Abdominal Release Massage Combined with Acupuncture for Anxiety and Insomnia Relief

Anxiety is an accumulation of emotional patterns, often related to the liver, spleen, and heart from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM). It is mainly caused by liver qi stagnation, heart and spleen deficiency. In the case of long-term imbalance of organ functions, it can lead to symptoms such as decreased sleep quality, body aches, fatigue, chest tightness, shortness of breath, frequent urination, and various digestive system disorders.

In today's society, the rapid flow of various types of information has led many people to have excessive expectations and concerns about things. This can result in excessive heart fire and liver qi stagnation. When the liver qi is unable to be properly circulated, there can be an abnormal flow of qi and blood, and the internal organs may not receive the proper nourishment, This can lead to emotional instability. When the liver qi counterattacks the lung qi, it can cause difficulty breathing and shortness of breath. When it attacks the spleen and stomach, it can cause diarrhea, digestive disorders, and irritable bowel syndrome.

In addition to regulating your emotions on your own, Dr. Grace suggests using Chinese Herbal Formulas, Abdominal Release Massage, Acupuncture , and Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy to help alleviate anxiety. The treatment begins with a passive therapy and then transitions to an active approach of self-awareness, which triggers the body's self-regulating system, leading to the expansion of the heart-lung qi and clearing of the liver-gallbladder meridian, improving blood circulation, and regulating the metabolism of fluids. When the circulation of qi and blood is smooth, there is sufficient space for the heart and lung qi to expand, which helps to calm the mind and stabilize emotions, while also strengthening the immune system.

Abdominal Release Massage & Acupuncture

Abdominal release massage

What to expect during this therapy? It involves the pressing of specific points and  application of special massage techniques. The therapist will synchronize the breathing with the client to stimulate these points from light to heavy pressure. Each person's experience is different, some may feel an instant release and enter into a state of relaxation, while others may feel pain or bloating. The practitioner guides the client adjusting their breathing, easing discomfort, removing blockages in the body, and promoting the flow of energy. This method can also improve digestive issues, premenstrual syndrome, and other gynecological problems, and this type of therapy is not limited to women can also be used by men. Women can perform this treatment before or after their menstrual cycle to alleviate various symptoms, reduce stress, and promote positive emotional wellbeing. With the  Acupuncture together , it can improve the circulation of energy and blood throughout the body. The therapist will choose different acupoints based on each individual's needs to balance the functions of internal organs. After the body's internal space is opened, one can take time to change and improve their health.

What is Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy (BCST)?

It is the initial structure formed in our embryonic period, and from this central system, various visceral and musculoskeletal tissues are developed and extended. The craniosacral system of each individual undergoes a rhythmic movement of expansion and contraction six to twelve times per minute, the rhythm that even precedes the fetal heartbeat and respiration. In the absence of interference, this rhythm brings nourishment and energy to the body .However, modern lifestyles, work and academic stress, accidents, or trauma can cause obstruction to this movement. If we ignore the balance between tension and relaxation, or between "inner" and "outer," our body health will be compromised. Therefore, the application of BCST is quite extensive, ranging from physical rehabilitation, illness and pain management, elderly care, end-of-life care, to deep learning of personal issues. Dr. Grace has also applied this method to accompany animals in the past. During the process of performing abdominal release massage and BCST, the individual's breathing transitions from short and shallow to deep and the body relaxes as a whole, and hear the rumbling sound from the abdomen or enter into a deep sleep, experiencing the process of relaxation and trusting themselves.

Here are some healthy tips that you can also try to calm your mind and relieve your anxiety.

Herbal Tea Recipe also known as “

Pressure-Relieving Drink" - Calms the mind and relieves anxiety 

Ingredients: 1.5g sour jujube seed, 1g barley, 1.5g red dates, 0.8g chrysanthemum, 1g tomato, 0.3g licorice / one pack

Manners: Steep in 350mL of hot water for 5 minutes and drink.

Recommended consumption is 1-2 times per day.

Accupoint for sleep quality improvement

Chinese medicine uses acupressure to relieve fatigue and improve sleep quality.

Shenmen point

Location: The depression between the wrist crease and the ulna bone of the little finger.

Effect: Nourishes the heart , calms the mind, promotes sleep quality, and improves depression and neurasthenia. 

Method: Slowly press the Shenmen point on both hands with the fingertips of the thumb for 5 seconds each time, alternating between the hands for about 2-3 minutes before bed.

Neiguan point

 Location: On the palm side of the forearm, three finger widths above the wrist crease.

 Effect: It can regulate the flow of qi and blood, calm the mind, soothe the liver, and relieve pain. It is effective in treating insomnia and shallow sleep. Method: Before going to bed, use the fingertip of the thumb to make small rotating movements on the Neiguan point, pressing each hand for 5 seconds, and alternating between the hands for about 2-3 minutes.

About the author:

Dr. Grace Yu is a registered Chinese medicine practitioner and an expert in TCM modalities such as abdominal release massage, acupuncture and cupping. She will be in Hong Kong from May 15, 2023 to May 20, 2023. Please make an appointment in advance. 

If you would like to have an online consultation or a customized treatment, please contact the center at least one week before Dr. Grace's arrival in Hong Kong to arrange an online appointment. The consultation fee is HKD 500, which will be credited towards the subsequent treatment fee.

Appointment times: 

May 15, 2023 (Mon.) ~ May 19, 2023 (Fri.) 

9:00-20:00

May 20, 2023 (Sat.) 9:00-18:00