When CGTN host Julian Waghann faced holiday burnout after the Dragon Boat Festival – complete with boat races, sticky rice zongzi and travel fatigue – he reached for a 2,000-year-old guide: traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Here's how TCM's natural rituals can keep your yang energy afloat all summer long.
1. Chill Out with Chrysanthemum Tea
In TCM, the hot summer months can tip the balance toward excess yang heat. Enter chrysanthemum tea, prized for its cooling properties. Studies have shown that chrysanthemum contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and soothe headaches – perfect for a post-zongzi slump.
2. Hit Acupressure to Regulate Energy
No needles required. Simple acupressure points like 'He Gu' (between your thumb and index finger) and 'Zu San Li' (below the kneecap) can help improve digestion and boost your immune response. Spend a minute pressing each point to release tension and get your circulation flowing.
3. Embrace Moxibustion for a Warming Boost
Moxibustion uses dried mugwort rolled into sticks or cones, which are burned near key energy points. The gentle heat penetrates deep into the body, helping to dispel cold and fortify yang energy. It's like a mini sauna session focused on healing.
4. Savor Light, Seasonal Bites
Balance those heavy rice dumplings with cooling fruits like watermelon or cucumber salad. These hydrating foods align with TCM's principle of matching your diet to the season – light, fresh and easy to digest.
5. Breathe and Move with Qi Gong
A quick 10-minute Qi Gong routine can realign your energy channels, reduce stress, and sharpen focus after a day of festivities. Think of it as a mindfulness practice with a physical twist.
By weaving these TCM rituals into your post-festival routine, you'll dodge the sugar crash, shake off that post-feast guilt and keep your yang energy flowing all summer long. Ready to swap your usual pick-me-ups for holistic healing? Your summer self will thank you.
Reference(s):
How TCM's natural rituals will keep your yang afloat this summer
cgtn.com
