Yang Sheng
Yang Sheng (nurturing life) is the ancient Chinese philosophy of achieving wellness and longevity through simple lifestyle techniques. These techniques have been tried and tested for millennia, and are perhaps even more necessary and relevant today. These include food, movement, mindfulness, and the utilisation of holistic therapies such as acupuncture. Yang Sheng does not look at these activities separately, but as a multifaceted approach to wellbeing. It is the role of the Chinese practitioner to understand what the patient is experiencing in that moment, and to treat accordingly, whilst also providing guidance on diet and lifestyle in order to support the patient to return to optimum health.
Diet
Like other East Asian traditions, Chinese nutrition does not work on the basis that one food fits all. Foods have different energetics, and in order to determine the appropriate foods for each individual, the season, the constitution and the nature of illness are all taken into account. Yang Sheng also places a great deal of importance on the environment we eat in. Good digestion isn’t about calories and deprivation, rather its about quality, quantity and timing, and most of all creating a calm and enjoyable environment around food.
Find out more on the importance of eating warm foods in the blog: The Cold Scoop
Movement
In Chinese medicine balance is key, and too much of anything can cause harm. This principle applies to exercise. Daily movement is essential in ensuring circulation throughout the body, which helps to improve breathing and move Qi (energy), bringing oxygen to the blood and strengthening the organs. High intensity exercise can be beneficial in moderation for the right person. However, excessive exercise can be exhausting on the body, just as too little exercise can cause stagnation. More gentle mind-body exercises such as Qi Gong, Yoga and walking and can be just as effective at maintaining strength and fitness, without taxing the body’s resources.
Mindfulness
Historically, mental and spiritual exercises were paramount in Yang Sheng practice. The quality of our mind is the single most important factor affecting the quality and quantity of Qi flow. When our mind is at peace, our Qi flows easily throughout the body. Techniques such as meditation, breath-work and mindful movement (Qi Gong) are utilised to regulate mind, body and breath, in order to cultivate emptiness and eventually achieve a state of harmony and peace within. This is an essential component in maintaining health.