Exploring Under Feet Pressure Points for Better Health

When it comes to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of using under feet pressure points for healing is a time-honored practice. These points are vital in helping to balance the body’s energy, or Qi, and can be easily stimulated at home. We’ve consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a TCM Therapist, to delve deeper into some of the most effective under feet pressure points and their health benefits. Learn more about Ms. Mai here.

Understanding the significance of these points and how to apply acupressure can help you improve various aspects of your health, from reducing stress to improving digestion. Below, we explore the top four under feet pressure points that can significantly impact your well-being.

KI-1: Yongquan – The Bubbling Spring

The KI-1, also known as Yongquan or “Bubbling Spring,” is one of the most powerful under feet pressure points. It is the lowest point on the body and is located on the sole of the foot, in the depression formed when the foot is flexed.

Benefits of Stimulating KI-1:

• Calming the Mind: KI-1 is renowned for its ability to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. It’s an excellent point to press if you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
• Grounding Energy: This point is particularly beneficial for grounding the body’s energy, making it useful for those who feel disconnected or overly anxious.
• Enhancing Kidney Function: KI-1 is connected to the Kidney meridian and can help improve kidney function, aiding in detoxification and balancing fluids in the body.
• Grounding and Stability: KI-1 is especially powerful for grounding, which helps with emotional stability and reducing anxiety.

Liv-3: Tai Chong – The Great Rushing

Liv-3, known as Tai Chong or “The Great Rushing,” is another critical pressure point located on the foot. It’s situated on the top of the foot, in the depression between the first and second toes.

Benefits of Stimulating Liv-3:

• Regulating Liver Qi: Liv-3 is associated with the Liver meridian and is excellent for regulating Liver Qi, which can help alleviate stress and improve emotional balance.
• Easing Pain: This point is highly effective for relieving pain, particularly headaches, menstrual cramps, and lower back pain.
• Improving Digestion: Stimulating Liv-3 can also aid digestion and alleviate symptoms such as bloating and indigestion.
• Direct Connection to Organs: Liv-3 directly impacts the Liver, making it powerful for stress relief and emotional balance.

BL-60: Kunlun – The Mountain of Kunlun

BL-60, also called Kunlun or “The Mountain of Kunlun,” is located behind the ankle, in the depression between the Achilles tendon and the highest point of the lateral malleolus (the outer ankle bone).

Benefits of Stimulating BL-60:

• Relieving Pain and Stiffness: BL-60 is known for its ability to relieve pain and stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and back. It’s a go-to point for tension relief.
• Promoting Labor: This point is traditionally used to promote labor, so it should be avoided during pregnancy unless under professional guidance.
• Enhancing Circulation: BL-60 helps improve blood circulation, which can be beneficial for those suffering from cold extremities or poor blood flow.
• Efficient Detoxification: Stimulating BL-60 can improve circulation, aiding in detoxification and relieving tension.

KD-6: Zhaohai – Shining Sea

KI-6, known as Zhaohai or “Shining Sea,” is found below the inner ankle bone, in the depression just above the heel.

Benefits of Stimulating KD-6:

• Balancing Yin Energy: KD-6 is closely linked to the Kidney meridian and is particularly useful for balancing Yin energy, which is essential for maintaining overall health.
• Improving Sleep: This point is highly effective for treating insomnia and other sleep disturbances.
• Alleviating Menstrual Issues: KD-6 can also help alleviate menstrual cramps and irregularities by promoting blood flow and balancing hormones.
• Supporting Reproductive Health: KD-6 is beneficial for improving sleep and alleviating menstrual issues, offering a dual benefit for overall well-being.

Conclusion

Utilizing these under feet pressure points can have profound effects on your health and well-being. By incorporating these simple acupressure techniques into your daily routine, you can experience benefits ranging from stress relief to improved digestion and pain management. As always, it’s advisable to consult with a trained TCM therapist like Ms. Mai Sogawa if you’re new to acupressure or have specific health concerns.