According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the kidneys are the foundation of innate energy, while the spleen and stomach are the foundation of acquired energy. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the health of the spleen and stomach in our daily lives. Massage is one method of regulating the spleen and stomach. Let's take a look at how to massage and regulate the spleen and stomach.
Caring for the spleen and stomach is the fundamental basis for disease prevention and health maintenance. In TCM, the spleen and stomach are responsible for the digestion and absorption of food and fluids in the body. If the spleen and stomach are strong, the body's Qi and blood will be sufficient, resulting in a healthy appetite, rosy complexion, and overall gastrointestinal health. However, if the spleen and stomach are weak, it can lead to loss of appetite, pale complexion, weight loss, fatigue, stomach discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, and even insomnia, weakened immune system, and susceptibility to colds. Weak spleen can also lead to dampness and phlegm retention, resulting in obesity, heaviness in the body, dry mouth, sticky sensation in the mouth, and eczema. Therefore, it is said in ancient times that "the spleen and stomach are the foundation of acquired energy" and "the spleen and stomach are the source of Qi and blood transformation". In fact, simple self-massage can help alleviate some minor gastrointestinal problems.
1. Massage acupoints
First, the Zhongwan acupoint. The Zhongwan acupoint is an important acupoint for treating gastrointestinal disorders. It is located in the middle of the line connecting the lower end of the sternum and the navel, about one palm's width above the navel. Lie on your back, relax your muscles, exhale slowly, and press down with your fingers. After 6 seconds, remove your hand and repeat this process 10 times to make the stomach feel comfortable. This method is particularly effective for stomachaches.
Next is the Tianshu acupoint. This acupoint is located about the width of two thumbs to the left and right of the navel. The patient can lie flat on the bed and use the middle three fingers to press and massage this area for about 2 minutes. The Tianshu acupoint is used to treat digestive disorders, nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and other symptoms.
Lastly, the Zusanli acupoint. The Zusanli acupoint is located four horizontal fingers below the outer knee, along the edge of the tibia. Press and hold for 6 seconds, then release, and repeat this process 10 times. This can promote gastric acid secretion, provide comfort to the stomach, and also have analgesic effects.
2. Abdominal massage
According to TCM, the abdomen is considered the "palace of the five organs and six viscera, and the source of Yin and Yang, Qi, and blood." Massaging the abdomen can promote circulation, balance Yin and Yang, eliminate old and generate new, nourish the five organs, expel pathogenic factors, and address various internal disorders. The Huangdi Neijing, a classic TCM text, states, "Massage the abdomen for health preservation." Sun Simiao, a famous TCM physician from the Tang Dynasty, also wrote, "Frequent abdominal massage can dispel various illnesses."
Here is the method: Perform the massage before going to bed at night and after waking up in the morning. Empty your bladder, wash your hands, lie on your back with slightly bent knees, and relax your whole body. Place your left hand on your abdomen, palm facing the navel, and stack your right hand on top of your left hand. Massage in a clockwise direction around the navel 50 times, and then massage in a counterclockwise direction 50 times. Apply moderate pressure, concentrate your mind, breathe naturally, and be persistent. You will definitely experience noticeable health benefits with regular massage.
3. Spinal pinching therapy
Spinal pinching therapy stimulates certain meridians and acupoints in the body to treat diseases. It is particularly suitable for children who have spleen and stomach disharmony, poor digestion, and food stagnation. The therapy mainly involves pinching the spine and the sides of the spine. The spine is located in the middle of the back and is where the Du meridian runs. The sides of the spine are the route of the Bladder meridian. Stimulating these acupoints can promote meridian circulation, regulate Qi and blood, and adjust the organs.
4. Pinching the calf
The inner side of the calf is where the Spleen meridian, Liver meridian, and Kidney meridian of the Foot Jueyin are located. Pinching this area can stimulate the acupoints along these meridians. The Spleen meridian is connected to the stomach, so massaging this area can treat stomach disorders. However, this method is only suitable for general stomach problems and can only provide relief for mild stomachaches. For severe stomach problems, it is recommended to seek medical treatment.
The above methods have been introduced for massaging and regulating the spleen and stomach. In addition to massage, it is important to maintain a light and balanced diet, avoid overeating, and perform massage 2-3 times a day. By doing this for a week, you can alleviate symptoms related to spleen and stomach disharmony.
