Traditional Chinese massage therapy has gained recognition and there is a constant stream of people visiting traditional Chinese massage health centers. Especially for white-collar workers who sit for long periods of time, they need massage therapy for their health. In fact, we can learn self-massage techniques so that we can massage ourselves at home. Below, we will introduce some self-massage methods.
Most comprehensive benefits of traditional Chinese medicine: Ears and Spine
Rubbing the ears benefits the whole body
The ears are like a fetus inverted in the womb, with the earlobe representing the head and eyes, the outer edge representing the trunk and limbs, and the inner side representing the internal organs.
According to traditional Chinese medicine experts, massaging different parts of the ears can have a health-promoting effect on the corresponding body parts or internal organs. Traditional Chinese medicine states that "the kidneys open to the ears", so taking good care of the ears is especially beneficial for the kidneys. Ear massage should be gentle, usually using kneading, rubbing, and pulling techniques, and it is best to massage for 5 minutes, not exceeding 10 minutes.
Rubbing the ears upwards can regulate and promote the physiological functions of various systems in the body, which is beneficial for enhancing physical fitness. Gentle rubbing and friction of both ears can unblock the meridians and have a health-promoting effect on the kidneys and all other organs in the body. Rubbing the earlobe can be done by placing the index finger against the inner layer of the earlobe and the thumb against the outer layer of the earlobe, gently kneading until it becomes warm, which is beneficial for the health of the waist. Pulling down the earlobe can be done by first rubbing the earlobe until it becomes warm, and then pulling the earlobe downwards 15-20 times until it becomes slightly warm. Pulling the earlobe by holding the ear with the index finger and thumb, pulling from the inside to the outside, with a pulling force that is not painful, can treat diseases such as headaches, dizziness, neurasthenia, and tinnitus.
Pushing the spine enhances the immune system
The spine and its sides are one of the two largest meridians in the body, where the Governing Vessel passes through, as well as important meridians such as the Liver Meridian and Kidney Meridian. When external pathogens such as wind and cold invade, the Governing Vessel is most susceptible to their effects. On the other hand, protecting the back from cold and dampness makes the body less susceptible to colds and diseases, and it also has the effect of treating overexertion.
Traditional Chinese medicine experts suggest that family members can help each other to push and massage the spine and its sides from top to bottom or from bottom to top, pressing and pushing forward or patting to unblock the meridians. Hot water bag application or essential oil massage on the back can also be used. Rub until the skin becomes warm and red, which is beneficial for resisting colds, enhancing the body's vitality, and strengthening the immune system. During a bath, consciously soak the back with hot water, which can also promote blood circulation in the back and help unblock the meridians.
Easiest to perform: Lower abdomen and soles of the feet
Massaging the lower abdomen helps strengthen the spleen and stomach
The navel is a concentrated area of energy and an important acupoint called "Shenque" in traditional Chinese medicine. There are also other acupoints, such as middle epigastric, Guanyuan, and Qihai, around the navel. Gently rubbing and pressing these acupoints has benefits for adjusting the body's qi and blood and improving the function of internal organs.
Traditional Chinese medicine has always advocated the health care method of "frequent rubbing of the abdomen". The key is to massage the area around the lower abdomen after waking up and before going to bed. If done regularly, it can increase intestinal peristalsis and enhance spleen and stomach function. Abdominal massage can also be done after meals by placing the palm of the hand on the navel and using a counterclockwise and clockwise alternating method to gently rub the navel and its surroundings, which promotes digestion.
Applying heat to the lower abdomen appropriately can also have health benefits. During application, a slightly higher than body temperature hot water bag or hot towel can be gently applied to the navel, and after a few minutes, it can be removed. This can be done 1-2 times a day. If outdoors, you can use warm hands to apply heat near the navel.
Pinching the soles of the feet promotes blood circulation
The feet are known as the "second heart" of the body, with thousands of nerve endings and closely related to the health of various organs in the body. The importance of this cannot be overstated.
Traditional Chinese medicine experts believe that soaking the feet in hot water every two to three days for half an hour is a very simple and practical health care method. It can warm the meridians, promote blood circulation, and improve immunity. If some Chinese herbs that help with blood circulation are added to the foot bath, the effect will be even better. For example, wrap a small amount of Chinese herbs such as Angelica, safflower, Panax notoginseng, Ligusticum chuanxiong, and Salvia miltiorrhiza in gauze, soak them in hot water in advance, and after about half an hour, the medicinal effect can be released. Then add a little white wine or vinegar. This is especially recommended for people with insomnia.
Traditional Chinese medicine experts suggest that while watching TV, use the fingertips of one hand's palm to rub and press the Yongquan acupoint on the sole of the other foot. This not only has health benefits but also exercises the hands and feet.
In addition, using a foot massager, bending toes, walking regularly, and walking on pebbles can all promote blood circulation in the feet.
Easily overlooked: Armpits and chest
Pressing the armpits calms the mind and broadens the chest
The armpits are areas that people rarely touch, but this does not mean that they should be neglected. According to traditional Chinese medicine, there is an important acupoint called "Jiquan" in the armpits. Acupuncture or massage of Jiquan has the effect of broadening the chest and calming the mind. Western medicine has also found that the armpits not only have blood vessels but also a large amount of lymphoid tissue. Therefore, frequent pressing of the armpits can improve blood supply, stimulate lymphatic circulation, and enhance immunity.
There are two methods of massage, one is rubbing. Use the fingertips of the right index finger, middle finger, and ring finger to massage the armpits in a clockwise direction and then counterclockwise for 15 times each, then switch to the left hand to massage the right armpit, each time lasting for 3 to 5 minutes. The technique must be gentle to avoid damaging local blood vessels and nerves. The other method is tapping, lift one arm, place the thumb of the other hand on the shoulder joint, and lightly tap the bottom of the armpit with the middle finger, changing the rhythm from fast to slow and alternating between left and right.
Patting the chest enhances lung function
The front chest is where the body's yin energy gathers. Taking good care of the front chest not only has the effect of widening the middle, harmonizing the qi, but also plays an important role in improving lung function and enhancing resistance.
