I'm planning to start exercising to lose weight. From the perspective of a Traditional Korean Medicine practitioner, what kind of exercise do you recommend most?
Exercise is essential for preserving muscle mass and maintaining your basal metabolic rate. However, pushing yourself too hard can lead to intense hunger and even joint damage. Finding the 'optimal intensity' that your current physical condition can comfortably sustain is more important than simply working out vigorously. Focus on consistency rather than intensity at the start to avoid burnout.
Are you planning to rush to the track the moment you start your diet? I understand that enthusiasm well, but in Traditional Korean Medicine, exercise is considered a double-edged sword.
On the positive side, it promotes the circulation of Qi and Blood (Gi-hyeol), facilitating the discharge of metabolic waste known as Phlegm-fluid (Dameum). It also acts as a reliable ally by preventing the muscle loss that often accompanies weight loss, thereby protecting your basal metabolic rate.
However, the problem lies in sudden, high-intensity workouts. Overexerting yourself when your body isn't accustomed to it can easily lead to a state of Spleen Deficiency (Bi-heo). When Spleen function weakens and your vital energy is depleted, the body compensates by triggering intense hunger, often leading to a cycle of overeating. Furthermore, jumping into strenuous activity while carrying excess weight can cause Blood Stasis (Eo-hyeol) in the joints, leading to pain that forces many to give up.
Therefore, I do not recommend grand exercise plans initially. Instead, start by 'waking up' your body's circulation with light walks or stretching. It is helpful to view exercise as a supporting role for your overall health rather than the primary driver of weight loss. Assessing your current energy levels and adjusting the intensity accordingly is the true shortcut to a sustainable diet without the yo-yo effect.
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