Zhang Guangdou’s One-Two-Three-Four Health Preservation Method
Distinguished 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 hydropower engineering and water resources structures 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 status in both institutions. Elected an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 1955, he was later elected a founding member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering in 1994. In 1981, he was appointed a foreign academician of the National Academy of Engineering of Mexico.
At 92 years old, Zhang Guangdou developed strong legs due to his professional lifestyle. As the saying goes, “Old age begins with the legs.” In daily life, Old Mr. Zhang incorporates health preservation into routine and summarizes it as the “One-Two-Three-Four Health Preservation Method”:
One: Consistent contentment. As the saying goes, “Contentment brings constant joy.” Joy is key to longevity. How to maintain a smiling face? Though this involves overall personal qualities, it is closely tied to contentment. 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 self-destruction—violating natural laws and damaging both others’ and their own health. Only consistent contentment allows one to adapt to natural rhythms. Elderly people should accept reality, find joy in life, and cherish existence with a calm heart, thus loving life more deeply.
Two: Looking far ahead with both eyes. Here, “looking far ahead” means having a broad vision. Nowadays, myopia is widespread, and many people are shortsighted and obsessed with immediate gains. This needs correction. Life is not always smooth sailing. Resolving conflicts requires seeing beyond the immediate—rising above petty interests, avoiding narrow-mindedness, and not sacrificing great principles for small gains. Maintaining a broad perspective, firm ideals, and aligning with nature greatly benefits physical and mental health.
Three: Regular meals. “Food is paramount for the people; diet reflects national well-being.” Three meals a day are essential. Older people may need four or five smaller meals instead. Eating balanced, moderate, and regular meals benefits health. Skipping meals or overeating 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, while mixed consumption reaches over 80%–90%. Corn also lowers cholesterol and helps treat hypertension. Regular consumption of peanuts and legumes promotes blood and qi generation, enhancing vitality. Eating whole grains provides multiple vitamins necessary for the body. Thus, longevity depends on eating a variety of grains without bias.
Four: Never lazy through the seasons. The health preservation maxim says: “Stay active, think often, strengthen body and mind. Use hands frequently, stay mentally alert…” Choose suitable exercises based on one’s physical condition and persist consistently to prevent aging. Being active throughout the year reflects one’s spirit. This preserves our ancestors’ diligence and rejuvenates youth.