Overwork & Overwhelm in Traditional Chinese Medicine: How It Shows Up in the Body and Clinic
In today’s fast-paced world, overwork and overwhelm are common complaints. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, these states are not just mental or emotional, they have tangible effects on the body’s energy systems and can lead to a range of physical and psychological symptoms.
TCM Interpretation of Overwork and Overwhelm
TCM views the human body as an interconnected system where Qi (vital energy) flows through meridians, and health is maintained by balancing Yin and Yang and harmonising the internal organs. Overwork -whether physical, mental, or emotional -depletes Qi and disturbs this balance, making the body more susceptible to illness.
Overwhelm is often seen because of stress and emotional strain, which disrupts the smooth flow of Qi, particularly affecting the Liver, Spleen, Heart, and Kidneys. This can manifest as both emotional and physical symptoms, depending on which organ systems are most affected.
Common Symptoms Seen in Clinic
Patients presenting with overwork and overwhelm may experience:
Fatigue and exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest.
Frequent colds or low immunity.
Digestive issues: bloating, poor appetite, indigestion.
Sleep disturbances: difficulty falling or staying asleep, unrestful sleep.
Emotional symptoms: irritability, anxiety, mood swings, depression.
Physical symptoms: headaches, muscle tension (especially neck/shoulders), palpitations, cold extremities, pale complexion, easy bruising, shortness of breath.
Menstrual irregularities (in women), dizziness, and dry eyes (from Liver Qi stagnation).
TCM Patterns Commonly Associated
Qi Deficiency (often Spleen or Lung): fatigue, poor digestion, frequent illness, pale complexion, shortness of breath.
Yin Deficiency (often Heart or Kidney): exhaustion with night sweats, heat sensations, insomnia.
Liver Qi Stagnation: irritability, mood swings, headaches, digestive upset, menstrual pain.
Yang Deficiency: feeling cold, low energy, poor circulation.
How TCM Practitioners Approach This
A TCM practitioner will assess the unique pattern of imbalance through detailed questioning, tongue and pulse diagnosis, and observation of symptoms. Treatment may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary advice, and lifestyle recommendations to restore balance, replenish Qi, and address the root cause of the overwhelm and exhaustion.
Here are my tips on supporting your nervous system Recharge Your Energy Naturally
Book a consult with me at Love Thy Health. Together, we’ll create a simple, personalised plan to get your energy back -without the overwhelm.
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Sending gentle energy your way.
Chris x
Photo by: Golden Sundays Photography
Dr. Christine Carley is a naturopath and acupuncturist with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals on their journey to better health. She provides a diverse range of care, workshops, and Soul Journey retreats through Beautiful Humans Retreats, offering spaces for healing, spiritual growth, and holistic well-being.
Christine is passionate about helping clients navigate burnout, fatigue, sleep issues, pain, gut health, menopause, fertility, and IVF preparation. She has worked extensively with chronic and complex autoimmune conditions, collaborating with cardiologists, psychologists, and allied health professionals.
Taking a holistic, person-centered approach, Christine offers support online, in-person in West Footscray, near Yarraville and Seddon, and through transpersonal wellness retreats, guiding individuals toward balance, resilience, and lasting well-being.