Many women often experience cold hands and feet all year round, regardless of the season. This condition, known as Yang deficiency in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is characterized by insufficient Yang energy in the body. As a result, the body can’t generate enough heat, leading to a persistent feeling of coldness. This is more prevalent in women and young people, but it also affects many middle – aged and elderly individuals as a sign of weakened vital energy.
From a TCM perspective, there are two main causes for cold hands and feet. The internal factor is a weak constitution from birth, such as a deficiency in the Yang of the spleen. The external factor is improper lifestyle choices, like excessive consumption of cold foods, over – reliance on air – conditioners, and wearing insufficient clothing in cold weather.
Certain habits can exacerbate this coldness. First, a sedentary lifestyle. TCM believes that “stillness generates Yin, while movement generates Yang.” Lack of exercise slows down blood circulation, making people more sensitive to cold.
Second, wearing tight clothes restricts blood flow to the extremities, causing cold hands and feet.
Third, a vegetarian diet lacking in heat – generating foods can make the body more vulnerable to cold.
Fourth, consuming cold foods like ice – cream, cold water, and even some cool – natured foods such as watermelons, mung beans, and should be avoided.
Finally, excessive dieting deprives the body of sufficient energy, leading to a deficiency in qi and blood and cold limbs.
If left untreated, cold hands and feet can further weaken the Yang of the spleen, reducing the function of the spleen and stomach, impairing digestion, and affecting nutrient absorption. This can lead to fatigue, a sallow complexion, and overall cold intolerance.
Thankfully, there are effective ways to address this issue. Moxibustion, a traditional Chinese therapy, is highly effective. By warming and unblocking meridians, expelling cold and dampness, regulating qi and blood, and relieving pain, moxibustion can significantly improve the condition. The recommended acupoints for moxibustion are Yongquan, Zusanli, Dazhui, Mingmen, and Shenque. You don’t need to moxibust all these points at once. You can choose 1 – 2 points each time and灸 the remaining points on alternate days. Consistent practice will yield positive results.
In daily life, developing good habits such as keeping warm, soaking feet in hot water regularly, protecting feet while sleeping, and exercising regularly can also alleviate the problem of cold hands and feet. By combining these methods, you can effectively combat cold hands and feet and improve your overall well – being.