延年益寿 prolong life
Explanation
延年益寿是指增加年龄，延长寿命。通常用于祝愿他人健康长寿。
Yan Nian Yi Shou means to increase age and prolong life. It is usually used to wish others a long and healthy life.
Origin Story
话说古代一位名叫李白的隐士，他隐居深山，过着与世无争的生活。他每日清晨采摘山间野花野草，泡制成茶饮用，据说这些草药有延年益寿的神奇功效。一日，一位樵夫偶然发现李白，并被他仙风道骨的气质所吸引。樵夫向李白请教长寿之道，李白笑了笑，说道：“延年益寿并非单纯依靠药物，更重要的是心态平和，与世无争，常怀感恩之心。你看这山间的野花野草，它们虽然生命短暂，却依然绽放出最美的姿态。人亦如此，活在当下，珍惜每一刻，才能活得充实而长久。”樵夫深受启发，从此过上了健康长寿的生活。
It is said that in ancient times, a hermit named Li Bai lived in seclusion in the mountains, leading a life free from worldly strife. Every morning, he would collect wild flowers and herbs from the mountains and brew them into tea, which was said to have the magical effect of prolonging life. One day, a woodcutter accidentally discovered Li Bai and was captivated by his ethereal and dignified demeanor. The woodcutter asked Li Bai about the secret to longevity, and Li Bai smiled and said, “Longevity doesn't rely solely on medicine; it's more about a peaceful mind, a life free from conflict, and a grateful heart. Look at the wild flowers and herbs in the mountains—though their lives are short, they still bloom in their most beautiful form. It's the same with people: live in the present moment, cherish each second, and you will live a full and long life.” The woodcutter was deeply moved and thereafter lived a healthy and long life.
Usage
用于祝愿他人健康长寿。
Used to wish others a long and healthy life.
Examples
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祝您福如东海，寿比南山，延年益寿！
zhù nín fú rú dōng hǎi, shòu bǐ nán shān, yán nián yì shòu!
Wishing you a long and healthy life!
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老人家身体硬朗，延年益寿！
lǎo rén jiā shēn tǐ yìng lǎng, yán nián yì shòu!
The elderly person is in good health and will live a long life!