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Tan Yin (Phlegm-Fluid Retention) arises from the obstruction of Qi and meridians, leading to the failure of Jin Ye (Body Fluids) to circulate. Water and fluid Qi stagnate in the chest and fu organs, condensing to form Tan (Phlegm). Furthermore, individuals who were previously robust but have now emaciated, with water flowing between the intestines producing a gurgling sound, are diagnosed with Tan Yin. The manifestations of this condition include distension and fullness in the chest and hypochondrium, indigestion of food and fluids, accumulation within the abdomen and bilateral costal regions, audible sounds when water enters the stomach and intestines, heaviness of the body, excessive salivation, shortness of breath, somnolence, pain in the chest and back. In severe cases, there is rebellious Qi with coughing and wheezing, orthopnea (relying on objects to breathe), inability to lie flat due to shortness of breath, and a swollen appearance of the body.

A pulse that is predominantly Xian (Wiry) indicates Tan (Phlegm), while a Fu (Floating) and Hua (Slippery) pulse indicates Yin (Fluid Retention). Decoctions, hot compresses, acupuncture, and stone therapy for treating these conditions have separate specific formulas. Methods for nourishment, supplementation, and Daoyin (Guiding and Pulling exercises) are appended below.

The *Yangsheng Fang* (Prescriptions for Nourishing Life) · *Daoyin Fa* (Method of Guiding and Pulling) states: Lie on the left or right side, holding the breath for twelve cycles, to treat persistent Tan Yin. If the pathology is on the right, lie on the right side; if on the left, lie on the left side. If it does not resolve, expel the pathogenic Qi through breathing exercises, performing twelve breaths for each side. This treats Tan Yin.

This condition arises from the aggregation of Tan Shui (Phlegm-Water) between the chest/fu organs and the Bladder, which persists for a long time without dispersing and spreads to the Spleen and Stomach. The Spleen dislikes dampness; upon encountering water/dampness, it becomes distended. Distension impairs its ability to digest food. Manifestations may include empty fullness in the abdomen, indigestion of food and fluids, or occasional vomiting and rebellious Qi. These are all characteristic signs.

Re Tan (Hot Phlegm) is generated by the accumulation and结集 (condensation) of drinking water and fluids. It involves the blockage of Yin and Yang, generating heat in the Upper Jiao (Upper Burner). Heat Qi combats with Tan Shui, aggregating without dispersing. Consequently, the body experiences deficiency-heat, dietary intake is impaired, and the head and face feel burning/hot, hence termed Re Tan.

Leng Tan (Cold Phlegm) results from deficient and weak Stomach Qi, which fails to disseminate and transport food and fluids. This causes Tan Shui to aggregate and stagnate between the chest and diaphragm. It frequently causes acid regurgitation, rebellious Qi, cyanosis of the four limbs, and an inability to eat or drink.

This arises from the accumulation of Tan Shui in the chest and fu organs. When confronted by conflicting cold and heat Qi, they bind firmly and do not dissipate. This leads to epigastric and abdominal fullness and stuffiness, restless breathing, dizziness, blurred vision, and frequent urge to vomit. Hence, it is referred to as Tan Jie Shi (Solidified Phlegm).

Ge Tan (Diaphragmatic Phlegm) refers to Tan Shui located above the chest and diaphragm. When exposed to severe Cold, Yang Qi fails to circulate, causing Tan Shui to aggregate and remain undispersed. Yin Qi then rebels upward, combining with Feng Tan (Wind Phlegm), rushing upward to the head, thereby causing Tou Tong (Headache). If this persists for years, it may chronically involve brain pain, thus termed Ge Tan Feng Jue Tou Tong (Diaphragmatic Phlegm, Wind-Jue Headache). If cold extends to the joints of the hands and feet, the prognosis is fatal.