We all dream of living a long and healthy life. If modern medicine hasn't found the way to achieve this, perhaps it's time to turn to other alternatives. Although it doesn't rely on conventional methods, Chinese medicine is known for its effectiveness.

Secret 1 : diet

Taoist Masters are a reference when it comes to longevity. Indeed, they manage to live well beyond one hundred years, without showing apparent signs of aging. Their secret ? A diet based on vegetables. You don't have to become vegetarian, but you shouldn't overindulge in meat. These Masters also adopt a low-calorie diet, which is nothing more than the application of the Confucian rule. This rule consists of ceasing to eat when the stomach is 80% full.

Apart from these diets, medicinal plants also play an important role in their remarkable longevity. Although there are thousands of them, 3 particular plants frequently come up: water lily bulb, peach kernel, and lotus seeds. They are known not only for improving blood circulation, but also for stimulating immune and endocrine functions. They also have detoxifying properties and are rich in antioxidants.

Secret 2 : meditation

The other secret to longevity is regular meditation practice. Indeed, this concentration technique is recognized for its benefits on the body. Even science now acknowledges that when a person meditates, it increases activity in the left frontal lobe of the brain. This has the effect of reducing stress, depression, and anxiety. Meditation also improves mood and slows down the brain shrinkage due to aging. But for it to bear fruit, meditation must be practiced daily.

How to practice meditation ?

Take a chair and sit comfortably. Close your eyes and breathe normally. Each time a thought arises, imagine a balloon and put it inside. Then, let it drift away into the clouds. Do the same for all thoughts that will arise until they run out. Of course, you won't get it right the first time. But with practice, you'll see it becomes increasingly easy. It is also important to maintain an upright posture during your meditation sessions to facilitate the circulation of energy flows.

Secret 3 : energy exercises

To have a long and healthy life, you must also practice exercises that regenerate the flow of your vital energies or Qi. These exercises, in addition to stimulating the immune response, increase the body's self-healing abilities. They also help reduce stress and promote emotional balance.

How to practice energy exercises ?

Sit comfortably on a chair, feet shoulder-width apart. Breathe slowly and deeply. Close your eyes and try to visualize that a part of your body warms up each time you inhale. The ideal is to start with the soles of your feet and gradually work up to the top of your skull. Then move back down to your lower belly. You'll feel energized and stimulated.

To promote energy flow, you can do this exercise with your feet in warm water.

Bonus : the habits of the man who lived 256 years

This is the story of Li Qing Yun (1677-1933). Legend has it that he was a researcher in Chinese medicine, an expert in medicinal plants, a master of Qigong, and a strategy advisor. According to legend, Li Qing Yun lived 256 years and lived under the reign of nine emperors of the Qing dynasty. Long forgotten, the secret to his longevity has resurfaced. It consists of: « Keep a heart as calm as the tortoise, walk as fast as the pigeon, and sleep like the dog ».

Li was a man who lived a quiet and singular lifestyle. He never drank alcohol and never smoked. He ate his meals at regular times. He was a vegetarian and often drank goji berry tea. He went to bed early and woke up early. When he had the time, he would sit with closed eyes, hands on his knees, and remain there, without moving, for several hours (meditation).