Zusanli is a major acupoint on the Stomach Meridian of Foot Yangming, located 4 cun below the outer eye of the knee, along the edge of the tibia, with one cun to the side. It is a combination point of the Stomach Meridian. Now let's explain in detail the massage method of Zusanli and the benefits of massaging Zusanli.
The Benefits of Massaging Zusanli
Zusanli is one of the main acupuncture points on the Stomach Meridian of Foot Yangming. It has the functions of regulating the spleen and stomach, tonifying the middle, replenishing qi, and strengthening the body. Modern research has shown that massaging Zusanli acupoint can improve gastrointestinal function, aid digestion, and promote absorption. In terms of the nervous system, it can promote the recovery of brain cell function, enhance the functional ability of the cerebral cortex cells, and promote intellectual development.
Zusanli acupoint can be massaged alone to regulate the body, or it can be massaged in conjunction with other acupoints for health and wellness purposes. Let's take a look at some simple massage methods.
Massage Method for Regulating the Spleen and Stomach
Take a seated position with knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Place the palms on the patella, with the fingertips pointing downwards. The tip of the ring finger is the location of Zusanli. Use the tip of the thumb to pinch and release Zusanli, with a degree of soreness, distension, and warmth. Repeat this 36 times, alternating between both sides. This massage has the effects of regulating the spleen and stomach, promoting digestion and absorption, and reducing fat accumulation.
Massage Method for Harmonizing the Stomach and Relieving Nausea
Regularly knead and massage Zusanli with hands or a massage hammer, with a degree of soreness, distension, and warmth. Each time should last for 5-10 minutes. It can be combined with Shousanli acupoint massage to regulate the spleen and stomach.
Zusanli has the function of stopping vomiting because the qi and blood of the Stomach Meridian form a larger qi and blood field at this location. Massage can generate stomach qi. Shousanli is an acupoint on the Large Intestine Meridian of Hand Yangming. Massaging Shousanli can relieve abdominal distension, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal discomfort.
Massage Method for Alleviating Diarrhea and Constipation
Press Zusanli acupoint with the tip of the thumb, then rub and knead in a clockwise direction three times. One press and three rubs count as one repetition. Repeat this operation 50-100 times. Prolonged and consistent massage can alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea and constipation.
Massage Method for Promoting Appetite
Zusanli has the function of promoting digestion and resolving food stagnation. It has a very good regulating effect on spleen and stomach dysfunction caused by excessive liver fire. Massage Zusanli acupoint in combination with Yinlingquan acupoint, which has the functions of invigorating the spleen and eliminating dampness, can effectively reduce liver fire, invigorate the spleen, and promote appetite.
Massage technique: Find Zusanli and Yinlingquan acupoints near the knees of the legs. Massage Zusanli and Yinlingquan with the thumb for about 5 minutes.
Massage Method for Slimming Legs
Take a seated position with legs together and bent. Extend the index and middle fingers straight, with the fingertips on the acupoint. Use the fingertips to vertically knead with force, with a degree of soreness and numbness. Massage for 1-3 minutes in the morning and evening. It can help promote intestinal peristalsis and beautify the contour of the calves.
