MENTAL MODEL · M1158

Increasing Water to Move the Boat

TechnicalHigh supportTraditional Chinese Medicine

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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

A method for treating constipation due to fluid deficiency. Dry stools are not caused by insufficient intestinal propulsion (qi deficiency), but because the water is too low and the boat is stranded. Instead of using laxatives, use large amounts of yin-nourishing herbs (such as Scrophularia and Ophiopogon) to raise the water level, and the boat (stool) will naturally move. Scaffolding role: buoyancy principle. Don't just think about using a bulldozer (laxatives). For elderly or postpartum constipation, increasing the medium (water/fluids) is often more effective and safer than increasing propulsion.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Buoyancy principle. Don't just think about using a bulldozer (laxatives). For elderly or postpartum constipation, increasing the medium (water/fluids) is often more effective and safer than increasing propulsion.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

If constipation is due to fluid deficiency (insufficient medium) rather than insufficient propulsion, laxatives are ineffective and may harm the body's vitality; increasing fluids to moisten the intestines allows the 'boat' to move by buoyancy, which is 'increasing the medium rather than increasing propulsion.'

MINIMUM ACTION

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Practice this model in one real situation:

Determine whether the deficiency is in the medium or in propulsion
If the medium is insufficient, nourish yin and increase fluids
Avoid overusing laxatives
Combine with moderate propulsion.

Check to track your progress (stored locally)

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Source support: Explicit

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baike.baidu.comhttps://baike.baidu.com/view/2597.htmZH · Explicit
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