Liver Qi stagnation is mainly manifested as chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and depression. Women may also experience irregular menstruation. To relieve liver Qi stagnation, we can massage the Taichong acupoint. So, where is the Taichong acupoint and how should we massage it?
Symptoms of Liver Qi Stagnation
In modern society, people have a busy work schedule and experience high mental stress. Many people often feel a dull pain in the sides of their body, depression, and chest tightness. They always want to take a deep breath. Women also often have irregular menstruation. In fact, these are typical symptoms of liver Qi stagnation.
We know that among the five viscera, the liver is responsible for smooth circulation and dislikes depression. If the liver's circulation function becomes abnormal or if one feels emotionally depressed, it can cause liver Qi stagnation. At this time, the Qi and blood cannot circulate normally, and the meridians will become congested. A person's emotions are controlled by Qi and blood. When the circulation of Qi and blood becomes stagnant, emotions naturally become uncomfortable. A person may feel depressed and suppressed, and these negative emotions will in turn exacerbate the blockage of Qi and blood. In this vicious cycle, the function of the main organs in the body will inevitably decline, and the body will become ill.
Therefore, once our body shows symptoms of liver Qi stagnation, we must promptly promote liver circulation and adjust the liver's circulation function. The preferred acupoint is, of course, the Taichong acupoint. In addition, the Shenshu acupoint can also be stimulated to tonify the kidneys. This is because the liver belongs to wood, and the kidneys belong to water, symbolizing the idea of "nourishing water to contain wood".
Massage the Taichong Acupoint for Liver Qi Stagnation
The Taichong acupoint is the original acupoint of the liver meridian and the most important acupoint on the liver meridian. It is the original acupoint for treating various liver diseases and a special acupoint for treating various liver diseases. It can lower blood pressure, soothe the liver and clear heat, and clear and benefit the head. Its effects are very similar to those of chrysanthemum tea, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. It is also effective for irregular menstruation in women. Therefore, stimulating it can promote liver circulation, relieve depression, and also reduce excessive liver fire.
Location of the Taichong Acupoint
The Taichong acupoint is easy to find. It is located on the dorsum of the foot, between the first and second toes, about two finger-widths above the space between the two bones. When pressed, it should feel strongly sore or distended. The best time to stimulate the Taichong acupoint is in spring. In the Five Elements theory, the liver belongs to wood, and spring corresponds to wood. Spring is the season of vigorous growth, and the Qi of the liver wood rises at this time. By massaging both sides of the Taichong acupoint, liver fire can be drained, effectively preventing the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Of course, massaging the Taichong acupoint in summer, autumn, and winter also has good effects.
Massage Method for the Taichong Acupoint
Specific operation method: The best time to massage the Taichong acupoint is from 9 to 11 pm, when the liver meridian Qi circulation is most active. Massage the Taichong acupoint for a period of time, and the symptoms of liver Qi stagnation will gradually disappear.
In terms of diet, when experiencing liver Qi stagnation, one should eat light food and avoid fatty, greasy, and fried foods as much as possible. It is advisable to eat some sour foods to nourish the liver, such as hawthorn and vinegar. You can also drink tea made from chrysanthemum or mint, as these two herbal medicines can reduce liver fire and relieve liver Qi stagnation.
If you experience symptoms of liver Qi stagnation, you can massage your own Taichong acupoint. In daily life, it is important to maintain a good mood, avoid staying up late, and go to bed and get up early.
