Feel Lighter and More Energized with These Effective Acupressure Techniques

If your legs feel heavy after sitting all day, you’re not alone. Extended hours at a desk can lead to poor blood circulation, fluid retention, and muscle fatigue. Fortunately, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers effective, non-invasive solutions you can use at home. We consulted Ms. Mai Sogawa, a certified TCM therapist from Japan, to learn about the best leg acupressure points for relieving heaviness and restoring circulation. Acupressure is a time-honored practice known for stimulating energy flow and easing physical discomfort. If you’re new to this method, start with this comprehensive guide to acupressure techniques and benefits.

Below are five effective leg acupressure points that can help improve circulation and lighten that sluggish feeling in your lower limbs.

KI1 (Yongquan) – The Bubbling Spring

Located on the sole of the foot, KI1 (Yongquan) is the lowest point on the body’s meridian system.

How to Locate:

• Find the depression just beneath the ball of your foot, between the second and third toes.

Benefits:

• Promotes downward flow of energy
• Revives energy circulation after long periods of inactivity
• Helps release stagnant Qi from the lower body

How to Stimulate:

• Sit comfortably and press the point with your thumb.
• Use circular motions for 2–3 minutes on each foot.

This point helps “ground” your energy and awaken the entire leg meridian pathway, ideal for office workers and long-haul travelers.

SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – Three Yin Intersection

SP6 (Sanyinjiao) is a multifunctional point on the inner side of the lower leg, commonly used in both men’s and women’s health.

How to Locate:

• Four finger-widths above the inner ankle bone, just behind the tibia (shin bone).

Benefits:

• Enhances blood and fluid circulation
• Relieves leg swelling and discomfort
• Addresses fatigue from over-sitting

How to Stimulate:

• Apply steady pressure using your thumb or knuckle.
• Hold for 2–3 minutes on each side.

Since SP6 connects three major meridians—Spleen, Liver, and Kidney—it’s especially beneficial for systemic circulation and energy balance.

ST36 (Zusanli) – Leg Three Miles

ST36 is one of the most famous leg acupressure points, valued for its overall tonifying effects.

How to Locate:

• About four finger-widths below the kneecap and one finger-width lateral to the tibia.

Benefits:

• Boosts energy and strengthens the immune system
• Improves digestion and helps drain dampness
• Reduces fatigue and heaviness in the lower limbs

How to Stimulate:

• Apply firm pressure with your index and middle fingers.
• Use small circular motions for 2 minutes per leg.

Known as the “longevity point,” ST36 is perfect for desk-bound individuals seeking an all-around vitality boost.

BL57 (Chengshan) – Supporting Mountain

BL57 lies along the Bladder meridian and is especially useful for tension and discomfort in the calves.

How to Locate:

• In the center of the calf, between the lower end of the gastrocnemius muscle and the Achilles tendon.

Benefits:

• Releases tight calf muscles
• Encourages healthy venous return
• Alleviates swelling from poor circulation

How to Stimulate:

• Gently pinch the back of the calf to find the most tender spot.
• Apply pressure using your thumb for 1–2 minutes.

This point is excellent for people who spend all day seated or those experiencing post-exercise soreness.

SP9 (Yinlingquan) – Yin Mound Spring

Another point along the Spleen meridian, SP9 is important for regulating water metabolism in the body.

How to Locate:

• Just below the knee, in the depression on the inner side of the tibia.

Benefits:

• Reduces water retention and leg puffiness
• Improves lymphatic drainage
• Revitalizes heavy, tired legs

How to Stimulate:

• Use your thumb to press into the depression and hold for 1–2 minutes.
• Repeat on the other leg.

Because it targets fluid metabolism, SP9 is essential for relieving leg swelling due to inactivity or heat.

Tips for Best Results

To maximize the benefits of these leg acupressure points, keep the following in mind:

• Stay consistent: Practice daily for best results, especially if you sit for long hours.
• Hydrate: Drinking water after stimulation helps flush out toxins.
• Combine with light movement: Even short walks or stretching can enhance circulation.
• Massage both legs: Balance energy flow by treating both sides of the body.

By incorporating these powerful leg acupressure points into your daily routine, you can counteract the sluggishness and discomfort that comes from prolonged sitting. TCM techniques like acupressure provide a simple, at-home solution to maintain energy flow and leg vitality—no special equipment or medications required.

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