Why Does Heartbeat Accelerate and Palms Sweat When Anxious and Tense?

Author: Fan Li, Assistant Medical Practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Practice License Number: 241411381000562) This article is written by Dr. Fan Li, based on classical theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine and clinical experience, and is intended for general knowledge and educational purposes only. The qualifications can be verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of China. In daily life, many people have experienced such a situation: when facing important events or sudden stress, they suddenly feel their heartbeat accelerate and their palms become moist, even to the point of feeling tense all over. What is this state of anxiety and tension, with an accelerated heartbeat and sweating palms? From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, what kind of body signals are hidden behind it?

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In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the phenomenon of an accelerated heartbeat and sweating palms during anxiety and tension is often attributed to the imbalance of the body's Yin and Yang. The heart, according to TCM, is the organ responsible for the mind and spirit, and it is closely related to the emotion of worry. When one is anxious or tense, the heart's Yin and Yang are disrupted, leading to an imbalance in the heart's function. This imbalance can manifest as palpitations, a sensation of heat in the chest, and sweating.

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In addition to the heart, the liver and spleen also play a significant role in the regulation of emotions and the maintenance of emotional balance. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) in the body, and when it is out of balance, it can lead to emotional disturbances such as anxiety and irritability. The spleen, on the other hand, is responsible for the transformation and transportation of nutrients, and an imbalance in the spleen can lead to fatigue and a lack of energy, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety.

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To manage anxiety and tension, Traditional Chinese Medicine offers several practical tips:

1. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or tai chi.
2. Maintain a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.
3. Engage in regular physical exercise to promote the circulation of Qi.
4. Seek professional help if anxiety and tension become overwhelming.