Western folk wisdom agrees with the Taoists regarding the importance of conserving sexual energy. Athletes have long known the weakness and lethargy that follow ejaculation, abstaining from sex the night before the "big game." Artists have also felt the lingering effects on their work. Jazz musician Miles Davis explained in a Playboy magazine interview:
Davis: You can't come, then fight or play. You can’t do it. When I get ready to come, I come. But I do not come and play.
Playboy: Explain that in layman's terms.
Davis: Ask Muhammad Ali. If he comes, he can’t fight two minutes. Shit, he couldn’t even whip me.
Playboy: Would you fight Muhammad Ali under those conditions, to prove your point.
Davis: You’re goddamn right I’d fight him. But he’s got to promise to fuck first. If he ain’t going to fuck, I ain’t going to fight. You give up all your energy when you come. I mean, you give up all of it! So, if you’re going to fuck before a gig, how are you going to give something when it’s time to hit?
(Miles Davis)