Excessive eating, a preference for cold and raw foods, smoking, drinking, irregular meal times, and negative emotions can gradually weaken the 脾胃 (Spleen and Stomach), leading to 脾胃虚寒 (Spleen and Stomach Yang Deficiency). The main symptoms include cold limbs, abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and stomach pain, which can affect quality of life over time. To address this issue, TCM methods can be employed. Today, let’s learn from Dr. Mao Zhe from the Public Security Hospital:

Spleen and Stomach Yang Deficiency can impair the Spleen and Stomach’s ability to transform and transport nutrients, making it impossible to convert nutrients into essence for the body. Over time, this can lead to 营养不良 (malnutrition) or physical weakness. If there is an inherent Yang deficiency in the Spleen and Stomach, combined with stagnant liver Qi, it can exacerbate the Yang deficiency, creating a vicious cycle.

1. Maintain Regular Meal Times

Ensure that meals are taken at regular times and in appropriate portions, eating only until 70-80% full. Avoid binge eating and do not skip breakfast. Ensure a diverse diet with a good balance of meat and vegetables, as well as coarse and fine grains. Finish dinner at least three hours before bedtime, keeping it light, such as choosing 山药粥 (Yam Porridge) or 薏米粥 (Job’s Tears Porridge).

2. Avoid Spicy, Stimulating, and Cold Foods

While spicy and cold foods may provide temporary satisfaction, they can harm the Spleen and Stomach, making them increasingly weak. Therefore, it is essential to resist temptation and choose warm and light foods.

3. Moxibustion

After igniting the moxa stick, place it in a moxibustion box, focusing on warming the 下脘穴 (Xiawan Point), 上脘穴 (Shangwan Point), 中脘穴 (Zhongwan Point), and 神阙穴 (Shenque Point). This can strengthen the Spleen and benefit the Stomach, alleviating the issue of Spleen and Stomach Yang Deficiency.

4. Abdominal Massage

First, sit or stand upright, inhaling while straightening the chest, slightly leaning back for 2-3 seconds, then exhaling while contracting the chest and bending forward. Use both hands to apply pressure to the abdomen, repeating 20-30 times. This method can provide beneficial stimulation to the gastrointestinal tract, enhancing the Spleen and Stomach’s transport function. Additionally, you can place your hands together over the navel and massage in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction for 100-200 times each.

5. Horse Stance Squats

Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, about twice the width of your shoulders, with hands resting on your knees while slightly squatting, but not beyond your toes. Keep the upper body straight for about 1-2 minutes. This exercise can strengthen the lower body muscles and promote gastrointestinal peristalsis.

Individuals with Spleen and Stomach Yang Deficiency should choose gentle aerobic exercises, such as cycling, walking, practicing Tai Chi, yoga, and brisk walking. Avoid vigorous exercise, as excessive sweating can deplete Qi and injure fluids, worsening the Yang deficiency. Additionally, swimming is not suitable for those with Spleen and Stomach Yang Deficiency, as cold water can exacerbate discomfort.