A Western Approximation refers to an interpretive model that approaches the hexagrams from a Western perspective influenced by philosophical anthropology.
One of the core concepts of this approach is that we, as human beings, are bound in opposites, such as “relationship to ourselves / relationship to the world”, “individual / society” or “body / psyche”. These pairs of opposites shape our experience, we can never leave them, we are inescapably bound, just as in the interplay of Yin and Yang – which closes the arc to the origin of the I Ching.
The interpretive model is explained in more detail here: Follow the Path of the Dao: A Western Approximation
On the hexagram pages you will find the respective texts and questions in the lower part, under the heading “Follow the Path of the Dao: A Western Approximation”
Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in which thin needles are inserted into the body to manipulate its energetic system. The meridians (acupuncture functional circuits) are hereby associated with organ systems. These organ systems in turn represent very specific mental functions. Any dysfunction within an organ system triggers very specific patterns of behavior. To cite just two examples: the functional circuit gallbladder is associated with excessive anger, effusive joy points to the functional circuit heart.
The goal of any acupuncture treatment is to re-establish balance. Both “anger” and “joy” are natural psychological functions of the individual. But they should be in harmony with the overall system; any excessive presence brings imbalance to the entire system.
Read more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acupuncture
