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First is to regulate diet. The human body is precious, as it is the legacy from one's parents; if diet and drink are not appropriate, diseases will arise in swarms. External pathogens take advantage of this, lingering without end, gradually infiltrating the meridians (channels), and blocking the cou li (skin texture and pores), resulting in myriad changes that are too numerous to record. Among these, indulgence in alcohol causes particularly severe disasters: alcohol toxin attacks upward, deficiency-fire scorches the lungs, leading to Yin deficiency, all due to excessive drunkenness. A frail and emaciated body relies entirely on the Spleen and Stomach; one should not crave rich and greasy foods, but rather prefer a bland diet. Restraint in eating and drinking avoids ridicule and is truly precious.

Second is to be cautious regarding wind and cold. Within the human body, there are Ying Qi (Nutritive Qi) and Wei Qi (Defensive Qi). Cold injures Ying Qi, while wind injures Wei Qi. Among the causes of a hundred diseases, wind is the most significant. In the seventy-two pentads, the transmission of Shanghan (Cold Damage) and the paralysis or deviation caused by thief-wind involve wind-stroke and flaccidity-obstruction syndromes. When cold pathogens attack, the meridians become difficult to clarify; initially affecting the Three Yang meridians, they subsequently involve the Three Yin meridians. Furthermore, in cases of Zhong Han (Strike by Cold), where limbs are cold as ice, urgent application of warming and tonifying methods is required to restore vitality. A gentleman maintains his person with trepidation; when bathing or sweating, one must absolutely avoid facing the wind. Caution is needed in all four seasons, especially during the three winter months. It is not merely about wearing thick clothes, but primarily about storing Jing (Essence).

Third is to cherish Spirit and Essence. Human life depends solely on Jing (Essence) and Shen (Spirit). If Spirit and Essence are not depleted, the four limbs remain youthful forever. Alas, those who are ignorant do not cherish their bodies; excessive speech damages Qi, and pursuing pleasures exhausts the Heart.或因名利 (Due to fame and profit), they are anxious day and night, causing Shen to leave its residence, leaving the vessel empty. Between the two Kidneys lies the Mingmen (Gate of Life), where Yin and Yang embrace each other and serve as mutual roots. As long as the root is not compromised, longevity can be achieved. In the fifth and sixth lunar months, Metal and Water are both injured; abstaining from sexual intercourse and sleeping alone helps the physique become light and strong. In the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth lunar months, Yang Qi hides within; a gentleman should consolidate and seal, to nourish the subtle Yang. Mineral and stone-based hot medicines must never be consumed. Accumulate Jing and preserve Shen, and lifespan will extend further.

Fourth is to guard against anger. The East corresponds to Wood, and its organ is the Liver. If Liver Qi is not calm, deficiency-fire erupts, and internal winds stir, with fire nature flaming upward. Without resentment or anger, one nurtures the Heart-Mind; if the Heart-Mind is tranquil, the Tian Jun (Heavenly Sovereign, referring to the Mind/Shen) is peaceful and natural. Those prone to Liver Qi agitation often suffer from hematemesis (vomiting blood); blood accumulates internally and gradually induces coughing. When undertaking affairs, one should strive for success, but upon occasional disappointment, reflect upon oneself and exercise self-restraint. I admonish you to戒除嗔怒 (guard against anger), transform your temperament, greet others with harmony, and ensure your demeanor remains impeccable.