Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long history, and its principles and methods have been revered by many for thousands of years. Today, we will explore several major methods of TCM health preservation, helping everyone better nourish their body and mind in daily life to achieve health and longevity.
Moderate exercise can promote the circulation of Qi and blood, strengthening the muscles and bones. Traditional exercises such as Tai Chi (太极拳) and Ba Duan Jin (八段锦) are recommended.
The core concept of TCM health preservation is to harmonize with nature and balance Yin and Yang (阴阳). TCM believes that the human body is a microcosm closely connected to the macrocosm of nature. Therefore, our health preservation methods must follow the laws of nature, aligning with the four seasons and harmonizing Yin and Yang.
Health Preservation in Four Seasons
According to the natural laws of spring growth, summer flourishing, autumn harvest, and winter storage, one should adjust their daily routines and dietary habits. For example, in spring, it is advisable to sleep early and rise early, consuming foods that nourish the liver; in winter, one should sleep early and rise late, focusing on foods that nourish the kidneys.
Balancing Yin and Yang
TCM emphasizes the balance of Yin and Yang, believing that the occurrence of diseases is often related to the imbalance of these forces. Therefore, health preservation should focus on regulating Yin and Yang through appropriate dietary combinations, suitable exercise, and good daily routines.
Diet is the most direct method of health preservation in daily life. TCM advocates the concept of food as medicine, where many foods are considered to have medicinal value.
Whole Grains for Nutritional Balance
Whole grains are the dietary foundation praised by TCM, rich in various nutrients that meet the body’s needs. For instance, millet (小米) nourishes the spleen, while soybeans (大豆) support the kidneys; one can choose suitable whole grains based on their constitution.
Medicinal Cuisine: Integrating Medicine into Food
TCM combines many foods with medicinal properties to create medicinal dishes that are both delicious and beneficial for health. For example, Angelica (当归) and ginger (生姜) lamb soup can warm and nourish Qi and blood, suitable for those with a cold constitution.
Moderation in Diet: Avoiding Excessive Cravings
TCM emphasizes moderation in diet, avoiding both excessive hunger and overeating, while also steering clear of excessive cravings for certain foods to prevent nutritional imbalances or burdens on the organs.
TCM health preservation not only focuses on physical exercise but also emphasizes mental well-being. The combination of movement and stillness, nurturing both body and spirit, is the path to holistic health from a TCM perspective.
Moderate Exercise for a Strong Body
Moderate exercise can promote the circulation of Qi and blood, strengthening the muscles and bones. Traditional TCM exercises such as Tai Chi and Ba Duan Jin not only strengthen the body but also regulate the breath, achieving the effect of nurturing both body and spirit.
Calming the Mind: Harmonizing Emotions
TCM believes that emotions are closely related to the functions of the organs. Therefore, maintaining a peaceful mindset and avoiding excessive emotions is crucial for health preservation. Practices such as meditation and quiet sitting can help calm the mind.
Regular Routines: Balancing Work and Rest
Regular routines are the foundation of health preservation. TCM advocates a balance between work and rest, emphasizing the need to work hard while ensuring adequate rest to avoid overexertion.
There are various methods of TCM health preservation, but they all revolve around the principles of harmonizing with nature and balancing Yin and Yang. In daily life, we only need to pay a little attention to integrate the wisdom of TCM health preservation into our lives to enjoy the beauty and joy that health brings.
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