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Three Discourses

Discourse 1:
It is said that in human life, one often encounters various difficulties. Especially during youth, when one enjoys roaming and riding, with a temperament inclined toward unrestrained indulgence, failing to comprehend the Dao (the Way), only upon reaching white hair does one realize the emptiness of a wasted life, ultimately deriving no benefit. When arriving at the age of sixty, the "age of hearing" (Ershun, referring to the ability to listen objectively without being confused by words), one begins to hope for nourishment through diet. However, regarding how to nurture one's nature, there is uncertainty about what basis to rely on. Reflecting on those who focused on dietary regimen, one can seek methods in these two sections to approach the Dao, which is sufficient to prolong life. The saying goes: "When an old person has illness, do not treat it." This statement is erroneous. Tracing back to the intent of the sages, prescriptions were originally established for the elderly. Why? Because in youth, Yang Qi (vital energy associated with activity and warmth) is vigorous and abundant. Food tastes sweet and pleasant; medical treatment is unnecessary, and everyone becomes robust and strong. In contrast, as one ages, physical strength declines slightly, and without medicine, rescue is impossible. This difference is as clear as that between a new house and an old dwelling.

Discourse 2:
It is said that after the age of fifty, Yang Qi declines day by day, damage accumulates daily, mental and physical power gradually recedes, one forgets past events and loses track of subsequent ones, daily activities become lazy and sluggish, and plans and arrangements fail to satisfy. Vision and hearing become unstable, with more decline than progress. As days and months pass, all matters fall into disarray, leaving the heart feeling bored and dependent. One becomes prone to forgetfulness and anger, with changes in temperament. Food and drink lose their flavor, and sleep and rest are unsettled. Descendants cannot understand their feelings, merely stating that elders have become difficult and irritable in old age, making consultation futile. Therefore, the way to fulfill filial piety requires constant careful care. One must promptly attend to their needs and avoid causing them displeasure. Thus it is said: "A child should not stand under a tree shedding its leaves." The *Huainanzi* states: "When leaves fall, the long-lived feel sorrow." Even planting flowers and trees involves taboos and precautions; how much more so in the subtle interactions of daily life, where one cannot be negligent or casual.

Discourse 3:
It is said that people over fifty often suffer from constipation or chronic diarrhea. With these two ailments, prevention is essential. If constipation occurs, it is advisable to frequently consume cold and slippery foods such as mallow (*Malva verticillata*). If diarrhea occurs, warm vegetables like ginger and leek should be provided. Therefore, throughout the four seasons, the elderly should prefer warm food and not neglect this principle. The temperament of the elderly often relies on their age to act without restraint, tending toward arrogance and willfulness, disregarding rules and norms. If they suddenly develop a preference, it must be gratified. Knowing this technique, one must always be cautious. Thus, the essentials of caring for the elderly are: let the ears not hear frivolous talk, let the mouth not speak frivolously, and let the mind not entertain frivolous thoughts; all of these benefit the elderly. Furthermore, one should cherish affection; whenever there is chanting or reading, ensure the elderly do not hear inappropriate content, which is a subtle and important point. Additionally, the path of caring for the elderly involves constantly thinking of goodness rather than evil, life rather than death, and trustworthiness rather than deceit. Methods of elder care include avoiding gambling games or forcing physical exertion, lifting heavy objects, walking quickly, experiencing extreme joy or anger, straining vision, straining hearing, excessive mental effort, deep deliberation, sighing, shouting, singing, whistling, pulling and crying, grieving, mourning, attending celebrations or funerals, receiving guests, participating in banquets, or drinking excessively. Those who can adhere to these principles will remain free from disease and achieve longevity without confusion. Furthermore, one should regularly avoid exposure to strong winds, heavy rain, severe cold, intense heat, dew, frost, sleet, snow, whirlwinds, and foul air; avoiding contact with these constitutes great auspiciousness. Living quarters must be tightly sealed to prevent wind entry. A skilled caregiver of the elderly reads only proper books, listens only to appropriate sounds, engages only in legitimate affairs, and eats only suitable food. Unsuitable foods include pork, poultry, fish, garlic, raw meat, raw vegetables, strong wine, vinegar, and overly salty dishes; one should learn to eat lightly. Foods such as yellow millet and small beans are not suitable for the elderly and should be avoided. It is best to consume light, clear, sweet, and bland foods, such as wheat flour and japonica rice. One must also avoid forcefully biting hard cured meats, which can lead to broken teeth. Generally, maintaining a state of neither hunger nor fullness, neither cold nor heat, is ideal. If one can conduct oneself without error during walking, standing, sitting, lying down, speaking, laughing, sleeping, eating, and in hurried moments, one can extend life and promote longevity.