Our bodies come equipped with a "heater" switch. By massaging eight warming acupoints, those who know about them are saying goodbye to heaters and staying warm throughout the winter.
Acupoint 1
Yongquan
As the saying goes, "Cold starts from the feet." Many people feel cold in their feet during winter, no matter how thick their socks and shoes are. However, there is a "heater" switch on the feet called the "Yongquan acupoint," which is a key acupoint for maintaining health and preventing diseases.
It is especially suitable for older people who have kidney deficiency, feel cold, are physically weak, and lack energy. There is a folk saying that goes, "To keep the elderly warm, always stimulate the Yongquan acupoint."
Location: The Yongquan acupoint is located on the sole of the foot, in a depression about one-third of the way up from the front of the foot.
Massage technique: Rub both feet together with the palms, or use the right hand to rub the left foot and the left hand to rub the right foot. Consistent massage of this acupoint can help increase energy, strengthen the body, and improve cold resistance.
Acupoint 2
Zusanli
According to the "Ling Shu" (an ancient Chinese medical text), "If the yang qi is deficient and the yin qi is excessive, there will be abdominal pain and rumbling... Stimulate the Zusanli acupoint." Massaging the Zusanli acupoint in winter can help nourish the middle and boost qi, keeping the lower limbs warm.
Location: When the leg is bent, there is a small bony protrusion on the outside of the knee joint called the "outer knee eye." The Zusanli acupoint is located four horizontal finger-widths below the outer knee eye.
Massage technique: Apply pressure to the Zusanli acupoint with the tip of the thumb, pressing downward in a vertical motion. The other four fingers can be clenched or spread out to assist in applying pressure, ensuring that the stimulation reaches the deep layers of the muscles. This may produce sensations such as soreness, numbness, swelling, and pain. After a few seconds, gradually relax the pressure and repeat the process several times.
Acupoint 3
Shenque
In cold weather, getting cold easily can cause diarrhea. The "heater" switch in the abdomen is the often-neglected navel, specifically the Shenque acupoint. It is known for its therapeutic effects on diarrhea, abdominal pain, prolapse of the rectum, urinary disorders, infertility due to cold blood, and stroke syndromes.
Location: The center of the navel.
Massage technique: Before going to bed, rub your hands together to warm them up and place them on your navel. Massage in a clockwise and counterclockwise motion until you feel warmth. This can help warm the abdomen, improve facial complexion, and relieve symptoms such as abdominal pain, bowel rumbling, bloating, diarrhea, and rectal prolapse.
Acupoint 4
Yangchi
Yangchi is one of the commonly used acupoints on the hand Shaoyang Sanjiao meridian. It is where the body's yang heat gathers and it treats diseases of the eyes, neck, shoulder, and upper limbs.
Location: In the middle of the back of the wrist, between the second and third metacarpal bones.
Massage technique: Stimulate the Yangchi acupoint with moderate pressure. Use both hands alternately to massage it, which can help relieve cold hands.
Acupoint 5
Laogong
There is another "heating" switch on the palm of the hand called the Laogong acupoint, also known as Wuli, Palm Center, or Ghost Road. It belongs to the Hand Jueyin Pericardium meridian.
Location: In the palm of the hand, between the second and third metacarpal bones, closer to the third metacarpal bone. When making a fist, it is located at the tips of the middle finger and ring finger.
Massage technique: Use pressing and rubbing methods in a counterclockwise direction. Massage each acupoint for about 10 minutes, 2-3 times a day. This can warm the hands, calm the mind, nourish the heart, and promote sleep.
Acupoint 6
Jianjing
Why does massaging the shoulders and neck not only improve blood circulation but also make them feel warm? It's because the "heating" switch in the shoulder area is the Jianjing acupoint. It can also help relieve shoulder and neck pain, as well as symptoms of dizziness and imbalance.
Location: The midpoint of the line connecting the prominent bone at the back of the neck and the shoulder peak, directly in front of the breast.
Massage technique: The person receiving the massage should sit, and the person giving the massage should stand behind them. Place the palms naturally on the Jianjing acupoints, between the thumb and four fingers. Use a rhythmic kneading motion. The pressure and time should be appropriate, especially for those with high blood pressure or cardiovascular diseases, who should not overdo it.
Acupoint 7
Dazhui
The Dazhui acupoint is where the yang heat of the Hand and Foot Shaoyang meridians converges and rises to the head and neck. It is like the master switch for the "heater" of the whole body.
Location: Below the most prominent bony protrusion at the back of the neck when the head is lowered.
Massage technique: When taking a shower at home, aim the showerhead at the back of the neck and continuously rinse with warm water. This can make you feel warm all over in the cold season. The shower time should not be too long (no more than 20 minutes). For those who are weak or have cardiovascular diseases, the time should be reduced accordingly. The water temperature should be around 40°C.
Acupoint 8
Ears
According to traditional Chinese medicine, "The kidneys open into the ears." Massaging both ears regularly in winter can not only prevent chilblains but also help maintain kidney health and promote smooth circulation of qi and blood.
