The Three Treasures

According to Taoist tradition, there are three fundamental energies that are housed in all living beings; Essence (Jing), Energy (Qi), and Spirit (Shen).These are the energies that constitute our very existence and they are considered to be treasures that should be protected, nourished, and balanced.

You can think of the three treasures like a three-legged stool. Each leg plays an important part in creating a stable and strong foundation as a whole – and the weakness of just one of the legs can topple the entire system! Approaching the three treasures of Jing, Qi, and Shen from the standpoint of keeping them all balanced, equally nourished, and consistently nurtured is a time honored way to cultivate peace, health, joy, and longevity!

JING

Essence, “the giver of life,” is the first Treasure. It is the energy we receive at conception that is meant to last us our lifetime. It is the foundation energy of our existence. It is the root energy of the body that is responsible for procreation, physical energy, sexual energy, creativity, longevity, and youthfulness.

QI

Energy (also spelled Chi), “the breath of life,” is the second Treasure. While Essence is our deep reserves, Energy (Qi) is is our day to day vitality. It is the vitality we derive from the air we breathe and foods we eat. As such, our Lungs and digestive organs (Spleen and Stomach) play a critical role in building this Treasure.

SHEN

Spirit, “the light of life,” is the third Treasure. It is our higher self and our connection to the Divine. Spirit (Shen) is housed in the Heart and when nourished and balanced provides us with feelings of peace, calm, and serenity. It gives us proper perspective on our lives and our place in the universe.

To neglect one aspect of the Three Treasures is to neglect them all!
Jing Herbs is dedicated to protecting, nourishing, and balancing the Three Treasures.