Functions of Acupressure Points, Kidney 1

SInce spending a year in Thailand, and learning Thai massage, it has become more apparent to me how beneficial it can be to start a massage at the feet. This has a "grounding effect," and since so many of us live in our heads, and not our bodies; starting a massage at the feet has an almost immediate effect of calming a person.

Let's review the location and functions of one of the primary points on the feet, Kidney 1.

This point is located on the sole of the foot, between the ball of the big and small toes. It is about 1/3 of the way down from the base of the second toe, or 2/3 of the way up from the heel.

In acupuncture and tuina this point is used to calm the mind and restore consciousness. It is beneficial for high blood pressure, headaches, dizziness and insomnia.

Try massaging this point for 3-5 minutes before beginning a massage and don't be surprised if your client drifts off.

Until next time,

Jim