Your body constitution refers to your unique physical, physiological, and psychological makeup. It determines not only your behavioral traits but also your susceptibility to diseases and external factors like pathogens. While your constitution is largely inherited from your parents, it is also shaped by diet, emotions, lifestyle, and living environment over time.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), understanding body constitution is fundamental for diagnosing ailments and providing personalized treatments. By identifying your body type and adopting lifestyle adjustments, you can achieve better health and prevent illnesses.
The 9 Body Constitution Types in TCM
1. Neutral Constitution
The most ideal body type.
- Characteristics: Strong physique, cheerful disposition, lustrous complexion, bright eyes, thick healthy hair, red and moisturized lips.
- Health Traits: Adaptable to environmental changes, full of energy, regular sleep, and balanced bowel habits.
2. Qi Deficient
Easily fatigued with poor immunity.
- Characteristics: Feeble, prone to shortness of breath and fatigue, sensitive to environmental changes.
- Health Traits: Low immunity, slow recovery from illnesses.
- Behavioral Traits: Introverted and soft-spoken.
3. Yang Deficient
Sensitive to cold temperatures.
- Characteristics: Cold limbs, intolerance to cold, discomfort after consuming cold foods.
- Health Traits: Vulnerable to puffiness and diarrhoea.
- Behavioral Traits: Shy and reserved.
4. Yin Deficient
Prone to feeling warm or hot.
- Characteristics: Dry nose or mouth, warm palms and soles, poor adaptation to heat.
- Health Traits: Susceptible to sore throat, fever, and constipation.
- Behavioral Traits: Outgoing but impatient.
5. Phlegm & Dampness
Tendency towards excess weight.
- Characteristics: Overweight, oily skin, heavy limbs, profuse sweating.
- Health Traits: Dislike of damp environments, prone to diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
- Preferences: Sweet and greasy foods.
6. Damp Heat
Oily skin and heat-related issues.
- Characteristics: Susceptible to acne, jaundice, bad breath, and a bitter mouth taste.
- Health Traits: Easily irritated, sensitive to hot and humid climates.
- Behavioral Traits: Short-tempered.
7. Blood Stasis
Dull complexion with pain symptoms.
- Characteristics: Dark eye circles, skin pigmentation, bruising easily.
- Health Traits: Prone to abnormal growths, cold intolerance, and bleeding disorders.
8. Qi Stagnation
Highly affected by stress.
- Characteristics: Thin physique, frequent sighing, heart palpitations, insomnia.
- Health Traits: Difficulty managing stress, prone to depression.
9. Special Constitution
Highly sensitive to allergens.
- Characteristics: Susceptible to nasal and skin allergies, asthmatic conditions, and chronic issues.
- Health Traits: Sensitive to medications, foods, and environmental triggers.
How Understanding Your Constitution Can Help You
By identifying your body constitution, you can make informed lifestyle and dietary choices that strengthen your immunity and overall health. Treatments like Tuina Therapy and Acupuncture are particularly effective in harmonizing the body’s qi and improving constitution-related imbalances.
For a precise evaluation, consult a registered TCM physician. They can offer personalized advice and recommend treatments tailored to your body type.
Contact us today to book an appointment with our experienced TCM physician and take the first step towards optimal health!
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