The spleen and stomach are vital organs. Poor stomach function inevitably affects the spleen's ability to transport and transform nutrients, leading to symptoms like loss of appetite, indigestion, and abdominal distension. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers acupoint massage techniques to regulate these organs.
Which acupoints can be massaged to regulate the spleen and stomach?
1. Massage the Jianli Point
The Jianli point promotes qi circulation, alleviates pain, harmonizes the stomach, and reduces upward qi. As the saying goes, "An unsettled stomach leads to restless sleep." Stomach discomfort primarily stems from digestive dysfunction in the spleen and stomach, coupled with irregular eating habits. This causes food to linger in the digestive tract, triggering acid reflux, abdominal distension, and pain—ultimately disrupting sleep.Regular massage stimulates gastrointestinal motility, aiding digestion and elimination while preventing bloating. Locate the Jianli point and gently massage with four fingers until a mild sensation of fullness is felt. Each session should last five minutes.
2. Massage the Shenque Point
The Shenque point harmonizes the stomach, regulates the intestines, and fortifies the body's foundation. Simply massage it with your palm for ten minutes each time. This method is particularly effective for stomach pain, diarrhea, and constipation caused by spleen-stomach deficiency. It also dispels cold, stops diarrhea, warms the middle burner, and strengthens the spleen.
3. Massaging the Zhongwan Point
Massaging the Zhongwan point harmonizes the stomach, relieves bloating, and warms the middle burner to strengthen the spleen. Use the palm to massage for ten minutes each time. This alleviates symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and acid reflux.
4. Massaging the Zusanli Point
Massaging the Zusanli point (ST36) helps tonify the middle energizer, boost qi, regulate the spleen and stomach, unblock meridians, invigorate blood circulation, dispel wind, and transform dampness. Use the thumb to massage for five minutes each session. This effectively aids in treating digestive system disorders.
5. Massaging Hegu (LI4) Point
Stimulating Hegu regulates the spleen and stomach, dispels wind, and clears heat while promoting circulation. Place the palm of your right hand on the back of your left hand. Use your thumb to massage both sides of the Hegu point 50 times each. This not only alleviates nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain but also prevents motion sickness.
6. Massaging the Tai Chong Point
Massaging the Tai Chong point helps clear liver stagnation, regulate liver function, and harmonize the stomach. Simply use your thumb to massage this point for five minutes. This promotes blood circulation in the liver, enhances its detoxification capabilities, and alleviates depression and anxiety.
Friendly Reminder
Maintain regular eating habits to nourish the spleen and stomach. Avoid overeating; instead, balance meals with vegetables and fruits, supplement with adequate protein, and minimize consumption of raw or cold foods. Establish a consistent daily routine and engage in moderate exercise to strengthen digestive functions and promote food digestion.