As an acupuncturist, promoting strong healthy immunity is one of the main goals when working with my patients. Within Chinese Medicine, the root of the immune system is classified as part of the body system governed by the Kidneys. To the ancient Chinese, the internal organs were seen as far more complex in their function than we believe today in Western medicine. In addition to their physical functions, each organ also has an effect on the mind and spirit: each of which plays an important role in healthy physiological function of the body. 

The Kidney for example is talked about in the ancient Chinese medical classics as being the root of a person’s strength, will and vitality. It provides the power needed to do something, as well as the focus to be able to commit to the task and carry it out. The energy of the Kidney is like a constantly vigilant governor, providing the necessary resources but also the power and energy for all of the body systems to work at their optimal state. 

Philosophically, the Kidney holds onto the "Jing": the original code of the body, how it is supposed to run. The Jing also holds the blueprint for how a person’s life is meant to unfold. According to ancient Chinese Taoist and Confucian philosophy, the will is also contained within the Kidney system, implying that in health our will is connected to our destiny: there is no conflict. In health, what we want to do is what we are meant to do. Also contained within our kidney is the will to live and the fortitude to face the challenges of life. Connected to this is our commitment to protect ourselves, stay focused on our own individual Destiny and to respect ourselves. As we all know, many of us struggle with self-respect, with making choices that support our health, and with the ability to know what is right for us in life.