The Small Intestine Meridian belongs to the Hand Yangming Fu meridians. It originates at the tip of the little finger, runs along the outer side of the hand and up to the wrist, exits at the middle of the ankle, travels straight up along the lower inner side of the arm, exits between the two bones on the inner side of the elbow, and continues up along the outer posterior side of the upper arm. Now let's take a look at the benefits of massaging the Small Intestine Meridian.
Benefits of Massaging the Small Intestine Meridian
The main physiological function of the Small Intestine Meridian is the digestion and absorption process, which is the most important segment of the entire digestive system. Massaging the Small Intestine Meridian can improve digestion and absorption function, participate in the body's fluid metabolism, effectively relieve symptoms such as constipation, obesity, abdominal distension, and diarrhea. Furthermore, since the Small Intestine Meridian is paired with the Heart meridian, massaging the Small Intestine Meridian properly can also help treat heart diseases.
Conditions Treated by Massaging the Small Intestine Meridian
When massaging the Small Intestine Meridian, the direction from the hand to the arm is a tonifying method, suitable for cases of Qi deficiency in the Small Intestine Meridian. Symptoms such as tinnitus, dull toothache, and dry eyes are caused by the insufficiency of Qi and blood, as well as the inability of the Small Intestine to nourish the organs of the head and face.
Conversely, the direction from the arm to the hand is a purging method, suitable for cases of Qi excess in the Small Intestine Meridian. Symptoms such as sudden ringing in the ears and unbearable throat pain are caused by Qi excess and inflammation in the meridian.
How to Massage the Small Intestine Meridian Yourself
Extend one arm straight and use the other hand to tap the yang side (the line where the little finger is) with a clenched fist, tapping 100-200 times each time, then switch hands and continue.
Pathway of the Small Intestine Meridian
It runs along the posterior margin of the outer side of the arm, twists and turns at the back of the shoulder, and ascends to the face and neck. From the neck, it travels along the cheek to the outer canthus of the eye, branches off from the cheek to the nose, and ends at the inner canthus of the eye (connecting with the Bladder Meridian).
Best Time to Massage the Small Intestine Meridian
The Qi of the Hand Yangming Small Intestine Meridian is most vigorous during the Wei hour, which is from 1 pm to 3 pm in the afternoon. At this time, Yang Qi begins to descend while Yin Qi rises, and the Qi, blood, and fluids inside the Small Intestine Meridian are most abundant. The digestion and absorption function of the small intestine is strongest during this time, making it the best time to massage the Small Intestine Meridian.
Precautions for Massaging the Small Intestine Meridian
If the acupuncture points on the Small Intestine Meridian are not sensitive, there is no need to continue massaging them. Only massage the sensitive points.
During the massage, if there is pain or discomfort in certain areas, it is advisable to increase the intensity of the massage until a tolerable level of pain is felt. The duration of the massage can also be extended accordingly.
