Download 14.1-NervousMusculo-Skeletal-System

14:1-Nervous&Musculo-Skeletal System
Homework & Questions
 Why is the nervous system akin to the ‘fifth element’?
The nervous system is akin to the “fifth element” because it holds the spark of life within it.
 What is the myelin sheath?
The myelin sheath is a protein-rich gel that coats the arms of neurons (the dendrites and
axons), creating electrical insulation.
 Describe the ‘gap’ between neurons. What is it called? How does a signal pass
through this ‘gap’?
The gap between the neurons is called the synapse. This is where an electrical signal is
passed from an axon of one neuron to a dendrite of another neuron. The signals are passed
via neurotransmitters (serotonin, for example), which once released into the synapse, they
stimulate a new electrical signal in the dendrite of the next neuron.
 Where in the body can we find neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters can be found not only in the brain, but throughout the body.
 What are the differences between the Autonomic and Somatic nervous systems?
The Autonomic nervous system automatically activates organ, etc., as well as automatically
relaxes them, whereas the Somatic nervous system is controlled by our consciousness and
observations, to tell ourselves of temperatures, pain, pressure, etc.
 Describe the yin of Wood and the yang of Wood in more ‘Western’ terms.
The Wood element is the nervous system. Part of the nervous system is the Autonomic
nervous system. This is comprised of the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic nervous system.
The Sympathetic nervous system is the Yang side, and is responsible for activating the
organs, increasing the heart rate, constricting tissues, promoting sweat and excretion,
moving blood to the center of the body, and mobilizing adrenal reserves. The
Parasympathetic nervous system is the Yin side, and is responsible for relaxing tissues,
loosening capillary circulation and moving blood to the extremities, promoting digestion,
rest and growth.
 What is the difference between ligaments and tendons?
Ligaments provide support for internal organs and/or wrap joints together to keep them
from coming apart. Tendons attach muscles to bones and allow for the muscle to actually
move the particular body part.
 What does it mean for muscle tissue to be ‘trainable’?
Muscles are trainable in that they have “muscle memory”. Therefore, we can train our
muscles in efficiency via exercise. It also means that our muscles remember past events of
injuries, overexertion, strains, etc.
In the following, evaluate the system(s) involved, and whether they manifest deficiency, excess, or
congestion. Why? How would you address the imbalances, if they exist? What would you recommend as
additional treatments?
CASE STUDY
A male, age 32, presents with chronic neck and shoulder pain. At times the pain radiates
down his arm, other times down his back, and often the result is a bad headache. His
digestion is adequate – he has daily bowel movements, although at times (especially when
his workload becomes overwhelming) he can have episodes of constipation. He relies on
‘bread and cheese’ for lunch pretty consistently, and usually has 3-5 cups of coffee daily. His
respiration seems good, with only a low-grade allergy to dust and mold that bothers him
most during the winter, in enclosed spaces. He has no trouble with sinus infections or any
chronic upper respiratory congestion. His blood pressure is normal and his circulation seems
healthy, although in the last few years he has noticed his extremities are a lot colder than
they used to be. He is a bit fidgety, although his demeanor is in general quite friendly and
open, and he complains of recurrent insomnia (‘even on a good night I don’t get more than
5 hours of sleep, and some nights none at all’). His energy level seems good, and he derives
great satisfaction from his job (architect / project engineer). As you talk further, he
mentions that two years ago he became estranged from his brother because of a family
dispute. His desire: pain relief.
He appears to have an excess in his inflammation response. This is indicated by his chronic
pain/inflammation in his neck and shoulders. He also seems to have a deficiency in his
Reserves/Circulation, indicated by his stress with work, insomnia, cold extremities, and
excessive coffee consumption. I would first recommend reducing his coffee intake and
reducing his intake of bread and cheese, substituting healthier lunches. He also should drink
lots or water and be sure to consume soluble fiber to combat the occasional constipation. I
would suggest taking American Ginseng for its adaptogenic effects to help his insomnia and
adrenal depletion symptoms, and for its digestive benefits. In addition, take Reishi for
chronic inflammation in his neck and shoulders, to help his mild allergy symptoms, and for
its adaptogenic effects. He may also want to take Hawthorn for improved circulation and to
soften his heart and release pent up emotion in relation to his estrangement from his
brother. He may want to do a topical Ginger compress on his neck and shoulders and/or
apply Arnica infused oil topically, to help bring circulation to the area and reduce
inflammation.
*Additionally, I would recommend meditation: 10-20 minutes morning and evening, daily.