Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TIP 9: TAKE CARE OF YOUR BODY AND SOUL
I see a lot of overworked patients who rarely sleep well, are totally stressed, and are
too busy for exercise—all of which lower people's immune systems and set them up
for illness. It's crucial that we constantly check in with our heart and soul and ask
ourselves, “Am I happy here in Beijing? Am I neglecting something or someone, in-
cluding myself?” If you do feel that life is spinning out of control, many of Beijing's
clinics have professional counseling services.
TIP 10: WATCH OUT FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES
It is frighteningly common here to get exposed to bugs such as chlamydia and go-
norrhea. There is also an alarming resurgence of syphilis in China — plus the usual
suspects, such as HIV, herpes, hepatitis, and others. Practice safe sex and be care-
ful where you buy your condoms—there have been recent scares with poorly made
counterfeits. Stick to the big chains, like Watsons.
Published with permission from
www.myhealthbeijing.com
Likewise, STDs are a growing problem in China, and Beijing is no exception. From
syphilis and HIV to gonorrhea and chlamydia, they are all here. This isn't helped by an
unwillingness to talk about condoms, and using or suggesting your partner use one may in-
cur loss of face. MyHealth Beijing recommends that during your time in Beijing you avoid
sex workers; practice safe and low-risk sex; always use a latex condom; and get regular
checkups, even if there are no symptoms.
Chinese medicine is still alive and strong in Beijing, and if you have any inclinations to try
it, there are plenty of options. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is based on the prin-
ciples of balancing the yin and yang in your body, and generally uses herbal, heat, or pres-
sure treatments rather than Western-style drugs. It is said to be effective in treating an al-
most endless array of conditions, including skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis,
liver diseases, stress, depression, pain, weight problems, and much more.
