Identification of TCM Constitution – Harmonious Constitution

Identification of TCM Constitution

—Harmonious Constitution—

Constitution refers to the relatively stable characteristics inherent in individuals, formed by both genetic inheritance and acquired factors, which are related to their physical structure and functional activities, as well as their psychological traits.

The differences in individual constitution manifest as variations in responses and adaptations to external stimuli under physiological conditions, as well as susceptibility to certain pathogenic factors and tendencies in disease progression. Therefore, studying constitution helps analyze the occurrence and evolution of diseases, providing a basis for diagnosis and treatment.

Chinese people can be classified into nine types of constitution. Today, we will discuss the Harmonious Constitution and teach you how to regulate your body online~

1. Characteristics of Harmonious Constitution

Individuals of this type have a well-proportioned physique, rosy complexion, moist skin, thick and shiny hair, bright eyes, clear nasal color, good sense of smell, rosy lips, are not easily fatigued, can tolerate cold and heat, have good appetite, sleep well, normal bowel movements, pale red tongue, thin white coating, and a soft, strong pulse. They are generally less prone to illness, have a cheerful and open personality, abundant energy, and strong adaptability to nature and society. They rarely get sick, and even if they do, they recover quickly.

1Common Manifestations

▪ Skin Color: Rosy complexion, with luster

▪ Hair: Thick and shiny

▪ Features: Bright eyes, clear nasal color, rosy lips

▪ Spirit: Abundant energy, can tolerate cold and heat, not easily fatigued

2Key Identification Points

▪ Abundant energy

▪ Not easily fatigued

▪ Loud speaking voice

▪ Good psychological quality, easy-going and cheerful, stable emotions

▪ Can tolerate cold and heat

▪ Good adaptability to changes in the natural and social environment

▪ Good sleep

▪ Not forgetful

3Tongue and Pulse Manifestations

Tongue Quality: Pale red

Tongue Coating: Thin white

Pulse: Calm and gentle, soft and strong

2. Nourishing Principles

Nourish Qi and Blood, harmonize Yin and Yang: Maintain a balanced and sufficient state of Qi and Blood to achieve coordination and balance of Yin and Yang, while keeping a healthy lifestyle.

01Daily Routine Nourishment

Maintain a regular daily routine. It is advisable to wake up at 6 or 7 AM and go to bed at 10 or 11 PM.

Balance work and rest; do not overexert yourself due to confidence in your strength, nor indulge in excessive leisure. Combine physical and mental labor.

02Exercise Nourishment

Exercise should be moderate and not excessive. Especially for the elderly, even if they are physically strong, they should avoid overly intense exercise. Traditional Tai Chi, Ba Duan Jin, Qigong, and brisk walking are preferable.

Exercise should be consistent and persistent. Training is not only for the body but also for willpower and perseverance.

03Dietary Nourishment

Diet should balance hot and cold foods; excessive preference for either can lead to imbalances in Yin and Yang, resulting in disease. Develop good habits such as rinsing your mouth after meals and taking walks afterward.

Individuals with a harmonious constitution can use food as medicine, as a variety of daily fruits, vegetables, poultry, and grains can help nourish Qi and Blood and balance Yin and Yang.

For example: In summer, consume more bitter melon, mung beans, and winter melon; in autumn, consume more white fungus, sugar cane, pears, and honey; in winter, consume more chicken, lamb, and walnuts.

04Meridian Nourishment

Massage, tapping, moxibustion, gua sha, and cupping can be performed on acupoints such as Zu San Li (足三里), San Yin Jiao (三阴交), Qi Hai (气海), Guan Yuan (关元), Ming Men (命门), Shen Shu (肾俞), and Yong Quan (涌泉).

❶Zu San Li (足三里): On the outer side of the lower leg, 3 inches below the outer side of the knee joint when the knee is bent at a right angle.

❷San Yin Jiao (三阴交): On the inner side of the lower leg, 3 inches above the tip of the inner ankle, behind the edge of the tibia.

❸Qi Hai (气海): In the lower abdomen, on the anterior midline, 1.5 inches below the navel.

❹Guan Yuan (关元): In the lower abdomen, on the anterior midline, 3 inches below the navel.

❺Ming Men (命门): In the lower back, on the posterior midline, in the depression below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra. When sitting or lying face down, draw a line around the midpoint of the navel horizontally; the intersection of this line with the spine is the acupoint.

❻Shen Shu (肾俞): Below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra, 1.5 inches to the side. When sitting or lying face down, draw a line around the midpoint of the navel horizontally; the intersection of this line with the spine is the acupoint, and 2 finger widths to the side is the acupoint.

❼Yong Quan (涌泉): On the sole of the foot, in the depression at the front of the foot when curled, located at the intersection of the front 1/3 and back 2/3 of the line connecting the heads of the second and third metatarsal bones with the heel.