If you ever visit a park in China, you’ll see the modalities of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in action—tai chi and qi gong practitioners moving through their routines with graceful control and mindful effortlessness. With a closer look, you might spot another, more curious practice: retirees rhythmically tapping their thighs, shoulders, or even clapping their hands as they stroll. It’s not random.
Acupressure is another facet of TCM. Its techniques vary widely, ranging from tapping and massage to pinching or using specialized tools, depending on the specific acupoint targeted. Many older Chinese adults swear by it for keeping energy moving and symptoms at bay.
Chong Yang’s Legacy in TCM
Chong Yang was first recorded in the “Ling Shu” (“Spiritual Pivot”), a classical text foundational to acupuncture theory. It is a Yuan Source point of the Stomach meridian. Yuan Source points are known for restoring the balance between Yin and Yang energy, but Chong Yang does more than just balance. It also serves as an exit point on the stomach channel, a gateway where qi—vital energy—from the outside world flows into the body, allowing it to boost the stomach’s function.In keeping with the TCM principle of treating the head through the feet, Chong Yang can alleviate pain in the upper teeth and frontal headaches. Practitioners also use it for cases of acute facial paralysis caused by wind and cold, two pathogenic factors that can lead to loss of muscle control, pain, or acute, intense symptoms.
Modern Medicine Takes a Closer Look
Modern researchers employ advanced technologies to explore the mechanisms underlying acupoints such as Chong Yang. In one study, scientists used fMRI brain imaging to assess neural responses to acupuncture administered at various times throughout the day. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: the first received acupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) and Chong Yang during the Stomach meridian’s traditional peak hours in the morning; the second group underwent acupuncture in the afternoon; and the third group received sham acupuncture.Notably, stimulating Chong Yang at the optimal time activated the cerebellum and right insula, regions associated with motor coordination and internal regulation. These findings suggest that Chong Yang is a responsive point, influenced by the body’s natural rhythms.
How to Locate and Stimulate Chong Yang
To locate Chong Yang, find the spot between the long bones running from the second and third toes to the ankle on the highest point of the foot. You’ll feel it in a shallow dip between the bones. If you gently press around that area and feel a little soreness or sensitivity, congratulations—you’ve likely found it.Ways Stimulate Chong Yang
- Firm pressure: Press firmly for three to five seconds, then relax for three seconds. Repeat for one to three minutes on each side.
- Circular massage: Massage in small circles with your index finger or thumb for one to three minutes on each side
- Massage ball: Gently roll a small massage ball up and down the foot along the location of Chong Yang.
- Herbal patch: Apply an herbal patch overnight for longer activation.
- Advanced methods: Acupuncture or moxibustion (a gentle heat therapy using dried mugwort) by a trained professional can deepen the therapeutic effects.
