Five points - Five minutes : A simple self-massage sequence for digestive comfort.

The stimulation of specific points throughout the body for wellbeing has been used in a variety of forms for centuries.

But although there may be differences; from massage to myofascial release, acupuncture to acupressure - there is also a great deal of crossover.

Whilst chatting with a client about self abdominal massage I was brainstorming all the possible points and techniques she could use, when I noticed something. A number of the ‘trigger points’ used in myofascial release are related to many traditional acupoints.

As a result I began to trial using a variety of massage and release techniques to stimulate these points throughout the body and observe their effects.

Here are my top five acupoints to self massage for digestive comfort. You can do them as a quick 5 minute routine, or use them individually as and when needed.

1. ST 26 -the ‘outer mound’ point, is located approximately 2 cun (thumb widths) out and 1 cun down from the navel. It is indicated for abdominal pain, bloating and menstrual issues. When massaging use the pad of your middle finger to gently press or massage in small circles - please be aware that overstimulation of this pair of points may cause diarrhoea.

2. SP 13 - known as the ‘bowel abode’, this point is located just inside the ASIS (Anterior Superior Illiac Spine), the bony bit at the front of your hips. It’s clinical uses include abdominal pain, abdominal masses and thigh pain. This point can be stimulated both sides at the same time with the fingertips or myofascially by lying prone on two balls.

3. ST 36 - is located 3 cun below the kneecap and 1 finger width out from the bony ridge of the tibia. This point is beneficial for an array of issues affecting the stomach, spleen, nervous and respiratory system. To massage, apply gentle circular pressure for up to a minute at a time.

4. CV 6 - is approximately 1.5 cun below the navel, situated on the mid line of the body. It is known as the ‘sea of Qi’ (a term meaning life force or energy), and is indicated for both male and female pelvic issues, digestive symptoms and fatigue.
   To massage, gently press with the pad of your middle finger for 30-60 seconds, being sure that when you apply and release pressure it is done gradually.

5. SP 4 - referred to as the ‘yellow emperor’, this point is located roughly where the ball of your foot meets the arch. It is often used for abdominal and gynaecological issues as well as anxiety, insomnia and nervousness. Massage for a minute or two in a circular motion, with firm-ish pressure (according to how ticklish you are!) using the pad of your thumb.

Any of these points can be massaged for a shorter or longer period of time, but for the purposes of this being a quick routine I have suggested up to a minute for each.
You can do the massage dry or through the clothes, or if you have time and prefer to then incorporate some oils to give your skin an extra boost.