In the view of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Dog Days of summer represent the golden period for regulating the body! During this time, the Yang energy (阳气) outside is exceptionally abundant. TCM holds that "blood moves with warmth." The cold-dampness in our bodies is like ice cubes encountering warm air. When Yang energy is sufficient, it can gradually be dissolved. Taking advantage of the Dog Days period to clear away the cold-dampness, blood stasis, and phlegm-turbidity from the body can make a person feel significantly lighter and more energetic!

However, before starting any regulation regimen, we must first check whether there is truly this kind of "waste" inside the body. Let's first talk about blood stasis. When there is blood stasis in the body, Qi and blood cannot flow smoothly. The most obvious signs are intermittent sharp pains in the body and a tendency to develop unexplained bruises. Take a closer look at the lips—their color will be darker than normal, tending toward a dusky purple hue.

Now, let's talk about cold-dampness. People with this condition often feel heavy and sluggish, as if wrapped in a damp cloth, with fatigue worsening after activity. They may also experience chills, cold hands and feet, and aggravated symptoms when exposed to cold. On the other hand, those with heavy phlegm-dampness tend to feel foggy-headed, react slower than others, lack energy all over, always want to lie down, and have heavy limbs like lead. They often lack motivation for anything, have poor appetite, and frequently suffer from bloating. When you look at their tongue, you’ll notice a thick, greasy coating. If you experience all of these symptoms, be sure to take advantage of the Sanfu Days to thoroughly regulate your body!

Today, I'll teach you a simple yet effective method: daily massage of the three acupoints—Yinlingquan (SP9), Xuehai (SP10), and Fenglong (ST40). Yinlingquan (SP9) is a powerful assistant for dispelling dampness; massaging it regularly helps the body expel excess dampness. Xuehai (SP10) nourishes and invigorates the blood; frequent massage promotes smoother blood and qi circulation. Fenglong (ST40) specifically targets phlegm-dampness; regulating the spleen and stomach naturally reduces phlegm-dampness.

Besides acupressure, sunbathing your back during the Dog Days of Summer is extremely beneficial! The back is where Yang Qi gathers. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), using Yang to nourish Yang is like charging the body's battery. Combining sunbathing with acupressure doubles the effectiveness! However, avoid sunbathing at noon under the intense sun. The best times are around 7-8 AM or 4-5 PM, for just 20-30 minutes, to prevent skin damage.

If you find methods like acupressure or sunbathing slow to show results, you may also consider proprietary Chinese medicines. Er Chen Wan and Liu Junzi Wan can strengthen the spleen and resolve phlegm, while Xuefu Zhuyu Wan promotes blood circulation and removes stasis. However, if you have multiple health issues such as spleen and stomach deficiency, poor liver and kidney function, or persistent low mood, it's best to visit a hospital and consult a professional TCM practitioner. Let them take your pulse and prescribe a formula tailored to your condition. Avoid self-medicating, as it may delay the optimal opportunity for body conditioning!

This content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a basis for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you experience physical discomfort, please seek timely medical attention. Do not delay to avoid worsening your condition!