Optimizing Health with Structured Water
Several years ago, I wrote an article about how I filter my water at home and in my office. Since tap water is my primary source of hydration, filtering out chemicals and sediment from city water felt like an important health choice. Click to Read
Today, I want to revisit the topic of water.
For more than a decade, the healing practitioners I trust have recommended Structured Water. (The process of structuring water is done in addition to filtration, not as a replacement for it.)
While mainstream science remains skeptical about the impact of Structured Water, alternative and holistic practitioners continue to explore its effects on living beings. This is not settled science, but rather an emerging area of interest that invites personal experimentation and observation.
The premise behind Structured Water is that water in its natural state is more easily absorbed and utilized by the body's cells. Rather than existing as individual H₂O molecules, Structured Water is said to form a community of water molecules, in a hexagonal atomic structure of H3O2. Structured Water is said to resemble the water found within our cells and is therefore more readily utilized by the body.
Supporters of Structured Water believe that modern water treatment systems alter water's natural structure. The pressurization, chemical additives like chlorine and fluoride, and long periods of stagnation in pipes disrupt the water's structure. They also suggest that electromagnetic fields, pollution, and heavy metals further degrade water's structure. By the time water reaches our homes through pipes or plastic bottles, it no longer exists in a form that can be optimally utilized by the body.
One of my favorite resources on this topic is an article by Marie McMahon, PhD, Professor of Anatomy and Physiology at San Diego Miramar College. She explains the concept of Structured Water in laymen's terms and includes helpful illustrations and examples. Rather than attempting to summarize her work, I encourage you to read her article for yourself.
https://sdmiramar.edu/sites/default/files/2023-05/Structured...
Earth Element and Spleen Health
In terms of Chinese Medicine, we are currently in the season of the Earth element. It is that time of the year when the hot expansive summer (Yang) is starting to wane, the days are getting shorter, and we start moving toward a cool internal-focused winter (Yin).
Earth is represented by Indian Summer, when we have hot days and cool nights. Our gardens are ready to harvest. There is abundance dancing around us; all we need to do is receive.
I am taking a 12-month class with Robert Peng called "The Way of Virtue". Over 100 students diligently meet every Sunday online to activate acupuncture points, detox organ systems, and nourish each organ's Qi. Using breath and chanting, we open the energy flow in the 12 major organ meridians to increase physical health, emotional balance, and spiritual alignment.
The last four weeks have been focused on the Earth element, specifically the Stomach and Spleen meridians. I have come to understand that many of my physical and emotional complaints are related to imbalances in these meridians.
I share in case these symptoms resonate with you.
Emotional aspects of Earth
When Earth is constricted, it is difficult to digest what is happening in life. There is a ruminating mind, trying to make sense of the world, worrying about what could be. There is a tendency to give yourself away, taking care of others to your own detriment. When the Earth is out of balance, a person feels unsupported and has difficulty in being able to receive.
When Earth is healthy, there is a feeling of abundance: an awareness that you already have access to anything you could possibly need. With a quiet and clear mind, you are able to prioritize and receive.
Eating French fries? Your body can absorb the nutrients you need from those fries.
Lonely? You are able to receive deep fulfilling love from the relationships you already have.
Financially strapped? You have the clarity to prioritize and find that you have enough financial means for anything that you need.
A stable and supportive Earth reminds that you are abundant, right here in this now moment.