Unlocking Longevity: Why Women Outlive Men

1. Biological and genetic factors: Men are prone to fat accumulation around internal organs, which can increase the risk of chronic diseases. Hormonal differences can also influence longevity.

2. Behavior and lifestyle: Men often engage in riskier behaviours such as smoking, alcohol consumption and unhealthy eating, which contribute to a shorter life expectancy.

3. Occupational risks: Men are more likely to work in hazardous occupations, increasing the risk of accidents and premature death.

4. Attitudes towards health: Men seek medical help less often and neglect preventive care, which can delay the diagnosis and treatment of conditions.

5. Stress and psychosocial factors: Social pressures and gender role expectations can contribute to higher levels of stress in men, affecting their health.

6. Differences in morbidity and mortality: Men have higher rates of specific diseases, such as heart disease, which can contribute to a shorter life expectancy.

7. Influence of Jing in TCM: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is believed that excessive ejaculation can deplete Jing (vital essence), negatively influencing men's health and longevity.

8. Energy Conservation in TCM: Moderation in sexual activity and other behaviours is essential to conserving Jing and promoting longevity, according to TCM.

9. The role of social and cultural factors: Cultural norms and gender expectations can influence risk behaviours and approaches to health, contributing to gender differences in life expectancy.

10. The Importance of Balance and Moderation: Both modern medicine and TCM emphasise the significance of maintaining equilibrium and restraint in every facet of life

including sexual activity to promote health and prolong life.

11. Differences in genetics and chromosomes: Women possess two X chromosomes; in contrast, men have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. This difference can give females an advantage in longevity because an extra X chromosome provides a genetic reserve that can help protect against some diseases.

Referring to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed that intercourse, like any other intense physical or emotional activity, can influence the levels of Jing, the essential energy or vital essence stored in the kidneys. Jing is considered a finite resource that naturally depletes with ageing and can be depleted more quickly through behaviours considered excessive or through overexertion, including frequent and uncontrolled sexual activity.

According to TCM principles, intercourse is viewed as an expression of vital energy, and prudent management of sexual activity is essential to the preservation of Jing and, by extension, to the maintenance of health and longevity. It is believed that excessive loss of Jing through excessive sexual activity can lead to several deficiency symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, decreased immunity and other health problems.

However, it is essential to note that TCM promotes balance in all aspects of life, including sexual activity. Moderate and conscious practice is considered beneficial to health, while excesses are considered harmful. This view reflects a general philosophy that values harmony and balance between different aspects of life and health.

Compared to everyday life, the consumption of Jing in sexual activity depends on the intensity, frequency, and overall health of the individual. Daily activities and stress can also deplete Qi (vital energy) and affect Jing if not managed properly. TCM recommends proper nutrition, moderate exercise, meditation, and sufficient rest to conserve Jing and promote a long and healthy life.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), recommendations for the frequency of sexual activity are often customized based on a person's age, general health, and energy (Qi and Jing) level. However, some general guidelines based on TCM principles suggest that sexual activity should be adjusted according to seasonal changes and the specific energy of each season to maintain energy balance and health.

Sexual Activity in Winter

Winter is associated in TCM with the element of water and is considered a time for conserving energy and strengthening the kidneys, where Jing is believed to be stored. During this period, the general recommendation is to reduce the frequency of sexual activity to conserve body heat and energy. Energy-building practices such as meditation and Qigong are considered especially beneficial during this time.

Sexual Activity Over the Year

Regarding the entire year, TCM does not provide an exact figure or strict schedule for sexual activity applicable to all individuals. The optimal frequency depends on many factors, including age, the health of Jing and Qi, and the individual's ability to recover. However, there are some generalities:

For men, it is believed to be essential to conserve Jing by limiting ejaculations, as a significant amount of Jing is thought to be lost through ejaculation. Some ancient texts give specific recommendations based on age, suggesting, for example, higher frequency for young men and reduced frequency for older ones.

For women, recommendations are often less specific about frequency and focus more on maintaining energy and emotional balance.

It is important to note that these recommendations should be taken as general guidelines and not as strict prescriptions. TCM emphasizes the importance of listening to the body and adjusting life practices, including sexual activity, according to individual needs and the cyclical changes of the body and environment.

In TCM, winter is associated with water, the element that rules the kidneys, and is considered a time for conserving and storing energy. The kidneys are seen as the source of Jing, the vital essence that supports essential strength, health, and longevity. For this reason, general recommendations for winter emphasize the importance of moderation in all activities to prevent Jing depletion and ensure that energy is conserved to support the body's vital functions.