[Health Preservation During the 24 Solar Terms] What are the key points to pay attention to during White Dew Health Preservation?

During the Bailu season, the summer heat has gradually faded away, and the strong autumn atmosphere has gradually taken over. This special solar term not only marks the change of seasons, but more deeply, it is closely related to human health, the five internal organs, and the five seasons. Bailu, the name itself implies that the dew begins to show white characteristics, which indicates that the moment of the turn of summer and autumn has arrived. At this time, nature begins to turn from the hot summer to the cool autumn, and all living things begin to prepare for the coming winter. For us, Bailu is a key time to recuperate. Bailu health care should start from the following aspects:

1. Clears and moistens the lungs

With the coming of Bailu, the climate begins to gradually cool down. The dry autumn wind sometimes makes people feel a little uncomfortable in the lungs. The theory of the five internal organs is the core part of Chinese medicine theory. The five internal organs, namely the heart, liver, spleen, lungs, and kidneys, each of which corresponds to a specific season, emotion, color, taste, etc. Therefore, we need to pay special attention to the maintenance of the lungs during this season. Bailu, as the beginning of autumn, has a direct connection with the lungs and the metal element. In addition, due to the principle that gold produces water, we also need to take special care of the kidneys during the Bailu period. This deep connection with the five internal organs and the five seasons reveals to us the subtle relationship between nature and human health. In terms of diet, we can choose to eat some foods that help moisten the lungs, such as pears and honey. In addition, in order to cope with the dryness of autumn, it is also a good choice to taste a cup of chrysanthemum tea or longan and red date tea, which can not only help us reconcile the body, but also bring us a touch of autumn warmth.

2. Regulate Qi and blood

During the Bailu season, it is particularly important to maintain Qi and blood. Qi and blood, as the core concept in traditional Chinese medicine theory, are the cornerstone of human health. It involves all aspects of the body, from the moisture of the skin to the function of the internal organs, which are closely related to the profit and loss of Qi and blood. In autumn, especially during the Bailu season, due to the cooler and drier climate, the human body is prone to symptoms of insufficient Qi and blood, such as pale complexion, pale lips, cold hands and feet, etc. To maintain Qi and blood, we can first start with diet. Eating ingredients such as red dates, longan, wolfberry, and angelica can help us replenish Qi and blood and enhance the body's resistance; while glutinous rice, yam, and peanuts help strengthen the spleen and stomach and enhance digestive function. These ingredients are not only nutritious, but also help us cope with the dryness and coldness of autumn.

3. Relax your mood

In addition to diet, health care during the White Dew season also involves adjusting your mentality. People may feel a little melancholy because of the arrival of autumn. At this time, appreciating the golden autumn leaves, meditating or doing spiritual exercises such as yoga can help us maintain inner peace. As the temperature drops sharply, the symptoms of varicose veins may worsen. Therefore, it is very necessary to choose suitable clothing, avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time, and exercise appropriately. In addition, drinking more water, maintaining indoor humidity, and paying attention to a balanced diet can effectively prevent the occurrence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

4. Keep a regular schedule

During the White Dew season, it is very important to go to bed early and get up early, and get enough sleep; it is related to our energy and state for the whole day. The so-called conforming to nature, synchronizing with nature, and feeling the most natural health is really a wonderful lifestyle. In addition, outdoor activities such as picnics and hiking are good choices, which can not only exercise the body, but also enjoy the beautiful scenery of autumn.

In short, it is not complicated to keep healthy during the White Dew season. We just need to carefully observe and adjust every bit of our lives. Enjoying every moment of life, appreciating the changes of each season, and keeping pace with nature is really a wonderful way of life. The White Dew season is so strong, and the autumn is so strong.

Author: Zhu Jiaqing, a master's student at Beijing University of Chinese Medicine

Review expert: Ding Xiaoqing, chief physician of the Department of Hematology, Oriental Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine