Massage of the Sole to Cure Various Diseases
Massaging the sole enhances blood circulation, regulates internal organs, unblocks meridians, boosts metabolism, thus strengthening the body and eliminating pathogenic factors.
The soles of the feet are densely populated with blood vessels; scientists refer to them as the “second heart.” The Yongquan point (KID1) on the sole is the starting point of the Kidney Meridian of Foot-Shaoyin. Massaging this point nourishes yin, tonifies the kidneys, and supports the five zang organs. Regular massage of the sole activates kidney qi,
strengthens the body, prevents premature aging, and contributes to health and longevity. Elderly people who regularly massage their soles can prevent symptoms such as numbness in legs and feet, weakness in movement, and cold sensation in the soles.
When massaging the sole, it is also important to move the toes frequently. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the big toe serves as a pathway for the Liver and Lung meridians. Frequent movement of the big toe helps soothe the liver, strengthen the spleen, improve appetite, and provides auxiliary treatment for hepatosplenomegaly. The fourth toe belongs to the Gallbladder meridian; massaging it helps prevent constipation and rib pain. Regular massage of the soles and toes has certain therapeutic or supportive effects on neurasthenia, persistent numbness and cramping of knee and ankle joints, kidney deficiency, lower back and leg weakness, psychogenic impotence, insomnia, chronic bronchitis, cyclic migraine, and renal dysfunction.
Correct massage technique is essential; otherwise, the goal of disease prevention and health promotion cannot be achieved. After washing feet with warm water every night, sit on the edge of the bed, bend the knees, and place one foot on the other leg. Turn the sole inward. Use the right hand to massage the left sole, and the left hand to massage the right sole, rotating circularly until the area becomes red and warm.