Health Information

As the “End of Heat” arrives, step outside to greet autumn.

Release Date:

2023-08-23 11:01

 

Today is the Beginning of Autumn.

The “Compendium of the Seventy-two Solar Terms” states: “‘Chu’ means ‘to depart,’ signifying that the summer heat comes to an end at this point. Thus, ‘Chu Shu’ literally means ‘the departure of summer heat,’ marking the transition of temperatures from scorching heat to cooler weather. As the saying goes, ‘Though only three days have passed since Chu Shu, the fresh coolness is worth its weight in gold.’ At this time, the climate is pleasant and the scenery is breathtaking—perfect for stepping outside to welcome the arrival of autumn.”

From the perspective of health preservation and bone nourishment, during the “End of Heat” solar term, one may engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, jogging, and picnicking, tailored to one’s individual constitution; however, it is important to focus on tonifying the spleen and strengthening the tendons. This is because, in autumn, the tendons tend to overpower the body’s vital energy, and the liver is the organ that governs the tendons. Therefore, when exercising, one should avoid strenuous activity, perform thorough warm-up exercises, and take precautions to prevent tendon injuries.

Here are three outdoor exercises that are ideal for nourishing the body and strengthening bones during the Chushu solar term.

01 Mountain Climbing

 

Mountain climbing can enhance capillary function, leaving the entire body feeling refreshed and unobstructed; it can markedly improve lower-body strength, walking speed and endurance, as well as overall physical coordination and balance, while strengthening cardiovascular and pulmonary function and boosting disease resistance; moreover, mountain climbing increases pulmonary ventilation and vital capacity, enhances blood circulation and cerebral blood flow, and raises urine acidity.

During autumn hikes, the unique climatic conditions and the resulting changes in meteorological factors offer certain specific physiological benefits to the human body.

Hiking in the autumn involves significant temperature fluctuations, which are beneficial to human health: they keep the body’s thermoregulatory mechanisms constantly engaged, thereby enhancing its ability to adapt to environmental changes.

Of course, when hiking, avoid the cooler morning and evening hours, maintain a slow pace, and adjust your clothing as needed to acclimatize to the ambient temperature during ascents and descents.

Patients with hypertension, coronary heart disease, and other conditions should especially exercise within their limits to prevent unforeseen complications.

02 Jogging

 

Jogging is an ideal autumn exercise: you can set your own pace and run for as long as you like, which helps boost blood circulation, improve cardiovascular and pulmonary function, enhance cerebral blood supply and oxygen delivery to brain cells, alleviate cerebral arteriosclerosis, and enable the brain to function properly. Running also effectively stimulates metabolism, increases energy expenditure, and aids in weight loss and body shaping.

As a leisure activity that requires little investment but delivers great rewards, it is widely loved. Jogging has virtually become an indispensable part of people’s daily lives. It’s simple and eye-catching—precisely why so many people enjoy it.

Modern people often find themselves in polluted air and enclosed spaces like air-conditioned rooms, which can leave them feeling mentally exhausted, physically weak, and less productive. Therefore, it’s important to spend more time outdoors, getting plenty of fresh air. The crisp, clear autumn weather provides the perfect opportunity to step outside and engage in physical activity in nature.

Spending just one to two hours outdoors each day to breathe fresh air, with about 40 minutes dedicated to jogging, can not only reduce the risk of illness and strengthen physical fitness, but also boost energy levels and vitality.

“The rosy glow of the setting sun soars in tandem with the lone wild duck; autumn waters blend seamlessly with the boundless sky.” As the Season of Heat Abates arrives, step outside to enjoy the autumn scenery—exercise, nourish your body, and rejuvenate your eyes and mind.

 

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