The White Dew solar term has arrived. Autumn has quietly descended, with nature's yang energy beginning to contract. The intense heat gradually subsides, while autumn dryness becomes increasingly pronounced. Summer dampness lingers, making respiratory illnesses more prevalent during this seasonal transition.Dr. Ye Yan, Chief Physician of the Pulmonary Department at Guangzhou Medical University Affiliated Hospital, reminds us that the lungs correspond to autumn. After the start of autumn, the body enters a critical period for lung nourishment. Emphasis should be placed on moisturizing and nourishing the lungs, with health preservation beginning in the following areas.
1. Moisturize and Nourish the Lungs in Autumn and Winter
After autumn begins, lung function enters a period of peak activity.Autumn's dry climate often leads to symptoms like dry mouth and throat, dry cough with little phlegm, and dry skin. In severe cases, coughing up blood may occur. Therefore, after the start of autumn, focus on moisturizing and nourishing the lungs. Alongside balanced meals, incorporate foods like honey, lily bulbs, almonds, codonopsis, and Chinese yam to support lung and stomach health.
2.Gain Weight Appropriately
As the saying goes, "After summer, even the healthiest feel three parts depleted." Facing the "harsh summer" that preceded, those who lost weight or became depleted may consider "gaining weight through eating" as a way to prevent illness.
Ye Yan advises against being overly aggressive when consuming medicinal foods. One should consider the lingering energy of the long summer and, under the guidance of a professional physician, first eliminate summer dampness and damp-heat from the body.Specific recuperation plans vary by individual and require tailored approaches based on constitutional type.
3. Routine and Exercise
Daily activities should not mirror the vigorous pace of spring and summer; instead, focus on conserving and storing yang energy. For instance: Maintain a regular schedule with early bedtimes and risings—early sleep aligns with yang's retreat, while early rising allows the lungs to expand fully.Elderly individuals with reduced lung function should scientifically select exercise methods to prevent excessive sweating. Opt for activities with alternating rhythms, such as Tai Chi, Baduanjin, or Wuguxi.
4. Regulating Emotions
After autumn begins, prioritize mental well-being through emotional cultivation to maintain inner peace. Actively address emotional fluctuations by confiding in loved ones or friends, seeking psychological counseling, or engaging in hobbies and outdoor activities to regulate mood.
Dietary Recommendation:
Snow Pear and Fritillary Bulb Pork Bone Soup
Ingredients: 4 snow pears, 60g fritillary bulb, 20g red dates, 500g pork bones, 3 slices ginger, 1000ml hot water.
Preparation:
1. Soak fritillary bulb and red dates in water for 10 minutes, then rinse and set aside;
2. Wash snow pears (leave skin on), cut into chunks, and set aside;
3. Rinse pork bones, blanch briefly, then drain and set aside;
4. Place all ingredients in a slow cooker, add hot water. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for 1 hour. Season with salt to taste.
Benefits: Clears and moistens the lungs, alleviates coughing.