The Emotional Roots of Physical Weakness
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is no separation between emotion and physical function. Each emotion is associated with a specific organ and influences its energetic function. Grief and mourning are closely linked to the lungs. Acute grief can have temporary effects, but chronic or unresolved grief can fundamentally weaken lung energy and permanently alter the entire constitution.
The Connection Between Lungs and Grief
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the lungs function to distribute qi (energy) throughout the body and regulate breathing. They are considered the most delicate organ, vulnerable to external and internal factors. Grief has a unique effect on the lungs: it “squeezes” or “constrings” the lung qi.
When we are sad, we notice it physically: a tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing deeply, a lump in the throat, or a feeling of our chest “squeezing shut.” These are direct manifestations of how sadness hinders the free movement of lung qi.
Acute versus Chronic Impact
In acute grief—for example, after a loss—the impact is temporary. The chest feels tight, breathing is shallow, and fatigue may occur. When grief is expressed (crying relaxes the chest and allows qi to flow) and processed, lung function usually fully recovers.
It becomes problematic when grief becomes chronic or is not processed. This happens when:
Prolonged grief without processing
Loss that was never acknowledged or spoken
Accumulation of smaller losses without room for processing
Conditioned suppression of sadness (“I have to be strong”)
Chronic melancholy or depression with a sad character
The Cascade of Lung Qi Deficiency
When grief chronically burdens the lungs, a lung qi deficiency gradually develops. This manifests as:
Physical Manifestations:
Chronic fatigue and weakness
Shortness of breath with light exertion
Weak, soft voice
Spontaneous sweating (especially during the day)
Tendency to catch colds frequently
Weak immune system and prolonged recovery periods
Emotional Manifestations:
Constant despondency
Lack of enthusiasm or zest for life
Social withdrawal
Feeling of oppression and emptiness
Trouble connecting
Energetic Manifestations:
Qi cannot flow freely through the body
Poor distribution of energy and nutrients to all tissues
Reduced protective layer (wei qi) allowing external pathogens to easily enter
The Impact on Other Organs
Since organs in TCM are in constant interaction, weakness of the lungs affects the entire constitution:
Lung to Spleen:
According to the Five Elements, the lungs (metal) do not nourish the spleen (earth). Weak lungs often lead to poor digestion, reduced