What is Jing (Essence) and why is it important?

Jing in Chinese Medicine

𝐉𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 Essence, we must not waste it. If we run out of it we have nothing left and we die… ​​⁣

Chinese Medicine believes we are born with a certain amount of Jing (Essence). We can’t increase the amount we have, it is allotted to us when we are born and is based on our parent’s health at the time of our conception. ⁣Therefore some have very strong Jing, some very weak, but it’s what we do with what we have matters most.
Having a balanced mindset, getting quality rest & sleep, following a moderate lifestyle and exercise routine (Pilates, yoga, tai chi) and proper diet allow the body to transform food into vital essences that we use as energy throughout the day. When done well, our bodies work off of what we are making each day and we leave our resources (Jing) alone for times of emergency (work deadlines, the last 5miles of the marathon). 

Semen Retention: Recommended ejaculation for men to preserve their Jing as per the Sui Dynasty

How does one lose their Jing (Essence)? 
Men lose essence by ejaculating, women lose essence by giving birth. Both sexes lose essence by working too much for long periods of time without adequate rest, consuming a poor diet, excess overthinking, or by consuming drugs. 
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​Jing is like a savings account that you use only when necessary. ​