Seven Tips for Autumn Health Preservation
Fifth Tip: Wear Bright-Colored Clothes
A common belief suggests eating white foods in autumn, derived from the Five Elements theory ("Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water" corresponding to "Green, Red, Yellow, White, Black" and "Liver, Heart, Spleen, Lung, Kidney").
However, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners offer another interpretation.
"Autumn and white are somewhat contrived," especially since white foods tend to be cold and cooling—like cabbage and radishes. "Eating them is fine, but those with allergic constitutions may worsen symptoms." Clearly, Traditional Chinese Medicine isn't rigid; individual constitution must guide dietary choices.
Moreover, autumn brings decay and desolation, affecting mood. Since white represents clarity and brightness in the Five Elements, wearing white or bright-colored clothes can uplift spirits, bringing joy and vitality, making one appear lively rather than dull.
Sixth Tip: Lung-Strengthening Exercises
Autumn energy connects with the lungs; dryness easily harms the lungs. Thus, autumn prioritizes lung preservation. Here are two lung-nourishing exercises.
High Arm Swing Method
Benefits: Expands heart-lung vessels and liver-spleen-stomach functions, promoting mental clarity and physical lightness and agility.
Steps: 1. Gaze straight ahead, inhale, swing arms upward overhead, stretching the body upward.
2. Exhale and relax, swing arms evenly backward and downward.
3. Repeat continuously for about ten minutes.
"Sī" Breath Release Method
Benefits: Helps internalize emotions, achieving calmness and balance.
Steps: 1. Feet parallel, shoulder-width apart.
2. Inhale, palms upward, raise hands to chest, then flip palms outward.
3. Form the "sī" mouth shape silently, exhale slowly, push hands horizontally outward until straight, then relax.
4. Lower hands, return to upright posture.
Seventh Tip: Autumn Health-Preserving Recipes
a. Moisturizing and Itch-Relieving Porridge
b. Steamed Sea Bass
c. Nourishing Silver Ear Soup
d. Autumn Health Tea: Mulberry and Chrysanthemum Tea