Yin Balance – Knowing and Supporting the Sensitivities of our Five Element Dog
By Elizabeth Anne Johnson.
As we step into the Yin time of the year in the northern hemisphere, our seasonal balance shifts again and we tend to notice more of our elemental dog’s sensitive sides. Yin is all about quiet, coolness, darkness, emotions, softness, and settling into an overall slower pace. Yin season can bring out all these same tenets for our dog’s as we both adjust to late autumn and winter routines. Behaviors may shift; emotional reflexes may increase.
Consequently, both we and our dogs tend to be inside more. Daily rhythms are shifted or interrupted, and restlessness can occur more frequently. Due to the shorter days, there’s more laying around inside the house without the healthy stimulation of our dog’s senses while out in nature. Following and enjoying their senses is vital for every dog’s happiness and health.
Shorter walkies, less outdoor exercise, and less sniff time – means less fun.
This is when we tend to see a spike in our dog’s sensitivities or emotional reflexes associated with each element. Not only does boredom contribute to this spike for our dogs, but it also shows up in ourselves. And our dogs definitely take notice when we feel “off”! Our furry empaths feel everything we do, usually before we even recognize it ourselves!
When we can understand our dog’ elements and unique sensitivities and reflexes during this quieter time, we can better manage life to suit them. This helps take some of the restlessness and frustration away. And it also lends to a stronger partnership built on understanding and empathy.
TCM’s Five Element system is all about balance. We strive to create balance during all seasons of life. Body, mind, spirit, feeding, play, work, aging, and illness and injury are looked at and shaped to keep our dog’s balance point… BALANCED. Knowing what primary element your dog is gives you many tools to work with and gifts you with more understanding of their needs and wants. This will help you create their ultimate balance point in life.
Balance in life means a longer, happier, healthier journey together!
So… keep those tails wagging with these Yin balancing recipes!!
*For information on how to do the acupressure points listed below and where it is – see each element’s chapter in Know Your Dog’s True Nature for elemental support.
Wood Element Reflexes/Sensitivities & Balance
What we see: frustration, impatience, pacing, aggression, over-protectiveness
What we can do: Movement is their medicine! More frequent walks, play outdoors, learning new things, games, puzzles
Acupoint: Gall Bladder 34 – “Yang Hill Spring”
Fire Element Reflexes/Sensitivities & Balance
What we see: boredom, separation anxiety, panic, excess licking,
What we can do: Create social interactions with humans and animals, cuddling, take to the farm store or other stores so they can be admired and have social time with other humans who adore them!
Acupoint: Governing Vessel 29 – “Yin Tang”
Earth Element Reflexes/Sensitivities & Balance
What we see: excess mooching for food/treats, obsessive/repetitive behaviors, licking, weight gain
What we can do: Create social interactions with humans and animals, play dates, take to the farm store or other stores so they can have social time with other humans, feed low calorie treats
Acupoint: Stomach 36 – “Foot Three Mile”
Metal Element Reflexes/Sensitivities & Balance
What we see: boredom, apathy, hiding, lack of trust, lack of purpose – needs a job!
What we can do: Nosework, scent work, puzzles, hide things so they use their amazing nose, teach them new things
Acupoint: Large Intestine 4 – “Joining Valley”
Water Element Reflexes/Sensitivities & Balance
What we see: wants warmth, follows you around or watches your every movement, sleeping more, seems depressed, more sensitive to noises, fear factor turned up
What we can do: Spend extra time together, Water elements are a YIN ELEMENT so keep them warm to balance the cold Yin season, jackets, blankies, play soft music and sing with them
Acupoint: Kidney 3 – “Great Stream”
Elizabeth Anne Johnson has over 30 years of experience as an animal healer and empath, is the Author of Know Your Dog’s True Nature, a TEDxSpeaker. Check out the goodies at our website to keep your dogs healthy and happy! ElizabethAnneJohnson.com
