The kidneys are one of the most important organs in our body, but they are also prone to diseases. According to traditional Chinese medicine, insufficient kidney qi can affect our overall health. So, what are some ways to nourish the kidneys? Below, I will introduce several traditional Chinese medicine massage techniques for kidney nourishment.
【Kidney Nourishing Massage Techniques】
1. Massage the Fuliu Acupoint
Located 2 inches above the inner side of the lower leg, in front of the Achilles tendon. The patient should sit or lie down properly when selecting the acupoint. The Fuliu acupoint is located on the inner side of the lower leg, two finger-widths above the center of the ankle, between the shinbone and Achilles tendon.
Massage the acupoint 3-5 times a day, 2-3 minutes each time, until a slight soreness is felt. This technique has the effects of nourishing the kidneys, benefiting yin, and promoting water circulation.
2. Rub the Yongquan Acupoint
The Yongquan acupoint is a very important acupoint on the kidney meridian. It is located at the intersection of the anterior one-third and the middle line of the sole. Regular massage of the Yongquan acupoint can nourish essence, strengthen the kidneys, and prevent premature aging.
3. Massage the Taixi Acupoint
The Taixi acupoint is the original acupoint of the kidney meridian and considered the "Yangtze River" that gathers the essence of the kidney meridian. It is known for its high efficacy in promoting yang and rescuing collapse. Regular massage of the Taixi acupoint, around 5 minutes per acupoint, is recommended. Additionally, massaging the acupoint between 5 pm and 7 pm yields better results. Use the thumb of the opposite hand or a massage stick to apply pressure and massage the acupoint.
【Kidney Nourishing Herbs】
1. Goji Berries
Goji berries are often used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat liver and kidney yin deficiency, lower back pain, dizziness, forgetfulness, blurred vision, excessive tearing, polydipsia, and nocturnal emission. Chewing the berries directly allows for better absorption of their nutrients and enhances their health benefits. However, be cautious with the quantity to avoid excessive nourishment.
2. Deer Antler
Deer antler in traditional Chinese medicine is considered a great product for tonifying the kidneys, nourishing essence and blood, and strengthening tendons and bones. It has excellent effects on kidney yang deficiency and impotence. Besides brewing it in alcohol, deer antler can be stewed with food or eaten directly. For the best kidney nourishing and bone strengthening effects, take 1-2 pieces of deer antler and let them slowly dissolve in your mouth, then chew and swallow the residue.
3. Privet Fruit
Privet fruit has the effects of nourishing the kidneys, nourishing yin, protecting the liver, and improving eyesight. It is commonly used to treat liver and kidney deficiency, dizziness, tinnitus, blurred vision, premature graying of hair, etc. In China, privet fruit has long been used as a popular tonic for invigorating the body and enhancing physical strength. To enhance its kidney nourishing effects, it is recommended to steam the privet fruit with yellow rice wine, which enhances the nourishing effects while reducing the cold and slippery properties, preventing loose stools.
【Lifestyle for Kidney Nourishment】
1. Take Care of Your Feet
Keeping your feet warm is a method of nourishing the kidneys. This is because the kidney meridian starts from the soles of the feet, which are susceptible to cold invasion. Therefore, pay special attention to keeping your feet warm, avoid pointing them directly at air conditioners or fans while sleeping, and avoid walking barefoot in damp areas for extended periods.
2. Maintain Regular Bowel Movements
Constipation and the accumulation of feces can lead to turbid qi rising, causing irritability, chest tightness, and even kidney damage, resulting in lower back pain and fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Therefore, maintaining regular bowel movements is also a way to nourish the kidneys. When experiencing difficulty with bowel movements, apply pressure to the kidney area with the back of both hands to stimulate kidney qi and promote bowel movements. When walking, massage the kidney area with the back of both hands to relieve lower back pain.
3. Eat Kidney Nourishing Foods
There are many foods that can nourish the kidneys. In addition to black sesame seeds, black fungus, black rice, and black beans, which are black in color and nourish the kidneys, walnuts, Chinese chives, shrimp, and lamb kidney also have kidney nourishing effects.
4. Sleep for Kidney Nourishment
Adequate sleep plays an important role in the biochemical processes of qi and blood, as well as the maintenance of kidney essence. Clinical observations have found that many patients with kidney failure have a history of excessive staying up late, excessive fatigue, and insufficient sleep. Therefore, avoid excessive staying up late, develop good sleep habits, and go to bed and wake up early to help preserve kidney essence.
