The bladder is an organ in the human body that stores and excretes urine. If there are abnormalities in urination, it is mostly caused by bladder disorders. When experiencing abnormal urination, doctors suggest massaging the Zhongji acupoint for regular maintenance. What are the specific functions and benefits of the Zhongji acupoint?
The Origin of the Zhongji Acupoint Name
The "Zhong" refers to the middle finger, and "ji" refers to the end. The acupoint belongs to the Ren Meridian, which runs along the midline of the abdomen. At the end of this meridian, there is a curved bone. Therefore, the acupoint is located just above this curved bone to indicate the end point of the meridian, hence the name.
Acupoint Location: 4 inches below the center of the navel. To locate the acupoint, divide the line connecting the pubic bone and the navel into five equal parts, and the Zhongji acupoint is located at 1/5th of the way from the bottom to the top.
The Functions of the Zhongji Acupoint
The Zhongji acupoint belongs to the bladder's associated point and is where the bladder's Qi (energy) gathers. It has the function of regulating bladder function. It is also the meeting point of the Foot Three Yang Meridians and the Ren Meridian. Since the Ren Meridian governs the uterus and starts below the Zhongji acupoint, it extends through the lower abdomen, passes through the Lower Dantian, and converges at the anterior perineum. Therefore, it has a good effect on regulating reproductive and urinary system diseases.
The Benefits of Massaging the Zhongji Acupoint
1. The Zhongji acupoint has the functions of nourishing the kidneys, regulating menstruation, and clearing dampness and heat. It is mainly used to treat nocturnal emission, impotence, enuresis, difficult urination, lower abdominal pain, irregular menstruation, leukorrhea, excessive menstrual flow, dysmenorrhea, prolonged lochia after childbirth, itching of the external genitalia, uterine prolapse, pelvic inflammatory disease, urinary retention, and urinary incontinence. It is worth mentioning that this acupoint has a bidirectional regulatory effect on the urinary system, both for treating enuresis and urinary retention.
2. In addition, the Zhongji acupoint is the meeting point of blood and Qi. Regular massage can regulate Qi and blood, tonify the kidneys, and reduce the frequency of nighttime urination.
Massage Techniques for the Zhongji Acupoint
1. Palm Rubbing Method: Rub both hands together to generate heat. Place one palm over the navel and massage the Zhongji acupoint for 1-2 minutes with the other hand.
2. Finger Kneading Method: Use the thumb to knead the Zhongji acupoint for 9 minutes until a moderate soreness and distension sensation is felt.
3. Finger Rubbing Method: Use the thumb to press on the Zhongji acupoint and massage it in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction for 50 times each.
4. Finger Pressing Method: Gently press the Zhongji acupoint with the palm for 2 minutes each time.
Precautions for Massaging the Zhongji Acupoint
Massaging and stimulating the Zhongji acupoint can simultaneously increase abdominal pressure and the contraction of the detrusor muscle. Therefore, the manipulation should not be too strong, and the speed should not be too fast.
