Pensiveness

Pensiveness refers to overthinking, and excessive mental and intellectual stimulation. Going over and over the same thought or emotion without the ability to let go of it is pensiveness.

Pensiveness relates to the Spleen. Note: in traditional Chinese medicine the Spleen is referred to as the collective work of some organs and systems participating in the digestion rather than the anatomical organ spleen.

Pensiveness consumes the energy of the Spleen, which in long term will impair the physical function of the Spleen - to transform food and drink into energy and blood. Long-term Spleen Qi deficiency will lead to low energy, tiredness, fatigue, lethargy, and poor concentration.  Dampness in the Spleen among other things will lead to feeling of heaviness in the body, cloudy head and dream-like unproductive mental state. "Sticky" thoughts and emotions are usually a sign of developed "dampness in the Spleen".

One way to counteract pensiveness is to tonify the Qi of the Spleen and if necessary to clear dampness (to learn more read the materials about the Spleen in the Physiology chapter)

Another way to counteract pensiveness is to practice contentment.

YS

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