In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the feet are considered one of the most important parts of the human body, which is reflected in the Chinese proverb: “All diseases come from cold, and cold enters the body through the feet.”
Acupuncturists believe that by applying pressure to these acupressure points, it can improve the flow of chi, increase blood circulation, and support the body’s natural healing abilities.
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According to this text, we have over 60 pressure points on our feet, each of which corresponds to a specific part of the body.
Professor Yu Jin of the Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Province, China, says that meridians are like an information network, and acupoints are equivalent to nodes in that network.
“When you connect to one node, you can connect to other places,” he says.
He says foot acupuncture can not only relieve foot pain, but also address illnesses originating in other organs.
These benefits can be achieved by doing a daily Shiatsu foot massage at home. Focusing on these four points may provide some relief.
1. Eisen
EizumiThe , or “gushing spring” point, is located on the sole of the foot, about one-third of the way from the toes to the heel, directly under the center of the ball of the foot, between the second and third toes.
2. Taichung
It is located on the top of the foot, in the depression between the big toe and the second toe, about two finger widths away from the web between the big toe and the second toe towards the ankle.
3. Sanyinjiao
Applying pressure Sanyinjiao This point helps to alleviate these symptoms by releasing the convergence of the three Yin meridians.
4. Zusanli
It is located on the outside of the lower leg, four fingers below the kneecap and one finger below the tibia.
If you place your hand on the outside of your leg above your knee with your fingers pointing down, you can find the point between the tips of your ring finger and pinky finger.
Shiatsu Massage Safety Tips
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Wait at least an hour after eating before applying acupressure to avoid disrupting digestion.
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Adjust the pressure to a comfortable level to avoid muscle or skin damage.
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To prevent bacterial infection, please clean your feet before and after massage, especially around the reflex points.
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Limit each session to 15-30 minutes to avoid over-fatiguing your muscles.
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Pregnant women, heart patients, High blood pressure You should seek professional guidance before attempting a shiatsu massage.