Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes “following the changes of the four seasons, and the correspondence between heaven and human,” advocating adjusting lifestyle habits and diet according to the changes of the four seasons, in order to harmoniously integrate into the natural rhythm. This concept originates from the close relationship between the changes in climate in nature and human health in traditional Chinese medicine, emphasizing the need for the human body to self-regulate with environmental changes to maintain a healthy state.
The theory of yin and yang and the five elements is its core theory, viewing everything in nature as constituted by the five elements of metal, wood, fire, water, and earth, interacting and restricting each other, and the rotation of the four seasons reflects this dynamic balance. The human body also contains yin and yang and the five elements, and health preservation involves regulating oneself to harmonize with the external environment.
In practice, this principle is reflected in the different emphasis on health preservation methods for each season:
In spring, everything is rejuvenating. One should sleep and wake up early, increase outdoor activities, maintain a cheerful mood, consume light and bland food, eat more vegetables and fruits to promote the rising of yang energy, and enhance immunity.
In summer, it is hot and sweaty. One should maintain indoor ventilation, sun protection, consume cooling foods such as green bean soup, watermelon, etc., stay hydrated, and maintain internal water balance.
In autumn, it is dry. It is suitable to eat pears, honey, and other lung-moistening foods, reduce spicy foods, pay attention to keeping warm, and prevent discomfort caused by autumn dryness.
In winter, it is cold. While keeping warm, consume warm-natured foods such as lamb, ginger, maintain appropriate indoor humidity, and prevent dryness.
By incorporating this principle into daily life, one can start from the following aspects:
– Adjust daily schedules according to weather forecasts, timely add or remove clothing, and plan diet and activities reasonably. – Adjust daily routines according to the season, waking up early in spring and summer, and slightly later in autumn and winter. – Change diet according to the season, replenish or clear heat timely, and nourish the body. – Select seasonal exercise methods to both exercise the body and adapt to natural conditions. – Pay attention to emotional management, enhance mood through activities suitable for the season, and maintain psychological balance.
In conclusion, by following the changes of the four seasons, synchronizing with nature, one can not only promote physical and mental health but also enjoy a harmonious, balanced, and long life journey.
