What my overheating car taught me about Chinese Medicine…Wisdom from the side of the road

“A wise person maintains their vessel before it leaks.” – TCM Proverb

Last week, while navigating the usual rush hour traffic on I-695, my car suddenly overheated. I managed to pull over safely, only to discover a coolant leak—the culprit behind the issue.

Frustrated but determined, I followed step-by-step instructions over the phone, made it to the clinic, and with the help of a patient when the car had cooled, added the much-needed coolant. Later, I even replaced the coolant tank myself. 💪

But as I worked through the situation, it struck me:

👉 This car trouble was a perfect metaphor for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

🚗 When Fluids Run Low—Systems Break Down

In Chinese medicine, body fluids—particularly Jin-Ye—play a critical role in cooling the body, nourishing the organs, and keeping everything in balance. Much like your car needs coolant to prevent the engine from overheating, your body depends on proper hydration, Yin nourishment, and Qi regulation to function smoothly.

Without these, your body can show signs of internal imbalance:

• 😴 Fatigue

• 😠 Irritability

• 😰 Anxiety or “wired but tired” feelings

• 💪 Muscle soreness or stiffness

• 🔥 Overheating, night sweats, or dry mouth

These aren’t just random symptoms—they’re signals from your body, much like the temperature gauge on your dashboard. Ignoring them can lead to deeper issues like burnout, adrenal fatigue, and chronic inflammation.

🛠️ TCM Maintenance = Preventing Breakdowns

Over the weekend, while physically drained from the repair, I noticed myself running on adrenaline—what we would call Kidney Yang in Chinese medicine. The body will push harder when it’s running on empty, but at a cost.

That’s why maintenance care in TCM isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.

✅ TCM Tips to Avoid Burnout and Fluid Deficiency:

• 💧 Hydrate regularly – your body’s coolant depends on it!

• 🌿 Nourish your Yin – with rest, cool foods (like cucumber, pear, and tofu), and calming practices like Tai Chi or meditation.

• 😴 Sleep deeply – especially between 10pm–2am when your Yin and Blood are restored.

• 🚶‍♀️ Move mindfully – practices like Qi Gong help circulate Qi and support organ health.

• 🔍 Listen to your signals – irritability, dizziness, thirst, and soreness are signs your system needs support.

🌟 Restore Balance Before Burnout Hits

Whether you’re stuck in traffic or stuck in a cycle of fatigue, the message is the same:

Don’t wait until your body overheats.

At Jean Donati Acupuncture in Towson, MD, we specialize in preventive care, fluid and Yin deficiency treatments, and holistic support to help you maintain optimal wellness—before symptoms escalate.

✨ From acupuncture and reiki to lifestyle coaching and nutritional guidance, we help you keep your body running like a well-tuned engine.