In traditional Chinese medicine and philosophy, "shen" refers to the spirit or mind. It is considered one of the three vital substances that make up a person's being, alongside jing (essence) and qi (vital energy). Shen is associated with mental clarity, emotional well-being, and consciousness. A balanced shen is believed to contribute to a person's overall health and vitality. Shen is often linked to the heart, as it is thought to reside there. A healthy shen reflects a calm and stable mind, while an imbalanced shen can lead to anxiety, insomnia, or emotional disturbances. Practices like meditation and acupuncture are used to nurture and balance shen, promoting mental and emotional harmony.