Prenatal and Postnatal Capital
In traditional Chinese medicine, “Jing” (Essence) is our most precious possession. It determines our constitution, our growth, and our aging. It can be compared to a candle.
Prenatal Jing (The Candle Itself)
This is what we inherit from our parents at conception. It determines our genetic foundation: our strength, our aptitude, and our vitality. This capital is finite; we can’t create more of it, only conserve it.
Postnatal Jing (The Wash We Add)
This is the energy we get daily from our food and breathing. By eating, sleeping, and breathing well, we replenish our reserves.
The Interaction
When we live well (produce plenty of postnatal jing), we use less of our basic supply (prenatal jing). The candle burns more slowly.
If we live poorly (eat poorly, stress, lack of sleep), we have to tap into our reserves. The candle burns out faster.
Conclusion:We can’t change our genes, but we can change how quickly we use up our reserves through our lifestyle.