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The human body is home to numerous acupressure points, or acupoints, each corresponding to specific functions. These acupoints hold fascinating mysteries, particularly for women. They are closely linked to health, longevity, and anti-aging, and can even influence reproductive health.
For women, understanding the benefits and precautions of acupressure is crucial—especially knowing which acupoints to target for safe stimulation and which ones to avoid. Proper use of acupressure is key to maintaining both health and beauty.
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Acupoints to Support Anti-Aging
Massaging the following two acupoints regularly can promote a more youthful appearance while improving overall health.
Yanglao Acupoint
Many women develop presbyopia as they age. The Yanglao acupoint is an excellent option for reducing eye strain and slowing the aging process. Regularly massaging this acupoint can improve blood circulation in the eyes, alleviate eye fatigue, and potentially delay the progression of presbyopia.
This acupoint is classified as a “Xi-cleft point,” a specific type of acupoint found on every meridian, known for its effectiveness in addressing acute conditions.
Zusanli Acupoint
The Zusanli acupoint is known for its ability to strengthen the body, offering benefits to both women and men when massaged regularly.
For women, this acupoint plays a crucial role in supporting the reproductive system. It promotes uterine health, regulates menstruation, boosts blood circulation, and enhances the complexion, giving the skin a rosy, radiant glow. For women experiencing menopause, it can also help relieve discomfort, making it an essential acupoint for maintaining overall health and supporting longevity.
According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), “qi” (vital energy) and “blood” are fundamental substances that constitute and sustain human life. These substances flow throughout the body via meridians, energy channels that connect and support various bodily systems. Along the meridians are specific points known as acupoints, which possess unique functions. By stimulating the corresponding acupoints through techniques like acupuncture and massage, it is possible to treat diseases related to specific organs.
One study found that electroacupuncture at the Zusanli acupoint significantly increases the synthesis of substance P (an important neuropeptide and brain-gut peptide) in the pituitary gland, as well as its levels in peripheral blood. This, in turn, enhances its unique physiological and pathophysiological regulatory functions.
The Importance of Emotional Stability for Health
An optimistic mindset not only brings happiness but can also strengthen the immune system.
Research has shown that optimism supports health by counteracting stress-induced inflammation and improving the body’s ability to cope with acute stress.
A study led by Harvard University, published in June 2024, found that participants who were optimistic and had a sense of purpose in life showed greater improvements in immune aging.
Many illnesses are closely linked to emotional imbalance. In TCM, the concept of “internal injury caused by the seven emotions” refers to the idea that emotional disturbances can directly harm the internal organs. As such, maintaining emotional stability is essential for overall health.
An Acupoint to Relieve Stress and Improve Sleep
When feeling anxious or tense, massaging the Shenmen acupoint for a few minutes can effectively calm your nerves. It can also help relieve symptoms such as heart palpitations and chest tightness, as well as improve sleep quality.
Acupoints to Avoid During Pregnancy
For pregnant women, two acupoints should be avoided: the Hegu and Sanyinjiao acupoints.
Hegu Acupoint
Stimulation of the Hegu acupoint may induce uterine contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature labor. Therefore, pregnant women must avoid massaging this acupoint.
Sanyinjiao Acupoint
Similarly, this acupoint can induce uterine contractions and poses a serious risk to pregnant women.
If either of these acupoints is accidentally stimulated, the pregnant woman should rest immediately and closely monitor her condition. Should any abnormal symptoms, such as abdominal pain or bleeding, arise, it is important to seek medical attention without delay.
An Acupoint That Could Affect Fertility
The Shimen acupoint is significant for women’s health and requires extra caution during acupuncture or massage. Women planning to conceive should avoid stimulating this acupoint.
The ancient Chinese medical text “The Great Compendium of Acupuncture and Moxibustion (Zhen Jiu Da Cheng)” states: “The Shimen acupoint should not be needled or stimulated, as it may prevent a woman from conceiving for life.” The text explains that excessive needling or massage of the Shimen acupoint could disrupt the circulation of qi and blood in the uterus and ovaries, potentially leading to menstrual irregularities or even infertility.
The Shimen acupoint is located on the lower abdomen, near the uterus and ovaries, and plays a key role in regulating the circulation of qi and blood in these organs. Stimulating this acupoint through acupuncture or massage may disrupt menstrual cycles or lead to other gynecological issues. Therefore, women should avoid stimulating this acupoint, especially those who are trying to conceive.
The Significance Behind Acupoint Names
The word “men” in Shimen translates to “gate” in Chinese, symbolizing a critical passage for the flow of qi and blood in the body. This acupoint is closely connected to a woman’s reproductive and excretory systems and plays a vital role in regulating qi and blood flow.
The names of many acupoints carry profound meanings. For instance, “men” (gate) represents a passage for the flow of qi and blood, “hu” (door) symbolizes a barrier that protects qi and blood, and “guan” (pass) refers to a critical junction for the movement of qi and blood. Understanding the meanings behind these acupoint names can offer deeper insights into the functioning of the human body.
Summary
In daily life, proper care of acupoints is essential for supporting overall health and vitality. This is particularly important for women who are trying to conceive or are pregnant, as improper stimulation of certain acupoints may result in adverse effects.
Naiwen Hu is a Traditional Chinese Medicine physician at Shanghai Tong Te Tang in Taipei, a former Stanford Research Institute scientist, and a former instructor at an American university.
Reprinted with permission by The Epoch Times.
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