My life in Guangzhou has gradually settled into a calm rhythm. While the factory in Suizhou remains bustling with harvesting mugwort, packaging goods, and managing warehouse operations, life here has found its temporary stability. Hearing that my father recently sprained his ankle brought momentary worry, though he assured me of his recovery over the phone. Distance makes intervention impossible, so I focus on cherishing the present rather than dwelling on anxieties.
Each morning, after completing my tasks, I take out my 7-year-aged mugwort sticks for a moxibustion session. This ancient practice has brought remarkable changes to my father. His age spots have faded noticeably, and his complexion now glows with vitality. Despite his demanding workload, he remains energetic—a testament to his newfound self-care routine. Since learning moxibustion last winter, he has discreetly placed portable moxibustion devices on his chest and stomach during work breaks. The steady warmth he maintains has significantly eased his digestive issues.
Our journey with moxibustion has been filled with lighthearted moments. My father once fell asleep mid-session, accidentally burning small blisters on his face. My mother, meanwhile, always drifts into a drowsy state during facial treatments. To address his insomnia, we devised a clever solution: combining facial moxibustion with a foot warming device. The dual therapy proves irresistible—drowsiness follows swiftly.
Despite conventional warnings against facial moxibustion due to concerns over scarring, my personal experimentation defies these claims. Much like professional facials that boost circulation and clear meridians, I believe facial moxibustion enhances facial vitality by dispelling stagnation. After months of gentle treatment with aged mugwort, visible improvements include:
- Reduced nasal pore size
- Fading cheek spots
- Softer eye wrinkles
- Relaxed tension at the brow bone
- Lightened dark circles
Though my complexion retains some dullness, the progress inspires confidence. Aging gracefully at 35 isn’t about reversing time but slowing its effects—something I aim to achieve through consistent care.
Afternoons are dedicated to abdominal moxibustion using a multi-hole moxibustion box. This routine stimulates intestinal movement, replenishes vital energy (“qi”), and enhances sleep quality. Evenings conclude with foot moxibustion, completing my “morning-middle-evening, upper-middle-lower” wellness ritual. As the aroma of mugwort fills the air, stress dissolves, leaving only anticipation for brighter days ahead.
Through dedicated practice, I’ve learned that persistent self-care not only elevates physical appearance but also cultivates inner calm. While youth fades, science-backed traditions like moxibustion empower us to age with grace—slowly, intentionally, and beautifully.
(Note: This article shares personal wellness experiences and is not intended as medical advice.)