In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), human life is supported by yang qi (阳气), which is the vital energy. Individuals with sufficient yang qi are more vibrant, energetic, and healthy, making them less prone to illness. Conversely, a deficiency in yang qi leads to a decrease in vitality, making one more susceptible to diseases and fatigue. Therefore, from this perspective, TCM emphasizes the importance of nourishing yang qi and maintaining its abundance while avoiding habits that deplete it. If one notices signs of yang deficiency, timely adjustments are necessary to prevent further deterioration.
5 Behaviors That Damage Yang Qi
- Consuming Cold Drinks and Beer
Many people find cold drinks refreshing and enjoy beer, leading to frequent consumption. However, beer is cold in nature and can damage yang qi, particularly affecting the yang qi of the spleen and kidneys. - Inadequate Clothing
Many prefer wearing short sleeves and shorts, especially young women who wear very short skirts and crop tops. While fashionable, these choices can expose vulnerable areas to cold, exacerbating conditions like dysmenorrhea and leading to rheumatic inflammation in joints, which is detrimental to health and can harm yang qi. - Lack of Exercise
The saying “life is in movement” is not just a cliché. Regular exercise promotes the smooth flow of qi and blood, contributing to longevity. However, modern lifestyles often involve prolonged sitting and minimal physical activity, particularly among women, leading to weakened qi circulation and internal coldness, which can deplete yang qi. - Excessive Sexual Activity
Frequent sexual activity can significantly deplete both partners’ energy and yang qi, potentially leading to a decline in physical condition and cognitive functions such as memory and analytical abilities. Over time, this can result in symptoms of yang deficiency, including lower back pain, cold extremities, fatigue, and digestive issues.
Symptoms of Yang Deficiency
- Cold Sensitivity and Cold Extremities
The primary symptoms of yang deficiency include sensitivity to cold and cold hands and feet. Insufficient yang qi creates a “cold” internal environment, which can lead to poor blood circulation and other health issues. - Indigestion
Indigestion, characterized by diarrhea with undigested food, is often due to yang deficiency of the spleen and kidneys. When yang qi is sufficient, food is properly digested; otherwise, it is expelled undigested. - Fatigue and Lack of Energy
Severe yang deficiency can lead to daytime fatigue and restlessness at night. Symptoms like insomnia accompanied by cold extremities indicate a significant deficiency. - Abdominal Pain and Dysmenorrhea
Cold weather or consuming cold foods can trigger abdominal pain, particularly in women during menstruation, which may lead to more severe reproductive issues if not addressed. - Reduced Fertility and Sexual Desire
Individuals with yang deficiency may experience low libido and fertility issues due to kidney yang deficiency.
To Combat Yang Deficiency, Consider This Herb
The herb Rou Gui (肉桂, Cinnamon) is beneficial for those with yang deficiency. Similar to the cinnamon used in cooking, Rou Gui is derived from the bark of the same plant but is of higher quality. It is known for its ability to restore yang, warm the body, and alleviate pain. It can be powdered and taken daily, preferably mixed with red tea, to enhance yang qi and dispel cold.
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