Nourishing Yin and Preventing Dryness: Autumn Health Tips for Women

      In the book "Essentials of Diet and Nutrition" by the medical expert Husi Hui during the Yuan dynasty, it was mentioned that in autumn, it is advisable to consume foods that are moisturizing and lubricating to counter the dryness in the air. In autumn, it is recommended to eat foods like sesame, honey, white fungus, and green vegetables that have a moisturizing effect. It is also beneficial to sleep early to nourish the Yin and wake up early to breathe fresh air, which helps to relax the lungs and ensure sufficient body fluids and energy. However, during autumn, women often experience dryness in their hands, feet, and skin, and their hair is not as smooth as in summer. This is due to the depletion of body fluids caused by dryness, leading to internal organs being in a state of dry heat, resulting in fatigue, low mood, and laziness. How can we nourish Yin and prevent dryness? For women aged 20-40, the focus of maintenance is different.

　　20-year-old girls: Maintain regular routines in autumn

　　Ancient people said, "Work at sunrise and rest at sunset," emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature. The human body also operates according to certain rules. Girls in their twenties usually have the best physical condition and mental state, full of curiosity about everything, which often leads to irregular living habits. However, you must remember these time periods: The best time to sleep is before 11 pm because from 11 pm to 1 am is the detoxification time for the gallbladder, from 1 am to 3 am is the detoxification time for the liver, and from 5 am to 7 am is the best time for the body to detoxify, so it is important to develop a good habit of bowel movements during this time. Good routines not only ensure that 20-year-old girls have good spirits every day in autumn but also contribute to lifelong health.

　　Do not underestimate the importance of regular routines in autumn. Adolescent girls, due to the incomplete maturation of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland regulation, may experience functional menstrual disorders if they do not pay attention to health care in autumn. Clinical manifestations mainly include irregular menstrual cycles or abnormal menstrual flow.

　　30-year-old women: Release stress in autumn

　　In autumn, 30-year-old women should pay special attention to nourishing Qi and regulating their spirits, and they should focus on "collecting Qi" to counter feelings of loss that autumn brings. The environment in autumn can make people feel melancholic, leading to decreased energy, melancholy temperament, emotional tension, sluggish movements, and poor reactions. According to the "Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic," "Sadness causes the heart to be anxious, the lungs to be obstructed, the upper part to be blocked, and the nourishment and defense to be unable to disperse, resulting in the dissipation of Qi." Therefore, when feeling sad in autumn, it can damage the heart qi, affect the heart and lungs, and lower our immune system. How can you be beautiful from head to toe in this state?

　　Therefore, for 30-year-old women who face the greatest stress, the most important health secret in autumn is to alleviate stress and maintain a positive mindset. One tip is to record happy events that happened during the day before going to bed, such as "I watered the flowers today" or "I watched a play." These may seem insignificant at the time, but they help you discover the little joys in life. Sometimes, a smile can naturally release stress. If you encounter a psychological crisis and find it difficult to resolve on your own, consider seeking help from a psychological counseling agency. Professional assistance can help you build confidence and maintain physical and mental health.

　　40-year-old women: Moderate exercise in autumn

　　At the age of 40, women's energy transitions from abundance to decline, and the burden of family responsibilities becomes heavier, requiring constant attention to physical and mental health. Health preservation is not only about supplementation but also a way of life and habits.

　　Women tend to avoid vigorous exercise after entering middle age, and the same applies to autumn health preservation. Therefore, autumn is an excellent time to start walking. Light and brisk walking can help you burn calories without realizing it, and regular exercise can maintain a vigorous metabolism. Another benefit of walking is that it provides you with abundant energy throughout the day, making you vibrant and energetic. At the same time, enjoying the soothing effects of outdoor sunlight and fresh air can improve oxygen utilization in the body. This, in turn, provides more energy for work and family responsibilities. It is recommended to walk for at least 1 hour every day. If your workplace is not far from home, consider giving up driving or public transportation and use your feet to connect with the ground, which is not only beneficial for health but also economical. If you are too busy, try to find time to walk 3-4 times a week. If you have the opportunity, hiking in the refreshing autumn weather will make you feel even better.