The authors present the Taoist understanding that conserving semen helps preserve Chi, enhancing vitality, health, and longevity:
While the body can produce semen continuously, the life force or Chi that is tied to its creation is limited. Frequent ejaculation is seen as depleting this finite energy reserve, leading to a decrease in overall vitality and health.
This perspective contrasts with Western medical understanding that generally views regular ejaculation as healthy and normal, possibly even beneficial.
There is a Chinese idiom that states “一滴精, 十滴血”, which translates to “a drop of semen is worth ten drops of blood.” This idiom reflects traditional Chinese beliefs about the preciousness of semen and its vital importance to health.