Which body parts should be massaged to benefit the kidneys?

Generally, massaging acupoints such as Yongquan (KI1), Shenshu (BL23), Mingmen (GV4), Taixi (KI3), and Guanyuan (CV4) may help maintain kidney health and assist in regulating bodily functions. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Yongquan (KI1): Located on the sole of the foot, in the hollow formed when the foot is flexed and the toes curled. Regular massage of this acupoint can nourish yin and benefit the kidneys, as well as calm the liver and extinguish internal wind, helping to improve kidney function and alleviate symptoms such as dizziness and insomnia caused by kidney deficiency.

2. Shenshu (BL23): Situated on the lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to the lower border of the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra. This acupoint is the back-shu point of the kidney. Massaging it can warm the kidneys, support yang energy, promote diuresis, and reduce edema, helping to relieve kidney-related discomfort such as soreness and weakness in the waist and knees, and frequent urination.

3. Mingmen (GV4): Located on the lower back, in the depression below the spinous process of the second lumbar vertebra along the posterior midline. This acupoint is closely related to kidney function. Massaging it can warm the kidneys, strengthen yang energy, and fortify the waist and knees, making it suitable for daily kidney care and health maintenance.

4. Taixi (KI3): Found in the ankle region, in the depression between the medial malleolus and the Achilles tendon. Taixi is the yuan-source point of the kidney meridian. Massaging this point can nourish yin and benefit the kidneys, as well as regulate the triple energizer. It helps alleviate symptoms caused by kidney yin deficiency, such as tinnitus, dry mouth, and premature ejaculation.

5. Guanyuan (CV4): Located on the lower abdomen, 3 cun below the navel along the anterior midline. This acupoint strengthens the vital energy (qi), warms the kidneys, and consolidates the body's essence. Regular massage helps regulate kidney function and enhance overall vitality, making it an ideal acupoint for daily kidney care.

When performing massage, ensure moderate pressure to avoid skin or muscle injury due to excessive force. Additionally, maintaining a consistent massage frequency, combined with good sleep habits and a balanced diet, will further enhance the kidney-nourishing benefits of acupoint massage and promote kidney health.