Zhaohai is one of the commonly used acupoints of the Foot Shaoyin Kidney Meridian. It is referred to as "Leakage Yin" in the ancient Chinese medical book "Emergency Formulas Worth a Thousand Pieces of Gold". This means that the kidney meridian's water evaporates and leaks at this point, in order to nourish the kidney yin. Let's take a look at the specific effects of massaging Zhaohai.
The Origin of the Name Zhaohai
"Zhao" means shining or illuminating, and "Hai" means water. The material at this acupoint is the water from the lower part of the meridian. It forms a relatively large body of water at this point, which is calm and reflective like a mirror. It receives a lot of heat energy from the upper part of the body and evaporates a large amount of water, hence the name.
Location of the acupoint: In the depression below the tip of the medial malleolus.
The Effects of Massaging Zhaohai
Zhaohai is a meeting point of the Eight Extra Meridians and connects with the Yin Qiao Meridian. Massaging Zhaohai mainly utilizes the evaporative effect of kidney yang to promote the evaporation of the kidney meridian's water, which has a warming and tonifying effect on the kidney, clearing heat, regulating the Triple Burner, and different massage techniques have different effects.
Acupressure: It can adjust the function of the organs, open up blocked meridians. Regularly pressing Zhaohai can enhance the kidney's urinary function.
Rubbing: It has the ability to harmonize Qi and blood, and activate the meridians.
Rubbing and acupressure on Zhaohai can stimulate the organs and meridians through the kidney meridian and Yin Qiao Meridian, promote Qi and blood circulation, nourish tendons, bones, skin and muscles, and relieve shoulder pain and pain.
Common Diseases Treated by Massaging Zhaohai
Massaging Zhaohai can regulate the kidney meridian, nourish kidney yin, and reduce deficiency fire. It is mainly used to treat dry throat, insomnia, excessive sleepiness, restlessness and anxiety, red and swollen eyes, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, abnormal vaginal discharge, hernia, frequent urination, insomnia, foot edema, and shoulder pain.
The Correct Method of Massaging Zhaohai
Acupressure: Use both thumbs to press and rub the Zhaohai acupoints on both sides for 3-5 minutes, until a sore and swollen sensation is felt.
Rubbing: Use the thumb or the palm of the hand to rub the Zhaohai acupoints in a clockwise direction and then in an anti-clockwise direction for 20 times each, repeating 5 times.
Gliding: Use the thumb or the palm of the hand to glide and rub the Zhaohai acupoints from top to bottom for 5 minutes.
Precautions for Massaging Zhaohai
When massaging, it is normal to feel soreness and numbness in the palm. The pressing time should not be too long, 5-10 minutes is sufficient.
