Why Traditional Chinese Medicine Practices May Not Be Effective
Have you ever wondered why your long-practiced Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) health methods don't seem to yield results? Are you questioning whether to continue these practices or if they are simply ineffective for you? If so, you may be feeling discouraged about TCM. However, achieving better health might just be a step away. Follow expert guidance to fully embrace TCM and unlock its potential benefits!
1. Want to Feel Forever 20? Rub Your Kidneys
Covering your kidneys can promote kidney circulation. Many office workers experience lower back pain due to prolonged sitting, often caused by kidney deficiency or cold exposure. Rubbing your hands together to generate heat before massaging your kidney area can offer significant health benefits.
According to TCM, kidney deficiency leads to physical decline. Massaging the kidney area can replenish vital energy, prevent premature aging, and alleviate pain. Interestingly, many mistakenly believe that back pain always stems from muscle strain, but it can actually be related to kidney coldness during colder weather. Always warm your hands before starting the massage; cold hands can exacerbate back pain.
Health Tip: Rub your hands together to generate warmth and then firmly massage both sides of your lower back (kidney area) for 36 times each morning and evening.
2. Experiencing Menstrual Cramps? Try Anal Contraction Exercises
Anal contraction exercises can improve pelvic blood circulation. This technique not only aids in preventing anal-related diseases and alleviating constipation, but it also serves as a long-term health maintenance method.
During anal contraction exercises, the muscle contractions act as a “pump”, enhancing the strength of the anal sphincter. This technique is particularly beneficial for those recovering from anal surgery as it boosts local blood flow and increases disease resistance in the anal and rectal areas. Despite some myths, these exercises do not lead to infertility. In fact, they enhance pelvic blood flow, which can reduce menstrual cramps.
Health Tip: Maintain a seated, supine, or standing position with legs apart. Focus on the perineum and anus, contracting your abdominal, gluteal, and pelvic floor muscles while coordinating with your breath. Perform 20-30 contractions daily after using the restroom or before sleep, taking a 7-day break after 30 days.
3. Looking to Slim Down? Massage Your Abdomen
The abdomen houses the vital organs of traditional Chinese medicine. Known as the "yin" area, it contains key organs like the liver, spleen, and intestines. Regular abdominal massage can improve lymphatic circulation, prevent indigestion, and reduce bloating.
Many believe that abdominal massage alone can eliminate excess fat. However, massaging immediately after meals can interfere with digestion. Instead, it is more effective when performed on an empty stomach, as vigorous post-meal massages can lead to digestive discomfort or other complications.
Health Tip: While lying down or sitting, take deep breaths to relax. Place your right hand on your navel and your left hand on top. Using gentle pressure, massage in a clockwise motion around your navel for 50 repetitions, then switch hands and repeat counterclockwise. Aim for 3-5 cycles.
4. Is Your Digestive System Out of Whack? Try the Spinal Squeeze
Spinal squeezing can activate meridians and enhance organ function. Poor digestive health can lead to issues like bad breath, constipation, and even serious conditions like ulcers. Spinal squeezing helps unblock meridians, balancing yin and yang while promoting qi and blood flow.
This technique targets specific acupoints along the spine that correspond to the digestive organs. It's most effective when done on an empty stomach. Ideally, perform the spinal squeeze at least two hours after eating to maximize benefits without discomfort.
Health Tip: For effective spinal squeezing, lie down or adopt a half-lying position. Focus on the central line of your spine from the tailbone to the seventh cervical vertebra, combining three squeezes with a lift of the skin. Use your thumb, index, and middle fingers to provide pressure, adjusting based on comfort and health needs.
By integrating these methods into your daily routine, you can harness the full potential of TCM for lasting health benefits. Remember, persistence and proper technique are key to achieving the results you desire!