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Practical application of acupuncture points for massage

One of the most potent acupuncture points is Stomach 36. It is located 4 finger widths below the kneecap and 1 finger width lateral to the tibia. A simple way to stimulate this point is with percussion using the palmar surface of the fist.
Tapping it 50 times daily in this manner helps activate its benefits. Among its many benefits are strengthening the qi (vital energy of the body) and nourishes the blood. It helps tone the digestive organs.
Try it first thing in the morning. Do both sides at the same time for 50 taps. It's a nice way to wake up.
If you're more visual in the location, just google it under "images" and you'll get a good sample of pictures. I've attached a picture as well.

Attachments:

ST-36 thumbnail.jpg, 6 KB

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Michael Vahila, LAC, LMT on January 3, 2010 at 8:48pm

Pericardium 6 is another useful acupuncture point that can easily be used in massage. It's especially good for nausea, whether from motion sickness, indigestion or pregnancy. It can cause vomiting if that is what is needed to relieve the underlying cause of the nausea.

Be cautious when applying it to an inebriated person at a party. They may eject the contents causing their drunkenness. It's also good for hiccups.

Pericardium 6 is located about 3 finger widths from the wrist crease between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis. (Attached is a picture for reference) Simply apply deep pressure to the point for 10 to 30 seconds or more until symptoms abate.