After the Lantern Festival, the temperature has gradually risen, bringing the signs of spring with its revival of all things. However, early spring is characterized by unpredictable warmth and cold, a changeable climate, and large temperature differences between day and night. At this time, the body's various physiological functions are in a state of adjustment. When the body's systems have not yet fully adapted, its disease resistance is relatively low, making it susceptible to various illnesses.
In spring, it is advisable to sleep late and wake up early.
As the saying goes: "Spring sleepiness, autumn fatigue, and summer naps." As the temperature gradually rises, many people feel drowsy, fatigued, dizzy, and have dry, heavy eyelids, lacking energy and feeling sleepy all day. Experts point out that to be full of spirit in spring, one needs to start with daily details, breaking the habit of sleeping early and waking up late from winter. The sleep habit in spring should be sleeping late and waking up early.
Regarding the advice to sleep late, Li Zhi especially reminds those who often stay up late that this should be done in moderation. He says that the "late sleep" mentioned here should not go past 11 PM. Going to bed before 11 PM allows for better rest and relaxation.
Spicy food damages immunity.
Spring is windy with little rain, and the climate is dry. Coupled with the unpredictable temperature changes, the body's immunity and defense functions decline, easily triggering some common spring illnesses. Therefore, adjusting one's diet reasonably is particularly important. Li Zhi points out that spring diet should include less spicy food, and one should also stop the nourishing and supplementing plan from winter.
Spicy foods containing chili, pepper, and Sichuan peppercorns have a strong dispelling effect. Consuming too much can easily deplete the body's vital energy (Qi). In severe cases, it can lead to a deficiency of Qi, and the most obvious manifestation of Qi deficiency is reduced immunity. Eating too much spicy food can also easily lead to constipation and "internal heat" (inflammation).
To nourish the liver, eat more sour and sweet foods.
Spring is a season of renewal and vibrant life. The liver's Qi in the human body gradually becomes prosperous, expelling turbid Qi and promoting smooth blood circulation, making it an excellent time to nourish the liver. Traditional Chinese Medicine has the saying, "Spring is the season for nourishing the liver," and seasonal health should prioritize liver protection.
As spring is when Yang energy begins to flourish, the principle for liver protection should be light, balanced, and nutritious. The proportions of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals in food should be maintained. Appropriately eating some sour and sweet foods and dishes that nourish Yin and clear the liver, such as black plum, lily, donkey-hide gelatin, cassia seed, and chrysanthemum, is recommended. Avoid greasy and fried foods to prevent increasing the burden on the liver and gastrointestinal system.
In addition, it's easy for liver fire to flare up in spring, causing some people's tempers to worsen. Therefore, in terms of mental and emotional well-being in spring, one must avoid anger and, more importantly, melancholy. It is important to maintain a broad-minded, optimistic, and cheerful attitude to keep a peaceful and pleasant state of mind.