The qi stagnation described in Donguibogam is closely linked, in modern medical terms, to a complex hypofunction across our body's overall digestive system. In particular, the longer we stay seated, the more severe the stress placed on our digestive organs becomes—far more than we might think.
The very first thing affected is intestinal motility. The intestines continuously perform complex peristalsis to digest and absorb food and expel the remaining waste. This peristalsis becomes especially active when we move around; however, sitting for long periods deprives us of the help of gravity, physically compresses the intestines, and lowers blood circulation, causing motility to drop significantly. In particular, as the wave-like movement that sweeps the intestines during fasting—known as the migrating motor complex—weakens, undigested food debris and bacteria linger in the intestines for longer periods.
Such decreased intestinal motility also exerts a critical impact on the gut environment. Gut microbiota play vital roles such as assisting digestion and regulating immunity, but when food remains in the intestines for prolonged periods, conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth or gut dysbiosis easily occur where specific bacteria proliferate excessively. These bacteria ferment food, particularly carbohydrates, generating large amounts of gas that act as the main culprit behind abdominal distension. In severe cases, this can inflame the intestinal mucosa and worsen leaky gut syndrome, potentially leading to a systemic inflammatory response.
Another crucial factor is the autonomic nervous system. Our gut is regulated by the autonomic nervous system via the gut-brain axis, which connects directly to the brain. We have all experienced poor digestion when tense and stressed, haven't we? This occurs because the sympathetic nerve activated in stressful situations suppresses intestinal motility. Chronic lack of exercise promotes the secretion of the stress hormone cortisol, which can hyperactivate the sympathetic nerve, continuously lowering intestinal motility and increasing gut sensitivity. Conversely, the parasympathetic nervous system operating through the vagus nerve activates intestinal motility and aids digestion, but when activity levels are low, the function of this parasympathetic nervous system also tends to weaken easily.
Lastly, a sedentary lifestyle impedes blood and lymphatic circulation around the abdomen, causing edema and waste accumulation. Beyond merely causing an unsightly belly, this creates a vicious cycle that impairs the smooth functioning of organs and deepens indigestion. All these complex problems combine to manifest as the symptom of chronic abdominal distension that troubles us. This is the moment where the wisdom of Donguibogam is clearly explained by modern science. Please remember that now is the time to stop ignoring your body's signals and start moving for your gut health.
