Traditional Chinese medicine considers Qi and blood as the foundation of health, abundant Qi and blood provide vitality and strong resistance; conversely, a decline in constitution leads to susceptibility to illness. Therefore, supplementing Qi and blood has become a key aspect of health maintenance. This process is not simply achieved through dietary supplements or medication; it requires adherence to certain steps and principles; otherwise, the effects may be minimal or even counterproductive. Effective supplementation of Qi and blood should follow the “Three-Stage Method”: first strengthening the spleen and stomach, then eliminating dampness, and finally nourishing Qi and blood, as this is crucial.
Strengthening the spleen and stomach is the primary step, as Chinese medicine regards the spleen and stomach as the foundation of postnatal existence, responsible for transforming food into Qi and blood. Poor spleen and stomach function hinders the production of Qi and blood even with abundant nutrition intake. Improving spleen and stomach function can begin with: choosing easily digestible, nutritionally comprehensive foods such as Chinese yam, coix seed, etc.; ensuring sufficient sleep and avoiding staying up late; engaging in moderate aerobic exercise; and under the guidance of a physician, incorporating medicinal herbs like Codonopsis pilosula.
Next, it is essential to eliminate dampness, as dampness can disrupt the functioning of the spleen and stomach, impeding the generation of Qi and blood. Symptoms include heaviness in the body, fatigue, etc. Measures to address this include adjusting diet to consume less greasy food and more dampness-reducing foods; maintaining a dry and ventilated living environment; engaging in moderate exercise to induce sweating; and consulting a physician for the appropriate use of Chinese herbal medicine.
Finally, after strengthening the spleen and stomach and eliminating dampness, focus on the dual supplementation of Qi and blood. In this phase, it is advisable to consume foods with Qi and blood supplementing effects such as red dates, longan, which can be coupled with Chinese medicinal cooking. Maintaining a positive mindset, practicing breathing regulation, massaging specific acupoints, or utilizing acupuncture, massage, and other traditional Chinese therapeutic methods, all contribute to smooth Qi and blood circulation.
In practice, personalized nurturing plans should be developed based on individual constitution and lifestyle habits, persistence is key, and hasty expectations should be avoided. Supplementing Qi and blood is a long-term process requiring patience and a suitable approach to achieve the goal of abundant Qi and blood, and vibrant energy.
