According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, kidney energy is the primary condition for a long life. The TCM doctors from Hebei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine introduced that the kidney stores essence and opens to the ear. There are many acupoints for treating kidney diseases in the ear area, so rubbing the ears can effectively nourish the kidneys. Rubbing the ears can be divided into six specific methods:
1. Rubbing the whole ear
After rubbing the palms until they are warm, massage the front side (the positive side) of the ear backward, then repeatedly massage the back side forward, repeat this process 5-6 times. This method can unblock the meridians and has health benefits for the kidneys and all internal organs.
2. Sweeping the outer ear
Sweep the ears from back to front with both hands. You will hear a "rustling" sound. Do this 20 times each time, several times a day. As long as you persist over the long term, it will surely strengthen the kidneys and improve overall health.
3. Pulling both ears
Straighten both index fingers and insert them into both ear holes, rotate 180°. After repeating 3 times, immediately pull out, and you'll hear a "popping" sound in your ears. Generally, do this 3-6 times. This method can promote acute hearing and also has the function of enhancing brain health.
4. Pulling the earlobe
Place both index fingers inside the earlobes, then use the thumb and index finger to pull the earlobes, pulling from inside outwards. Gradually increase the strength, but limit the force to where there's no pain felt. Each session lasts 3-5 minutes. This method can treat headaches, dizziness, neurasthenia, tinnitus, and other diseases.
5. Resonating the Heavenly Drum
Place both palms tightly against the ears, covering them completely with the palm. Fix the position using the thumb and little finger while tapping the occipital bone area behind the head with the other three fingers together or separately. This area includes the Baidu, Fengfu, and Yamen acupoints. The ears will resonate with a "thudding" drum-like sound. The TCM doctors from Hebei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine introduce that this method has the effects of refreshing the mind, calming dizziness, and improving hearing. It not only serves as a daily health care practice but also has good therapeutic effects on common symptoms among middle-aged and elderly people such as tinnitus, dizziness, insomnia, headache, and neurasthenia.
6. Rubbing the ear rim
Clasp both hands into hollow fists, and use the thumb and index finger to rub up and down along the ear rim until it becomes warm and red. This method has the functions of strengthening the brain, kidneys, improving hearing, and enhancing vision. It can prevent and treat erectile dysfunction, frequent urination, constipation, lower back and leg pain, cervical spondylosis, palpitations, chest tightness, headache, and dizziness.
From the above methods, we can see that rubbing the ears has numerous benefits, not only for nourishing the kidneys but also for improving sleep. The TCM doctors from Hebei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine remind us that the elderly might as well do more ear-rubbing exercises, which can prolong life and improve quality of life.