During an interview on October 21, Deputy Director of Xiyuan Hospital at the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Miao Qing, discussed the phenomenon of “lifestyle integration” in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). He emphasized that the key to this integration lies in addressing the health needs of the public. Miao cautioned against overgeneralizing the concept of TCM “lifestyle integration” and stressed the importance of identifying suitable demographics without exaggerating its effectiveness.

The same day marked the launch of the 15th Ginseng Culture Festival at Xiyuan Hospital. Ginseng has long been cherished in TCM for its wellness benefits. Miao remarked that today’s preparations blend traditional remedies with modern techniques, offering compact and convenient packaging as well as personalized formulas tailored to individual patients, thereby meeting the contemporary lifestyle needs of Chinese people.

From medicinal baths and herbal soaps to handmade sachets, health-focused dining, and exercises like Baduanjin, TCM elements are increasingly woven into daily life, influencing and even transforming the lifestyles of many Chinese individuals, especially the younger generation. Experts refer to this trend as the “lifestyle integration” of traditional Chinese medicine.

“TCM has ingrained itself into various aspects of everyday life,” Miao noted. He explained that the emergence of TCM is rooted in concepts like yin-yang, the five elements, and the theory of organ functions, all of which are tightly interwoven with the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese nation. In the current context of daily living in China, TCM has the potential to play a larger role, primarily by focusing on the health needs of the people and solving health issues.

Presently, China’s approach to disease prevention and treatment is shifting from a focus on “treating illness” to “promoting health.” On one hand, there is a growing public interest in TCM fueled by a pursuit of better health; on the other, new diagnostic and treatment models, as well as health-related products associated with TCM, are continually emerging to fit modern lifestyles.

Miao pointed out that the origin and evolution of TCM is closely linked to the health needs of the public. With societal and economic development, new health challenges have surfaced, such as increased aging-related diseases, rising cases of allergies in children, and health issues stemming from sedentary lifestyles and screen time.

“With these new health challenges arising, how can we address them? In TCM, we propose a philosophy of preserving the essence while innovating within the tradition,” Miao stated. He emphasized the importance of tapping into the wisdom found in classical TCM texts and modernizing their application, including not just medications and treatment methods, but also integrating modern medicine and emerging technologies, such as using mobile applications for patient follow-ups, to support the innovative development of TCM.

The lifestyle integration of TCM also aids in the transmission and evolution of TCM culture. More and more Chinese individuals are applying principles like food as medicine, seasonal eating, and preventive care in their daily lives. Miao believes that innovation in form and cultural transmission can mutually reinforce each other. The emergence of the TCM “lifestyle integration” concept reflects a cultural confidence and recognition among contemporary Chinese of a tradition that has thrived for thousands of years.

However, Miao also cautioned that “lifestyle integration” does not mean that people should consume traditional Chinese medicine daily, and the concept should not be overly generalized. It is crucial to refine its application, focusing on specific health issues and identifying the appropriate demographics without overstating its benefits.