Zhang Guangdou’s “One-Two-Three-Four” Health Preservation Method
Famous hydraulic scientist Zhang Guangdou
Born in 1912 in Changshu, Jiangsu Province, he graduated from the School of Civil Engineering at Shanghai Jiao Tong University in 1934. He studied at the University of California, Berkeley, and Harvard University in the United States, earning a master’s degree. Starting in October 1949, he taught at Tsinghua University, becoming a founding figure in China’s hydraulic structures and hydropower engineering disciplines. In 1958, he served as Director and Chief Engineer of the Tsinghua University Water Resources Survey and Design Institute, responsible for designing China’s largest reservoir in North China—the Miyun Reservoir. In 1963 and 1982, he led delegations to attend international dam conferences and the World Federation of Engineering Organizations, securing China’s membership in both organizations. In 1955, he was elected an inaugural academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences; in 1994, he became an inaugural academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering; in 1981, he was appointed a foreign academician of Mexico’s National Academy of Engineering.
At 92 years old, Zhang Guangdou developed strong legs due to his professional demands. As the saying goes, "People age first in their legs." In daily life, Old Zhang incorporated health preservation into routine and summarized it as the "One-Two-Three-Four Health Preservation Method":
One: Always Be Content The saying goes, "Contentment brings lasting joy." Joy is key to longevity. How to maintain a smiling face? Though this involves overall personal qualities, contentment plays a major role. Those who are never satisfied pursue fame, status, and material pleasures greedily, leading to psychological distortion, envy of the strong, mockery of the weak, self-inflicted troubles, and disregard for natural laws—harming both others and themselves. Only by consistently being content can one adapt to natural rhythms. Elderly people should face reality, find joy in life, and cherish existence with a peaceful heart, thus loving life more deeply.
Two: Look Far Ahead "Looking far ahead" here implies having a broad vision. Today, myopia is widespread, and many people are driven by immediate gains—this needs correction. Life is never smooth sailing. Resolving conflicts requires standing higher and seeing farther. Avoid narrow-mindedness and short-sightedness that sacrifice greater principles for minor gains. With a broad perspective and firm ideals aligned with nature, one benefits greatly in physical and mental health.
Three: Regular Meals "Food is paramount for the people; diet reflects national well-being." Three meals a day are essential. For older adults, four or five smaller meals may be preferable. Avoid bias, practice moderation, and maintain regularity—beneficial for health. Overeating one meal and skipping another easily damages the stomach. According to dietary science: among China’s four staple grains—rice, wheat, corn, and soybeans—single consumption yields only 51%–70% absorption efficiency, whereas mixed consumption reaches over 80%–90%. Corn also helps lower cholesterol and manage hypertension. Regular intake of peanuts and legumes promotes blood and qi generation, enhancing vitality. Consuming whole grains supplies multiple vitamins needed by the body. Thus, to live longer, one must eat a variety of grains without bias.
Four: Never Be Idle Throughout the Year. The health preservation maxim says: "Stay active, think often, strengthen body and mind; keep hands busy, stay mentally sharp..." Choose suitable exercises based on one’s physical condition and persistently practice to prevent aging. Being active throughout the seasons reflects one’s spirit. It preserves our ancestors’ diligence and rejuvenates youth.