Hello everyone, I am your massage therapist. In my many years of practice, I have come to deeply understand that a 'Happy Healthy Life' is not merely the absence of illness or pain, but rather a state where body, mind, and spirit achieve harmonious balance and are brimming with vitality. Our bodies possess an intricate self-healing system, and acupoint massage is one of the ancient wisdoms for awakening this potential. Today, I want to share with you all an acupoint that is crucial for our overall health, and especially vital for intestinal function—the Shangjuxu acupoint (ST37). We will also explore how, through stimulating it, we can infuse more energy and comfort into our 'Happy Healthy Life.'
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, the smooth flow of Qi and Blood is the cornerstone of health. The meridian system serves as the pathways for their circulation, and acupoints are vital hubs along these channels. When we discuss a 'Happy Healthy Life,' we often think of a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and good sleep. While these are undoubtedly important, the body's internal 'microenvironment'—such as the health of our digestive system—is an even more fundamental basis for all of this. A well-functioning intestinal tract can effectively absorb nutrients and eliminate waste products, which in turn impacts our energy levels, mood, and even our immune system. By stimulating specific acupoints, we can gently regulate Zang-Fu organ functions, promote the circulation of Qi and Blood, and thus lay a solid foundation for health.
Next, let us focus on today's main subject—the Shangjuxu acupoint. This acupoint belongs to the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian and is considered a 'golden key' for regulating Large Intestine function. Common digestive tract issues that many modern people experience, such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal bloating, often greatly diminish our quality of life and move us further away from the ideal state of a 'Happy Healthy Life.' The unique aspect of the Shangjuxu acupoint lies in its ability to bidirectionally regulate intestinal function; it can exert a balancing effect, whether that means relieving constipation or stopping diarrhea. This not only maintains intestinal comfort but also indirectly enhances nutrient absorption efficiency and strengthens the constitution, giving us more vitality to enjoy every moment of life.
So, where exactly is this amazing Shangjuxu acupoint? Finding it is actually simpler than you might imagine. Please sit comfortably and bend your knees. It is located on the anterolateral aspect (the front, outer side) of the lower leg.You can use this step-by-step method:First, locate the outer 'eye of the knee' (the Dubi acupoint, ST35). From there, measure straight down four finger-breadths (the width of your four fingers, index to pinky, which corresponds to 3 cun) to locate the Zusanli acupoint (ST36). Then, from the Zusanli acupoint, continue straight down another four finger-breadths (another 3 cun). At this level, the Shangjuxu acupoint (ST37) is located one horizontal finger-breadth (about the width of your middle finger) to the outside of the anterior crest of your tibia (your shin bone). When you press on this spot, if you feel a slight sensation of soreness or distension, that means you've found the right location.
The benefits of the Shangjuxu acupoint extend far beyond simply treating constipation or diarrhea. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, it possesses the powerful functions of 'regulating the Spleen and harmonizing the Stomach, clearing the intestines to resolve stagnation, and dredging the meridians to regulate Qi.' This means it can help our Spleen and Stomach to better digest and absorb food, while also clearing stagnation from the intestines, allowing for the smooth flow of Qi. When the intestines are healthy, nutrients can be fully utilized and transformed into Qi and Blood. As a result, our energy levels are naturally abundant, and we are less prone to fatigue. The timely elimination of bodily waste can also lighten the body's burden and lead to a more pleasant mood. What's more interesting is that ancient texts record that the Shangjuxu acupoint can also improve circulation in the lower limbs and treat issues such as soreness, numbness, and weakness in those areas.
Modern scientific research has also provided corroborating evidence for the traditional efficacy of the Shangjuxu acupoint. Studies have found that the area around Shangjuxu has a higher microvascular density, which may indicate more active substance exchange and signal transduction at this site. Furthermore, electroacupuncture studies focused on functional constipation have shown that stimulating a combination of acupoints, including Shangjuxu, can influence inflammation and immunity-related targets within the body, thereby producing a therapeutic effect. This helps to explain why this acupoint can address seemingly opposite conditions like constipation and diarrhea; the wisdom of its 'bidirectional regulation' is precisely in helping the intestines restore their normal physiological rhythm.
Now that you know the location and benefits of the Shangjuxu acupoint, how should you perform self-massage at home? The most common techniques are the 'Pressing Method' and the 'Kneading Method'.Using the pad of your thumb or index finger, apply firm, vertical pressure to the acupoint. The pressure should be moderate, ideally enough to elicit a sensation of soreness, numbness, distension, or a dull ache. This feeling is known in TCM as 'Deqi,' which is a sign of effective stimulation. There is no need to endure sharp pain. You can apply sustained pressure for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, rest briefly, and then repeat several times.Alternatively, you can perform gentle circular kneading on the point with your fingertip for 5 to 10 minutes.It is recommended to do this 2 to 3 times daily. Good times for this practice include after waking up in the morning or before going to bed at night.
Besides manual massage, moxibustion (艾灸 - àijiǔ) is an excellent choice for warming and nourishing the Shangjuxu acupoint, especially for individuals with a 'cold-predominant' constitution or those whose digestive discomfort is caused by exposure to cold. Moxibustion warms the meridians to dispel cold, promotes the flow of Qi, and invigorates the blood.When performing this at home, you can hold a lit moxa stick, hovering it about 2 to 3 cm away from the skin over the acupoint for indirect warming. Continue until you feel a comfortable, pleasant warmth in the area and the skin turns slightly pink, taking great care to absolutely avoid burns. Each moxibustion session should last for about 10 to 15 minutes.Whether using massage or moxibustion, the key is consistency. Pay close attention to your body's feedback and aim for that comfortable 'Deqi' sensation.
Of course, while the Shangjuxu acupoint is highly effective, there are still several important precautions to keep in mind during self-care.First, ensure the skin at the massage area is intact and free from any wounds or damage. It is not advisable to perform the massage when you are too full, overly hungry, extremely fatigued, or emotionally agitated.For pregnant women, it is essential to consult a professional physician before self-massaging any acupoint.If you have a tendency to bleed or are taking anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners), the pressure you apply must be gentle.Most importantly, if your symptoms do not improve after a period of self-care, or if they worsen, be sure to promptly seek a professional physician's diagnosis and treatment.
A 'Happy Healthy Life' is an active pursuit, not a passive state. The Shangjuxu acupoint, this small hub on our lower leg, is truly a key on our path to a healthier and more joyful life.By integrating care for this point into your daily routine—perhaps with just a few minutes of focused massage each day—you will, over time, notice the subtle yet positive changes taking place in your body. True health is in your own hands. May we all make good use of the precious wisdom passed down from our ancestors, listen mindfully to our bodies, and begin a new chapter of our very own 'Happy Healthy Life.'
English 
Chinese