Qi is a concept frequently mentioned in Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM). It is an inherent and intangible life energy within the body, and also an important source for maintaining internal balance. Any bodily ailment is related to the abundance or scarcity of Qi. Whether in excess or deficiency, Qi can potentially cause discomfort or trigger diseases. Therefore, maintaining the balance of Qi is a focal point in the treatment of diseases. Many TCM medical practices, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine, aim to improve the flow or supplement Qi to achieve therapeutic effects.
One of TCM classic works, the Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon, states, “When pathogenic Qi invades, it must be due to insufficient righteous Qi”. By possessing robust health Qi (immunity), our bodies can prevent illness, and if we do fall ill, our bodies are more likely to recover faster and with milder symptoms. TCM physician utilizes acupressure point massage to dredge meridians, enhance the flow of Qi in the body, and strengthen immunity.
How does TCM valuate healthy Qi?
TCM practitioners summarized the most important substances and functional activities of the body as Essence, Qi, and Spirit. Essence and Qi constitute the material basis of life activities, while Spirit is considered the external manifestation of life activities. TCM believes that Essence, Qi, and Spirit as the fundamental elements of life, maintaining the entirety of bodily activities.
Given the significance of Qi, how can we determine if we lack it? In fact, the method is quite simple, it can be observed in daily life through the following three points:
Adequate Qi: High spirits, energy, seldom catching colds, good appetite, and regular bowel movements.
Qi deficiency: Lethargy, weak immunity, poor mood, loss of appetite, and susceptibility to anemia.
Excess Qi: Irritability, impatience, and excess Qi can lead to blockages, causing bodily discomfort, which can be alleviated through acupuncture to clear stagnation.
Learn more: A Natural Way to Boost Your Immunity This Winter
Checking immunity by tongue color
A simple test can indicate the state of your immunity – just look in the mirror or use your smartphone’s camera. By examining the tongue’s morphology, such as a scalloped shape, tooth imprints, or greasy coating, you can determine if you have a deficiency in Qi (vital energy) or poor immunity(As showed in the picture). Other indicators can also provide insight into the overall immune system:
- Frequent cold, susceptibility to flu, or body aches;
- Chronic fatigue;
- Digestive system issues;
- Chronic skin diseases, allergies, or inflammations.
So how can we strengthen immunity?
Strengthen immunity with acupressure points massage
According to therapy of TCM, Qi is an important energy that flows through the body to maintain health. Acupoint massage helps to facilitate the flow of energy in the meridians, enhance righteous Qi within the body, and improve immune function. Here are some acupoints you can massage at home to maintain health:
Yingxiang (Large Intestine 20)
Location: On both sides of the nose, in the groove between the nose and the upper lip, level with the midpoint of the outer edge of the nostrils.
Method: Massage the acupoint with fingers repeatedly for about 5 minutes until warm.
Benefits:
- Protects the lungs from external pathogens
- Promotes blood circulation around the nose
- Dispels wind-cold
- Relieves runny nose, nasal congestion, and loss of smell
Fengchi (Gallbladder 20)
Location: At the back of the head, near the neck. In the depression between the origins of the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles, below the occipital bone, level with the earlobe.
Method: Sit upright with elbows raised to shoulder height, then bend the elbows towards the head and place the palms behind the ears (palms inward, fingertips upward). The position of the thumbs is the acupoint Fengchi.
Benefits:
- Dredges meridians, tonifies Qi, and strengthens yang
- Prevents the invasion of wind-cold dampness
- Relieves headaches and neck pain
Zusanli (Stomach 36)
Location: On the outside of both legs, below the kneecap, 4 finger widths down, and 1 finger width from the shinbone.
Method: Massage the acupoint on both legs with the index and middle fingers simultaneously.
Benefits:
- Tonifies the spleen and dispels dampness—helps alleviate digestive issues
- Strengthens the stomach and invigorates Qi
- Dispels wind-cold and consolidates Qi
- Eliminates pathogenic factors, enhances the immune system
