Stomach, spirit, and root

Stomach function, general vitality, and fundamental constitution as reflected in the pulse. A healthy pulse is regular, smooth, and harmonious, indicating the presence of stomach qì. It is also supple and powerful, indicating the presence of spirit. It can also be felt at the deep level and at all three positions of the pulse (inch, bar, and cubit), which is a sign of the presence of root. In disease, these three factors help to determine the severity. When despite illness the pulse has stomach, spirit, and root, recovery is possible.