Diet

Abstinent Diet
It refers to the practice of consuming a balanced diet with a mix of meat and vegetables, and eating seasonal foods on a regular schedule. It also involves moderate portion and temperature for each consumption. One should avoid overeating, extreme temperatures, and rapid alternation between hot and cold foods. In essence, an abstinent diet should adhere to three primary principles: reasonable combination of foods, regular eating schedule and portion control, and appropriate temperature for food consumption.

Rest

Regular Rest Schedule
This principle involves maintaining a balanced activity and rest routine that aligns with the seasonal environment, and adhering to a regular sleep schedule. In short, the three ground rules include having proper sleep, well combined activity and rest, and regular routine.

Exercise

Appropriate Exercise
This principle highlights the significance of exercise and the need to select a suitable exercise regimen that is not too strenuous. It is essential to be consistent and persistent in exercising. Three critical elements of healthy exercise include active performance, personalized routine, and regularity.

Emotion

Peaceful Mind
This principle highlights the significance of mental well-being and encourages individuals to maintain a positive attitude. It is crucial to avoid extreme emotional states, such as excessive joy, sadness, or anger, and cultivate healthy interests and hobbies while building meaningful and peaceful interpersonal relationships. Overall, the three fundamental principles to abide by include positive mindset, calm temperament, and emotional balance.

OPTIMIZING VITAL QI

"Optimizing Qi (Vital Energy)" is the foundation of good health.

"Qi" refers to the body's ability to adapt to the environment, resist diseases, and self-recover. According to Huangdi Neijing (a.k.a. Inner Canon of the Yellow Emperor), "The body shall not succumb to external pathogens if there is a healthy level of Qi. Conversely, the occurrence of diseases or suboptimal health indicates a deficiency in Qi." By maintaining Qi at an optimized level, one can minimize the likelihood of diseases, and accelerate the recovery process in case of illnesses.

BALANCING
YIN and YANG

"Balancing Yin and Yang" is essential to good health.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yin and Yang are opposing yet interdependent forces that define the system of life, health, and disease. According to Huangdi Neijing, "The root of life lies in the balance of Yin and Yang - one's mind and spirit are well-regulated when the balance between Yin and Yang is maintained." Simply put, Yin and Yang are the foundation of life, and only when they are properly balanced can vitality be sustained. Any imbalance between Yin and Yang can cause chaos within the body and lead to illnesses. Maintaining this balance helps regulate body temperature, energy level, and overall health.

REGULATING ZANG-FU

"Regulating Zang-Fu (the System of Internal Organs)" is the foundation of good health.

Zang-Fu refers to the internal organs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. According to TCM, only when each organ is functioning properly in its entirety, can the body's system operate normally. Huangdi Neijing states, "The five primary organs defend for the central system. Life sustains when the defence works. If not, death will ensue." In other words, the five primary organs are essential for life, while their dysfunction will result in illnesses. By regulating Zang-Fu and maintaining proper organ functions, the organs can operate normally with one another, leading to a healthy life free from illnesses.