Stagnation in the body

Nature

The Five Stagnations are Qi, Blood, Fluid, Cold and Food. These are determined according to their location in the Triple Warmer or Three Jiao's.

Background

Stagnation in the body has been recognized across cultures for centuries, first noted in ancient medical systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, where it was linked to disrupted energy or fluid flow. Its global significance grew with the rise of modern medicine, as research connected stagnation to chronic pain, circulatory disorders, and metabolic diseases. Increasingly, integrative health approaches have highlighted its role in both physical and psychosomatic conditions, prompting renewed scientific and clinical attention.

Incidence

Stagnation in the body, manifesting as impaired circulation of blood, lymph, or energy, is a widespread health concern affecting millions globally. It is particularly prevalent in sedentary populations, with increased incidence in urbanized societies where physical inactivity and poor posture are common. This problem contributes to a range of chronic conditions, including edema, varicose veins, and musculoskeletal discomfort, placing a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide.
In 2022, a study conducted in Shanghai, China, reported a marked rise in cases of lower limb venous stasis among office workers, attributed to prolonged sitting during pandemic-related remote work arrangements.

Claim

Stagnation in the body is a critical and often overlooked health crisis. When energy, blood, or fluids fail to circulate properly, it leads to pain, fatigue, and chronic illness. Ignoring stagnation allows minor discomforts to escalate into debilitating conditions. This is not a trivial issue—it undermines our well-being and quality of life. Addressing bodily stagnation must be a top priority for anyone serious about maintaining true health and vitality.

Counter-claim

The idea that "stagnation in the body" is a significant problem is vastly overstated. Our bodies are resilient, self-regulating systems that naturally maintain balance through movement, rest, and daily activities. Obsessing over so-called "stagnation" distracts from real health concerns and encourages unnecessary worry. Instead of fixating on this vague concept, we should focus on evidence-based health practices and stop giving undue importance to unproven, sensationalized issues like bodily stagnation.