How Emperor Qianlong Extended His Longevity
Emperor Qianlong ruled for 60 years and lived to be 89, one of China’s longest-living emperors. It is said that in his later years, he remained physically robust, never needing glasses, and even hunted outdoors two years before his death. Just before passing away, he could still write and read. While his innate constitution played a significant role, his excellent health preservation practices were equally vital factors in his longevity. Today, let us explore—Archery Practice and Travel Across the Four DirectionsEmperor Qianlong’s health and longevity were closely linked to his love for archery and martial training. Moderate exercise promotes smooth flow of qi and blood, accelerates circulation, harmonizes internal organs, strengthens tendons and bones, and enhances physical strength. It is recorded that after receiving military officers in summer, Emperor Qianlong often competed in archery with them. Similarly, during autumn hunts, he engaged in archery as part of recreation. Archery brought joy, refreshed the spirit, and improved mental state.Besides archery, Emperor Qianlong enjoyed hunting. While hunting, walking through nature, breathing fresh air significantly increased oxygen intake. Meanwhile, the beautiful natural scenery, melodious birdsong, and fragrant blossoms broadened the mind and uplifted the spirit, greatly benefiting both body and mind.Throughout his life, Emperor Qianlong made six tours to the south, five western trips to Wutai Mountain, and three eastern journeys to Mount Tai. Each tour lasted several months. During these relaxed travels, he not only admired natural landscapes but also broadened his horizons, strengthened his will, and enhanced his physical stamina—benefits beyond measure.During his reign, Emperor Qianlong maintained a habit of rising early. As historical records state: “The emperor always rose at dawn; in summer, daylight had already arrived, while in winter, he rose just before dawn.” This regular routine significantly contributed to his physical well-being.Poetry, Painting, Tea, and SingingEmperor Qianlong loved composing poetry and wrote several poems daily. He often sent his poems to officials with literary talent for review. When encountering classical references, he asked officials to explain them. If officials couldn’t answer immediately, they could take the poems home to study further. Those who still failed to find answers were never reprimanded. This shows his profound expertise in literature. Through poetry, he exercised his mind and expressed emotions. Modern research indicates that the human brain possesses strong plasticity. Constant input of information stimulates brain cell development and continuously strengthens brain function, thus delaying brain aging. In his leisure time, Emperor Qianlong enjoyed calligraphy and painting to refine himself. These activities cultivated his temperament and provided excellent psychological regulation. Furthermore, the process of writing and painting requires coordinated use of finger, wrist, and arm strength, demanding full concentration of thought and intention. Thus, not only did it achieve the purpose of self-cultivation, but also physically exercised the body.Tea drinking was another passion of Emperor Qianlong. Research shows tea reduces blood lipids, clears heat, refreshes the mind, and relieves fatigue. He often enjoyed tea with literati officials, watching performances, composing verses, and exchanging couplets—truly enjoying himself! Additionally, he had a keen interest in music and could play instruments. On the festival of Kitchen God, he would personally beat drums and sing the “Song of Seeking Talents.” Singing helped express emotions and cultivate the spirit, greatly aiding health preservation.Taking Herbal Tonics for LongevityEmperor Qianlong regularly consumed over six types of tonifying herbs and longevity-promoting formulas, among which the most important were Gui Ling Ji (Tortoise Age Formula) and Song Ling Taiping Chun Wine (Pine Age Peaceful Spring Wine). Gui Ling Ji takes its name from the tortoise, symbolizing longevity akin to the crane. Emperor Qianlong cared deeply about Gui Ling Ji, frequently asking the head eunuch: “How much Gui Ling Ji remains in the pharmacy?” He personally supervised every detail of its preparation. Song Ling Taiping Chun Wine was a favorite tonic wine, known for tonifying qi, strengthening the spleen, nourishing blood, and activating circulation.Emperor Qianlong summarized his longevity secrets in sixteen characters: “Exhale and inhale the lungs, move the body, ten constants and four abstentions, timely supplementation.” “Ten constants and four abstentions” refer to: “knock teeth frequently, swallow saliva often, tap ears frequently, rub nose frequently, roll eyes frequently, rub face frequently, rub feet frequently, massage abdomen frequently, stretch limbs frequently, lift anus frequently; do not talk while eating, do not speak while sleeping, do not drink excessively, do not indulge in lust.” With rational health preservation practices consistently followed, Emperor Qianlong remained robust in old age. No wonder British envoy Macartney wrote in his diary: “Observing his bearing, though aged 83, he looked no older than 60, vigorous and energetic, surpassing youth.”