Emotions (情志 Qíng Zhì) are recognized as both natural mental functions and potential causes of disease when they become excessive, prolonged, or suppressed. Emotional activity is closely linked to the Zang organs, particularly the Heart (which houses the Shen) and Liver (which governs the smooth flow of Qi). When emotions are unbalanced, they can disrupt the flow of Qi, injure organ function, and lead to Qi stagnation, Blood stasis, Fire, Phlegm, or Yin deficiency. Emotions are normal and healthy but become pathological when they are too intense or long-lasting, they are repressed or unexpressed, they occur suddenly and intensely (shock, trauma) or the organ is already weak and vulnerable. Emotional disturbance often causes Qi to rebel or stagnate, leading to further systemic imbalance: Qi stagnation → Blood stasis → Heat/Fire → Yin damage. Emotions can cause internal Wind, Phlegm, or collapse of Qi.