Prevent illness before turning 40.

Why Do Many People Experience More Aches and Frequent Illnesses as They Age?

Many often wonder why, as we grow older, we tend to experience more aches, pains, and frequent illnesses. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), as described in the classic text Suwen Shanggu Tianzhen Lun (素问·上古天真论), the growth, development, and essential substances (Jing) are closely related to the kidneys.

Women Count by 7, Men Count by 8
TCM uses the numbers 7 for women and 8 for men to calculate growth and decline.

For women:
At age 7, kidney Qi is strong, and baby teeth begin to emerge.
At 7 x 2 = 14 years, the Ren Mai (Conception Vessel) and Tai Chong (Liver Channel) connect fully, leading to the onset of menstruation.
At 7 x 5 = 35 years, Yangming Qi begins to decline, noticeable by a dull complexion and hair loss.
At 7 x 7 = 49 years, Ren Mai weakens, Tai Chong declines, and menopause begins, marking the end of reproductive years.

For men:
At age 8, kidney Qi is strong, and baby teeth begin to emerge.
At 8 x 2 = 16 years, puberty starts, with full kidney Qi and sperm production.
At 8 x 5 = 40 years, kidney Qi begins to decline, causing hair loss and gum recession, marking the start of aging.
At 8 x 8 = 64 years, liver Qi declines, causing joint stiffness and loss of reproductive ability.
From this, it is clear that men at 40 years old are biologically comparable to women at 35 years old, meaning women naturally age faster by about five years. However, both men and women will experience decline starting around age 35–40. In TCM, therefore, there are approaches to promote and nourish the body before kidney Jing and Qi begin to deteriorate.


Principles of Nourishing the Body Before Aging

Balanced Diet
Diet plays a crucial role in age-related changes. We should select foods suitable for our body constitution, gender, and seasonal changes. For example, those with a warm body constitution benefit from cooling foods such as leafy green vegetables and fruits. Conversely, those with a cold constitution should consume warming foods like ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. Matching diet to individual constitution helps maintain balance, strengthen the body, and prevent illness.
Adequate Rest
The ideal bedtime is before 10:00 PM. According to TCM’s biological clock, from 1:00 AM to 4:00 AM, the liver and lungs work to circulate blood, detoxify, and eliminate waste. Short naps during the day, especially between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, are beneficial. A 20-minute nap at this time can nourish Yang Qi, particularly important for those over 40.

Physical Exercise
Regular physical activity such as Tai Chi, Qigong, or gentle arm swings for about 30 minutes daily promotes smooth Qi and blood circulation. It strengthens muscles, tendons, and internal organs, improving overall vitality.

Avoid Overworking
Excessive work in middle age can deplete Yin, Yang, Qi, and blood, causing long-term deficiencies. It is important to balance work and rest, avoid staying up late, and refrain from overexertion to maintain health.
Use of Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, and Tuina Massage
Proper use of Chinese herbal medicine depends on individual constitution and lifestyle factors. Acupuncture and Tuina massage can help balance Yin and Yang, regulate organ function, and nourish Qi and blood. These therapies are especially beneficial for those aged 40 and above to maintain physical structure and vitality.

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Article by:
许精鑫 中医师
TCM.Dr.Sasiphat Aitthichaikhositkun (Sui Jing Xin)