Our body is a living ecosystem that is not solely made up of cells; it also houses billions of microorganisms: bacteria, yeasts, and other organisms living primarily in our gut, on the surface of the skin and in its outermost layers.
Long ignored, and then considered intruders that needed to be gotten rid of, they are now considered major players in our health and overall balance. Research suggests that they play a role in digestion, immunity, metabolism, and even certain mechanisms involved in our mood and well-being.
These discoveries fascinate modern science. Yet, the idea that an internal balance determines our health has been at the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years.
1. The gut microbiome: the key to digestive balance
In ancient texts, Traditional Chinese Medicine obviously does not mention bacteria or the microbiome. Nevertheless, it has always given a central place to the digestive system.
According to TCM, the Spleen and Stomach form the energetic "center" of the body. Their mission is to transform food and drinks to produce energy and the nourishing substances essential to the entire body.
When this system works harmoniously:
- energy circulates correctly
- digestion is comfortable
- immunity is supported
- the mind remains clear
- the skin retains its radiance.
Conversely, when this energetic center weakens, various imbalances can appear: fatigue, digestive discomfort, a feeling of heaviness, brain fog, or loss of vitality.
2. The skin microbiome: the discreet guardian of our skin
Our skin also has its own ecosystem. Billions of microorganisms naturally live on its surface, forming the skin microbiome. As mentioned in our previous article on the skin barrier, this flora - composed of bacteria and yeasts - plays an essential role in the defense of the skin against external aggressions and pathogens.
Its balance is fundamental to maintaining healthy and resistant skin. In addition to preventing the development of pathogenic flora – responsible for infections and inflammation – it helps regulate the skin's physiological pH, which is slightly acidic, an essential condition for the proper functioning of the skin barrier. The latter acts as a shield by limiting water loss and protecting the body from external aggressions such as wind, cold, pollution, or certain pathogens.
3. The 'gut-brain-skin' axis
Among the most fascinating discoveries of recent years is what researchers call the gut-brain-skin axis. This concept describes the many interactions that connect our digestive system, our nervous system, our immune system, and our skin.
The gut microbiome plays a central role in this dialogue. The microorganisms present in the gut constantly exchange information with the body through nerve, immune, and metabolic pathways. This complex dialogue is believed to influence many physiological functions, including those related to 'mood, the response to stress, and inflammatory balance.
At the same time, the skin is also closely related to the immune system. Researchers now observe that a gut imbalance can have remote repercussions, particularly on the state of the skin. This is how the concept of the gut-skin axis developed, highlighting the links between the balance of the gut microbiome, certain immune responses, and various skin manifestations.
This view is particularly close to that of Traditional Chinese Medicine, for which the body and mind are intimately linked. Emotions are never considered independently of physiological functions, and mental well-being influences the body's balance just as much as the reverse.
In the same way, TCM has always considered the skin a reflection of deeper processes. The radiance of the complexion, the quality of the skin, or its tendency toward dryness are interpreted as expressions of the body's overall state: the quality of the blood, the harmonious circulation of Qi, the proper distribution of organic Fluids, and the balance of digestive functions.
Thus, although the words are different, current research on the gut-brain-skin axis aligns with an ancient intuition of Chinese Medicine: inner balance and outer appearance are inseparable. Harmonious skin does not depend solely on the treatments applied to it, but also on the overall state of the body.
4. The factors that influence our microbiomes
Our modern lifestyle is not always favorable to the richness of our gut and skin ecosystems. Among the most significant factors, we can list:
- a highly processed diet
- lack of dietary diversity
- chronic stress
- lack of sleep
- sedentary lifestyle
- certain medications when they are necessary but repeated.
Regarding the skin flora, various factors such as stress, pollution, the excessive use of harsh products, or an unbalanced diet can disrupt this microbiome. When this balance is weakened, the skin can become more sensitive, reactive, or uncomfortable.
5. Cultivating the balance of your microbiomes daily
Nourishing your gut microbiome
- prioritize a varied diet
- consume more whole, minimally processed foods
- eat in a calm environment
- maintain regular meal times
- preserve the quality of sleep.
Respecting your skin microbiome
Taking care of your skin microbiome means preserving the diversity and balance of this living ecosystem. A gentle routine, respectful of the skin barrier and adapted to the skin's actual needs, helps maintain the harmony essential to its comfort and radiance.
- avoid overly harsh cleansing
- take care of your skin barrier
- prioritize skincare adapted to your skin type, the season, and the skin's actual needs
Being mindful of stress
Breathing exercises, Qi Gong, meditation, walking in nature, or gentle physical activity can help restore balance. These practices promote the soothing of the nervous system and reduce the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Indeed, chronic stress can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, weaken the intestinal barrier, and thus negatively influence digestion.
By supporting a better balance between the brain and the gut, these activities create a more favorable environment for the diversity and stability of the microbiome, two essential elements of our overall health.
Conclusion: cultivating your balance from within
Modern research on microbiomes opens exciting perspectives. Even though its language differs from that of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it highlights a fundamental idea that TCM has championed for centuries: our health does not depend on a single organ or function, but on a living, dynamic, and deeply interconnected balance.
Taking care of your microbiomes ultimately means taking care of this living environment that contributes every day to our vitality, comfort, and well-being.
And what about you? What habits could you adopt today to nourish this inner balance and take care of your living ecosystem?
