Summer is upon us! The kids are out of school — and summer is a wonderful season to build the habits that carry you through the rest of the year.
We tend to do what we can during the cold and flu season, but in the summer we have more time to make profound changes. Building a practice doesn't happen overnight. It's like working out: we can't expect that if we work really hard for a week we will suddenly be physically fit. When we are building or rebuilding, it works best when we do little bits regularly over time, like any good habit. For me, as a mother of two, the summer provides a bit of a break from what can feel like a chaotic schedule of rushing from school, to work, to meetings, play dates, chores, meal prep, and hopefully some fun — but the routine can be pretty tight.
This summer will be very different for all of us, but I hope we will set aside some time to nourish ourselves, our families, and those we love. The practices we create now, when our contact with others is reduced, will support us as contact increases. When we routinely supply our cells with the essential nutrients they need, we are giving ourselves a foundation to build on.
What is Wei Qi?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) there is a concept called the “Wei Qi,” or “Protective Qi.” When our Wei Qi is strong it is described as an invisible shield. The Wei Qi is said to control the opening of the pores, and we can understand this as metaphor: when our Wei Qi is weak, the pores are more open; when closed, they become a shield. So how do we cultivate a strong Wei Qi?
We know intuitively that getting good sleep, consuming nutrient-rich foods, and moving our bodies help us stay balanced. In TCM the Wei Qi is related to the Lung organ system, so practices associated with the lungs are traditionally used to support the Wei Qi. For example: practicing breathing meditation, stimulating acupuncture points along the Lung meridian, and using essential oils. I am trained in TCM, so in my practice I primarily use Chinese Herbal Medicine, which has been in continuous use for thousands of years.
The Jade Windscreen
One of my very favorite traditional formulas for the Wei Qi is called “Yu Ping Feng San,” translated as “Jade Windscreen,” first described by Zhu Danxi approximately 700 years ago. The King herb of this formula, Astragalus, was classified in the foundational text of Chinese Medicinals, the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, written in the second century (200–250 C.E.).
In addition to tonifying — strengthening — the protective Qi, Astragalus is traditionally valued for supporting the digestion. Its gentle upward action is described in the classical texts as lightening the body and limbs, and it has long been associated with clarity and focus. Its sweet nature lends itself well to chai, lattes, nut and seed milks, oatmeal, granola and baked goods. This herb has traditionally been said to offer clarity, strength and protection.
A note on working with herbs
While Yu Ping Feng San and Astragalus are both traditionally regarded as gentle, there are some contraindications. It is essential to speak with a licensed herbalist to determine which herbs or formulas will be the safest and most appropriate for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wei Qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
Wei Qi, or “Protective Qi,” is a TCM concept describing a kind of invisible shield associated with the surface of the body. It is traditionally related to the Lung organ system, which is why breathing practices and Lung-meridian points are part of working with it.
What is the Jade Windscreen formula?
Yu Ping Feng San, or “Jade Windscreen,” is a classical Chinese herbal formula first described by Zhu Danxi roughly 700 years ago. Astragalus is its King herb — the principal ingredient.
How old is the traditional use of Astragalus?
Astragalus appears in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, the foundational text of Chinese Medicinals, written in the second century C.E. — roughly 1,800 years of documented traditional use.
How do you take Astragalus?
It's naturally sweet and mild, so it blends easily into chai, lattes, nut and seed milks, oatmeal, granola and baked goods. Speak with a licensed herbalist about what is appropriate for you.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
