The kidneys are fundamental to human health. As the kidney qi gradually strengthens, the body grows and develops. As the kidney qi declines, the body ages. Therefore, it is essential to nourish and support the kidneys. Here are some simple and effective Chinese massage methods to nourish the kidneys.
Method 1: Waist Massage Exercise
Rub the palms of both hands together until they are warm, then place them on the waist with the palms against the skin. Massage the waist up and down until there is a warm sensation. This exercise can be done once in the morning and once in the evening, about 200 times each time. This movement helps to nourish the kidneys and gather qi.
Make fists with both hands and use the knuckles of the thumbs to naturally massage the area around the waist, gradually increasing pressure until there is a slight soreness. Continue the massage for about 10 minutes, once in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
The waist is the residence of the kidneys. Regular waist massage can prevent and treat conditions such as muscle strain and lower back pain caused by kidney deficiency in middle-aged and elderly people.
Method 2: Friction of the Ears
In the morning, use the fingertips or the textured surface of a cloth to gently rub the ears in a circular motion or apply pressure and knead, until there is a slight swelling and warmth in the area.
This method helps to harmonize yin and yang, promote the circulation of qi and blood, and strengthen the kidneys and preserve essence. It has been advocated by generations of health-keeping experts.
Method 3: Groin Massage
Before going to bed, place both hands on the groin area (the root of the thighs). Use the palms to gently massage in a diagonal direction for 36 times. This massage can be done several times a week.
It has a certain effect on enhancing sexual desire and improving energy.
Method 4: Climbing Exercise to Strengthen the Kidneys
Lie down, and use both hands to pull from the knees to the hip joints, along the line from the front armpit to the head. The massage diagram for strengthening yang shows that the palms of both hands should be crossed with the palms facing up. Keep both feet straight and drop the hands from above in a straight line, extending them forward while bending the upper body forward. Place both hands on the Yongquan acupoints on the soles of the feet, push the feet forward with force, and release the hands to return to a supine position. Repeat this 10 times, or adjust the number according to your ability.
This method strengthens the lower back and knees, and nourishes the kidneys and preserves essence.
Method 5: Rubbing the Kidney Region
Place both palms on the same side of the waist and rub back and forth from top to bottom for about 2 minutes, until there is a slight deep warmth. Alternatively, make fists with both hands and use the back of the hands to alternately tap the waist area. The pressure should be moderate, and it is suitable to tap about 100 times on each side.
The waist is the residence of the kidneys, and rubbing the kidney area is also known as "rubbing the essence gate." It has the effects of nourishing the kidneys, strengthening the lower back, nourishing essence, and promoting the circulation of meridians.
Method 6: Squeezing the Anal Canal
The anal canal can be squeezed through the practice of anal lifting exercises. Contract the anus and the perineum together, inhale at the same time, and then relax while exhaling. Repeat this exercise about 50 times each time, whether sitting, standing, or walking.
This method helps to clear the Du meridian and has a kidney-nourishing effect.
