Low Energy and Burnout: What TCM Calls Qi Deficiency

Qi is TCM's term for the vital energy that warms, moves and protects the body. When there isn't enough, TCM calls it Qi deficiency. It most often involves:

• the Spleen system (digestion and turning food into energy);
• the Lung system (breathing, and protection against colds);
• the Kidney system (constitution and deep reserves), in long-standing cases.

TCM practitioners look for patterns like:

• tiredness, especially after effort or in the afternoon;
• a weak voice, or shortness of breath on exertion;
• poor appetite, bloating after meals, loose stools;
• feeling cold, with cold hands and feet;
• catching colds easily;
• a pale tongue, sometimes with teeth marks on the edges.

See What Happens in TCM Tongue and Pulse Diagnosis.

Overwork without rest, irregular or cold meals, worry and stress, poor sleep, illness, and life stages such as after childbirth are all seen as draining Qi. It's a familiar picture for anyone who's pushed through a long stretch of work or caregiving.

1. Eat warm, cooked, regular meals. TCM sees the digestion as the source of daily Qi. Soups, stews, congee and root vegetables are favourites.
2. Don't skip breakfast.
3. Rest before you're exhausted. Short breaks through the day.
4. Gentle movement, such as walking, tai chi or qigong, rather than draining workouts.
5. Sleep earlier, especially in winter.
6. Keep warm, particularly the lower back and feet.
7. Manage worry, which TCM links to the Spleen.

• TuiNa & DDS Acupressure Massage (bookable): invigorating acupressure.
• Chinese Medicine Mud Therapy (bookable): warmth, used in TCM for "cold" and deficiency.
• Reiki with Gentle Massage (bookable): deep rest.
• Acupuncture (waitlist): points chosen to "tonify" Qi.

See a doctor for fatigue lasting more than a few weeks, especially with unexplained weight change, fever, night sweats, shortness of breath, very heavy periods, low mood, or feeling unwell after light activity. Blood tests can find common, treatable causes such as iron deficiency or thyroid problems. See low energy and fatigue.

Warming and restorative treatments are bookable at our Yaletown clinic, easy to reach from North Vancouver and Burnaby.