Modern medicine offers an extraordinary level of detail about human physiology and disease, yet it still lacks a simple, universal definition of what it means to be truly healthy. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), good health can be understood through five foundational criteria. Like Einstein’s famous equation, these principles appear simple on the surface but are rooted in deep and sophisticated theory.
1. Normal Appetite
A healthy appetite means feeling hungry at appropriate mealtimes, being able to taste and smell food clearly, and eating an amount that satisfies the body without overeating. A balanced appetite reflects strong digestive function and overall vitality.
2. Healthy Bowel Movements
Ideally, bowel movements should occur at least twice a day — generally as many times as meals are eaten. Stools should be long, well‑formed, and brown in color, with a comfortable sense of complete elimination. Regular, easy bowel movements are a key indicator of digestive and metabolic health.
3. Proper Urination
Most people should urinate five to seven times per day, with fewer trips if engaged in strenuous physical activity. Healthy urine is pale yellow, produced in adequate volume, and expelled with steady, comfortable force. These qualities reflect proper fluid metabolism and kidney function.
4. Restorative Sleep
Good health includes the ability to sleep through the night without waking and to rise feeling refreshed and restored. Deep, uninterrupted sleep supports healing, emotional balance, and overall resilience.
5. Cool Face, Warm Hands and Feet
A balanced body temperature pattern is another sign of good health. The face should feel comfortably cool rather than flushed or hot. The backs of the hands and feet should feel cool, while the palms and soles remain warm. This reflects proper circulation and harmonious internal energy flow.
