Rhythms and root

Rhythms and root

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Rhythms and root
Shen – The Spirit at the Heart of Chinese Medicine

Shen – The Spirit at the Heart of Chinese Medicine

A holistic perspective on our inner vitality

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Eva Schmitt
Jun 23, 2025
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Rhythms and root
Rhythms and root
Shen – The Spirit at the Heart of Chinese Medicine
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A crystal-clear story of inner stillness

It is said that an old monk once lived alone in the mountains, known for his calm presence and deep clarity. People traveled great distances to ask him about the meaning of life.

A young student once asked, "Master, how can I find inner peace? I meditate and live simply, but my mind feels like a restless lake."

The monk led him to a quiet pond.
"Look into the water," he said.

The surface was murky, filled with leaves and motion. They sat in silence.
After a while, the water cleared, and the student saw his reflection, sharp and calm.

"This is how Shen works," said the monk. "When you stop disturbing it, everything settles. Clarity reveals itself on its own."


What is Shen?

The inner presence that shines through us

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