《保生銘》

The Baosheng Ming (Preservation of Life Inscription) is a vital health regimen composed by the renowned Tang dynasty physician Sun Simiao, revered as "Immortal Sun." It outlines essential principles for daily well-being:

Movement and Diet

Moderate physical activity prevents numerous ailments. When drinking alcohol, avoid excessive intoxication. After meals, take a hundred steps while gently massaging the abdomen to aid digestion. Sleeping pillows should not be overly high. Refrain from spitting or blowing your nose indiscriminately.

Hygiene Practices

Trim nails and cut hair on specific lunar calendar days (Yin and Chou days). Urinate standing after eating but seated when hungry. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing in direct wind. Ensure dwellings have no drafty gaps. Never relieve yourself facing north. Wash your feet nightly before sleep.

Emotional Regulation

Excessive contemplation harms the spirit (Shen). Uncontrolled joy or anger disrupts Qi flow. Forbearance is the highest cultivation. Steer clear of divisive gossip.

Dietary Restrictions

Sour flavors damage tendons; pungent foods weaken vital Qi (Zhengqi). Bitterness injures the heart, while sweetness weakens resolve. Excessive salt shortens lifespan. Maintain balanced eating without fixations.

Essentials of Nourishing Life

In spring and summer, expand vitality; in autumn and winter, safeguard Yang Qi. Sleeping alone preserves true essence (Zhenyuan). A tranquil mind is most precious. Contentment brings joy. Diminishing desires fortifies spiritual energy (Shenqi). Daoist practice demands perseverance.

The text concludes by advising these principles be inscribed on walls and transmitted to cultivated individuals. It emphasizes mindful daily living—clothing, food, shelter, conduct—and the paramount importance of maintaining inner equilibrium.