Treating Liver Qi Stagnation with Self-Massage: An Ancient Technique for Modern Stress

Massage is one of the ancient methods of health preservation in China, which not only promotes health but also treats certain diseases effectively. Through research and summarization over the years, massage techniques have become quite refined. Today, I will introduce the therapeutic functions of massage in treating diseases. Let's take a look at my specific introduction below. Self-massage method for stagnation of liver Qi In modern society, many people face high levels of stress due to the pressures of work and life. When work becomes frustrating and stress accumulates, it is easy to become irritable and angry. This is a manifestation of liver and gallbladder Qi stagnation and internal phlegm obstruction. The treatment for this condition focuses on soothing the liver, regulating Qi, and transforming phlegm. The main acupoints for treatment are Hegu and Taichong, and the complementary acupoints include Tanzhong, Qimen, Ligu, Yanglingquan, Fenglong, and Baihui. Hegu and Taichong, located on the hands and feet respectively, are known as the four important acupoints in the human body according to traditional Chinese medicine. These four positions are key locations for the body's normal gas discharge. Hegu is the original acupoint of the hand Yangming large intestine meridian, while Taichong is the original acupoint of the foot Jueyin liver meridian. They are both sites where the original Qi of the organs accumulates, representing the original power of human life activities. Yangming is abundant in Qi and blood, so Hegu is good at regulating Qi and promoting blood circulation. The liver is responsible for smooth drainage, so Taichong can regulate liver and promote Qi circulation. In clinical practice, needling both Hegu and Taichong on both sides is collectively called "opening the four gates". I use this as the main acupoints to regulate the body's overall Qi circulation. To enhance the therapeutic effect, I also include several other acupoints. Tanzhong, located between the two breasts on the midline of the chest, is also known as the meeting point of Qi. It is a special site where various types of Qi in the human body converge. It must be unobstructed for the Qi to flow smoothly. Qimen, located directly below the nipple and between the sixth and seventh ribs, is at the junction of the chest and hypochondrium. It is the gathering point of the liver's Qi and plays a role in assisting the liver's drainage function. Ligu, located in the center of the medial aspect of the lower leg, is a collateral point of the foot Jueyin liver meridian. It can communicate the liver meridian with the gallbladder meridian. Yanglingquan is the combined acupoint of the gallbladder meridian, where the meridian's Qi deeply enters and combines with the organs. When combined with the liver meridian acupoints, it can promote liver drainage and gallbladder function. Fenglong, located in the middle of the outer side of the lower leg, is an important acupoint of the foot Yangming stomach meridian. It is a crucial acupoint for eliminating phlegm. It not only helps remove visible phlegm, such as phlegm expelled through coughing, but also clears invisible phlegm caused by the stagnation of excess nutrients or waste materials in the meridians, ensuring the smoothness of the meridians. In addition, Baihui is used to calm the spirit and regulate emotions. Furthermore, I performed gua sha treatment on both sides of the seventh to tenth thoracic vertebrae on the back. These locations correspond to the back-shu points of the diaphragm, liver, and gallbladder, which are closely related to the regulation of the body's Qi circulation and the liver's drainage function.