccoli, which can help protect vision and support overall eye health. By paying attention to the condition of our eyes and making informed choices about our daily habits and nutrition, we may be able to gain valuable insights into our overall physical well-being and take proactive steps to prevent potential health issues.
Ultimately, observing the eyes can help discover potential body problems early on, allowing for timely adjustments to lifestyle or medical check-ups. The theory of traditional Chinese medicine not only helps people recognize the importance of eye health but also reminds them to pay attention to their body's health and prevent diseases. By following the suggestions of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, we can adjust our lifestyles, such as exercising regularly, massaging acupressure points, watching our diet, and drinking plenty of water, to protect our liver and maintain overall health. Understanding the signals of poor liver health can help us discover problems early and take active measures to adjust and seek medical attention, thereby maintaining our physical health. Moreover, paying attention to eye health can also reflect the overall health of the body, prompting us to pay more attention to our health problems and prevent potential diseases.
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