Q. I’m getting so stressed trying to match the numbers on my exercise calorie calculator. What approach do you recommend from a Korean Medicine perspective?

I remember pushing myself at the gym to hit calorie targets until I felt dizzy, so I understand the struggle. As a practitioner who has been there, let me offer some honest advice. While calorie calculators provide objective data and a sense of accomplishment, focusing strictly on numbers can make you miss the vital signals your body is sending. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), forcing yourself to hit targets when you are in a state of Qi deficiency (Qi-heo) can deplete your immunity and harm your overall health. This is especially true for those with a Spleen deficiency (Bi-heo) constitution who tend to suffer from bloating or swelling; simply running more isn't always the solution. If you push yourself while 'Phlegm-fluid' (Dam-eum), or metabolic waste, is accumulated in the body, you risk exhausting your vital energy and becoming more susceptible to the yo-yo effect. Instead, I recommend focusing on 'circulation.' Opt for aerobic exercise that produces a light sweat to facilitate the flow of Qi and Blood and help resolve 'Blood stasis' (Eo-hyeol). The best exercise isn't the one with the highest number on the screen, but the one you can enjoy again tomorrow. Don't be afraid to turn off the calculator on days when your energy is low. Finding the right intensity for your unique constitution is the key to true, lasting wellness.