Seven Tips for Autumn Health Preservation
Fifth Tip: Wear Bright-Colored Clothes
There is a saying that one should eat more white-colored foods in autumn, derived from the Five Elements theory ("Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water" corresponding to "Green, Red, Yellow, White, Black," which in turn correspond to "Liver, Heart, Spleen, Lung, Kidney").
However, traditional Chinese physicians offer a different interpretation.
"Autumn corresponds to white—this connection is somewhat forced," especially since white foods are often cold and cooling, like cabbage and radish. "Eating them is certainly fine, but those with allergic constitutions may worsen their condition." Clearly, traditional Chinese medicine is not rigid; individual constitution must guide dietary choices.
Moreover, autumn brings decay and desolation, evoking melancholy. Since white represents clarity and brightness in the Five Elements, wearing white or bright clothing can uplift mood, enhance cheerfulness, and make one appear more vibrant, avoiding a dull, lifeless appearance.
Sixth Tip: Strengthening Exercise for Lung Health
Autumn energy connects with the lungs; dryness easily injures the lungs. Thus, autumn is the prime time to protect the lungs. Here are two lung-nourishing exercises.
High Arm Swinging Method
Benefits: Expands heart and lung vessels and enhances liver, spleen, and 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 downward.
3. Repeat continuously for about ten minutes.
"Sī" Breath Release Method
Benefits: Helps internalize emotions and achieve calmness.
Steps: 1. Stand with feet parallel and 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 fully extended, then relax gradually.
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 Jelly
d. Autumn Health Tea: Mulberry and Chrysanthemum Tea