What this center is about
The Spleen makes sure we survive and stay healthy. It's the body's "washing machine": it cleans and protects. Biologically it's linked to the lymphatic system, the spleen itself and its cells. It's the only center that knows in the moment what's right, through a quiet one-time signal: "this is dangerous", "this is good for you". Its voice doesn't repeat itself, so it's easy to miss.
Defined Spleen
A defined Spleen gives a consistent sense of physical well-being that doesn't depend on other people. Being alone comes more easily to them, and their well-being is a reliable sign of health: I feel good, so I'm healthy. Illness usually follows one pattern for them: a high temperature comes on fast, then recovery comes just as fast. That doesn't mean they're healthier than others, only that their way of defending themselves is consistent.
Trap of the defined Spleen: using the dependence of people with an open Spleen, keeping them close and feeling powerful because of it.
Open Spleen
An open Spleen has no fixed instinct, so the feeling "I know exactly what's right right now" can't be trusted. The main rule is not to be spontaneous: caution instead of impulse. Alone, such people often feel physically worse, and next to a defined Spleen noticeably better, because the open center takes in and amplifies the other person's well-being.
Trap (not-self): holding on to what's harmful, to people, relationships, jobs, habits, just to avoid being alone and to feel better. That's where relationships come from that go on for years against all reason.
Gift: an open Spleen is a precise diagnostic instrument. It senses other people's state of health, as long as it doesn't take their well-being for its own. Many strong doctors and healers have an open Spleen.
A question to ask yourself
What am I holding on to even though it's bad for me?