Zan Zhu acupuncture point, also called Tian Men, is located in the middle of the forehead and serves as the gateway for the flow of vital energy. This acupuncture point is commonly used for massage therapy. Let's take a look at the benefits of massaging Zan Zhu.
Explanation of the Name Zan Zhu
"Zan" means gathering or collecting, while "Zhu" refers to bamboo in the mountains and forests. The name comes from the fact that the amount of water and dampness energy that travels upwards from this point is small, similar to the small head of a bundled bamboo pole.
Location of the Acupuncture Point: It is located on the face, in the depression between the eyebrows, at the upper edge of the orbit.
Benefits of Massaging Zan Zhu
Zan Zhu acupuncture point is the meeting point of the Stomach Meridian of Foot Yangming and the Bladder Meridian of Foot Taiyang. It has the function of clearing and regulating the Stomach Meridian and promoting the smooth flow of Qi in the Bladder Meridian. It is particularly effective in relieving hiccups and stopping nausea. People with red, swollen, and painful eyes can also massage Zan Zhu regularly to relieve heat, improve vision, and reduce swelling. Massaging Zan Zhu can also promote the smooth flow of Qi in the Bladder Meridian, which is helpful in treating acute lumbar sprains.
Massage Techniques for Zan Zhu
Opening the Tian Men Technique
Also known as pushing and massaging Zan Zhu, this technique involves using both thumbs to alternately push upwards from the middle of the eyebrows to the front hairline. The pressure should start light and gradually increase, performing around 30-50 repetitions until the skin on the forehead becomes slightly red.
Pressure Technique
Close your eyes and use the thumbs of both hands to apply pressure to the Zan Zhu acupuncture points on both sides. Apply moderate pressure and hold for 1-3 minutes, until a slight sore and swollen feeling is felt.
Acupressure Technique
Use the thumbs of both hands to press and rub the Zan Zhu acupuncture points on both sides, while the other four fingers are pressed against the sides of the head. Continuously and evenly press and rub the acupuncture points for 5 minutes.
Special Massage Treatment for Zan Zhu Acupuncture Point
Massaging Zan Zhu acupuncture point can treat acute lower back pain.
Acute lumbar sprain refers to the acute injury of soft tissues such as muscles, fascia, and ligaments in the lower back due to excessive traction caused by external forces. It is often caused by damage to the meridians, tendons, and blood vessels, leading to stagnation of blood. The lower back is where the Bladder Meridian of Foot Taiyang passes through. Massaging Zan Zhu acupuncture point can promote the smooth flow of the Bladder Meridian, improving blood circulation and relieving pain. Therefore, massaging this acupuncture point has a good effect on treating acute lower back pain.
Precautions for Massaging Zan Zhu
When massaging Zan Zhu, it is advisable to feel a slight sore and swollen sensation at the acupuncture point. Pay attention to gradually increasing and then decreasing the pressure, maintaining a rhythmic massage.
