Zhi —  The Willpower

The Chinese character 志 (zhì) is composed of two radicals: 心 (xīn) on the bottom and 讠 (yán) on the top. The radical 心 (xīn) means heart or mind, indicating concepts related to emotions, thoughts, or consciousness. The radical 讠(yán) is a variant of 言 (yán), which means speech or words. In combination, these two radicals in the character 志 (zhì) create the meaning of will, aspiration, or determination. The radical 心 (xīn) emphasises the involvement of the heart or mind, while the radical 讠 (yán) emphasises the expression through speech or words. Therefore, 志 (zhì) can express one's will or determination through words or speech.

Gaining insight into the role of Zhi in Chinese Medicine can offer valuable knowledge on how our kidneys influence our mental and emotional health. Zhi refers to the determination and willpower associated with the kidneys, which have a crucial impact on maintaining emotional equilibrium. This article delves into the significance of Zhi and its effectiveness in managing depression. While interpreting Zhi as willpower illuminates its mental and emotional functions, it's worth noting that Zhi also encompasses memory, emphasising its broader role in the body.