Known as Zu San Li, the 'Stomach 36' point translates as 'Three Leg Mile'. This is one of my favourite points, especially at this time of the year, as it can give your energy levels a much needed boost.
Its
unusual name gives us a clue to its use; it's believed to come from the
practice, in ancient China, of foot soldiers stopping every three
miles to rub the point to give them more energy to continue.
As
this is a Stomach point, it's also great for strengthening and
regulating the digestive system. Incidentally, ancient physicians
believed this point could be used to 'treat all diseases'!
ST36
can also be a very relaxing point as it helps to calm the mind, plus
your acupuncturist may use it to tonify blood and Qi deficiencies.
Caution: Do not use the following point if pregnant, or if you
think you could be pregnant.
It's
a little tricky to locate at about 'four fingers' width below the
kneecap, in the dip between the shinbone and the leg muscle. Ask me next
time you're at The Mitchell Hill Clinic for treatment,
if you have any difficulty. Once located, this point can be gently
massaged with your index finger or middle finger for a couple of minutes
to give yourself a burst of energy.
Remember, this point is
useful for a boost, but don't use it purely to keep forging ahead, when
what you really need is a good night's sleep!
As always, we're
talking about one of the most popularly used points of over 350 commonly
used acupuncture points in the human body. So, it doesn't solely rely
on an in-depth diagnosis to prove beneficial. Of course it's best to visit your acupuncturist first to determine the best course of treatment for your particular condition.
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Information
displayed on this blog is not to be considered diagnostic for any
condition, nor considered as preventative or cure for any illness or
disease. The Mitchell Hill Clinic cannot be held responsible for any
claim made against them.
In no circumstance should the information contained on this blog be used
as a guide for medical practice or purpose. If a medical condition is
suspected then you are advised to consult a medical practitioner,
particularly if you are on orthodox medication or pregnant.
Labels: acupressure, acupuncture, boost acupressure, relaxation acupressure, st36, the mitchell hill clinic, truro acupuncture
