I wanted to take a moment to focus on our hearts today. In Chinese Medicine, the heart is considered the body’s “ruler,” controlling both circulation and our emotions. It’s linked to the Fire element and is thought to hold the Shen, or spirit, which affects our energy and mental health. Nourishing the fire element, with practices like meditation, acupuncture or acupressure, and warm, healthy food all help us to protect and nurture our hearts- mentally and physically. Below, please find a guided meditation, an acupressure article, and a link to recipes that include cinnamon, which is the HEART herb in Chinese Medicine. 

Meditation:

This is a LOVINGKINDNESS meditation, which encourages us to send love and good wishes to ourselves and those around us. Since love begins for within and spreads, this is a great place to start cultivating positivity.

https://www.tarabrach.com/new-year-meditation-loving-presence/

Acupressure:

This is an article that guides us through acupressure points for emotional balance (anxiety/stress relief):

https://www.healthline.com/health/pressure-points-for-anxiety

Recipes:

Cinnamon is the HEART herb in Chinese medicine. Enjoy some of these recipes for incorporating cinnamon into your life. (added bonus: cinnamon also boosts immune system function!)

Healthy Cinnamon Recipes 
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/21643/ingredients/herbs-spices/spices/cinnamon/

Find healthy, delicious cinnamon recipes, from the food and nutrition experts at EatingWell.

I don’t necessarily see Valentine’s Day as being about romantic love, but about the capacity of our hearts to experience the joy, peace, and connection of any kind of love– with friends, family, or community. But MOST IMPORTANTLY, with ourselves. Enjoy your day, and I look forward to seeing you in the office soon!

About the Author

Hi, I’m Lisa Jensen, a Licensed Acupuncturist in Winchester, MA with a passion for helping people find balance and healing through traditional Chinese medicine. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in pain management and women’s health—fertility, pregnancy, and peri/menopause care, and believe in the power of natural healing to enhance overall well-being. When I’m not in the clinic, you can find me with my husband and 2 kids, enjoying hikes with my dog Ernie, or practicing meditation and yoga. I created this blog to share tips, insights, and the latest in holistic health practices to support your wellness journey.

Feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect and answer any questions you may have!