5th Form:
Shaking Head and Swinging Tail to Remove Heart Fire
Benefits:
Relieve false fire causing mouth sores and sore throat.
Stand with your right foot forward, let your arms naturally fall towards your legs, resting your hands above your knees. Look at your heel, slightly lower your body, shift your weight forward, and then gently shake your head and swing your tail from side to side, performing three repetitions (left and right).
Oral ulcers and sore throats are common health issues that can disrupt your daily life, especially if you spend long hours in an office environment. These symptoms are often linked to "false fire" or "virtual fire" (虚火) in traditional Chinese medicine, which refers to an imbalance in the body caused by stress, poor diet, or lack of exercise. If you're an office worker struggling with these issues, there's a natural and effective way to restore balance and eliminate discomfort.
In an office setting, stress, poor posture, and irregular eating habits are common culprits behind oral ulcers and sore throats. Prolonged sitting, exposure to dry air from air conditioning, and consuming spicy or processed foods can exacerbate these symptoms. Traditional Chinese medicine attributes these issues to an imbalance in the body's energy flow, particularly in the heart and stomach meridians. By addressing this imbalance, you can effectively reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Derived from traditional Chinese exercises, the "Shaking Head and Swinging Tail" technique is designed to release tension, improve blood circulation, and restore balance to the body. This simple yet powerful exercise targets the areas of the body associated with false fire, helping to alleviate symptoms such as mouth sores, sore throats, and even mild anxiety.
1. Starting Position:** Stand with your right foot slightly forward, keeping your feet shoulder-width apart. Allow your arms to hang naturally by your sides, with your hands resting above your knees.
2.Focus on Your Heel:** Gently shift your gaze to your right heel. This helps you maintain balance and focus during the exercise.
3. Lower Your Body Slightly:** Slightly lower your body by bending your knees, shifting your weight forward onto your right foot.
4. Shake Your Head and Swing Your Tail:** Gently shake your head from side to side while simultaneously swinging your hips (like a swinging tail) in the same rhythm. Repeat this motion three times to the left and three times to the right.
5.Repeat with the Left Foot:** Switch your stance, placing your left foot forward, and repeat the exercise.
Additional Tips for Office Workers
- Stay Hydrated:** Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your throat moist and flush out toxins.
- Mindful Eating:** Avoid spicy, acidic, or overly salty foods, which can irritate your throat and mouth. Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Manage Stress:** Practice mindfulness, deep breathing, or meditation to reduce stress, which is a key contributor to false fire.
- Regular Breaks:** Take short breaks every hour to stretch, move your body, and avoid prolonged sitting.
Oral ulcers and sore throats are often a sign of an underlying imbalance in the body. By incorporating the "Shaking Head and Swinging Tail" exercise into your daily routine, along with mindful eating, stress management, and regular movement, you can effectively eliminate false fire and improve your overall well-being. These simple yet powerful techniques are perfect for busy office workers who want to stay healthy and productive. Try them today and experience the benefits of a balanced and harmonious body!
