Before reading this article, we sincerely invite you to click "Follow", so that you can access a series of high-quality health articles at any time, and at the same time facilitate discussion and sharing, thank you for your support!
On a cold winter day earlier this year, Lu Xiaojian slowly pushed open the door of the clinic, her eyes full of worry and doubt.
The 56-year-old has been doing a 40-minute handstand every day since two years ago, which seems puzzling to her family and friends. But just a few days ago, Dr. Lu found surprising results during a routine physical examination.
Lu Xiaojian is a long-retired bank clerk, and after more than 30 years of work, she chose to enjoy her old age and live a leisurely life.
During a health check-up just two years ago, Dr. Lu told her that her blood pressure was high and her bone density had decreased significantly, and the doctor advised her to exercise more and maintain a good daily routine.
In this regard, Lu Xiaojian thought carefully and decided to try a health regimen known as "handstand therapy".
It is reported that the so-called "handstand therapy" refers to a way in which the human body is completely or partially upside down on the ground or on a special device, with the head facing down, and the body remains still or moves slowly.
The theoretical basis of this therapy is derived from the concept of "perverse practice" in TCM health preservation theory, which believes that this method can promote the circulation of qi and blood in the human body, improve blood circulation, and thus achieve the purpose of health preservation [1].
In the early days, Lu Xiaojian also tried many times, but he felt dizzy and a little worried because he maintained a handstand posture for a long time. However, with the encouragement of her family, she persevered.
What she didn't expect was that as time went by, not only did she gradually get used to this feeling of handstand, but her whole condition also improved significantly.
Today, two years later, Lu Xiaojian came to the clinic again for a routine check-up.
When the doctor saw the examination report, he couldn't help but exclaim, "This is unbelievable!" Your blood pressure has stabilized within the normal range, your bone density has improved significantly, and your body is doing very well. "
The doctor further explained that the handstand exercise can bring many benefits.
First, gravity acts upwards during a handstand, allowing for smoother blood return, which improves the function of the circulatory system [2].
At the same time, handstand can also increase intra-abdominal pressure, promote intestinal peristalsis, and facilitate digestion and absorption [3].
In addition, this exercise stimulates the vestibular system, improves balance, and reduces the risk of falls [4].
To Lu Xiaojian's delight, the doctor said that her increased bone density was likely related to the traction caused by the handstand exercise.
Studies have shown that moderate mechanical loading can promote the activity of bone cells, thereby increasing bone mass [5].
It can be seen that by adhering to the "handstand therapy", she not only improved her physical condition, but also successfully prevented the occurrence of osteoporosis.
After learning of these windfalls, Lu Xiaojian felt very relieved. She admits that choosing to try this seemingly "weird" regimen did confuse her family and friends.
However, after two years of perseverance, she not only regained her health, but also unexpectedly discovered the many benefits of this approach.
"Handstand" is an emerging form of wellness, and although it may seem confusing at first, it can actually bring many benefits to the body.
Success stories like Lu's will undoubtedly inspire more people to try this approach and add a layer of protection to their health.
We look forward to more similar research results in the future to provide more health care options for the majority of middle-aged and elderly people.
[References]
[1] Zhang Jianjun, Wang Xiaodong. Historical Origin and Physiological Mechanism of Handstand Therapy[J]. Modern Distance Education of Chinese Medicine, 2013, 11(12): 15-17.
[2] Liu Kai, Ma Xiaoyan. Effect of handstand therapy on circulatory system in the elderly[J]. Chinese Journal of Gerontology, 2016, 36(11): 2763-2765.
[3] Zhou Ming, Li Xiaoxia. Effect of handstand therapy on digestive function[J]. Clinical Research in Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2018, 10(5): 12-14.
[4] Yang M, Zhang Y. Effect of handstand therapy on the improvement of balance function in the elderly[J]. Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 2020, 35(3): 318-321.
[5] Wang Li, Li Zhigang. Effect of mechanical loading on osteocyte activity[J]. Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research, 2017, 21(12): 1873-1878.