Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the kidneys are the foundation of innate vitality. As the kidney energy gradually becomes stronger, the body grows and develops. Conversely, as the kidney energy declines, the body ages. After entering middle age, it is important to carefully nourish the kidneys and avoid blindly relying on dietary and medicinal supplements. Below are several simple and effective massage methods that, when practiced consistently, can yield ideal results.
"Rub" the soles of the feet: The Yongquan acupoint on the soles of the feet directly connects to the kidney meridian. Before going to bed, soak your feet in warm water and then rub your hands together until they become warm. Use the palm of your left hand to massage the sole of your right foot and vice versa, repeating this motion 50 times for each foot until they become warm.
"Knead" the joints: Sit or stand naturally and straighten your lower limbs. Place the palms of your hands against the upper part of your thighs and rub them downward, kneading and massaging until you feel a slight soreness in your knees.
"Tap" the lumbar vertebrae: Stand with your thighs apart and press your thumbs firmly against both sides of your waist. Repeat this motion for about 5 minutes several times a day. This can help prevent and treat symptoms such as lower back pain and weakness in the lower back and knees.
"Press" the abdomen: Before going to bed, place one hand below the navel on the pubic bone and the other hand on the lower back. While pressing down on the lower back, use your hand to slowly rub the lower abdomen from right to left until you feel a warm sensation.
"Massage" the inguinal region: Place both hands on either side of the inguinal region on the thighs and gently massage in a diagonal direction for about 30 times. Practice this massage for 10 minutes every day to improve energy levels.
"Rub" the ears: In the morning, use your fingertips or a ribbed surface to gently rub the outer part of the ears in a circular motion, or apply pressure and knead. Stop when you feel a slight swelling or warmth in the area.
"Contract" the perineum: The perineum is also known as the "anus". "Contracting the perineum" refers to performing anal sphincter exercises. While doing this exercise, contract the anal sphincter along with the perineum, inhaling at the same time. Exhale and relax. Repeat this exercise about 30 times each time, whether sitting, standing, or walking.
