Emphasizing Health Preservation: Living Rhythm Should Follow the Seasons
Whenever the term “health preservation” is mentioned, Professor Li Yan seems to have much to say. Many people pay attention to health preservation in daily life, yet misconceptions abound. Let’s hear Professor Li’s insights.
Li Yan, male, medical doctor, master’s thesis advisor, Director of Oncology Department and Director of Tumor Research Lab at Shanghai Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Standing Committee Member of the Tumor Professional Committee of China Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Member of the Tumor Professional Committee of Shanghai Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Yin-Yang Balance Is Most Important
Traditional Chinese medicine teaches us: the key to seasonal health preservation is nourishing Yang in spring and summer, and nourishing Yin in autumn and winter—this ensures human Yin-Yang balance. Spring calls for regulating Qi, summer for strengthening the spleen, autumn for moistening the lungs, and winter for tonifying the kidneys. These principles are widely known, but long-standing uniform routines may prevent synchrony with nature.
From the perspective of Yin-Yang balance, Professor Li believes that since the sun rises earlier in spring and summer, one should rise slightly earlier. In autumn and winter, one should advocate going to bed early and rising late. During spring and summer, engage in more physical activities, whereas in winter, avoid excessive exertion—daily routines should align with nature.
Avoid Excessive Sweating
Professor Li believes exercise is necessary, but overly intense activity harms the body. Proper exercise should be laborious yet not exhausting—just mild perspiration suffices. Walking, swimming, and Tai Chi are excellent choices. In TCM, sweat is called “Jin Ye” (body fluids). Normally, the body needs appropriate fluid levels. Excess Jin Ye undergoes transformation and is expelled as waste, maintaining fluid balance. However, excessive sweating depletes body fluids.
Scientific Use of Tonifying Ointments
Many young people take herbal ointments during winter, the best season for tonification. If leftover ointment remains at home, should it be continued daily? Or is it better to stop?
Some people report experiencing eye pain, dizziness, and other symptoms after taking ointments—possibly due to overdosing or excessively high doses prescribed.
Expert Advice: Practice scientific health preservation for a healthy life!