Yang Deficiency (陽虚)

Feeling Cold All the Time? Signs You May Have Yang Deficiency in TCM

Yang Deficiency (陽虚)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Yang refers to the warming, activating, and energizing aspect of the body that helps keep everything moving and functioning smoothly.
When Yang is lacking, the body’s warmth and activity levels drop, which can lead to feelings of cold, sluggishness, and reduced vitality.

Common Signs Associated with Yang Deficiency in TCM

  • Sensitive to cold / Cold hands and feet
  • Edema
  • Lower back ache / Knee pain
  • Fatigue
  • Pale complexion
  • Hair loss
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weak voice
  • Forgetfulness
  • Quiet personality
  • Digestive discomfort (such as morning diarrhea)
  • Frequent urination
  • Tongue with teeth marks

Additional signs sometimes linked to menstruation and fertility (if applicable):

  • Irregular menstrual cycles
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Heavy bleeding during menstruation
  • Difficulty conceiving

Note: These signs are based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and may also be present with other health conditions. Please look after yourself and consult your doctor or healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

Causes of Yang Deficiency

In TCM, Yang Deficiency often develops because:

  • Chronic illness or long-term Qi Deficiency can gradually lead to Yang Deficiency, as the body’s energy and warmth decline.
  • Overwork and lack of rest can deplete Yang, especially when combined with inadequate nutrition.
  • Aging naturally reduces Yang energy, making the body more prone to feeling cold and sluggish.

Daily Tips to Support a Yang Deficiency Constitution

The overall approach is similar to caring for Qi Deficiency, focusing on protecting your energy and keeping your body warm.

  1. Avoid pushing yourself too hard. Gentle exercise like walking—just enough to leave you pleasantly tired—is a great choice.
  2. Keep your body warm. If you're in air-conditioned spaces all day, try using a lap blanket to protect your core.
  3. Avoid cold foods and drinks. Choose warm, cooked meals if possible.
  4. Instead of just taking a shower, try soaking in a warm bath to warm your body from the inside out gently.
  5. Get plenty of good-quality sleep. It helps replenish your energy and support overall balance.

Yang-Boosting Foods You Can Add to Your Diet

Grain - Glutinous rice
Meat and Seafood – Lamb, Venison, Salmon, Trout, Mackerel, Shrimps, Mussels
Vegetables and others – Garlic chives, Bell peppers, Spring onion, Leeks, Pumpkins, Black pepper, Brown sugar, Cloves, Cinnamon, Dried ginger, Fennel, Chinese pepper, Chili peppers, Wasabi, Walnuts, Chestnuts, Cherries, Peaches