Acupressure Points for Metabolism
In Chinese medicine, where acupressure and acupuncture originated, metabolism is defined as being controlled by the chi, or life force present in all living beings, and by the chi's flow through various major organ systems. By manipulating the chi and changing how certain organs function, the Western concept of metabolism can be affected.
The Ear
The easiest to reach pressure points that affect appetite and metabolism are located in the cartilage above and in front of your ear canal. Pressing for several minutes on this cartilage will help to redirect the chi to lower appetite.
Spleen SP6
A pressure point that affects the spleen, called SP6, is a good pressure point for ensuring digestive health and optimal metabolism. SP6 is on the inside of your leg, around four finger widths above the ankle joint. The specific point is toward the back of the leg, very near the bone.
Spleen SP9
The pressure point SP9 also affects the spleen and has an effect on your body's water metabolism. SP9 is a little harder to find. To find SP9, look about three finger widths from the bottom of the knee cap and then go one finger width toward the inside of your leg. SP9 is located in an indentation just under the top of your tibia.
Stomach ST36
ST36 affects the stomach and the digestive system. ST36 is in the same general area as SP9. As with SP9, it is three fingers below the kneecap. However, it is on the other side of the leg, around one finger width toward the outside of the leg.
Stomach ST40
ST40 has a number of effects on your body. It clears excess phlegm, affects excess moisture in the chi and is important for digestion and metabolism. ST40 is around two finger widths behind your shin bone, half way down the outside of your shin.
Liver LV3
The LV3 acupressure point affects the liver, and thus has an effect on metabolism. LV3 is on the top of your foot in the skin between your first and second toes, where the bones for those two toes join in a "V" shape. LV3 also helps to prevent chi stagnation.
Liver LV11
LV11 is another pressure point that affects your liver. In addition, it clears additional heat and moisture from your body, and thus affects metabolism. It also helps your intestines. LV11 is located on the outside of the crease on the top of your elbow. To find it, hold your palm up; it is located on the thumb side of your elbow crease.
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