The Man Who Lived Over 200 Years? The Life, Diet, and Secrets of Li Ching-Yuen

In the quiet mountains of Sichuan Province, China, lived a man whose life has become one of the most intriguing longevity stories in history. His name was Li Ching-Yuen (李清云)—an herbalist, martial artist, and Taoist practitioner who reportedly lived to be over 200 years old.

While the exact truth behind his age remains debated, what fascinates many is not just the claim—but how he lived. His daily habits, diet, and philosophy offer a compelling model for health and longevity, grounded in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Who Was Li Ching-Yuen?

Li Ching-Yuen was born sometime between 1677 and 1736, depending on the source. According to one report published in the New York Times in 1930, Chinese government records congratulated him on his 150th and 200th birthdays, suggesting he may have lived to be 256 years old, passing away in 1933.

He was a respected herbalist and martial artist, known for his calm demeanor, vibrant health, and deep knowledge of the healing properties of plants. He traveled extensively throughout China, collecting herbs and teaching qigong breathing techniques.

What Did He Eat?

Li Ching-Yuen’s diet was simple, consistent, and rich in herbs known in TCM for their tonic and adaptogenic qualities. According to records and oral history, his diet included:

• Goji berries (Gou Qi Zi) – for liver and kidney nourishment

• Wild ginseng (Ren Shen) – to tonify qi and promote vitality

• He Shou Wu (Fo-ti) – to nourish blood and essence

• Polygonatum root (Huang Jing) – for yin and qi deficiency

• Lingzhi mushroom (Reishi) – to calm the spirit and boost immunity

• Gotu kola – for brain and circulatory health

• Rice and millet porridge – easy-to-digest staples

• Lightly steamed vegetables

• Herbal teas and spring water

He is said to have avoided meat, processed foods, alcohol, and overeating. In alignment with Taoist principles, he practiced moderation and balance, eating just enough to sustain energy without burdening the digestive system.

What Was His Daily Routine?

Li Ching-Yuen’s longevity wasn’t just due to what he ate—it was how he lived. His lifestyle embodied the essence of TCM and Taoist longevity practices.

Qigong & Movement

• Practiced qigong, Tai Chi, and Baguazhang every morning

• Focused on breath regulation, circulation, and posture

• Believed movement should be slow, graceful, and mindful

Emotional and Mental Discipline

• He once said the secret to his long life was: “Keep a quiet heart, sit like a tortoise, walk sprightly like a pigeon, and sleep like a dog.”

• Cultivated peace of mind, avoided anger and stress

• Practiced meditation and spiritual cultivation

Harmony With Nature

• Lived in the mountains for much of his life

• Maintained a simple, natural lifestyle, free from modern distractions

Myth or Model?

Skeptics argue that the story of Li Ching-Yuen may be exaggerated folklore or a case of mistaken identity passed through generations. Yet even if he didn’t live for over two centuries, there’s little doubt that his habits contributed to an unusually long and healthy life.

More importantly, his story provides timeless insights into health maintenance through:

• Herbal tonics

• Mind-body practices

• Simplicity and balance

• Emotional regulation

• Respect for nature’s rhythms

What We Can Learn From Li Ching-Yuen

In an age obsessed with quick fixes and modern supplements, Li Ching-Yuen’s life reminds us of the power of slow, steady practices grounded in ancient wisdom. His story isn’t just about longevity—it’s about quality of life, rooted in nature, discipline, and deep listening to the body.

Whether you're an herbalist, acupuncturist, or simply someone interested in living better, the path to vitality might just lie in the quiet discipline of daily herbs, mindful movement, and a calm heart.

How We Support Your Longevity at Beyond Acupuncture

At Beyond Acupuncture, we believe that longevity is not just about adding years to life, but life to years. Rooted in the same principles that guided Li Ching-Yuen's legendary wellness—balance, prevention, and nourishment—our personalized acupuncture treatments and herbal medicine protocols are designed to support the body's natural healing systems. Whether you're looking to boost energy, improve sleep, reduce stress, or simply maintain vibrant health as you age, we can help you stay aligned with your health goals. Longevity is a journey, and we’re here to walk that path with you—one treatment, one herbal formula, one breath at a time.