Modern work schedules, often demanding and inflexible, deplete our energy and blood, leaving us fatigued and prone to illness.

The Huang Di Nei Jing, also known as the Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon, is one of the oldest and most important texts in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Divided into two sections, the Su Wen (Plain/Basic Questions) and the Ling Shu (Spiritual Pivot), it offers profound insights into health, longevity, and the balance of nature and human life. We'll explore the Su Wen and its teachings on longevity, particularly in the context of overwork in modern times.

UNDERSTANDING THE SU WEN

A wood carving of the Emperor Huang Di

The Su Wen delves into the philosophy of the relationship between humans and nature, the causes and etiology of disease, and the fundamental principles of traditional Chinese medicine. It is a conversation between the legendary Yellow Emperor, Huang Di, and his celestial teacher, Qi Bo. Composed during the Han Dynasty 2000 years ago, its theoretical foundations are rooted in even more ancient times, another 2000 years before that. Su Wen deals with the fundamental principles of TCM, including concepts of Yin and Yang, the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water), the meridian system, and various diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. It provides a theoretical framework for understanding health, disease, and the balance of energy (Qi) within the body.

THE MESSAGE OF LONGEVITY

A crucial message conveyed in the Su Wen is the significant disparity in longevity between people of ancient times and modern individuals. Huang Di, inquiring about this difference, learns that those in antiquity, who lived 2000 years before him, enjoyed longer lives without weakening in their later years. The reason, according to Qi Bo: "They did not tax themselves with meaningless work.

Overwork in Modern Times

OVERWORK IN MODERN TIMES

Fast forward to modern times, and we find ourselves in a world where overwork and the pursuit of monetary wealth have taken precedence over nurturing our well-being and longevity. The Daoist concept of Qi of the Seasons, discussed in the Su Wen, helps us understand the shift in mentality from Before Common Era (BCA) to After Common Era (CA).

ANCIENT DOAIST WISDOM

In Daoism, the understanding of the natural law of Yin and Yang, known as "the Way," was central to the way of life. This dualistic concept categorized the material as Yin and the function or energy as Yang, forming the basis for the cycles of the seasons and human physiology.

Cultivating Qi with the Seasons

CULTIVATING QI WITH THE SEASONS

People of antiquity observed the changing seasons and adapted their lifestyles accordingly to protect and nurture their true qi. Each season brought unique challenges, and they adjusted their schedules and activities to harmonize with nature's rhythm. Winter was a time for rest and cultivating Yin energy, while summer involved working outdoors to cultivate Yang energy. By following these principles, they ensured the accumulation and preservation of their essence and vitality.

MODERN LIFE AND OVERWORK

In stark contrast, modern life revolves around a relentless pursuit of financial success. The competitive nature of the contemporary world often leads to excessive work hours, stress, and a neglect of basic needs. This can be seen as an excess of Yang energy, which eventually leads to a deficiency of Yin in TCM. The mindset of "work harder, retire faster" has become prevalent, with individuals sacrificing their health for the promise of future financial freedom.

A variety of herbs commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine

DISSIPATION OF TRUE QI

Modern work schedules, often demanding and inflexible, deplete our energy and blood, leaving us fatigued and prone to illness. The continuous stress associated with overwork dissipates our true qi, weakening our bodies and making us susceptible to diseases like high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, and more. 

RECONNECTING WITH DAOIST PRINCIPLES

A Daoist path to long life.

The ancient Daoists knew the importance of being proactive in maintaining health rather than waiting for illness to strike. They emphasized the necessity of protecting essence and spirit internally. In modern times, we must heed these lessons and prioritize our well-being, adopting practices that balance Yin and Yang.

A PATH TO LONGEVITY

To restore balance in our lives and nurture longevity, we can consider adopting a more community-centric approach, moving away from the relentless pursuit of wealth and competition. Smaller, self-sustaining communities can promote a healthier lifestyle, while adjusting work schedules to align with the seasons can help us follow the Way more closely.

Reconnecting with ancient wisdom

CONCLUSION

The teachings of the Huang Di Nei Jing, particularly the Su Wen, offer invaluable insights into the quest for longevity and the consequences of overwork in modern society. By reconnecting with the wisdom of the ancients and embracing a more harmonious way of life, we can hope to rediscover the path to true well-being and longevity. It's time to protect our true qi and align ourselves with the natural order of Yin and Yang.