Abstract
Objectives: Sasang Constitutional Medicine(SCM) is a Traditional Korean Medicine based on the natural human emotions of joy(喜), anger(怒), sorrow(哀), and pleasure(樂). Therefore, in this paper I would like to construct SCM as a Mind-Body Medicine by studying the relation between SCM and psychotherapy focusing on control of emotions. Methods : I have researched the psychological characteristics of the four human physical constitutions, as described by SCM, and psychotherapy with an emphasis on the natural human emotions of joy, anger, sorrow, and pleasure as discussed in the works of Lee Je-ma(李濟馬, 1837-1900). Results and Conclusions : The joy, anger, sorrow, and pleasure in SCM do not simply refer to human emotions. They have an inherent nature(性), emotion(情) and Qi(氣). They are tied to the psychological characteristics of the four human physical constitutions and the relationship between body and mind. The turning point in the transformation from Sasang philosophy to Sasang therapy lies in these emotions. Sasang Constitutional Medicine, which focuses on 'mind matter' and diagnosing illness, emphasizes medicine and food(藥餌), along with health maintenance(調養). In particular, health maintenance requires the following mental practices. First of all, through countinuous awarness(恒戒) and self-reflection(自反), one needs to practice moderation(中) and restraint(節) of the emotions of joy, anger, sorrow, and pleasure. Therefore, 'inward reflection while sitting(坐思)' is necessary. In SCM, this is very similar to meditation in that it enhances psychological self-control through mental training or practice.