February is all about the Heart—it’s American Heart Health Month and the season of love. While most of us think about Heart health in terms of blood pressure and cholesterol, or love in terms of flowers and chocolate, East Asian Medicine sees the Heart as something much deeper. It’s not just an organ that pumps blood—it’s the ruler of our emotions, the home of our spirit, and the key to deep connection and joy. A truly happy, healthy Heart is one that’s nourished physically, emotionally, and energetically.
In East Asian Medicine, the Heart is known as the “emperor” of the body. Like a wise and steady ruler, it oversees everything—the circulation of blood, the guiding of emotions, and keeping the mind clear and bright. But its most important role is housing theShen, often translated as the spirit. When the Heart is in balance, theShen is calm–bringing joy, connection, and inner peace. When our Heart is out of balance, we might feel scattered, restless, or disconnected, with racing thoughts, forgetfulness, trouble sleeping, or even a lack of joy—all signs the Heart needs a little care.
The good news? There are many ways to nourish the Heart and bring it back into balance. In East Asian Medicine, the Heart thrives on warmth, joy, and meaningful connection. The best way to support it is to cultivate a life filled with love, gratitude, and moments of stillness.
Here are four simple yet powerful ways to keep your Heart happy and healthy!
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Nourish Your Heart with Food
In East Asian Medicine, red is associated with the Heart. Support Heart health by nourishing the blood and boosting circulation with goji berries, cherries, hawthorn berries, red dates, and beets. Warming teas with cinnamon or rose petals can also calm the Shen and bring ease.
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Strengthen Your Heart Through Connection
The Heart thrives on warmth, kindness, and meaningful connection. Simple acts of gratitude and appreciation ease stress, calm the mind and spark joy. If someone makes you happy, let them know—you’ll brighten their day and nourish your own Heart!
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Calm Your Heart with Rest and Reflection
Deep, restful sleep is essential for a healthy Heart! At night, theShensettles in the Heart, restoring the mind and body. Create a calming evening routine with herbal tea, aYintang (the acupuncture point between the eyebrows) massage, or a warm foot soak. Limit your exposure to blue light at night for even better sleep!
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Kindle Your Heart with Joy and Expression
As the home of joy, the Heart thrives when you embrace what makes you happy. Laughter, movement, and creative expression are all joyful ways to strengthen your Heart and nourishShen. This month, make space for what lights you up—your Heart will thank you!
In February, shift your focus to whole-hearted living! Whether through nourishing foods, deep sleep, or gratitude, there are many ways to keep our Hearts happy and healthy—not just in February, but all year long!
Stay curious, be kind, and keep your Heart full!
Dr. Britt
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