Qihai acupoint is one of the commonly used acupoints in the Ren Mai meridian. It is the sea of innate qi and is one of the essential acupoints for disease prevention and strengthening the body. Let's learn about the benefits and effects of massaging Qihai.
The Origin of the Name of Qihai Acupoint
Qi refers to the breath that enters and exits the human body, which includes the primary qi and various other types of qi, such as ancestral qi, defense qi, and nutrient qi. Hai means ocean, symbolizing vastness and boundlessness. Qihai acupoint is like the ocean of qi in the human body, hence the name Qihai.
Acupoint location: 1.5 inches below the middle of the navel. When locating the acupoint, lie on your back. It is located in the lower abdomen, on a straight line connecting the navel and the pubic bone. Divide the line into ten equal parts, and Qihai acupoint is located at 3/10 of the distance from the navel downwards.
The Effects and Benefits of Massaging Qihai
Qihai, as the name suggests, is the ocean of the body's innate qi. It has the function of nourishing and strengthening the entire body. It can be used to adjust the overall weakness, enhance immune and defense functions, and replenish qi in cases of congenital weakness, excessive postnatal fatigue, recovery from a serious illness, and postpartum physical weakness. It can also be used in combination with other acupoints such as Guanyuan and Zusanli.
The Functions and Indications of Qihai
Massaging Qihai can warm and nourish qi, replenish yang, tonify the kidneys, strengthen the body, and prolong life. Stimulating Qihai can treat diseases caused by weakness of the organs and insufficient true qi. It has a good preventive and therapeutic effect on gynecological diseases such as menstrual disorders, excessive bleeding, and leukorrhea, as well as male sexual dysfunction, nocturnal emissions, stroke sequelae, and prolapse. It is particularly effective for middle-aged and elderly people. In addition, it can also be used to treat symptoms such as frequent urination, urinary retention, abdominal distension, bowel sounds, and abdominal pain.
Massage Techniques for Qihai
Pressure and kneading method: Use the thumb to press and knead Qihai for about 1 minute.
Pressure method: Use the middle finger of the right hand to press Qihai for 1 minute.
Palm rubbing method: Place the right palm firmly against the Qihai acupoint and rub in a clockwise direction in small circles, medium circles, and large circles, massaging 100-200 times. Then, use the left palm to rub in a counterclockwise direction, following the same method of 100-200 times. Massage until a warm sensation is felt, indicating effectiveness.
Precautions for Massaging Qihai
The deep layer of Qihai acupoint is the bottom of the uterus, so it is not suitable for moxibustion or acupuncture in pregnant women. Deep needling should be avoided during menstruation.
