During the Spring Equinox, all things come back to life, but it is also a season when many diseases occur. This is because the season is not only suitable for the reproduction and spread of microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses, but the climate is also volatile.
7 Key Points for Spring Health Care for the Elderly:
1. Guard against cold, keep warm, and dress carefully
In theory, everyone knows the saying "keep warm in spring and keep cool in autumn," but in practice, some people still let their guard down. They either put away their winter clothes too early and are reluctant to get them out again, or they take a chance thinking, "It can't be that cold," which results in a cold. Therefore, it is important to add or remove clothes in a timely manner as the climate changes, and not to make do.
2. Go to bed early, get up early, and don't linger in bed
The "Neijing" (The Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon) states: "In the three months of spring... retire late and rise early, stroll in the courtyard, let down your hair, and relax your body, in order to give rise to the will." In spring, if you can go to bed early and get up early, and spend more time outdoors stretching your body, it is not only beneficial for adapting to the characteristics of the spring climate, but also allows you to be energetic all day and reduces drowsiness. This is especially true for the elderly. It is not advisable to linger in bed for too long in the morning, as this most easily leads to cerebral thrombosis.
3. Regulate your diet to prevent "heatiness"
Spring is the season when Yang energy rises and metabolism is vigorous. If you do not control your emotions, get angry easily, or indulge in spicy and stimulating foods, your Yin fluids can be depleted, leading to "heatiness" and triggering problems like nosebleeds. Therefore, the spring diet should be light, palatable, sweet, and less sour. It is advisable to eat more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and minerals. Do not overeat; eat less greasy, fried, and spicy and stimulating foods. Limit alcohol consumption, and especially avoid strongly warming foods like lamb, dog meat, velvet antler, and prepared aconite, to reduce the occurrence of nosebleeds, boils, acne, and hemorrhoids.
4. Exercise more for a stronger physique
"A year's plan starts with spring." Spring is the best season for investing in your health. In the bright spring sun and fresh air, the environment is most conducive to the body expelling the old and taking in the new, and nourishing the internal organs. Therefore, after the spring begins, you should increase outdoor activities according to your physical condition, such as practicing Tai Chi, walking, dancing disco, or flying a kite. Regular exercise not only enhances immunity and reduces the incidence of diseases of the respiratory and circulatory systems, but also makes thinking more agile.
5. Open windows for ventilation and pay attention to hygiene
In spring, all things germinate, and the growth and reproduction of bacteria, viruses, and all pests accelerate. Therefore, in spring, pay attention to opening windows for ventilation to keep the air in your home fresh; pay attention to personal hygiene and frequently sun-dry clothes and quilts.
6. Moderate sexual activity, avoid excess
As Yang energy rises in spring, sexual desire often increases. Therefore, it is crucial not to overindulge due to excitement, as this can lead to the depletion of essence and Qi, which is detrimental to physical and mental health.
7. Go for outings to feel more energetic
On a warm and sunny day, going for outings, enjoying the willows, and visiting mountains and rivers are the best ways to cultivate your sentiments, broaden your mind, and regulate your Qi and blood. It not only adds infinite pleasure to life but also improves the body's ability to adapt to the changing climate. It can also make people full of energy, vitality, and enhance their physical fitness.