Massaging Yongquan Point Regularly Can Nourish Hair
Apart from hair loss caused by diseases, natural hair shedding is mostly due to poor blood circulation in the head. Therefore, moderate scalp massage can improve blood circulation in the head, thereby reducing hair loss. Massaging acupoints on the head, especially the Baihui point, can indeed prevent graying and hair loss. However, there is an acupoint on the sole of the foot that must not be overlooked. Its efficacy in preventing premature graying and hair loss is no less than that of the Baihui point, and that is the Yongquan point.
In traditional Chinese medicine theory, hair is referred to as "the remainder of the kidney," meaning that the nutrition of hair is supplied by the kidneys. If the essence of the kidney is sufficient, the hair will be black and shiny, less likely to fall out or split. On the other hand, if the kidney is weak and lacks essence, the hair will turn white and fall out. The Yongquan point, located at the sole of the foot, is an acupoint of the kidney meridian. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is metaphorically called the "source of water" and has the function of replenishing the kidney and calming the spirit. Persistently massaging the Yongquan point can double the effect of hair care.
Location: When locating the acupoint, you can sit upright or lie down with your feet raised. The human Yongquan point is located on the sole of the foot, in the depression at the front part of the sole, one-third of the way along the line connecting the second and third toe seam pattern ends to the heel.
Methods for Massaging Yongquan:
① The first external treatment monograph in China during the Qing Dynasty, "Guangsheng Collection for Emergency Treatment," specifically discussed the method of rubbing the Yongquan point. Every night before sleeping, use one hand to hold the toes while the other hand forcefully rubs the sole of the foot. If you can persist, you can rub thousands of times. For those without patience, rubbing hundreds of times is also acceptable until you feel the sole of the foot heat up. After both feet are rubbed hot, slightly move the toes a few times, then rub the two feet against each other dozens of times. Doing this once every night can consolidate essence and qi, and promote the circulation of blood and qi. Long-term persistence can have the effect of "health preservation and longevity."
② Use the thumb pad to vertically press the Yongquan point on the sole of the foot. Press for a moment and then lift, pressing and releasing repeatedly. The strength should be tolerable by oneself.
③ In terms of technique, in addition to pressing, you can also use the thumb pad to push from the heel towards the toe. This method is called "pushing Yongquan." You can push 100-500 times daily, depending on your own condition.
④ Place the tip of the thumb, index finger, or middle finger on the Yongquan point on the sole of the foot, and rub back and forth. Rubbing each foot 100 times is appropriate. Regular use of this method can unblock the heart and kidney, adjust the function of internal organs, prevent colds, lower blood pressure, treat dizziness and insomnia, and promote sleep and smooth bowel movements.