When I moved to Canada at 19, I fell in love with the freedom and open lifestyle. However, being away from China also made me reflect on my cultural roots. Initially, I found some things in China annoying, like people smoking in restaurants and the lack of “sorry” when bumping into someone. But as time went by, I realized how much of traditional Chinese culture I had overlooked—and just how powerful it can be in improving both mental and physical well-being.
Today, I want to share some of the traditional Chinese practices that have not only changed my life but can do the same for you.
Video Version:
1. The Power of Warm Water in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
In the West, people often drink cold water, but in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), warm water is essential for maintaining the body’s Qi, or energy balance. Qi is the life force that flows through our body and helps keep everything in order. Cold water can tighten your blood vessels and slow digestion, while warm water helps regulate your internal energy.
A fun fact—scientists even found that rabbits drinking warm water in cold weather had better digestion. Personally, I’ve been drinking warm water since 2012, and I’ve felt more energized and lighter ever since.
Pro tip: Tomorrow morning, instead of a cold glass of water, try warm water. You can even add a slice of lemon for flavor and a vitamin C boost.
2. Acupressure: A Healing Touch
Acupressure is a core part of TCM, where applying pressure to specific points on your body helps regulate the flow of Qi, relieving symptoms like stress, headaches, and insomnia.
For instance, one common acupressure point is the He Gu (LI4), located between your thumb and index finger. This point is often used to relieve stress and tension. Here’s how to use it:
- Press gently on the He Gu point using your thumb or index finger.
- Apply a firm, deep press and then start to rotate and massage the spot.
- You should feel a warm, tickling sensation—it might even hurt a little, but it should not feel sharp or painful.
The longer you massage, the longer the sensation will last, typically for about a minute after you stop pressing. This lingering sensation is a sign that you’ve stimulated the Qi flow successfully. Try massaging for about 20–30 seconds and feel the relaxing effects.
Here are three common acupressure points to help with various symptoms:
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Taiyang (Sun Point)
Location: In the hollow between the outer end of your eyebrow and your eye.
Helps with: Easing headaches around the temples and relieving facial tension.
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Fengchi (Wind Pool)
Location: At the base of your skull, on either side of your spine.
Helps with: Easing neck pain, tension, and headaches that affect the back of your head.
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Yingxiang (Welcome Fragrance)
Location: Beside your nostrils, in the lines between your nose and mouth.
Helps with: Relieving nasal congestion, allergies, and sinus pressure.
3. Wu Wei: The Art of Doing Nothing
In our hustle culture, we’re often told to push harder to succeed. But in Taoism, there’s a concept called Wu Wei, which means “doing nothing” or “non-action.” It teaches us to go with the flow of life rather than forcing things to happen. Sometimes, taking a step back is the key to making progress.
For example, as a parent, you can’t control how your child will grow up. Instead of stressing, trust that they will find their path. Provide support, but let them grow naturally.
Similarly, in the workplace, Taoism encourages us to focus on what we can control and let go of the rest. Instead of worrying about job security, stay calm and do your best work.
4. Feng Shui: Harmonizing Your Space
Have you ever walked into a room and felt instantly at peace? That’s Feng Shui at work. In Feng Shui, arranging your living space in a way that allows Qi to flow freely can boost your energy, happiness, and even your finances.
For example, I once advised my friend Jenny to move her bedroom away from the noisy garage gate beneath her apartment. The vibrations were disrupting her sleep—and potentially her energy. After rearranging her bedroom, she became pregnant within two months. Feng Shui isn’t just about physical disturbances; it’s about creating an environment that supports both mental and physical well-being.
Tip: Start by cleaning your room. A tidy, organized space allows energy (Qi) to flow smoothly, bringing good vibes and even good fortune into your life.
5. Herbal Teas in TCM: Nature’s Remedies
In TCM, preventive care is key. Herbal teas are one of the simplest ways to keep your body in balance. Different herbs target different issues, such as fatigue, poor sleep, or low immunity.
Here are a few TCM herbal teas to try:
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Ginger Tea
Benefits: Warms the body, improves digestion, and reduces nausea.
Common use: Perfect for cold weather or when feeling sluggish.
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Goji Berry Tea
Benefits: Boosts immunity, improves vision, and supports liver health.
Common use: A great daily tea to improve overall vitality.
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Chrysanthemum Tea
Benefits: Reduces eye strain, cools the body, and calms the mind.
Common use: Perfect after long hours of screen time or when feeling overheated.
Making herbal tea is easy: simply boil water, add the herbs, let it steep, and enjoy. Add honey for taste if you like, but not too much!
6. Chinese Zodiac: Understanding Your Strengths and Challenges
For centuries, the Chinese Zodiac has guided people towards self-awareness. Each of the 12 zodiac signs corresponds to specific personality traits and challenges. Understanding your sign can help you make better decisions in life and work.
Here are the 12 Chinese zodiac signs and what they represent:
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Rat (Born in 1996, 1984, 1972…)
Personality: Intelligent, resourceful, quick-witted.
Challenges: Overthinking and emotional vulnerability. -
Ox (Born in 1997, 1985, 1973…)
Personality: Hardworking, dependable, methodical.
Challenges: Stubbornness and resistance to change. -
Tiger (Born in 1998, 1986, 1974…)
Personality: Brave, confident, and ambitious.
Challenges: Impulsiveness and difficulty working in teams. -
Rabbit (Born in 1999, 1987, 1975…)
Personality: Gentle, compassionate, diplomatic.
Challenges: Avoiding conflict and struggles with indecision. -
Dragon (Born in 2000, 1988, 1976…)
Personality: Confident, energetic, and charismatic.
Challenges: Arrogance and frustration when things don’t go their way. -
Snake (Born in 2001, 1989, 1977…)
Personality: Wise, intuitive, deep thinkers.
Challenges: Secrecy and trust issues. -
Horse (Born in 2002, 1990, 1978…)
Personality: Adventurous, energetic, loves freedom.
Challenges: Restlessness and difficulty committing to long-term goals. -
Goat (Sheep) (Born in 2003, 1991, 1979…)
Personality: Gentle, creative, and empathetic.
Challenges: Self-doubt and avoiding confrontation. -
Monkey (Born in 2004, 1992, 1980…)
Personality: Clever, playful, resourceful.
Challenges: Mischief and inconsistency. -
Rooster (Born in 2005, 1993, 1981…)
Personality: Practical, organized, detail-oriented.
Challenges: Perfectionism and burnout. -
Dog (Born in 2006, 1994, 1982…)
Personality: Loyal, honest, and reliable.
Challenges: Worry and pessimism. -
Pig (Born in 2007, 1995, 1983…)
Personality: Generous, good-natured, and easy-going.
Challenges: Over-trusting and indulgence.
7. The 24 Solar Terms: Eating with the Seasons
In Chinese culture, the 24 Solar Terms help guide healthy eating and lifestyle choices based on the season. For example, during Sanfu, the hottest period of the year, our body’s Yang energy is at its peak. Rather than cooling ourselves with ice-cold drinks, TCM suggests consuming naturally cooling foods like cucumbers and mung beans to balance internal heat.
Final Thoughts
Traditional Chinese practices such as TCM, Feng Shui, and the Chinese Zodiac have been around for thousands of years and are still highly relevant today. These practices offer simple, yet effective ways to improve your physical and mental health, all while aligning with the natural world.
If you found these insights helpful, I encourage you to give some of these practices a try and leave a comment to let me know how it works for you.