Lichun Health Cultivation Starts with Stretching: Experts Emphasize Liver Protection and Nourishing Yang
Tomorrow is the Lichun (Start of Spring) solar term, which many consider the beginning of spring. As spring returns to the earth, Nanjing health experts are reminding citizens that health cultivation after Lichun should focus on protecting the liver and nourishing yang. Don't hold back your stretches, and be sure to adjust your mood in a timely manner.
According to the principles of health preservation in Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Lichun solar term marks a transition from "nourishing yin in autumn and winter" to "nourishing yang in spring and summer." In the Five Elements, spring corresponds to wood, which is associated with the liver. Therefore, when applying health cultivation to the body's organs in spring, it is crucial to focus on liver nourishment.
How can one protect the liver? Besides avoiding tobacco and alcohol and paying attention to diet, the simplest method is to stretch. Many people have this experience: stretching upon waking in the morning or when feeling tired from work brings an indescribable sense of comfort. In fact, this is a conditioned reflex for the body's self-care, especially for liver health. When the body is fatigued, blood and qi circulation slows down. At this time, stretching the limbs, extending the waist and abdomen, tensing all muscles, and combining this with deep breathing can help expel the old and take in the new, promote qi and blood circulation, unblock meridians and joints, and invigorate the spirit. After stretching, blood circulation accelerates, and the body's limbs, joints, and muscles are activated, dispelling sleepiness. This also stimulates liver function, effectively "exercising" the liver and achieving a health-preserving effect.
Stretching has a certain technique to it. When stretching, the body should be as extended as possible, the limbs should be straight, and all muscles should be tensed. During the extension, inhale deeply; when relaxing, let all muscles go loose and exhale completely. This will yield better results. For the elderly, performing this movement regularly can also increase the elasticity of muscles and ligaments and delay aging.