Wind in this context is much more than an atmospheric phenomenon. It is thought of as a cosmic influence that is capable of inducing chaos, disrupting the orderly function of society and, also, of the internal economy of the individual, by exciting imbalances. Thus, it isn't so much a cause of disease as disease itself, an alien invader. Yet although Chinese medicine conceived of a resonance between macrocosm and microcosm, it also recognized the independence of the individual, and this brings it closer to the Greek ideal. We can resist the attacks of evil empty wind by maintaining our own inner fullness, by standing up against these incursions from outside.
Wind can only enter the body and wreak havoc when it encounters emptiness.
I find this a truly illuminating book that has done more to shape my understanding of the subject than almost anything else I have read. No one who wants to write about acupuncture in the future can afford to ignore it.